I purchased a used 2012 Subaru Forester with 204,000 kilometres on the odometer a few months ago and got an oil change five weeks ago. The engine blew and it's going to cost $5,000 to fix. The mechanic said the engine ran out of oil and that there are no leaks. I've contacted the oil change company but they are not admitting liability. – John R.
I believe that you have purchased a car that has a problem known as oil consumption or oil burning. No visible smoke, nor drips on the driveway, just oil that disappears on a regular basis requiring you to top up frequently between oil changes.
Oil consumption is now commonplace and many manufacturers have at least one model that suffers from it.
Your vehicle is one of those that has a piston oil-control ring problem.
Subaru USA is extending the engine warranty on these affected models. Subaru Canada has been noted to "good-will" some engine repairs for those that have recently passed the recognized warranty mileage range.
It is dealt with on a case-by-case basis, but at 204,000 kilometres the chances of any significant help is doubtful.
My best answer right now is to contact Subaru Canada as well as the vendor of the car, because the problem was likely present prior to your purchase date.
Perhaps the vendor is willing to help out with the repairs if Subaru Canada offers no assistance.
Lou Trottier is owner-operator of All About Imports in Mississauga. Have a question about maintenance and repair? E-mail globedrive@globeandmail.com, placing "Lou's Garage" in the subject area.
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