WRX purchase advice

So I want to buy a WRX. Looking for a 2002-2005. Wagon preferably, and must be a manual. I like the Bug-eyes the best. I have 7-10k to spend. My main worry is that I have heard the 5-speed transmissions are prone to breaking. My last nice car had the shift fork break and it ended up costing $5000 to fix. I was so disheartened that I sold it for fear of the dang thing braking again and I bought a $2000 beater. Well 5 years later that beater is still going strong and have had zero major issues. So how worried should I be about the transmission doing the same thing? Its just going to be a daily driver, I wont be launching it or modding it much, but want to be able to drive it semi-hard and not have to worry. What other important stuff should I look for? I know timing belt/water pump, and I've heard the head-gaskets are an issue. Thanks~

 

What's you're first name mr. So called Conrad?

 

Its Conrad

 

Your last name should be Ryan lol. I like your name, it's very rad. And IMO as long as you don't do big power or beat the piss out of it you should be fine on your transmission for a while.

 

Depending on the miles, prepare for routine mantainence costs and other repairs. Try and find a stock car as well. Go for an 04+ wagon.

 

A few points:
02 Transmissions are the weakest. 03 updated to stronger gears (marginally). The point of failure is from shear torque applied to the gears. That means Hondalaunching like an idiot. While AWD launches are fun, they are what blows the gears. Use your clutch like an adult, and you won't have to worry about it.
Timing belt/water pump every 100,000 like any other car.
TD04 turbos are hit-and-miss but tend to get sketchy around 100K depending on the maintainance.
Head gaskets are not a problem on turbo model subarus.
Rod bearings can be, though.
Generally speaking, avoid modified WRX's and Subarus run on Mobil 1 engine oil. Specifically, avoid anything with a manual boost controller. Don't even question it, if it has a manaual controller just walk away. The car won't ever be cheap enough to warrant letting it slide.

 

Just remember that a stock bugeye transmission is better than ppg gears.

 

Don't confuse him, that was already a while ago

 

Thanks for the tips guys! My other thought is I might look for a bit older Forester and try to do some fresh maintenance and some mods like Wheels/Suspension/ Roof Rack basket/ Exhaust.

 

What kind of wheels/suspension?

 

I dunno. Something along these lines.

 

http://duluth.craigslist.org/cto/4373874566.html

if you have foresters in mind this guy has one. haven't personally seen it but sounds like it could be a good deal for someone. might be worth getting some more detail on it.

 

Sweet, thanks! I might check that out. I assume the whiskey plates stay with the owner

 

No, if you buy it you get whiskey plates for LIFE! lol! Also I have seen this car. Has a handful of small dents and small scratches. Interior is in great shape and the block was just replaced with a brand new short block from Miller Hill Subaru.

 

My advice, don't buy a modified car unless the receipts are all from a reputable shop or mechanic!

 

Are you afraid to fly? I'd look out west or down south for a car of that vintage. Less rust and seized bolts to deal with when you start modding. You know you will.

 

Ask him out on a date already, jeez...

I agree. Buy in a rust free state because of rust but also because the resale value is lower. I saved about 4k buying out of state after the plane ticket and gas home.

If you can, buy unmodified from an older, more responsible adult. This will give you a better car and lower the likelihood of issues to pop up.