Used 2002 Subaru Outback Consumer Reviews
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The best vehicle I have ever owned.
Sara, 05/17/2016
2002 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
33 of 35 people found this review helpful
I bought this vehicle in 2012, it was already 10 years old. The previous owner had been great to it, it only had 94,000 miles on it and looked practically new aside from a scrape or two on the bumper. I got it when I did because I needed a reliable vehicle because I was going off to college, and the SUV I had been driving was on it's last legs. I also live in the mountains, and was going to school in the mountains as well, so I needed a vehicle that could handle any weather situation, but also didn't eat gas. This vehicle was perfect. It's like a hybrid of an SUV and a sedan. It handles like a dream. I've driven it through snow, ice, extreme rain storms, gravel, mud, you name it, the Outback can handle it. Since purchasing, I have put nearly 100,000 miles on this baby and I have yet to have a single mechanical issue with it, aside from the usual tune ups of getting the brakes or tires changed. I practically lived in my vehicle, all except for sleep, for one semester in particular, and I can safely say it is very comfortable. I always feel safe in it. It has a great sound system and fairly good, though not the most powerful, AC. Cup holders are less of an issue in this model then I've seen it be in other Subaru's. It's true that it isn't the most attractive of cars, but for the vehicle type, it certainly isn't hard on the eyes either. I love this vehicle and would recommend it to anyone who lives in a climate with lots of weather extremes, or for anyone who just loves to explore the world. I will drive this car till it won't drive anymore.
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Head gasket nightmare
speedballjet, 10/26/2010
2002 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon w/Weather Pkg (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
22 of 23 people found this review helpful
I purchased my 2002 Outback new 2/2002. During warranty, the automatic seat broke & would no longer adjust for height. It was fixed free of charge. Soon after warranty expired, the same problem. I've never fixed it because the cost is over $600-- ridiculous. I've only got 65,000 miles, just put new tires on the car, and my mechanic informs me that I have an oil leak and need head gaskets replaced. He showed me a Subaru Service Bulletin which extended the warranty to 8 yrs and 100,000 miles if vehicle leaking coolant. Long story short, even though I wasn't yet leaking coolant, Subaru agreed to pay for 1/2 cost including head gaskets, water pump, and seals. Cost to me $800. I still love the car.
2002 Subaru Outback for sale near you
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One helluva great car
Snowchaser, 11/05/2010
2002 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
20 of 21 people found this review helpful
I am by no means a conservative driver. And this car keeps up with me without even breaking a sweat. the H6 is an insanely powerful engine. The snow and ice in this car are not even a problem. It powers through it like its not even there. Great space for over night ski trips. Great looking. comfortable. The best car i've ever owned
Excellent car
yuba4, 03/14/2011
2002 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
37 of 41 people found this review helpful
Suby has been reliable and a perfect fit for our requirements. Bought new in 2002, it now has almost 200k miles and is still a great car. Replaced head gaskets at 150k (common problem), but otherwise not many repairs. Her features and capabilities are a perfect match for our family of four.
Best car ever owned
tony D, 01/17/2010
2002 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon w/Weather Pkg (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
Well I have 103,000 miles and I beat on this poor car and do the minimal maintenance and it has never let me down.The cars handling has saved my life several times the latest was a high speed deer avoidance situation the guy in the Acura behind me was not so lucky. The head gasket problem You have to use the Subaru coolant only or you will be screwed. just starting leaking a small amount of oil recently but I do use mobile 1 synthetic and it will find it's way out of any engine sooner or later. My only complaint would be wind noise on the drivers side only. I also had a problem with the engine computer but the solution was to leave the battery disconnected overnight problem solved.
Versatile
TW, 01/15/2010
2002 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon w/Weather Pkg (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
I value versatility or all else and this car has it in spades. Bought it new, now have 167,000 miles with very few issues. Family trips with 4 kayaks on the top, 4 bikes on the back, 4 people and a 160# dog and loaded to the gills. Enough power and decent gas mileage. I tow with it. I have hauled stone and mulch and top soil. I'm a musician and it holds all my equipment and is easy to load and unload. Love the low weight of the flat 4 engine and how it just pulls you through corners. I'm up for a new car this year. This one goes to my daughter and I will most likely get another Outback.
