All,
I'm new here, I appreciate any help or advice. My husband is not a car guy, neither is my dad, so I don't really have anywhere to turn. My car (2006 Outback, bought new in 2006, 97000 miles, no warranty left) has been going through oil very quickly since about June. I took it into the dealership in August for scheduled maintenance (like I always do) and to check out the oil issue. Service says I have a cracked head gasket. So I authorize replacement at $1700 (including my scheduled maintenance). The issue is not fixed. I take it back in in October. They say I have a gummy valve and clean it, and to keep an eye on it to make sure its not anything more serious. Check engine/oil light goes on again last week. Now I need a new short block because of something being wrong with my piston rings. Everyone at the dealership is bending over backwards to help, but financially I'm not happy. I'm getting offered a $4000 trade in value and a $4500 repair estimate. Subaru Customer Care will give me $1000 toward the repair or $1500 credit for a NEW Subaru only (if I replace, I'd like to buy a certified pre-owned this time). My husband also drives a Subaru, we do all of our maintenance with them, and I love my car. I don't want a new Outback. I just want my car. Any ideas/recommendations? Should I go elsewhere to replace the engine? I called and got a quote from Subies in Traverse City, MI at $3700 but would be without my car for a few weeks, which is a pain. Any advice is welcome. Thanks much.