2001 Subaru Forester L review from North America
"This is a very good, pragmatic car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Right rear wheel bearings went bad at about 93,000 miles.
Engine light went on after 50,000 miles, and has stayed on ever since.
General comments?
I couldn't be happier with my six years of ownership of the Forester. Other than routine oil/tire changes, it has been virtually maintenance-free.
My first major repair was to replace the right-rear wheel bearings ($225) at 93,000 miles and to do scheduled replacement of the timing belt and water pump ($675) at 101,000 miles.
The car is very nimble and has plenty of power and gearing to climb hills. I love driving it in deep snow and watching everyone else spin out.
Auxiliaries are excellent -- 6 CD changer, heating/cooling, power windows/locks, electrical. Great visibility and storage due to hatchback/seat folddown capability.
The design might be an acquired taste, but I like it much more than the massive, militant look of so many SUVs.
Recommended reviews
| This car does not age well |
|
| Lots of repairs needed to keep vehicle running |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 2001 |
| Year of manufacture | 2001 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 9 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 1 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 20000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 101000 miles |
| Previous car | Dodge Polara |
| Date of Entry | 29th April, 2008 |