1992 Subaru SVX suspension problems

Filed Sep 14, 2005 · Brakes, Suspension · 165,000 miles · 00

I purchases a subaru svx 1992 model. I test drove it and it seemed fine. Took it to a mechanic to have it looked over and it came back clean except for some suggestions to change brake pads , fluids etc. This was all done. However a couple months later a major problem occurred. The gear would sometimes not shift, the car would make a loud thud sound in reverse and over rev on highway driving. I found out from various forums that this car has a flaw , the transmission is due to failure. Every car owner in this forum has experienced premature transmission failure. The cost to have this completely fixed costs over $4000. A problem that owners should not pay for because of faulty engineering. The later models have the same problem but not as prone to it. Why did subaru never have these cars recalled or parts recalled? Another problem occurred, while driving the car back from the purchase location, there was a humming sound from the trunk, it got louder and louder and at 500 miles later it was a grinding and loud sound. My mechanic listed it as a wheel bearing problem. On subaru forums as well as advice from mechanics the subaru is prone to sever wheel bearing problems. In some cases generating heat that they had recounted cars with molded bearings and broken axles. Another problem is the ABS system. I guess the brake pump is also a component that leaks. I need to have my braked refilled every other day and the fuel pump costs around 2000$ I wish for you to send this report to subaru to voice this concern for me and on behalf of the many subaru svx drivers that are faced with enduring these costly mistakes due to poor engineering. Subaru should have a program to fix these parts or allow a trade in for current blue book refunds or some way or letting individuals know that they are sorry. The car is a fine piece of art and these minor problems makes it a piece of junk.

Filed May 6, 2003 · Brakes, Engine · 110,020 miles · NJ

Upon purchase of car 1-2 weeks prior, it was noticed that the transmission would not shift into 4th gear, and was slipping at initial acceleration from a stop until around 1500 RPM, causing wheelspin under certain conditions. On this date, transmission suddenly failed to be able to shift into 3rd gear, limiting top speed to levels below safe limits on most highways. This occurred while driving on a highway, and was potentially dangerous. Towed to dealer, dealer recommends remanufactured transmission, asking approximately $4000 for parts and labor. I didn't (and still don't) have the money for that, so I managed to limp home with it where it has sat since. At some point since then it has lost the ability to shift into 2nd gear. Dealer also found possible wheel bearing and front rotor problems, in addition to failure of front catalytic converters. Wants roughly $6000 to fully repair vehicle.

Filed Aug 21, 2002 · Suspension · KY

I've had both rear wheel bearings replaced, the right rear I've had replaced 3 times, the last one lasted less than 1000 miles, at which point I replaced the whole housing and bearing.

Filed Aug 20, 2002 · Suspension, Transmission · FL

Owners of this car which if needed 100-1000 or more owners can claim that this car built by subaru has a defect in the transmission. The transmission was poorly built because of lack of lubrication to internal parts and lack of fluid cooling. This is my second failure on this same car. Another common defect on this car is the wheel bearings. I have replaced them with repeats going on 4 times. The bearings are failing too quickly for any car. I would like something to be done so that owners of these cars can either have a recall done on the transmissions and wheel bearing or comensated for repeat work done on these issues. Thank you and I'll look forward to your email reply.

Filed Apr 30, 2002 · Suspension · PA

This car has had two bearing failures on the same axel within 20,000 miles. From discussions with other owners and owners web sites, this is a known manufacturing defect but subaru will only warrant repairs for 3 years/36,000 miles on the original part and 1 year on subsequent repairs. I contacted the dealer from I purchased the car and who made the first repair, they are unwilling to stand behind their work. I called the subaru national customer service line and they also are unwilling to provide support beyond stated warranties. As a manufacturing defect is there any further course that can be taken?

Filed Jun 10, 2001 · Suspension, Transmission · KS

Wheel bearing problem continues. We have replaced the same bearing (left rear) seven times since owning this vehicle. Seems to last approximately 10k between replacements. Transmission was fixed twice after replacement at 81000 miles.

Filed Jan 17, 2001 · Suspension, Transmission · NY

Consumer had to replace transmission at 80000 miles. At this time transmission is going out again. Also, wheelbearings are defective, water is able to get inside and corrode wheel bearings. Consumer has had to replace them 3 times.

Filed Oct 1, 2000 · Suspension, Wheels · VA

Replaced 4 wheel bearing due to persistent roaring at all speeds, but especially above 45mph. Rear wheel bearings were previously replaced 20k miles earlier. Front driver's side ABS wheel sensor failed, allegedly due to corrosion, but possibly dealer negligence while replacing wheel bearings.

Filed May 25, 2000 · Suspension · WV

Rear wheel bearing problem, replaced, bearing make loud noise again

Filed Feb 9, 2000 · Suspension, Transmission · PA

No summary listed for above vehicle.