2006 Subaru Forester X with Premium Pkg review from North America
"Possible lemon?"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Head gasket started leaking on the driver's side of the engine at 34000 miles. The dealer checked it at 43000 and BOTH head gaskets were leaking oil and coolant. Given the fact the exhaust manifolds are right under the heads, an oil leak is a potential fire danger if oil drips onto the very hot exhaust piping. Dealer replaced both head gaskets under warranty at 43405 miles and assured me that the problem wouldn't likely repeat itself before 200,000 miles. I bought a Subaru based on the many positive reviews and comments my Subaru owning customers had made. To have head gasket issues develop so quickly has made me doubt the legendary reliability I've heard so much about. I am an ex-Honda/Acura technician and I don't recall those cars suffering any major problems before 200,000 miles.
General comments?
AWD is excellent in snow, handles fairly well for what it is. Fuel economy is great for an AWD car.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model year | 2006 |
| Year of manufacture | 2006 |
| First year of ownership | 2006 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5L SOHC 4 cylinder Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 3 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 43 miles |
| Most recent distance | 43953 miles |
| Previous car | Volkswagen GTI |
| Date of Entry | 27th December, 2008 |