k9l3

iTrader: (1)

hi all just wondering is the early 2003 03 safe for reliability
as i have read in the past they had a problem and the engine could go.
i cant remember if it was something crumbling ect. i have seen a couple of 03 i like but have been rulling them out atm . or is there something you should upgrade/change

Gear Head

iTrader: (2)

I don't even know where to start on that one.

The only real common problems on the Blobeye - 03-05 are knocking dampers.
Engines are very reliable on these models.....IF they have been looked after.

That is the key point as with any car really.

k9l3

iTrader: (1)

yeh i agree but there 100% is something regarding the early 03's i have read i just cant find what it was again .
i am sure it was to do with something in the exuahst maybe
something like dampers dont put me off but possible engine rebuild would.

what do people think of a car if its had a rebuilt engine is that a good thing or very risky. i mean regards to buying one

Ozne

The 2.0 is a very reliable engine. With good history they can be bullet proof and run 420+ safely. 2003 models ill be looking at the synchros and dampers.

Gear Head

iTrader: (2)

WRX or STI?

k9l3

iTrader: (1)

Ok I just know my luck sometimes I would get the dodgy one so I stilk think 53 plus would be better to keep myself satisfied but there is a 03 I am in 2 minds.


wrx I looking for but really want a prodrive

Gear Head

iTrader: (2)

As far as I know, there are no major faults with either year.
I stand to be corrected!

k9l3

iTrader: (1)

Well I not in a rush now as the misses just found a smart forfour brabus I think I may be buying her so I drive that around for now and just keep a look out.

ditchmyster

iTrader: (7)

Only other problems up to 03 cars is the gearbox syncro's on the 6 speed.

k9l3

iTrader: (1)

Ok thanks for the info guys

wieczor25

iTrader: (8)

Is it all of the 2003 ? Or was there first few months that were affected ?

deanb1980

there is no issue with the engines on either the wrx or sti unless they have been abused and not looked after

the problem with a wrx well not a problem really is you will want the sti and tbh the sti isnt much more expensive compared to what you get thats better and the insurance isnt much difference either.

id go for a sti the 6 speed box makes it more fuel efficient compared to the 5 speed wrx plus the 6 speed is a lot stronger

b3nmw

I've had my 53 plate sti uk for nearly 4 years, no real probs, well recommended.

Trinity

iTrader: (28)

the most reliable car i have ever owned. In four years, its needed a front wheel bearing. (oh and rear shocks!).

Never broke down, ever not started. I love my blob. But it is JDM STI, so BETTER.

True the petrol is a lot, however if i look at how much my brother has spent on his 2003 Audi S3 in repairs over the last four years, well its outweighed the petrol about a gazillion to one.

daz1968

iTrader: (13)

I ran an 03 wrx for 3 years and now my widetrack jdm for 4 years and other than normal maintenance have had no issues at all, far more reliable than any other cars I have owned. In fact I really don't know what to have next which is why I haven't changed yet.

SWEENEYWRX

iTrader: (1)

I think the thing your referring to 'crumbling' could possibly be the cat in the up pipe, these are only in WRX and not STi, so another good reason to buy an STi. The cat has been known to break up, end up in the turbo, dead turbo!