Well it's been a while - but I'm now the proud owner of a Impreza again, after 4.5 years of company car driving (Vectra).

Decided to get exactly the same model as I had last time. MY98 but with the PPP extras this time.



Am getting used to the clutch and short-throw gearstick. But fingers crossed the car seems to be in perfect condition.

Am grinning cheek to cheek just like last time And the weather is mighty fine!

 

Looks nice, welcome back!

 

Just noticed the car has that diesel sound when used from cold - only for a couple of minutes. Is this something to worry about. I remember hearing about it in the past (a few years back) and the advise seemed to be inconclusive on whether this meant there was a problem or not

Regards
James (slightly more worried than yesterday)

 

She's lovely, mate

 

Piston slap from cold is a known issue on MY98. It's not something to worry about too much - the cure is, I believe, a new engine block. Some were done under warranty, but the car's 7 years old now so that's not really an option.

 

What is Piston Slap?

 

It's where the pistons are fractionally smaller than the bores, so instead of sliding smoothly from side to side (bearing in mind the scooby has a flat four engine), they are also free to rock slightly up and down. So, they literally slap against the sides of the bores, making the noise you hear.

When the engine warms up they expand slightly, so they fit the bores better and the noise goes away.

 

Someone on here told me that Subaru uk developed modified piston heads for the MY98 as an alternative to the short engine replacement. As Andy says, if it's only when the car is cold, I wouldn't worry about it! Just don't expect Diesel economy

NS04