I'm looking into getting my first Subaru and would like to know the most things that need checked on these models. Just how reliable are they or is there another year/model I would be better off buying? Maximum budget is ten grand

 

2.5 engine is pure pot luck if it lasts or fails.

10k is a decent budget so should see a 2004/05 sti, may even find a hawk sti with a forged engine if your lucky.

 

I bought my first (proper) one in the middle of last year 2.5 06 wrx, apart from tax which is a killer at £500ish a year, averaging around 22mpg which is fine for me.

With the 06/07 models expect to need to do the head gasket at some stage (if not done), the auto leveling sensors for the xenon headlights seem to be an issue and the warning light can be disabled by unplugging from the control box (from what i remember its a white plug under the glove box), the rear shock can knock/clunk which appears to be from the grease in the shock drying up and rust would be the other thing to look for. Also possibly check that all the windows work ok, i think the water gets in and wrecks the motor.

Mine has has cambelt/t-stat/water pump/radiator done so far and is currently getting the head gasket done. I will be planning saving for a rebuild at some stage.

However, i have smiled more in that car than i have done in the majority of my other cars.