1998 Subaru Impreza

Introduction:

The 1998 Subaru Impreza is a compact sedan and wagon with a reputation for reliability and performance. It offers a range of engine and transmission options, including:

• Engine: 2.2L SOHC (116 hp, 130 ft-lb torque)
• Transmission: 5-speed manual / 4-speed automatic

Engine

2.2L SOHC

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sudden engine failure, metal shavings in oil
  • Solution: Replace timing belt and tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed Manual

• Shifting Difficulty:
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard to shift gears, grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace shift linkage or transmission fluid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Car won’t move or accelerates slowly
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Strut Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oily residue on struts, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace front struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery won’t charge, dim headlights
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Car won’t start, grinding noise when starting
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Quarter Panels:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots appearing on rear quarter panels
  • Solution: Replace or repair affected panels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Panel Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dashboard panel cracking near vents
  • Solution: Replace dashboard panel
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

While the 1998 Subaru Impreza is generally reliable, it has some known issues that can be costly to repair. Head gasket failure and transmission slipping are among the most severe problems, while suspension and electrical issues are generally less expensive to fix. The severity of these issues may vary depending on the specific components and mileage of the vehicle.