1998 Subaru Forester L review from North America
"The flaws far outweigh the positives"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Both rear left and right wheel bearings have had to be replaced twice in less than 5 years. The latest noise signal has prompted me to trade the car in for something more reliable.
Electrical issue causing the power windows in both front and rear right side to cease from working. Cost estimate too high to consider for repair.
Wheel alignment problems resulting in premature wear of tires. Michelin ice tires had to be thrown out after only 2 seasons.
Right rear trunk hatch snapped due to rust corrosion in 2003 (at 110 000km).
Head gasket blew after 100 000km, causing major
repairs to transmission and cooling system.
A/C only functions properly at highway speed. Stop-and-go traffic produces insufficient cool air.
General comments?
A super dependable hauler and very safe vehicle to drive.
Key component breakdowns and overall mundaneness of ride are difficult to ignore after the initial period of ownership.
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? | No |
| Model year | 1998 |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5L Semi-Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 4 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 5 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 92000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 172000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Mazda MX5 |
| Date of Entry | 11th October, 2006 |