95 Impreza

[soggydorito]

I have a 95 Impreza Outback LX with 113000 miles. When in Drive or
Reverse and stopped with foot on brake, the car runs very rough. I
took it to a mechanic and he suggested a tune-up to specifically check
the timing, plugs and wires. Does this sound right?

 

[johninKY]

Leaking brake booster is more likely the way to go.

 

[soggydorito]

Leaking brake booster is more likely the way to go.

So, I went to this mechanic and he said he would do a tuneup and find
out what’s wrong. I thought this was a bit suspicious, but I’d talked
to him before and he seemed honest. So I agree, it probably needed it
anyway. I get it back and it’s still doing the same thing it was
doing. WHen I pointed it out he said, "Oh, that’s an exhaust mount.
I’ll fix that for free. I just need a lift." I crawl under and the
exhaust is not floppy at all. When he sees this he say’s, "Well,
maybe it’s not the exhaust, but something is rattling on the body."
I’m not sure what’s wrong with it, but I’m pretty certain it’s not
something rattling on the body.
Please someone help me get ripped off. I already gave this guy money
for the tuneup, but I’m certainly never going back. I just don’t want
to get screwed again.

 

[soggydorito]

Leaking brake booster is more likely the way to go.

how do I check that myself?

 

[johninKY]

Don't know about the Impreza but most cars with power brakes have a check
valve. The vacuum hose from the intake manifold plugs into the check
valve and the check valve is pressed into the booster housing. The check
valve is probably less than a $10 part. I'm guessing your problem is
booster related because in your original post you stated the problem only
happens when the brake pedal is depressed. I don't know anything about
the other problem you referred to. Don't feel too badly about having a
tune up performed. Can't hurt anything. I guess the most simple way to
test my guess is to disconnect the vacuum line at the booster and plug the
hose with something. Then start the car. press the brake pedal and note if
the problem is no longer there.