Subaru Impreza Problems

THANKS for the advice. It's certainly worth checking.

WE CONTACTED Subaru who, quite rightly, wouldn't comment on what the problem might or might not be without driving the car. They suggest you contact them directly on the customer assistance number and they will arrange to have your car assessed to see what the problem is. I can only urge you to follow their recommendation.

I'M NOT convinced Subaru would have failed to gas the airconditioning before delivery, but I could believe the system had a leak. The rumbling sounds as if the compressor has been damaged after the gas leaked. The refrigerant keeps the compressor lubricated so when the gas runs out, the compressor bearings can be damaged. I would demand the compressor be replaced if it is still noisy and have the dealer check the system for leaks. As for the noise being normal, your dealer is spinning you a line.

WE ASKED Subaru to explain why it doesn't recommend non-factory modifications, including exhaust systems. Suppliers often don't tell customers that modifications could adversely affect other parts over time. For example, modifiers may give extra horsepower and boost, but they alter the cam profile, exhaust gas temperature and air/fuel mixture. This can cause failure elsewhere, such as exhaust valves or melted pistons.

WE ASKED Subaru's technical expert for help but he couldn't offer an opinion given the information you provided. His suggestion, which I strongly recommend you follow, is to contact Subaru in Sydney at the company's head office, which has promised to have your car test-driven and the problem resolved.