Cleaning and re-lubricating the bendix drive is really only a band-aid. Yes, the grease becomes thick when cold, and dirty, dried out grease becomes thicker and lubricating, however, the momentary zing, buzz, or squeal, in most cases, is primarily a result of the return spring loosing tension. The less than eager spring, combined with the reduced lubrication of the tried/thick grease, results in a slow disengagement.
I opted for replacing my OEM starter with a brand new unit from DB Electrical, and comparing the spring on the several year old OEM unit to that on the new starter make the difference very obvious. The new one returned back with gusto, the OEM unit, not so much. (I could barely push the new gear into the engagement position with my thumb, whereas the OEM unit was super easy, and obviously slower to return when released.
The change when cranking was also very evident, the OEM (same battery mind you) cranked extremely slow in cold weather, the DB Electric unit cranked significantly faster, and with more gusto, sort of like listening to a 2.0 vs the 3.6 when accelerating, just deeper sounding, with more authority. The lower priced rebuilt units only replace the worn components, you're still using the original coils, magnets, and gears in many cases, which may not be up to performing like new after years of service. - Just my $0.02 cents, as well as my brother's, who's holds several master-tech certifications.
BTW, replacement on the Outback is super EASY, the starter is at the top of the trans housing, right behind the air intake. Disconnect the batter, remove the electrical connector, and two bolts, and it lifts right out. No jack, no crawling under the vehicle, just plenty of access to get at the bolts. - You do need to follow the throttle/idle relearn BEFORE starting the frist time, or it will be difficult to start, with prolonged cranking.
