2003 Impreza WRX Inner Arch Rust?

[matthewczok]

Hi All, I am new to the forum and Subaru world so I apologise if I sound stupid.

I am looking at this car https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202109097169125 Reg L444 DRL

I noticed that the rear arch has some rust, I read online that it's common for the inner arch to rust which is an expensive fix but I'm unsure if that only really applies to the classic models? 

The mot history seems quite clean however it has undersealing as an advisory for a few years. I am weary that it might just be a cover up job, is there any way of knowing?

 

[Jay762]

Wotcha and welcome - It is an issue with all impreza's - the rear arch has a lip and if you dont get in there when cleaning, dirt and moisture collects and rots it away. More of an issue on classics as they can rot from the inner arches / rear strut mounting as well so when you start cutting away you can find more of an issue. If you go to see this motor check inside the boot space as boot seals / rear light cluster seals can fail letting water in which will also cause issues. The car is sitting low so if you are really interested ask to get it on a ramp to inspect.

For me 10k is quite a chunk of money to put into a car so why not spend £100 or so (not done one for a few years so may be more now) to have the RAC do one of their inspections - They will go over it with a fine tooth comb and give you a report. If you do go this route the garage may ask for the report, at that point you can either use the report to negotiate or you can sell them the report and walk away from the deal having covered the cost of the inspection

[matthewczok]

40 minutes ago, Jay762 said:

Wotcha and welcome - It is an issue with all impreza's - the rear arch has a lip and if you dont get in there when cleaning, dirt and moisture collects and rots it away. More of an issue on classics as they can rot from the inner arches / rear strut mounting as well so when you start cutting away you can find more of an issue. If you go to see this motor check inside the boot space as boot seals / rear light cluster seals can fail letting water in which will also cause issues. The car is sitting low so if you are really interested ask to get it on a ramp to inspect.

For me 10k is quite a chunk of money to put into a car so why not spend £100 or so (not done one for a few years so may be more now) to have the RAC do one of their inspections - They will go over it with a fine tooth comb and give you a report. If you do go this route the garage may ask for the report, at that point you can either use the report to negotiate or you can sell them the report and walk away from the deal having covered the cost of the inspection

That's brilliant, thank you for the advice mate it's really appreciated.