2 blown head gaskets 20k miles
derek_someda, 07/18/2012
2002 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon w/Weather Pkg (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
28 of 32 people found this review helpful
at 2.5 yrs noticed coolant drops in driveway. Problem progressed to wet spot. I thought no big deal that a hose needed to be replaced or clamp tightened. At 3yrs checked under car and found both head gaskets were leaking oil and water. Subaru was out of warranty and said my VIN was not amongst those recalled. Changing the gaskets would be over 3k. They sold me a 6 oz bottle of Subie coolant stop leak that did nothing. I used barrs stop leak with nano tech the last several years. Now it clogged the overfill hose so I cleaned it out. At 60k miles the oil is indicating overfill so I assume the water is now crossing into the engine block and have to get rid of the vehicle.
2002 Outback H6 Sedan after 16000 miles
influxSoft, 05/30/2002
2002 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
The new 6 cylinder 212hp engine is smooth and quiet I drive a LOT of miles... over 16K in the first 6 months and living in New England with out snow and ice... I can honestly say nothing compares... The AWD with its continuously variable transfer clutch and a limited-slip rear differential gives plenty of confidence on snow and ice (you may find it almost boring... its just that good... you'll hardly think its slippery) Good standard sound system with comfortable interior. Gas mil is fair. Pls be aware the prem gas is recommended but not required. I considered purchasing the VW passat 4motion... but for $4K less this is a fine car.
The best car on the road!!
Judi Epstein, 08/23/2016
updated 10/24/2016
2002 Subaru Outback L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
I love my LL Bean Outback and am sorry to let it go. I've never owned a car as well built and reliable. It's absolutely fantastic!!
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- Value
Subaru takes a step up.
Docaloha, 06/28/2002
2002 Subaru Outback VDC AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I have been a Subaru fan for about 15 years, but felt it was always underpowered. The new H6 solves the problem nicely. The car is very smooth, and glides through traffic. My wife has a new Subaru Legacy sedan, and whenever she or my daugther take my car, they always remark on how much better my Outback handles, and how smooth it is. While it lacks some of the luxury features of the next class up, pricewise, it does have the best of them including heated seats, great stereo, very comfortable wheel, and auto climate control.
Love it
scoobaru, 10/06/2009
2002 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought the car with 11k miles in 2004. I've had very few problems and have surpassed the 100k mark. I recently put about $500 worth of maintenance work into it and she runs great. I've used it multiple times to tow a trailer with as much weight as 4000 lbs. I'd like to get another 100k miles out of it at least. I'm sure improvements have been made in the past 7 yrs - I'm looking forward to buying another one.
Finally, a 6 cylinder!
Auzzieboy10, 06/08/2002
2002 Subaru Outback L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Just got my Outback 6 Cyl. Wagon two weeks ago and so far I really love this car. Had a Sedan 20 years ago and really liked it, but I needed a SUV and wasn't going to settle for a 4 cyl. Found out the Outback had a 6 cyl. on Friday and bought it on Saturday:) However, at 212hp is only adequate in my opinion, but good handling and braking make up for continued lack of power.
Canadian 6 cyl H6 3.0 model wonder!
duke_wa, 10/07/2010
2002 Subaru Outback L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
10 of 12 people found this review helpful
Our Candian edition model of 3.0 H6 Outback is close to the L.L. Bean model, but doesn't have two-tone leather, it just has the monotone leather and no L.L. Bean logos. Love the cold weather package features. Don't have the Mcintosh stereo, but the upgraded weather band stereo is still pretty decent. Quality throughout and love the power and smoothness from the 6 cylinder engine. This is our second Outback. Our previous one was the 2.5 litre 1998 4- cyl.
