Hi guys, wasnt sure where abouts to post this - thought general looked ok to do so (New here, hope to become a regular soon enough).

Im going to try and buy my first WRX over this summer break, and im currently looking at a MY97 N Impreza WRX. Is there any major issues I should be aware of when buying a pre 2000 WRX Second Hand? Just things like major faults and if there are any questions I should be asking the owner, or any defects I should look for.

The car is stock WRX, with 181,000kms. First thing will be first - STi Rear Wing hehe

Any info would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

Cam.

How much are you going to pay for it ?

Best to buy MY99/00 WRX

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my99 wgn sold
my99 sdn sold
2002 STI

^^^^WHS

also bear in mind that the 200,000 k service is a biggie involving replacing timing belt etc etc, usually around 1200-1500 from subaru

Cool, yeah thats the sort of information im after thanks mate

I know 99/00 would be better, but limited money and opportunity so i'm just happy with a pre-2000 of any sort really. Im not after massive performance or anything.

Hes asking 10900 but i want to try and get him to 10k or less. I think the trade in value is a minimum of 5700 on Redbook.

The seller should allow you to take it to a workshop to have a look over before purchasing it.

Even if he/she takes it there themselves and gets a report etc...

ASG, MMS, RMS one of these Subaru specialist workshops should be able to help you out.

You could always save up a little more and get a 99/00 GC8 like others have suggested already.

Goodluck with the purchase.

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....slow and steady wins the race....fark that!!

I have the same model and done nearly the same k's mine still runs great. When on cruises the brakes tend to die very quickly, I recommend upgrading those if your going to be doing some speeds. No airbags, so try not to hit anything. Other than that for the performance you get I think they are great value for money.

Is there any sort of aftermarket airbag/saftey installation you can do or is it just bad luck on airbags? Just the lack of airbags alone will probably make me save up for a MY99/00

you could change the dash out for a newer version, to be honest thou better saving for a little longer and buying the 99/00 version, less hassle then

yeah who needs airbags right