Hi

I have a 1999 impreza turbo uk model.

Just last week it started smoking from the exhaust on start up, and dripping oil on the driveway. I took it to a local mechanic who said there is no compression in cylinder 2 and 50% in cylinder 4. (left bank)
Apparently the only two options are a new/reconditioned engine. Or take it a subaru garage where they will fit a new block for £3500 plus VAT

I live in the south west.

Does anybody know of any good mechanics in the area or just some good advice would be appreciated.
Are there any other options?

Thanks

 

Yes, phone APi engines and they'll take you through the options! They're Impreza specialists and have a very long line of happy customers! Normally you'd be speaking to David, but he's on his hols at the moment, so it'll probably be Nathan you'll want to ask for.

Don't even think about going to Subaru for that money!!

Ns04

 

Or get in touch with these guys - http://www.importcarparts.co.uk - If I remember correctly they charge £900 + vat for a full rebuild on a UK turbo including pistons, crank, rods etc.

 

That sounds a bit too good to be true! I'd be wanting a few references and a breakdown of EXACTLY what they are going to do and WHAT parts they are going to use! They might -of course- be perfectly good, but there are so many places out there that will give you a cheap quote that either:

a) goes up drastically as soon as they get the engine open and start saying "oooo, we didn't know we'd have to replace that, that'll be extra sir"

b) Will result in an engine that grenades itself in about 100 miles post rebuild!

Ns04

 

Although i havn't used API personally, i know a few people who have and they have been very very impressed, sure that David at API will do a quote and do a very good job, so if it is £900 is the quote it will be very very good for the price.

 

Firstly I'd get the engine stripped an inspected by a repuatable garage. If you have lost compression on the one bank it could just be a head gasket. If not, your looking at 2 new pistons at the very least.

It's only after strip down and inspection you will know if the entire engine needs a recon or not. As the crank, rods and remaining pistons may still be perfectly servicable.