Started Out Great Then Money Pit
Dave In Denver, 08/01/2010
2002 Subaru Outback VDC AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This was our second outback. We bought a 3.0h6 vdc used. It was the regional Subaru rep's car and came fully loaded with everything including the McIntosh stereo. For 4 years we hauled 2 kids and a 80 lb dog all over Colorado. The car was great until it hit 100,000 miles. After that it was nonstop maintenance. A big problem was the car burned through brakes. Then the car began leaking oil. Lots of oil! The biggest problem was when we would go up a hill the vdc off light would come on then the engine would overheat. Two Subaru dealers could not find the problem. They overhauled the entire cooling system at great expense. Head gaskets were fine. We finally gave up and traded it in.
$$$$ maintenance
hotwheels, 06/21/2010
2002 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
No mechanical problems until dealer check at 114,000 miles. Cost $2100 to bring car up to speed, new water pump (even though I never had a water leak or change in antifreeze levels), was told oil valve leak on spark plug wires, needed $600 100,000 mile checkup with this bill and needed new rear brakes too. Wind noise is annoying. Bottom of driver door seal is loose and leaks. During freezing North Dakota winters the spring loaded gas cap freezes shut, cramped interior with just average gas mileage. Have been driving 41 years and never have had $2100 repair bill on any of my Hondas, Toyotas, or Nissans (some of them with 200,000+ miles). If I have one more problem, this car is going.
Outback VDC H6 wagon
FRM, 12/09/2006
2002 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
I have always admired Subaru for their AWD which fascinated me back in the 70s. Finally I bought one and it had the McIntosh promo stereo CD player. This stereo has rekindled my love for music as I had forgotten what beautiful music sounds like. The special sound design of the interior contributed to the greatness of the stereo. I have since listened to other systems in more expensive cars that cannot compare. The car has power with the 212hp 6 and is quiet probably because of the special sound treatment mentioned already. I have not had problems at all and the AWD can go through snow like it is not there. Ice is tough for any car. The only con is wind noise but I am well satisfied.
I want to love this car
Ashley, 11/09/2018
2002 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have wanted this particular year of the outback, since it's aesthetics have always appeals to me compared to the newer models. I bought this car from a Subaru mechanic who used it as his personal vehicle, who put nessecary work in before selling. Stock Subaru headgaskets dont have a great rep, so this guy replaced them with a "much better" headgasket (assuming a closed deck block instead of open deck, since that can make a world of a difference in the engines performance). IMO, it's better to buy used that may have more age but better matinence (title in hand), than one with younger age but no major repairs (it's basically inevitable at some point). I took the chance and bought this with 124k with a 30 day warranty (uncle actually drove 2 hours to pick it up, good thing because I probably didn't have the courage to go that low in price LOL asking $2,900 sold for $2,000). Granted, the muffler rusted off but was easily and inexpensively repaired within a day, the basic matenience of this car is good if you keep a watchful eye on your fluid regularly. Everything under the hood looks great, lots of replacements and brand new parts. What I love most about the outback is it's simplicity and outdoor-looking design. The duel moon-roof is great for both front and rear passangers, heated leather seats, wood trim (which is kinda glossy looking, but I still love it), sound system is fantastic in my opinion, & cargo room is a huge bonus. Ground clearance is good. LOVE the two-tone colors, and lower plastic trim. Where salt is an issue, there is only a small bit of visible rust on the back panels. Otherwise, the rust underneath wasn't bad to have me walk away, and certainly the body looks great since plastic doesnt rust. I'm always told it looks better than most newer cars, and I have to agree, I just want to love this car for many years. Next time I'll get a 3.0, since the 2.5 on this model is pretty laggy. It delays by like 2 seconds when accelerating abruptly. Since I'm a mom now, I wasn't looking for that, instead a car of great practicality and space that gives me "just what I was looking for" in a car. I had a 94 legacy wagon that took me all the way over the 300k mark, so with the proper care and routine maintenance, I have no doubt this car will be a car I can love to love for many more years. Reluctant to let go of my love for the earlier generations of Outbacks. They're appealing in their own right and have their own set of followers. Love the early 2000 aesthetics, both interior and exterior. I'll give another review some time later and see if anything else crops up. I MAY have a small leak since something tends to drip on the exsaust when I'm going up a hill, but that's it. No dramatic change in fluid levels though, and no visible leaking, so we'll see.
