To turbo or not to turbo, that is the question

[Mattayyah]

Hello all,

I've been passively viewing this forum for a while now and finally decided to join last week. First of all, thanks for keeping the viewing public, it's helped me a lot.

Kind of a last minute question, been looking to buy a baja for a year now and am finally pulling the trigger next week. Found a turbo up in PA that has a remote start and one previous owner. I have been dead set on either a turbo or a manual sport, either 05 or 06 and under 150k.

My question is, besides the usual things to look for in a turbo wear and tear, should I not risk a used turbo with 100k+ and just try for a sport?

If not, what are some red flags I need to look for if I fly up to check it out? (I have no problem hoping on a flight back if I don't dig it).

Any advice will be much appreciated and I will be sure to close this post with some pics of my new Baja when I get it.

Thanks!

-Matt

[Hawk296]

Automatic? (remote start has me wondering)

There is really nothing wrong with buying a turbo over a non turbo. Just make sure all the maintenance has been done, timing belt changed and all of that. Once you test drive it you will get a pretty good idea if everything is working fine or not. Turbo should not smoke and it should not make any loud or abnormal noises.

Heck i would be more worried about how well or poorly the remote start has been installed.

The earlier turbos had the issues with the oil banjo bolt filter clogging and starving the turbo of oil. If the VIN is one of those that was effected make sure it's been taken care of.

There was also a recall for fuel leaks that involves replacing the fuel pump bracket, might want to make sure that was done.

[Mattayyah]

Thanks, I remeber reading about the banjo bolt, thanks for info about the recall, I'll look into it. Also, it is an automatic with remote start, I'll find out more from them before I buy my ticket!

[ATLcple]

Matt,
Like you, I just recently purchased my first Subaru. A used 04 Baja turbo, Auto, with 135K miles. The previous owner had done the "big" service that included the head gaskets, timing belt, water pump (the one most owners apparently do at 100-120K miles). He also addressed turbo issues at that time and had the banjo-bolt filter removed. If you are considering a turbo vs non-turbo then I will say this: the Boxer motor needs the 100K service done (timing belt, water pump) with EITHER motor (I think) so it's a big expense to break down the motor and get that done. If both of your potential Bajas have had this service done, then that's a big plus. If only one of them has, then that one is probably the better buy.
The biggest plus about the turbo is the torque (approx. 230lb-ft, I think) and my Baja just feels fast. The downside is twofold...mileage is quite a bit less- 19mpg for the turbo, more like 23+ for the Sport (city)...AND remember, the Turbo engine requires PREMIUM fuel, the Sport does not!
Good luck in your search...a well cared for Baja (like mine) is just a blast to own.

[Mattayyah]

Well, as promised, here is my new Baja!

Loving it, 2005 Turbo 5 Speed manual, 130K, had the timing belt changed at 100K and taking it to a Subaru Mechanic next week to get everything checked out but it has a pretty good looking service record on car fax.

Thanks for the help!

[ATLcple]

Matt, GREAT color combo, and it looks like it is in very good shape. I expect you will love owning it. Enjoy.