Forester recommendations

[Cory]

I'm shopping for a used late model Forester and I'd like your input on what
years to avoid or look for based on problem areas that were subsequently
fixed or must-have features that were added. Thanks for your input.

Cory

 

[Jim Knoll]

I'm shopping for a used late model Forester and I'd like your input on what
years to avoid or look for based on problem areas that were subsequently
fixed or must-have features that were added. Thanks for your input.

Cory

Good choice on the Forester for a vehicle. We have purchased new a 1999
stick and just recently added a new 2004 auto to the fleet. The 1999
stick has some clutch chatter when cold but we have had zippo problems
with it overall. The 2004 has a much more stable almost stiff ride to
it. I drive the 1999 which has a more heavy feel and less stiff
suspension. Can't wait to trade in the 1999 in in five years for a 2009 Forester. Overall, they are great vehicles for the price.

To answer your question, there are probably some experts in this group
but I have heard that possibly the 1998 Forester had some recalls, etc.
BTW, if you can get the VIN number of the used Forester I have heard
that you can go to the subaru site and look up issues/recalls, etc.

Good luck with your Forester.

-Jim

 

[Edward Hayes]

My 2000 Forester with 61,000 miles and auto has been a great vehicle with no
problems. In general I would go for a 2000 or later, especially if going for
a manual transmission. The 2003 I think was redesigned somewhat and has
better style I feel, but whatever you buy try to get one that has had
required service. eddie

Good choice on the Forester for a vehicle. We have purchased new a 1999
stick and just recently added a new 2004 auto to the fleet. The 1999
stick has some clutch chatter when cold but we have had zippo problems
with it overall. The 2004 has a much more stable almost stiff ride to
it. I drive the 1999 which has a more heavy feel and less stiff
suspension. Can't wait to trade in the 1999 in in five years for a 2009

Forester. Overall, they are great vehicles for the price.

 

[ed]

This is from: Canadian Driver Oct-03



Buyer's Alerts
Subaru Forester, 1998 - 2002

a.. If first gear pops out while driving the cause may be the clearance
between the driven shaft and first driven gear and gear hub assembly (TSB
03-48-99, July 1999).
b.. A slight engine hesitation between 1,500- 2,500 r.p.m. may be traced
to the engine control module (12-70-01, April 2001).
Recalls:
Subaru Forester, 1998 - 2002

a.. 2003: Transport Canada recall number 2003054 refers to the seat belt
tongue plate. It may become disengaged with the seat belt buckle latch with
a force less than the value specified.
b.. 2002-2003: No. 2002200 refers to automatic transmissions. The parking
pawl actuating rod ("parking rod") spring retainer may be defective.
c.. 1996-2000: No. 2000069 refers to compliance labels not expressed in
both official languages.
d.. 1998-1999: No. 1999043 refers to anti-lock brakes (ABS). The brake
master cylinder secondary circuit may not function in extremely cold weather
due to brake fluid bypassing the fluid supply valve, which remains open.
e.. 1998: No. 1998154 refers to the front right corner impact test for the
standard causes the right front fog lamp lens to break.


Report Cards
1998 Subaru Forester L

Road Test
Access: B+
Driving position: B+
Instruments/Controls: B-
Visibility: B
Climate Control: B
Steering: B-
Brakes: B-
Handling: B
Acceleration: B
Engine: B
Transmission: B+
Interior space: B
Trunk/Cargo: B+
Noise/Vibration/Harshness: C+

Durability/Reliability
Overall: A-
Mechanical: A-
Hardware/Body/Paint/Trim: B+

Safety
Anti-lock braking: yes
Airbags (driver/passenger): yes/yes
Traction control: all-wheel drive
Driver/Passenger Front Crash Protection: ****/**** (out of 5)







Also found this on this Ng, it's mentioned in the Alerts section above, you
could ask dealer what this TSB is about and if it applies to the one you
buy:


Can anybody tell me what Technical Service Bulletin 11-53-98 dated 990101
said about cause and solution of engine hesitation on '98 forester models?

 

[Bob J.]

This is from: Canadian Driver Oct-03



Buyer's Alerts
Subaru Forester, 1998 - 2002

a.. If first gear pops out while driving the cause may be the clearance
between the driven shaft and first driven gear and gear hub assembly (TSB
03-48-99, July 1999).
b.. A slight engine hesitation between 1,500- 2,500 r.p.m. may be traced
to the engine control module (12-70-01, April 2001).
Recalls:
Subaru Forester, 1998 - 2002

[snip]

ed,
That's a great post. Thanks for the info.

Bob J.