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Gaik's Car
lemonstr, 08/29/2003
2002 Subaru Outback VDC AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Purchased after extensive review of car's in class. Came down to Forester or Outback. Better ride and quieter than Forester. Forester will probably be my replacement for aging Civic. Would have been happy with a Limited but wife wanted power of H6. Good car, but minor issues. Glove box hard opening, McIntosh stereo crackels on right channel when adjusting volume, water leaks in from child seat strap in rear of cargo area, has had two recalls todate. Gas mileage is not worth the performance in my opinion, wife typically get high teens on a tank, I can squeeze out low 20s with effort, best tank 26 mpg on highway. Overall Good Car!
Very Nice Car,.. from Day One
Iowa Man, 11/23/2016
2002 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought this car and was second owner. Car Drives Great on Gravel Roads and hugs the road.. Has All Wheel Drive and its a Perfect Car for Winter Driving both on/ off Road. Heated Seats, Auto, Great Heat n Air Car at 190,000 miles , drives like New. Like all Midwestern and Northern Cars/ trucks.. problem with corrosion around wheel wells. Dash board Check Engine Light is Very Sensative to Gas Cap n little things that make it come on n off, but doesnt affect fun & Strong driving of this Car. Car will Drive over 400,000 miles before dying...
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VDC - Very Dynamic Car
WRXSTi, 06/30/2003
2002 Subaru Outback VDC AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is my 7th Subaru, and by far the best made and engineered of all of them. No rattles, squeaks, grinding, smoking as of 32000 miles. The VDC is all about the motor, VERY smooth throughout rev range, boxer H6 like a "Porcha", tranmission well matched and downshifts without hesitation. Tip- take the spring on the muffler bypass and reverse it, it allows full flow of exhaust and gives you the distinct pleasure of hearing the engine note at all throttle settings, plus increases the MPG and acceleration.
Reliability of McIntosh Stereo
jcborgeson, 06/25/2003
2002 Subaru Outback VDC AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is my first Subaru. Great highway cruiser, very quiet. I am puzzled by the reviews that complain of wind noise. Its quieter than my Jag XJR. I've measured with a sound meter to confirm. Reliability is good with 20,400 miles. Service has been excellent. The one problem has been the McIntosh stereo. We are on our third, waiting for the fourth. The system sounds great but reliability is awful. I've been told that it is really a Clarion head with McIntosh trim. On the plus side, the AWD system is superb, far better than the Volvo XC70 it replaces. I have been pretty amazed at the slop, ice and snow this car can move through safely.
Honda - Next Time
Ex-Coloradian, 06/17/2009
2002 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
OK, I am not a car person. Had an Accord for about 10 years then wanted a larger (similarly reliable) car that could handle snow, etc. Bought an 02 Subaru Outback in 03. Last year at roughly 70,000 miles, I had to put $2,700 in it - head gasket (engine overheating) and miscellaneous maintenance. This winter was cold, and then I got the overpowering gasoline smell in the car on cold days - apparently another known problem. I basically love the car (style, size, driving) but will drive this until it costs me too much not too. Shame on Subaru for not fixing known problems - (head gasket and fuel stink in cold weather), I would not recommend it nor will I buy one again.
So long, Subaru
Tsquared, 12/30/2004
2002 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This was my second Outback, my first being a '96 5 speed manual I traded for the '02 4 speed automatic. I wish I had held on to my '96. The '02 quality did not seem to be as good and was disappointing. Most recently, the engine sporadically idled poorly or hesitated on acceleration--even on the Interstate. My biggest concern was a leaking head gasket, which is apparently a common problem on 1999-2002 models and there was a recall for some--not all (Google "Outback head gasket"). The "fix" involved adding a conditioner to the coolant to seal the leak. Seems like a stop-gap to me. Between the head gasket and the sporadic acceleration problem I decided to it was time to trade.
