1992 Subaru SVX

Introduction:

The 1992 Subaru SVX is a sporty grand tourer that was produced from 1991 to 1996. It was offered with a single engine and transmission option: a 3.3-liter flat-six engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. The SVX received praise for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and powerful engine, but it was also criticized for its high price and lack of practicality.

Engine

3.3-liter Flat-Six

• Head gasket failure: Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, white smoke from the exhaust, overheating. Solution: Replace the head gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
• Timing belt failure: Description/Symptoms: Loud noise from the engine, loss of power. Solution: Replace the timing belt and associated components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+

Transmission

Four-Speed Automatic

• Transmission slipping: Description/Symptoms: Transmission hesitates or fails to engage gears smoothly. Solution: Overhaul or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+

Suspension

• Strut mounts: Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, poor handling. Solution: Replace the strut mounts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Rear control arms: Description/Symptoms: Uneven tire wear, poor handling. Solution: Replace the rear control arms. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, electrical accessories not working. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Starter failure: Description/Symptoms: Engine will not crank. Solution: Replace the starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

Exterior

• Sunroof leaks: Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the interior of the vehicle through the sunroof. Solution: Reseat or replace the sunroof. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Tail light condensation: Description/Symptoms: Moisture builds up inside the tail light housing. Solution: Replace the tail light housing. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Interior

• Dashboard cracks: Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard. Solution: Replace the dashboard or install a dashboard cover. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Power window failure: Description/Symptoms: Power windows do not operate properly. Solution: Repair or replace the power window motor or switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Recalls:

• NHTSA Campaign Number: 92V114000: Description: Fuel pump strainer may clog, causing engine to stall.
• NHTSA Campaign Number: 94V037000: Description: Rear brake hoses may rupture, causing loss of braking.
• NHTSA Campaign Number: 95V111000: Description: Front seat belts may not latch properly.

Summary:

The 1992 Subaru SVX is a reliable and stylish grand tourer, but it does have some potential issues. The most severe and expensive problems are head gasket failure and transmission slipping, which can cost over $1,000 to repair. Other common issues include timing belt failure, suspension problems, electrical issues, and interior defects. Overall, the SVX is a good choice for enthusiasts who are willing to pay a premium for its unique design and performance.