2001 Subaru Outback Engine cooling Problems

“In 20 degree weather (fahrenheit) an overwhelming gasoline odor filled the cabin of my 2001 Subaru legacy wagon (Outback). This happened on three different trips around town yesterday. I have a 2.5l engine, using 87 octane gasoline. The check engine light did not eliminate during these episodes. I lifted the engine compartment hood when this happened a third time and found the vapor smell was strongest near the intake manifold. There was no evidence of fuel leaking from any neoprene of steel lines. …”

“I have gone through one head gasket on jan 2003. The head gasket went out in dec of 2003 and the whole engine had to be replaced. In january of 2004 I had the overhead camgaskets go out on the car as well as the the oxygen sensor. I have had more issues but it would be a small book. Subaru has been relativly unresponsive even after many phone calls and letters to my concerns. Every part was replaced however there seems to be a poroblem with my new engine since there is now an investigation within Subaru. …”

“Bought Outback from nate wade Subaru in salt lake city in nov. Of 2006. I was told that nate wade performed a complete inspection of the vehicle, and was told by the salesman, bryce, that the vehicle was in good condition. After purchasing the car(along with powertrain warranty), I noticed that in cold weather, the belt squealed. Talked to dealer, and dealer fixed the problem, but now I'm very insecure about the actual condition of the car. I'm not so sure that the salesman or the dealer was being honest about the condition of the car. Once the weather began heating up, the car would overheat. …”

“We have a 2001 Subaru Outback with the h6 engine. When going very slowly, such as parking in the garage, the engine will suddenly surge. You must keep one foot on the brake to prevent a sudden unintended acceleration. I have been told by the dealer that this is just the way it is with the computer control and the h6 engine. I have not had an accident , but it is a potential hazard. A sudden lurch could damage another vehicle in a parking lot or a person in front of the car. I have lived with it, but someone wrote to click and clack complaining about the same problem. …”

“2001 Subaru Outback leaks fuel in cold weather. Read on the web about hundreds of owners with this complaint. Live in massachusetts and when the weather gets below about 25 degrees fuel smell fills the passenger cabin. Appears to come from under the engine manifold. Hope to not pass out from fuel vapors. Haven't had a fire yet. 2nd issue is head gasket leak which was a $1500 repair. Also appears to be a common issue with Subaru.”