2000 Subaru Forester S 2.5 liter
Summary:
A gem - with one (or a few?) serious, concealed flaw (s)
Faults:
Road debris kicked up, went through the bottom shield and knocked a hole in the oil filter. Although this is not a major fault with the car, this shield is glorified cardboard and not really appropriate protection.
Today, upon taking the car for regular service and complaining of excessive noise, I learned that both rear wheel bearings need replacement. This at 49622 miles.
General Comments:
Until visiting this site and reading comments, I had no inkling that this wheel bearing problem might be pervasive in Foresters. Neither the dealer's service rep. or the telephone contact at Subaru America admitted knowledge of any pattern. Subaru America has promised to call me back tomorrow. I will let you know their position. It does seem that the parts involved have an unacceptable weakness.
It is a shame. The car has otherwise super characteristics.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 5th May, 2003
24th Mar 2004, 09:20
My bearings on my 2000 Forester went at 48,000 miles. They say not enough incidence yet for a recall, but Subaru America has offered to pay for half of my repair expense. So keep after them. Also My head gasket blew before the recall whereby they are putting a "conditioner" in the anti freeze. Could it be Stop-Leak? It was covered by warranty, but the down time was a big inconvenience. I had to rent a car. Also my heat shields have been rattling and they wanted to charge me $82 to remove them as they are not mandatory in New York. And my air condition went twice - once the condenser and once the evaporator. It was a long humid summer in 2001. I am very disappointed with this vehicle.