Hi scotty, i purchased a 1998 subaru legacy outback limted automatic,180,000 miles, bought your recommended obd2 scanner and showed no codes. I bought it from a guy online on an app for 1100 she runs like a beauty, i changed all the fuses and everything still works but there was an over heating problem i have a new thermostat to put in which could fix it but when i start it the sweet smell of smoke fills the air and im wondering if its a gasket problem or a thermostat problem. No milky oil no leaks. Coolant or water in the overflow almost boils but not nearly just ripples a little bit. Thanks scotty! I appreciate it my guy!
The head gaskets may be leaking externally and dripping onto the exhaust system. Head gasket problems are routine on old Subarus. They typically leak externally before failing internally. If the engine has been overheated that would make matters worse.
Those cars are notorious for failed head gaskets.
Unfortunately it's going to cost you more than the car is worth. Condolences.
it actually survived longer than average.