Hi everyone, I currently drive a Ford Racing Puma but the time has come to look for something bigger (and faster). I'm looking for a 2003 (facelift) model Impreza WRX 4 door. Can anyone give me tips on what to look out for, any problems etc. Also what are the servicing costs like?

 

I'd have offered you mine but I'm more or less certain I'm keeping it now Servicing cost varies depending on which one. A basic 10k oil change should be £120-180, the biggy's coming at 30k intervals when they need all fluids, filters and plugs, IRO £350-450 IIRC. You can save by taking it to a reputable independent specialist instead of a franchised dealer.

Tips, try and get a PPP'd car, if it's nearing the 30k or 60k service ask them to get it done before you buy, look for excessive wear on tyres (outside edge signifies spirited driving, inside edge shows bad geometry (although some people have the geo set to give better cornering at the cost of tyre wear)). Ask to see as many receipts as possible for oil, filters or any mods. Check discs and pads for excessive wear. Listen for a droning from the rear diff. Listen for knocking from the rear topmounts. Watch for a steady and constant idle, both from cold and once warmed. Accelerate progressively through the rev range in a single gear and feel for flat spots around 4k.

I can recommend looking at cars owned by people on here, as they may well be modified, but modified well, and usually are looked after like babies. I can only speak for myself, but I change the oil every 5k without fail, only use triple ester top brand fully synth and a new Subaru OE filter, wash the car meticulously and wax and polish like there's a show every week. Warmed before and cooled at the end of every journey, no matter how long or short and never rev'd above 6k.

HTH, and welcome to SNet.

 

There's one in the for sale forum with 7000 miles on the clock at £12500

Barely used for an 04 plate.

 

Cheers for the quick replies
What sort of price should I be looking at? 10k-12k or is that a bit optimistic?
Does the PPP make that much difference?

 

The PPP makes the car what it always should have been, dropping 0-60 to 4.8s, improving in gear response and, amazingly, improving fuel economy. However, as the cars you are looking at will be out, or nearly out of warranty, you could get a basic one and then go for an aftermarket performance upgrade with the cash you may save. £10k may be optomistic, but there are some out there at that money if people are either daft or desperate.