Should I rebuild or go with a long block replacement?

Asked by GuruMKD9F May 24, 2020 at 08:52 AM about the 2008 Subaru Outback 3.0 R L.L. Bean Edition

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I think my Outback has a bad valve or cam? The noise came and went away several times but only did it
for every short periods. Then I was almost to work and the noise came back to stay. I live in a rural area
and the dealer in LA Crosse has been most spendy on repairs. I have talk with about a dozen small
repair shops, but as soon as they hear it's a Subaru they decline. It's also a LL Bean worth a 3.0 liter
engine!

3 Answers

Thanks for your input! It's started making a ticking noise after passing another car. Everyone it happened I would stop but it wouldn't make the noise. I was working 6 - 10 hours days, but on Thanksgiving on my way home it started and didn't stop. I parked it and have been driving my truck, but the Outback gets better mpg.

49,170

First get a careful diagnosis, as replacing a head isn't too onerous. But if the block has a loud bearing just toss it and find a good used one. 2008 is getting a bit long in the tooth, so watch your wallet. Ern (Disclaimer: I sell 2016-2018 OB 2.5i in Boston)

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