My 1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon 2.5 GT With 156,000 Miles (Automatic) (That runs like a clock) is doing things I'm somewhat concerned about.
In the coolant reservoir bubbles seem to come up in the coolant and it only happens when the engine is warmed up.
I checked in my radiator cap and there doesn't seem to have bubbles forming there.
I'm unsure if its my engine overheating or a head gasket or what but id like to know what you guys think.
heres a video: https://youtu.be/19q1tCXd6KI
Very likely a head gasket, 1999 was the start of that trouble in Subarus and the first few years of that issue were the worst. You're actually very fortunate that the gaskets have not failed until now. Use a head gasket test kit or take it to a mechanic the check it out.
Unfortunately since the engine has to come out to replace the head gaskets the cost of repair will exceed the value of the car unless you are able to do it yourself.
My dad knows a guy who does Subaru repair so it wouldn't be that terrible of a job. My car has been to shops its whole life before my dad bought it for me. so im unsure whats been done to it, Overall its a really good running Subaru for its mileage. Thanks!
Yeah, if you know someone who can do the job for a reasonable price that would be OK. Normally it's very expensive (thousands) but it's almost all labor, the gasket set itself is only about $100-$150.
Turned out to just be air in the cooling system!
Hey, that's great! If that car really doesn't need head gaskets at this late date it may be a record for a Subaru of that vintage! 😎
Get the head gasket test kit and have your car checked out to make sure it is fine.
Except for the head gaskets on these generation Suby's they're nice cars. Wish I still had my 5spd. '02 Outback
Yeah i absolutely love my Subie, Never lets me down in the Alaskan winter!