2003 Subaru Forester X review from North America

Timing belt replaced according to scheduled maintenance.

I have religiously changed all the fluids in this car: oil every 3k; brake flush, rear & front differential, radiator, and transmission filter/ flushed at independent shops (in Portland).

Yes it costs $30/month average, but it also gets people to looking at stuff while it's up on the rack.

No problems; took it to the dealer for the first time for the 90K... I was able to delete transmission, differential & brake inspection & saved money. HOWEVER, after timing belt replaced, engine light came on 350 miles North, and an engine knock developed. Had to go to another Sub dealer which, as a part of their 90k service, automatically includes both the belt AND the timing belt tensioner as part of their normal 90k service.

It seems to me that if the timing belt cover is off, and you've paid for the labor to get to that point, it should be MANDATORY that the tensioner, which also has 90K on it, is ALSO replaced!! Make sure you ask to have it done (yes, you'll have to pay for the part... better now than later...). The Portland dealer paid for everything at the Northern WA dealership.

We'd like to get a 2009, but torn about not supporting U.S. manufacturers. Hopefully, Toyota's increased investment will hatch Hybrid Forester's...