Too many problems
StrictlyMediocre, 02/02/2009
2002 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have 122,000 on the car. I plan to keep it until 250,000 if it will last. I am on my 4th set of replacement head gaskets (5 sets total). After the dealer did the first 4 HG jobs, I found a mechanic who says "use the turbo head gasket, it will never leak again." Question: why doesn't the dealer do that? Also replaced the pistons at 122K because originals had seized rings and were so noisy I couldn't hear myself think on a cold day. Now using 3rd party pistons as well. Car handles great. Reset the "learning" engine computer for better performance. Wind noise in driver/pass. window can be fixed by squeezing molding together where side mirror is mounted. This will probably be my last Subie.
Avoid this model
Ridergirl, 06/26/2009
2002 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 8 people found this review helpful
My previous car was a Nissan Pathfinder which I finally retired at 308,000 miles. I bought this as a Subaru certified, used, at 60,000 miles, hoping I would get the same performance. Not so. The engine had to be replaced at 90,000, the clutch went at 110,000, as did the entire transmission. Check engine light comes on regularly just like an old friend. The fuel smell inside the car in the cold weather is awful. Wind noise is terrible, and the seats are uncomfortable for long drives, with limited leg room if you are taller than 5'7. Junky plastic parts. This car has cost me $11,000 over the purchase price so far. CS at corporate & dealer rude. Shame on Suby for this sub standard machine.
never again!!!!
trish, 01/08/2016
2002 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
12 of 18 people found this review helpful
Bought 2002 suburu outback limited used from original owner. Had it checked by my mechanic and everything was looked good. 140k miles for $5800. Nice looking car too. Ran great for a few months (2 to be exact). It has been a money sucker non stop for the past 2 years! first was something with the Manifold gasket and oxygen sensor $1150 later. The next big one was an oil leak under the head gasket with some "other things" needing fixing $3100 later. A few little things in between that cost couple of hundred $$. Latest was a break down on the highway with a "fried alternator" and a few months after that steering didnt feel right and my temp guage needle was bouncing from normal to HOT. Turns out coolant leak from the radiator. However, I never saw fluid under the car but the mechanic tells me it is leaking somewhere in the car and going where it shoud not be. Was hesistant to even fix it and told me I should just buy a new car. He did an affordable "patch job" for me for $500 as apposed to fixing the problem for $2000 plus as I NEED my car. I bought this car only because I heard they handle extremely well in the snow and this is quite true--- she does But it STOPS right there! This used car has cost me $10,000 within 2 years. This car is a NIGHTMARE but i need to get about and new car not an option now. I want to cry! :( STAY AWAY FROM SUBURU!!!!!
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Great car until it hit 100k miles
bartemaeus, 05/28/2009
2002 Subaru Outback L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
7 of 10 people found this review helpful
Up until the 100k mark, the car was flawless. But after that it went downhill. The transmission leaked and cost $2k to fix, the belt broke at least twice, belt pulleys had to be replaced twice, and the A/C compressor died. That was the final straw and we traded it in. I had hoped I would get a few more thousand miles out of the car. It was still a great car to drive, smooth on the highway, and never got stuck in snow.
