I'm looking at getting a RS 2.5 year 2000. The car is red, automatic and has 75,000. Looks to be loaded with sunroof and I can get it for a hair under $10,000.

I do not know much about these cars. Are there any items I should look for on this car with that many miles?

Timing belt, transfer case? Anything? Is it even worth that price?

I currently have an 02 Mazda Protege 5 that I will be getting rid of.

Pretty good price.
The timing belt should be done by now.
Auto sucks, but YMMV.
They all came with sunroofs, a/c, power everything. Options were carbon fiber trim, stereo upgrade, skid plates, block heater.
Check for oil leaks and bad rear wheel bearings. Struts will be nearing the end by now but could last another 25k miles. Otherwise it should be good if maintained.

You don't like the protege? I always thought those cars were kinda neat looking. I have had good fortune with a '91 626.

Originally posted by dingo dave
You don't like the protege? I always thought those cars were kinda neat looking. I have had good fortune with a '91 626.

I like the car a lot, but immensely under powered and would really like to try AWD for once.

GC8 Impreza = best looking one in my opinion.

I still miss mine even now.

Originally posted by linsavy

The timing belt should be done by now.


Actually, the timing belt doesn't need to be done until 105k miles. :) My previous Impreza 1.8 had the timing belt done at 60k, but the 2000 2.5 motors don't need it until much later now.

Glhboy, check this (http://www.subaru.com/owners/care/schedules/middle.jsp?pageID=2000) for maintenance schedules. 75k is more or less a glorified oil change. :)

I think its a screaming deal, I'd take it. Its the same car I've got, minus the automatic. Actually when I was looking for my red RS in 2001, most of the red RS' left were all automatics.

Unless you are fond of automatics, I think you'll regret it. Have the wheel bearings inspected all the way around. Check the steering around corners(listen for clicking), indicating the need for new c/v joints in the front. Check the inner and outer boots on all four axles for tears. And check the boots on the steering rack. The struts are probably on their last legs if they are still original(hard to check). Even though it's cold try out the a/c. Inspect the block, top & bottom for leaks of oil or coolant.

Ask to see the service log. These cars came with one so that you can log all your services. Look for tranny maintenance like flushes and diff fluid changes. If they don't have the history then ask. Make sure the sun roof works. Try out the cruise control. Try out the sideview mirror adjuster.

Good luck