2000 Subaru Forester S review from North America
"A gem - with one (or a few?) serious, concealed flaw (s)"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Road debris kicked up, went through the bottom shield and knocked a hole in the oil filter. Although this is not a major fault with the car, this shield is glorified cardboard and not really appropriate protection.
Today, upon taking the car for regular service and complaining of excessive noise, I learned that both rear wheel bearings need replacement. This at 49622 miles.
General comments?
Until visiting this site and reading comments, I had no inkling that this wheel bearing problem might be pervasive in Foresters. Neither the dealer's service rep. or the telephone contact at Subaru America admitted knowledge of any pattern. Subaru America has promised to call me back tomorrow. I will let you know their position. It does seem that the parts involved have an unacceptable weakness.
It is a shame. The car has otherwise super characteristics.
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? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 2000 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5 liter Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 45 miles |
| Most recent distance | 49665 miles |
| Previous car | Acura Integra |
| Date of Entry | 5th May, 2003 |