loved this car
Dan Tannen, 07/25/2018
2002 Subaru Outback VDC AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Bought this car used with about 160,000 miles on it. The dealer had replaced a few items like front axles, which didn't surprise me, that's a lot of miles to expect out of original axles. I got it up to 196,000 miles before the trans began to whine louder and louder. I heard that you shouldn't change the trans fluid in a high mileage car IF you didn't know for sure whether it had been regularly changed. I didn't know, but that whine was really bothering me. I changed the fluid and sure enough, the trans got nice and quiet and 2 days later stopped going into gear. I'm not upset at all though, i definitely got my money's worth out of it. It was fantastic in the snow. I could race full size trucks with 4 wheel drive and easily get to the other side of the intersection before them, on regular all season tires. I was really quite abusive to it, doing lengthy donuts in the snow in empty parking lots. I can't blame the trans for not enduring that year after year after year. The only item I had to change out of the ordinary was the driveshaft. One of the ujoints developed an annoying little squeak. I got one from a junkyard for $40 and paid a guy $50 to swap it out in the middle of winter. Rear defrost was always weak, but everything else worked great even at that mileage. Window motors, sunroof, heat, ac, locks, heated seats, etc. Its even on the original water pump and radiator. It's the 6 cylinder so it doesn't need timing belt changes. I bet it's even on the original plugs. The motor is still very solid. a little vibraty at idle, but from 700rpm up it's as smooth as an electric motor. No check engine lights, no hesitations. If I could get a trans for it , i would. But it's the very limited VDT/VDC model and that trans is very hard to find used, and it's certainly not in a price range I want to pay. But Lord, if I could find one for $1000 I'd happily put it in. I love this car, and wish I could keep it. I got 15 mpg in winter, 18-20 in summer, and 26 on the highway. For those of you wondering. Also I found it decently comfortable on trips. The steering was quick and accurate at highway speeds as well as in the city. Always drove perfectly straight. The seats don’t extend very far under your legs but I am 6’1 220lbs and could take it on 5 hour trips with no soreness when I arrived. Man I really wish I could fix the car and keep it.
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A Thin Line between Love and Hate
liz, 12/13/2009
2002 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I knew I wanted my Subaru OUtback Sedan for a while. I was in love with it when I got her. Had to replace brakes and rotors, expensive but routine. Everything was great until 95k mi, had oil leaking everywhere. Subaru did cam seals, valve seals, timing belt (it was leaking on it too) and some other stuff for $650. A month later engine light came on - catalytic conv. Got a 2nd opinion on the cat. conv. and they found a leak in the head gasket. I'm sick to my stomach I love this car...never a problem in bad weather...I don't want to get rid of it but after the reviews idk. I may not be able to afford all the up keep. I would buy a new outback if they came out with a new sedan...without the problems
Smooth 6 cylinder Outback
duke, 06/02/2010
2002 Subaru Outback L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful
Recently purchased the H6 3.0 liter model of Outback wagon and was very impressed by the smoothness of the engine and its power, compared to the 2.5 liter engine. Interior is very tasteful and has a nice level of quality throughout. Sometimes the transmission hunts for the right gear, I have noticed.
Worst lemon ever made.
John, 05/19/2019
2002 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Run, don’t walk, away from this money pit of a car. Sure some of these models are fine, but the ones that aren’t totally disintegrate at around 60k miles. Mine has been in my family since new and has been babied the whole time. It only has 60k miles and just in the last year it has cost me 3k for a head gasket replacement which still leaks coolant and oil, another 2k for miscellaneous engine and other parts that are breaking constantly. The alternator went out while my daughter was driving it on the highway, which was incredibly dangerous. The headlights just went out and the dash will have to be removed to figure out the wiring issues causing that. If you don’t believe me talk to any mechanic. It is apparently an open secret that this model and year are often awful. I won’t ever buy another Subaru again. I am sure they have improved since 2002, but any company that could have ever built such a terrible car really can’t be trusted.
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Love it.
Kent, 12/22/2005
2002 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Had the H6 sedan for almost 6 months now and love it. Handles great, rides great, and fun to drive. Only issue is that my breaks squeal loudly after they get warmed up and no dealership yet can figure it out. Ugh. Other than that I am sold on my Subaru! Absolutely a great car. I drive a ton for work and I am always comfortable and never stiffen up driving long road trips.
best ever
robert ranallo, 07/04/2002
2002 Subaru Outback VDC AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
All wheel drive is execptional. You can take this car anyhwere, anytime in any weather with confidence. The handling is amazing with the all wheel drive coupled with the VDC at any speed.
This is one SAFE car!!!
LovemyOutback, 05/11/2002
2002 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Just had a major accident in my Outback wagon and walked away with only bruises from the seatbelt! Was going 50mph and SUV pulled in front of me and stopped dead in its tracks. I didn't even have time to hit the brakes. Front end smushed in, but passenger compartment still in perfect condition! I'm getting another one!
