2003 Subaru Forester Consumer Reviews
Most Helpful Reviews
Positive Review
I allternate between 2 mechanics for maintainable. Both believe I will be able to get at least another 100,000 miles on the car, which has 180000 miles already. It has never let me down, and is so safe even in snow. I' m buying a new sabaru and giving this one to my son. I believe it's worth more than $4,000 in value. It truly is the best car ever!
VS
Critical Review
I bought my Forester used in 2005, it had 59,000 miles. I loved it! Great in the snow! Minor problems but overall very reliable. That is until the car hit 100K. Then it basically fell apart. The exhaust system had to be replaced, battery cables, spark plug cables, fuel injector and finally the clutch went and I am forced to sell it. Six months ago I would have recommended this car to anyone but now I would have to advise to stay away from anything close to 100K.
2003 Forester Reviews
Showing 8 of 342 reviews.
I've had my 2000 Subaru since December '99 when it was first available at a dealership in Los Angeles. I chose the Subaru Forester because I liked (and actually really loved) everything about it - most especially the 360° visibility, responsive acceleration at any speed (0-60!), as well as the look and comfort of the car. On top of everything else, the handling in Lake Tahoe area during harsh winter conditions was always impressive! Always! The amount of maintenance money I've spent on that car over the last 25 years has also been highly impressive, because it's been so minimal. The only two ways the car could be improved is (1) metal, rather than plastic, timing belt, and (2) the radio control panel. First was around $1,000 to replace every 100,000 miles. Second was something I learned to live with quite easily. It will make me a little sad to give up this phenomenally reliable and fun-to-drive car. Thank you Subaru!!!
Always runs!!!
There are none!
The 1998 Subaru Forester all wheel drive has the best engine that Subaru ever made! It always runs and is always reliable! Love this car!!!
Cracked windshield few tints needs a sum want paint job needed struts needs changed passenger side needs a couple tired
Love this car. If I had any complaints is that cars aren't still built like this one today. For the minimal effort I've put in this girl is still pulling at 250,000 miles. Given to me by a person who thought they bought a dud of a car and decided to fork out a $20,000 loan for a new caf, I think this was the best score I've ever made.
a blast to drive, seat height is perfect!
nope! It'sperfect.
I love my subaru forester! It drives like a go cart! It takes on anything and comes out smiling! i hate new cars and intend on driving "Homer" until i can't drive anymore. Only a near exact 2002 Forester look in an electric version could get me to ease into something new. Still I would NEVER sell my 2002 black Forester Premium S that my students picked out for me to buy 20 years ago!
Good power and MPG. Tows small trailer well
Wind noise
Bought new in 1999. Changed oil every 5K. Air filter every 15K. It goes to a mechanic every 30K for full inspection and necessary parts/fluid replacements. Around 80K it needed a new head gasket along with some exhaust components. Also, at some point, I had to have the CV joints serviced. At 200K it still ran well but was using a lot of oil. About 1 quart every 200-300 miles. Took a chance on an engine swap done by an experienced mechanic. Currently has 215K miles. Engine swap was $3200 and included a new clutch and timing belt. All in all, I feel that I have gotten more than my money's worth out of this car and I love driving it.
Peppy, reliable, fun to drive
Suffers from a bit of wind noise
Great little car for everything. It goes in the mountain trails, through snow, heavy rains and anywhere I’ve taken it without issue. It’s peppy, reliable and feel safe driving it. Of course maintenance has always been done on time and the little quirks have been promptly taken care of. Maintenance is key! I hope to get another 100K out of it.
RUNS GREAT...CURRENT REGISTRATION....SAFETY....RECENT NEW RADIATOR....LIKE NEW TIRES....NEEDS NEWBATTERY....CLEAN INTERIOR....ALL ESSENTIALS WORKING....COULD USE PAINT JOB because of oxidation....very dependable car....no dents or accident history....
