1998 Subaru Forester L review from North America
"Solid performer for a first year model"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Crank seal: 30,000 miles
brake pads: 90,000 miles
speed sensors transmission and engine
120,000 mi
Catalytic converter: 130,000 miles
Crank seal AGAIN!: 130,000 miles
Brake rotors: 130,000 miles
Speed sensor cable transmission
135,000 mi
Head gasket: both sides: 140,000.
General comments?
Generally a good car up to 90K miles. After 100K miles I needed to make up my mind on how long to keep. At this point I'm committed to reach 200K+ miles. Engine certainly can meet this distance.
Low center of gravity ensures good handling around corners.
Usable cargo space.
165hp engine good at rpm over 25000 rpm
Power is a little sluggish between 2000 and 2400 rpm.
After 140K+ miles car is still quiet, rust free, and the engine idles like it's new.
Interior is your basic fare.
Recommended reviews
| 1998 - Forester LX 2.5L 4-cylinder Boxer Solid, reliable, functional car with excellent bad-weather traction and all-around handling. |
|
| Repairs are a nightmare, but I love the car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | Manual |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 250 miles |
| Most recent distance | 144000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Taurus |
| Date of Entry | 15th November, 2002 |