Good job overall
NTB125, 03/19/2006
2002 Subaru Outback L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Generally speaking I think it's an excellent car. Overall quality is very good. Mileage also excellent at low 20's. Great looking car as well. Nothing is perfect but my complaints are minor; such as the rear view mirror being a little in your vision field, no power port and the factory keyless entry not having an auto lock feature. Climate control seems to have a mind of its own and adjusts the fan speed when it wants to. I also have a Forester and nothing here would stop me from buying again.
Now I'm Sure! Its the Outback Sedan
emjantam, 10/04/2002
2002 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I traded in my Mazda Millenia S for the Outback and was a little hessitant at first, its a whole different beast. The more I look at the cars interior and exterior and drive it, the more I'm sure I made a good choice. I tried the Audi A4, VW Passat, Land Rover, BMW IX ect since I was looking for All-wheel- drive. Nothing came close to the Outback in price when options were added up. To get the A4, BMW or Passat with the same options, I'd have to pays thousands of bucks more. Its a nice classy ride. It not the quickest nor does it have the prestigous name but its the best deal - reliable, unique and comfortable.
Never Again
Rachael, 10/08/2009
2002 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon w/Weather Pkg (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought my Subaru with 40k miles on it 2 years ago, and this January it became a MONEY PIT...had a strong fuel smell and had dealer tighten plugs two times...the smell continued. I had my 60,000 tune up. Still smelled it. Found out my coolant was leaking, so I went in twice to have them put something in the car that would seal any leaks from the inside. Didn't work. Replaced my head gaskets, valve cover gaskets, the whole bit. NOW, I'm burning 1 quart of oil every two weeks, and replaced 2 wheel bearings. Heated windshield broke windshield both winters. Seats uncomfortable for long trips. LOVE THE CARGO SPACE!
Subaru's are great cars
Steven, 12/13/2004
2002 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is our first subaru with VDC. It is fantastic. The car is wonderful with the only complaint being the power band really kicks in at 4000 rpm and above, which is a bit high. Under this it is marginal for a six cylinder. It is nice to own a car that does not look like everything else on the road.
MOST RELIABLE ALL WEATHER CAR
BEV, 05/22/2002
2002 Subaru Outback VDC AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is our 3rd Subaru after leaving Mercedes in our past. We have found reliablity and safety of the Subaru never disappointing.The car handled well in deep snow and slush on the highway. The dash is well designed and everything works well all the time.No paint problems,no engine problems, just no complaints. The price is right for a great car.
Hypermiling My Subaru Outback
Greg Gorgeous, 05/10/2009
2002 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I first test drove a 1997 Subaru Outback Wagon and found the smooth ride uncanny since we also owned a Lexus LS 400. I finally purchased a 2002 Outback Loaded. The Automatic Transmission is smooth and lends itself to Hypermiling... use of Neutral position when coasting when approaching Lights, on Descending Grades etc. Re-engages Drive effortlessly and smoothly. Attained approx 35.8 MPG with room for lots of improvement. The Ride is excellent and Acceleration is brisk. My next Outback will probably be Turbo Charged or Hybrid when avail.
love this car
jano, 12/05/2005
2002 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I could sell Subaru's if I ever needed a job. This car drives like melted butter in smooth performance. It is a fine highway vehicle in mountains as well as long TX stretches. The solidity & quiet drive are something I appreciate most after driving a Ford Explorer, priced about the same. I would like to have a keyless remote that would allow access were I to lock keys inside; other than that, I have no complaints about this vehicle. I am a tried & true Subaru fan. The gas mileage will have to improve on all vehicles in this country. Subaru will most likely help to lead the way here, but I'm getting 18-24 currently.
Scooby Bean
dude, 02/26/2002
2002 Subaru Outback L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Great handling and very smooth engine. Very fun to power around corners. Subarus don't seem to mind being driven hard.
