Two problems related to clutch pedal/linkage have been reported for the 2000 Subaru Outback. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Driving normal shifted the car and the clutch felt soft and the return to normal position was slow. I called the dealer repair and explained the situation. I was told that there was a service bulletin on this type of incident, however there was no recall. I took to dealer for repair. It cost me $216. 00 to repair something that the manufacturer knew was defective and it wasn't covered by my extended warranty.
There currently has been several technical service bulletins regarding 2000-2002 manual transmission Subaru Outbacks. These bulletins refer to a defect in the clutch that causes a premature wear of the clutch and yoke due to an imbalance in causing the car to "judder" or shudder when engaging into gears. I have had an independent mechanic, glen owner of oakland auto works state that he could not warranty the repair of clutch because the recommended repair by Subaru does not reliably fix the problem and many people end up having to have the clutch replaced numerous times in a short time span. Subaru is aware of this problem because they have changed the clutch kit several times and the method of repair to address the problem yet have failed to perform a recall. I am currently unsure on how to proceed in the repair of my vehicle as the repair cost is $1350. 00 and if the unit fails outside of warranty I may be subject having to pay this amount again. Some other problems which errupt from this defect include the clutch catching fire. The clutch pedal sticking and not releasing due to the yoke being worn for the clutch "judder". Last, premature of the clutch with only having a lifespan of 30,000 miles or less.