Ask an expert

Just reached 60,000kms. Diagnostic test (following engine fault indicator light) reveals that the "secondary air pump" requires replacing. Apparently this compresses air into the exhaust system to heat up the catalytic converter more quickly.
At $1000 to replace I'm interested to know a) is it reasonable to experience this fault at this mileage b) are there options?
I'd be grateful for any advice.

Generally speaking, the most common cause of this problem is the pump seizing due to moisture building up in the pump in cars that do a lot of cold running.
However, in answer to your question(s);
a) No, it's not reasonable to experience this problem at this age and mileage.
b) Regarding options, if the car is NZ new, you are the original owner and the car has been well serviced and maintained by the main dealer, in the first instance I'd request that the dealer submits an out of warranty goodwill request to the distributor (in this case, Subaru NZ). While they may not foot the bill 100%, there's a good chance that they will contribute to the cost of repair.
Good luck and let us know how you get on.

Success. I did as you suggested and both Subaru NZ and Winger North Shore came to the party. So, thank you Subaru, thank you Winger and thank you Andrew.

Great news. Generally, once the warranty has expired dealers may not make the innitial offer of goodwill assistance, but it pays to ask!