More that 1/4 million miles
Xite , 05/05/2020
2002 Subaru Outback VDC AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Car still runs great after 18 years of driving and over 257,284 miles on it
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Our 5th Subaru
CMartin, 03/26/2004
2002 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I love my Black & Gold 3.0 AWD Outback Sedan! It's fun to drive, and handles EXTREMELY well in snow and rain. It's the most comfortable car I've ever driven for long trips. 600-700 miles in a day, and I still feel great at the end of the day's drive. I have only one complaint that my Service Department has no answer -- the heating/cooling system. Seems there's no happy medium for it. Hopefully Subaru will come up with a fix soon! We've been a Subaru family for a long time. I drove a 2000 Outback Sedan before getting the 2002, with the bigger engine. Glad I made the upgrade, except -- give me my old air conditioner/heater!!!
Very disappointing
New England Resident , 01/17/2018
2002 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 11 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car for my son in 2015. 110k miles, body rust like you wouldn’t believe. I voted no; son voted yes because he’s a millennial and believes everything that he reads on the web. In this case, social media shows that Subaru is a great car, incredibly reliable, etc etc. He showed me a quote/metric saying that 97% of Subaru’s built since 1997 are still on the road ... so they are bullet proof. And so safe (more on safety later)!! What the quote/metric didn’t say was that they leak oil from the head gasket like no other car, have electrical problems galore, exhaust issues, and many others. I honestly have no idea how these cars got such a reputation for being great cars. Do people who drive these rat traps know what a ‘great car’ is ?? I spent about $7000 on repairs over 18 months. What a PoS. Thankfully, my son totaled the car, hence I don’t have to suffer any more repair bills. BTW, it didn’t take much to total it. He hit a curb at about 20 mpg, which destroyed the front end. The insurance adjuster said that type of damage is very common with these cars, and that they aren’t nearly as safe as Subaru likes to say. Their only saving grace is the AWD system. It really is pretty good. Everything around that ... forget it. IMHO, if you ‘must’ have a Subaru, lease one. They are relatively cheap, and they are warrantied during the lease period. At the end of the lease period ... give it back. I
Road Noise
Carter, 02/15/2010
2002 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 6 people found this review helpful
First wind, then engine noise make this car a problem on the highway. The wind noise can be fixed with a fairly simple repair (the frameless windows are at fault). The engine noise, however, is a result of the manual gearbox. The fifth gear has to rev high to allow the cruise control to pull the car uphill. As a result the car revs at 3-4000 rpm at highway speeds and makes a real racket. The raspy, unrefined 4 cyl. doesn't help. It is a deal killer. Other than that, pretty good car. Secure on dirt roads and in snow and fun to drive on both. The exterior is distinctive Subaru and the interior is well executed.
Paint on 2nd Color of Car
MsMcGoo, 07/29/2002
2002 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 6 people found this review helpful
The lower plastic on the Subaru Outback has an issue with peeling. This happens after a your car has been severly door dinged. The plastic bends but the paint does not stick to the plastic. This also occurs when a rock goes through your bumper. This is cosmetic but for a brand new car, the paint should not be peeling.
Meets all our needs!
Fro, 02/25/2003
2002 Subaru Outback L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We compared our car w/Passat Wagon, and everything being equal the Outback won hands down. The comfort, roominess and extra (non add-on) emenities made the decision easy. It handles better than any other car we've owned.
pretty darn good
dm guy, 07/25/2003
2002 Subaru Outback L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
It is suprising to me that the car I had 20 years ago had the same gas milage as this. Wow, arent't we making great progress!!! tree-hugging aside, it is a great wagon. not too big, but big enough for small hauls. Back seat is not very roomy- not good for long trips with tall people.
LL Bean after one year
Chuck B, 07/15/2003
2002 Subaru Outback L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The LL Bean has done very well. Have put alot of miles in one year and not one problem. It handles the rough stuff well and feels solid on the hyway. It is not flashy but a very comfortable vehicle to drive short and long distances as well. Would make the same choice again and we looked at the Camry, Accord and Passat.