[msk1986911]

We looked at a 2000 Honda CR-V with 82K a 2001 CR-V with 95K and a 1999 Subarus Forester with 95K. The 2000 CR-V ran smoothly; the 1 cosmetic flaw I found was a dent in the fender which was starting to show some rust. The dealer agreed to remove the rust and paint, but not remove the dent. The 2001 CR-V was no where near as nice as the 2000. The Subaru was about as nice as the 2000 CR-V for about $3K less. Comments about the 2.5 head gasket issue are causing me to back away from the Subaru and go for the Honda. We are not talking a huge amount of money: $8.5K for the Honda; $5.5K for the Subaru. I just don't want to end up with a big @ss lawn ornament no matter what I spend. Am I over worrying the head gasket issue and how can I best address my concern?

Thanks.

Mike