2001 Subaru Forester L review from North America

Transmission has gone bad at 90000 miles (shift from Reverse to Drive hesitates, then leaps into gear, or occasionally does not engage at all). No repairable problem can be found. This is MAJOR.

Check Engine light has come on in past four months. O2 sensor was bad and replaced, now vent control solenoid valve is bad.

Right front axle and PCV boot went bad and required replacement.

Several plastic body parts have come off or loose (interior and exterior).

Water leaks in closed windows when car is washed.

Water leaks in top of windshield in rain in one place.

This car was a real workhorse for me up until the 90K mileage mark. I got the recommended tune-ups and maintenance, but had to make very few repairs up until recently. Since hitting 90K miles, a series of problems have occurred, resulting in multiple trips to the dealer and the car turning into a "money pit". Now, they tell me that I am going to need a new transmission to the tune of $4000. Instead, I am going to buy a new car (Honda or Toyota). I am not putting any more money into this car after putting $1700 into it in the last four months.