2000 Subaru Forester L review from North America
"Good car, but only fair reliability"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Clock died.
Engine seal had to be replaced ~90000 miles.
Wheel bearing has been replaced 3 times and has gone bad again. Failed at 82000 miles, then every 6 months after that.
Front axle replaced at 90000 miles.
Rear window shade broke.
Right rear window does not always roll down ~40000 miles.
Automatic transmission shifts harshly when cold ~80000 miles.
General comments?
I really like my Forester, but its reliability leaves something to be desired. I am on the 4th right rear wheel bearing, and it looks like I am going to need a 5th. The car handles well and gets OK gas mileage. I have driven it across the country and it was comfortable enough for that. Given the number of problems that I have had, and compared with the reliability of our Hondas (my wife's cars), I would be reluctant to purchase another Subaru. Maybe I got a bad one, but there are a number of reports of wheel bearing failures for Foresters. I wish Subaru would do a recall and fix it right.
Finally, the nearest dealer that I would trust with my car is 45 minutes away.
Recommended reviews
| A fun, nice-sized SUV/wagon I want to love, but its needs for dealer attention make that tough. |
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| I'd still buy another Subaru Forester; the last 40,000 miles have been problem free |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 2000 |
| Year of manufacture | 2000 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 5 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 106000 miles |
| Previous car | Nissan 240SX |
| Date of Entry | 26th June, 2007 |