1996 Subaru SVX

Introduction

The 1996 Subaru SVX was a sleek and sporty grand tourer, powered by a 3.3L flat-six engine. It was only available with a 4-speed automatic transmission, and produced 230 horsepower and 228 lb-ft of torque. Owners praised the SVX for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and responsive handling. However, it was criticized for its lack of rear seat space, poor fuel economy, and relatively high price.

Engine

3.3L Flat-Six

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil will leak from the engine and overheat. The leak will usually occur at the front or rear of the head gasket.
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket and any damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt will snap, causing the engine to lose power and stop running. This can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt every 105,000 miles, as recommended by Subaru.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission will slip out of gear while driving, causing a loss of power. This can be caused by worn clutch plates or a faulty torque converter.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear suspension bushings will wear out, causing the rear end of the car to sag and handle poorly.
  • Solution: Replace the worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The front strut mounts will wear out, causing the struts to make noise and the car to handle poorly.
  • Solution: Replace the worn strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator will fail to charge the battery, causing the car to lose power and eventually stop running.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery will drain overnight, leaving the car unable to start. This can be caused by a faulty alternator, a parasitic drain, or a failing battery.
  • Solution: Inspect and test the battery, alternator, and related electrical components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door locks will fail to lock or unlock, leaving the car insecure.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Weatherstripping Damage
  • Description/Symptoms: The weatherstripping around the doors and windows will deteriorate, allowing water and air to leak into the cabin.
  • Solution: Replace the damaged weatherstripping.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof will leak water into the cabin, causing damage to the interior.
  • Solution: Inspect the sunroof drains and reseal the sunroof.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dash Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard will crack, especially on the passenger side.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1996 Subaru SVX has several common problems, including head gasket failure, timing belt failure, transmission slipping, suspension bushing failure, alternator failure, door lock failure, weatherstripping damage, sunroof leaks, and dash cracking. These issues can range in severity and cost from minor to major. Overall, the SVX is a reliable car, but it is important to be aware of these potential issues before purchasing one.