1999 Subaru Forester S review from North America

After 13,000 miles the speedometer failed which was replaced under warranty.

Around 10,000 miles I noticed the scent of antifreeze coming from the heater air. The head gasket was starting to leak and was replaced under warranty.

Around 40,000 miles I had the head gasket replaced under warranty due to the same circumstance.

Around 50,000 miles I noticed a drive train sound pitch change while traveling at 60 miles per hour in fourth gear. The car is currently in the shop.

I noticed that the wheel alignment is not correct as the car shakes while I drive. The odd thing is that I have not run into any curbs since I have owned the car.

The gear box has a different sound to it while driving around 60 miles per hour in fourth gear. This is a new sound which started several days ago. The same sound occurs at 90 miles per hour in fifth gear so it is definitely related to a specific area on the tachometer.

Thus far everything has been covered under warranty. However, my car is currently at Subaru having the clutch, gear box, and wheel alignment checked.

After the last head gasket repair I received a notice from Subaru stating that the 1999 Subaru Forester had a problem with a faulty head gasket. It stated that a specific antifreeze had to be added in order for an extension of an 8 year or 80,000 mile warranty to take place.

The cabin is very roomy, the seats are very comfortable for long drives and the all wheel drive handles well in the snow.

Even with the stated problems and general comments I would still purchase a Subaru. The newer versions are better and if I had the money I would trade my 1999 in for a 2003 or 2004 Forester. Meanwhile I will just keep my 1999 Forester.