HELP! I have a decision to make about my 2012 Forester, FB25, N/A, MT.
My mechanic informed me that my engine is finished. It does not have compression on two opposing cylinders. He referred me to two well-known and trustworthy Subaru mechanics. Neither one has inspected my car. Each suggested a different fix. I would like you guys and gals to help me figure out which is the best choice.
Mechanic A, a local older guy, said he is familiar with this engine and its problems. He specializes in replacing Subaru engines and transmissions.
Mechanic A suggested buying a short block from local dealer and he would install with new gaskets, etc.
Costs: Short Block $2,379 w/tax, Labor & etc. $600. Total: $2,979+. Turn around time is one to two weeks. Warranty is unknown.
Mechanic B, at big Subaru only shop, said compression failure could also involve the heads. Suggested replacing motor with used 2014 low-mileage engine. Costs: Engine & labor: $2,600 to $2,900. Turn around time is 3 days after receiving engine. Warranty is 30 days.
What do you think is the best choice and why?
BTW, I am pursuing a warranty claim/oil consumption settlement with the dealer. Of course if they come through with a new short block, I will take the free or reduced dealer installed engine.
Background
1. Odometer @ 134,000+. I was driving a lot for work and will again in the future.
2. I drive 50% rural roads/30% highway/20% gravel-dirt roads. I have replaced 2 axles, 1 wheel bearing, brakes, and need a new ball joint. Several small animals & birds, a large crow, and a doe deer have had unfortunate encounters with this Forester.
3. I still owe on the car for about 16 months. Bought car new and have taken care of mechanical systems well. Interior looks like I have two kids, a messy wife, two dogs, and use it as a mobile office.
4. I had wanted to keep this car for at least 4 more years.
5. I'm currently broke and cannot afford a new car.
Thanks for your help,
Charles
My mechanic informed me that my engine is finished. It does not have compression on two opposing cylinders. He referred me to two well-known and trustworthy Subaru mechanics. Neither one has inspected my car. Each suggested a different fix. I would like you guys and gals to help me figure out which is the best choice.
Mechanic A, a local older guy, said he is familiar with this engine and its problems. He specializes in replacing Subaru engines and transmissions.
Mechanic A suggested buying a short block from local dealer and he would install with new gaskets, etc.
Costs: Short Block $2,379 w/tax, Labor & etc. $600. Total: $2,979+. Turn around time is one to two weeks. Warranty is unknown.
Mechanic B, at big Subaru only shop, said compression failure could also involve the heads. Suggested replacing motor with used 2014 low-mileage engine. Costs: Engine & labor: $2,600 to $2,900. Turn around time is 3 days after receiving engine. Warranty is 30 days.
What do you think is the best choice and why?
BTW, I am pursuing a warranty claim/oil consumption settlement with the dealer. Of course if they come through with a new short block, I will take the free or reduced dealer installed engine.
Background
1. Odometer @ 134,000+. I was driving a lot for work and will again in the future.
2. I drive 50% rural roads/30% highway/20% gravel-dirt roads. I have replaced 2 axles, 1 wheel bearing, brakes, and need a new ball joint. Several small animals & birds, a large crow, and a doe deer have had unfortunate encounters with this Forester.
3. I still owe on the car for about 16 months. Bought car new and have taken care of mechanical systems well. Interior looks like I have two kids, a messy wife, two dogs, and use it as a mobile office.
4. I had wanted to keep this car for at least 4 more years.
5. I'm currently broke and cannot afford a new car.
Thanks for your help,
Charles