1999 Subaru Forester L from North America - Comments

Narrow initial idling RPM variability occured soon after purchase at about 30,000 miles. This variability in idle rpm widened to the point of fluctuating between stalling and 3000 rpm by 85,000 miles. Dealer suggested replacing the TSP sensor as well as the timing belt (which had only 20 k miles on it from an unrelated incident) because of potential excessive wear.

Right wheel bearing recently began making noise and will need to be replaced.

Grand dealer total to repair = $1995.00, none of it covered by Subaru.

We have in general appreciated the performance, handling, comfort, safety and gas efficiency of our Forester. Needless to say, we have been severely underwhelmed by its ruggedness and basic maintenance expense. Subaru and its dealerships have been completely dismissive regarding any culpability on their part and have left us to sustain all costs. We would not recommend anyone buying any new or used Subaru without a comprehensive and no doubt expensive maintenance warranty.

I also had to replace the front wheel bearing on my 1999 forester after only about 35K, but the local firestone garage did it for 300$

Why even bother going to the dealer unless they will cover it?

Dear sir.

I'm a subaru technician and id like to ask did anyone where you live bother to check for any open campaigns for your forester? for the drivibilty concern you mentioned, the majority of 99 foresters had a recall for the airflow sensor, which was a major culprate for poor drivibilty. sorry to hear you are so unhappy with you subaru, from a subaru guy it hurts me to see this disatisfaction.

This comment is for the Subaru tech who wrote last. I just purchased a 1999 Forester with 74,000 miles. I checked on any recalls for this model and only found the brake master cylinder recall. I'm currently experiencing random check engine light problems that has so far resulted in a CO2 replacement, but after about a week, the CEL has been on and off several times more (gas cap is on tight!). The car's going back in tomorrow to see what code was recorded this time, but was wondering about your comment on having your local mechanic check for campaigns, recalls, things of this nature. Any advice on where to look would be greatly appreciated!