Piston Slap: A Tale of Two Dusty Legacys

TTAC Commentator gntlben writes:

I’m currently in the market for a new car, and noticed a local Subaru dealer has a pair of new ’08 Legacys (a 2.5GT Limited and a 3.0R Limited) gathering dust on the lot. Both are being advertised with a big discount (down to $25-$26K) that puts them in my price range. Both have VA inspection stickers that expire this year (2.5 in August, 3.0 in October), which leads me to believe that, considering they’re ’08’s and VA has a yearly inspection, they’ve been at the dealership since 2007. My question is this: what possible trouble spots/wear should I look for on a new car that’s been sitting for such a long time?

Sajeev replies:

The test vehicle for TTAC’s Mercury Montego review was much like the Subies in question. It sat around for about a year and the rear rotors rusted to the pads. (Damn that parking brake!) I’ll never forget the sound of the discs freeing themselves: from the screeching tires to the rotors popping free, it made quite a racket. Luckily, this being a Lincoln Mercury dealership, nobody heard it.

So, back to your question: fluids are my main concern. Engine oil and gasoline have a limited lifespan and performance potential after a lack of use, so I’d change both. From there, the tires could be flat spotted, but that’s remedied like the frozen brakes on the Montego: drive it. A test drive is mandatory before purchase. If something isn’t right, make sure they fill out a “We Owe” form before you fork over the greenbacks.

Almost as important: cosmetics. The leather seats definitely need conditioning with a high quality restorer. The paint might need restoration with a clay bar and a fresh coat of wax, to remove the contaminants that can’t be washed off when the dealership does periodic cleaning of their inventory. Other than that, I would jump at the offer if you feel you’re getting a good deal.

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