Hey everyone,
I got a 2004 Impreza Outback Sport a few weeks ago. It's a 5 speed manual and while I like the car, I do have some issues with the transmission. Everything is stock and I don't want to mod my car.
First, this thing can be tricky to get into reverse. Sometimes, it'll pop right in, others I have to pop it into neutral, let out the clutch and then it gets into reverse. Anyone else experience this? Should I have the dealer take a look at it?
Second, is it just me or is the shifter on this thing sort of "notchy". I don't mind feeling what gear I'm going into, but sometimes the actual shifting seems kind of rough(no grinding or anything like that) but putting the car in gear isn't as silky smooth as I'd hoped all of the time.
Lastly, and least importantly, I'm noticing a slight squeek or springy noise when I press/depress my clutch pedal. Anything I can do to fix that or is is just a matter of things loosening up? thanks for any info. Love the car, but the transmission leaves a bit to be desired.

 

reverse is a straight cut gear, no synchros. I guess learn to love it? it does take some getting used to, but there is nothing the dealership will do to help except give you the run around. the shifter does feel "notchy" except at high RPM's it shifts pretty smooth. cant help you on the squeaky pedal noise.

 

Yeah, getting in reverse doesn't always work for me right away. I have to declutch half way, then quickly clutch in and put the gear in reverse at the same time. This usually works okay, but it sucks when I have to back out the car in a hurry.

 

Thanks for the info. Atleast I know it's not some quirk just with my car. The pedal noise is starting to bug me though. It sounds like a spring is being stretched or something to that effect. I might try to hunt down the cause of it more accurately today though. Anyhow thanks for the info.

 

Yep, all normal. Welcome to the dung-lump Subaru 5mt. On the bright side, it means the car was cheaper to buy.

 

Click here for a fix that should take care of the squeaky pedal.

 

Hey Ban thanks for posting that link, I really appreciate that.