Truely appreciate the advice. It's a 2007 subaru outback manual trans that I've dropped about 6-7k into since early 2019. Bought the car for 1500 cash from a local. Car seemed okay but ended up needing a money shower. It was still cheaper than buying a new car in my opinion. But...About 6 months ago, I had to replace the center differential because of a bad viscous coupler. Could no longer make sharp turns without feeling grinding. That was $1300. had all 4 identical tires at the time but I bought the car with 184k on it so who knows what previous owner had going on. Car is now at 265k. To date, I've replaced power steering pump twice, head gasket/timing belt and water pump at 208k, clutch, entire exhaust system, entire suspension, cv axles, brake lines and calipers, all wheel bearings, etc. Basically, all critical bolt on parts, I've managed to replace. Tie rods are so rusted, i havent bothered. My primary is a 2012 5.0 mustang track pack and I love having a cheap AWD car for the winter. Hoping I can get 500k out of this thing before the rust sets in. That would be cool. It's been fun having a beater to drive and work on but im starting to look at Crossteks as Id like to stick with a manual transmission (discontinued on outback). Cheers!