Q: It has about 130,000 miles on it and I'm getting a good deal on it. I was wondering what problems do I have to look forward to and how much longer this car might last me? I already know about the turbo situation.
A: Generally (as with any car) if it looks like it's been rat-bagged stay the hell away from it. The trannies weren't exactly the strongest in these cars so checking that it shifts properly is a big thing. Other noteables is if the maintenance (mainly oil) has been done regularily. The EJ boxers like to spin bearings, no one is really sure all the reasons why (some have spun at 100 miles off the lot others at 100,000), but oil stavation is a known cause. Subaru valvetrains are known to be noisy, but look up "wrx rod knock" on youtube, and you'll know what to listen for. At that mileage you're also looking at other basic maintenance, wheel bearings and timing should be done if not already, and possibly pumps (oil, water). If properly maintaned with the simplest of service these cars can practically run forever. If not, they can get expensive very quickly. Many people who buy WRX's tend to shy away from modified versions purely for the fact of all the problems that can arise with not knowing it's history, these are very fickle cars regarding modifications.