2008 Subaru Forester Consumer Discussions

2012 Forester Transmissions

• Re: Good information...thanks everyone. [xwesx]

  Written by: aatherton on Dec 19, 2011 3:26:44 PM

  The worst part about my 2008 LL Bean is the 4EAT. It is slow to react to aggressive on and off throttle around town. I can catch it between gears and cause harsh jerks. My 5MT Scion is a joy to drive in such situations. I had heard bad things about a CVT. Last weekend I had a chance to drive a 2008 Nissan Centris with CVT. I drove it aggressively ... Read More

Subaru Forester Engine problems

• Re: subaru engine failure #4 HELP [ateixeira]

  Written by: aatherton on Dec 17, 2011 10:34:19 AM

  "... One failure is uncommon, 2 rare, but 4? Unheard of..." He said... "I currently own a 2010 subaru forester and going on engine #2... The vehicle has 38000 km total and on 3rd engine... before this it was a 2008 wrx and again went through 2 engines." It is not clear, but I think there is a Forester which is requiring a 3rd engine, and there was a WRX that ... Read More

• subaru engine failure #4 HELP

  Written by: blown_engine on Dec 12, 2011 7:32:04 PM

  I currently own a 2010 subaru forester and going on engine #2, before this it was a 2008 wrx and again went through 2 engines. I am at a road block as subaru canada and the local subaru dealership are of no help. Basically they are trying to find us at fault, the vehicle has all maintenace records and well taken care of. Subaru has us signing waivers and told us ... Read More

My Subaru Forester is a Lemon!

• Re: why are Subaru's rate as a good car [dt63944]

  Written by: moepett on Sep 23, 2011 6:55:27 PM

  My husband had a 2004 subaru forester xs, now for sale w/ 131k miles on it, and the only reason we are selling is because a friend of the family wanted to buy a brand new car and so she was selling her 2007 forester w/ 40k miles. Lost a few of the "extra" features, but gained a newer less mileage car. My husband is in love with the foresters, we ... Read More

Subaru Forester Air Conditioning Problems

• Re: 2009 Forester AC problem [mjb59]

  Written by: vasubaru12 on Aug 9, 2011 1:07:40 PM

  My AC in my 2009 Forester started blowing hot air about a year after I bought it (bought it in July 2008). I took it to the dealer and they couldn't find a leak but did replace what they called a Shrader valve on it and they put more freon in it and it worked pretty good for 2 years. Now I have about 72,000 miles on the car and it ... Read More

Maintenance schedule ripoff?

• Re: 30K mile Maintenance check [elpeezee]

  Written by: aatherton on Jul 4, 2011 6:50:11 AM

  We have a 2003 Buick. In mid-2006 we had a 30,000-mile "maintenance check" inspection done by a large independent shop for $115. They found nothing to do. A year later during a "trip check" inspection, they recommended a change of coolant, trans fluid and brake fluid, which cost $400. I don't have our Buick printed maintenance schedule handy, but this site says there is almost nothing to actually be done at ... Read More

Subaru Forester Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Subaru Forester 2011 [budhina]

  Written by: specdan on Jun 21, 2011 8:19:08 AM

  I own a 2008 CRV and a 2011 Subaru Forester. I lean slightly to the CRV. Forester gets better Mileage Per Gallon but there are little things I don't like. When starting the Forester up, engine runs rough for awhile, passenger seat sits low so visibility isn't good. Overall though, you can't go wrong with either. Good luck!

Subaru Crew Problems & Solutions

• Re: Hitch Possibilities.... [paisan]

  Written by: aatherton on Mar 4, 2011 6:20:34 AM

  Pre-2008, the automatic transmission had an external spin-on filter as shown here: http://www.subaruoutback.org/forums/attachments/problems-maintenance/15283d12614- - 43974-2005-ob-oil-filter-imag0021.jpg and here: http://img65.imageshack.us/img65/9540/5064502498b0501f6cfus1.jpg For the 2008 MY the filter mount was plugged with a bolted cap: http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f280/vintagefortytwo/Forester/IMG_0692.jpg And for 2009 the filter mount was closed with an integral casting: http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f280/vintagefortytwo/Forester/2009ForesterATfi- - - - - - lterhole.jpg Those photos of the 2008 and 2009 Forester automatic transmissions are not misleading. They show where the external spin-on transmission ... Read More

• Re: Hitch Possibilities.... [aatherton]

  Written by: paisan on Mar 3, 2011 6:06:01 PM

  The OEM trans filter was deleted in mid-2007 for the 2008 model year. For the 2008 MY it was plugged with a bolted cap: http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f280/vintagefortytwo/Forester/IMG_0692.jpg And for 2009 the filter hole was closed with an integral casting: http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f280/vintagefortytwo/Forester/2009ForesterATfi- - - lterhole.jpg Sorry but you are giving out Mis-information. It was not deleted. They moved it to the inner fender well below the battery on the turbo cars. On the non turbo ... Read More

2010 Forester XT "Clunk"

• Re: 2010 Forester XT "Clunk" [maybesubie1]

  Written by: aatherton on Feb 5, 2011 7:51:55 AM

  "... VDC-check of some kind seems plausible..." VDC is traction control that senses vehicle direction and uses brake, throttle and engine management to help maintain stability. I don't think Subaru has such a thing a self-checking VDC. Some Subarus have VDC, although not my 2008 X with the 4EAT automatic. VDC is a completely transparent feature as it is not even mentioned in the Owners Manual, much less any self-checking of ... Read More

2009 Subaru Forester mileage reports

• Re: July 4th [gimmestdtranny]

  Written by: xwesx on Jan 13, 2011 6:46:25 PM

  Other than her occasional need to belligerently run off from time to time (I think it is the husky in her - she's a racing (Alaska) husky & yellow lab cross), she is a great pup. I can't believe she's ten years old now. The trees are birch (Betula papyrifera), almost exclusively. There are some mature white and black spruce on that plot as well, but not so much in that ... Read More

2011 Subaru Forester

• Re: 2011 Subaru Forester [ateixeira]

  Written by: aatherton on Nov 5, 2010 6:08:28 AM

  My 2008 boxer engine has no growl. I do wish it had the rumble that old Foresters have. It does have some clatter when started up cold. Sounds perfectly normal, but not as quiet as 1.5L inline four in our other Japanese car.

forester tires size

• Re: Spare wheel for my wife's Forester [grafzeppelin]

  Written by: aatherton on Oct 2, 2010 12:06:15 PM

  "... the full-size spare did fit, but I had to remove the foam spacer for everything to fit nice and flush. I guess I could post some pictures but they would only show a spare wheel & tire in the spot where the original "doughnut" spare was. The full size spare fits because the floor pan is stamped to hold it. Subaru did not stamp a special tiny well just for ... Read More

subaru transmission problems

• Re: Subaru transmission won't shift [bigfrank3]

  Written by: aatherton on Aug 19, 2009 7:24:46 AM

  "... this occurs it is because of the trans filter needing replacing. As the filter gets "used" and partially restrictive the hydraulic pressure to initiate the shift is lacking..." This does not help his 2007 Forester, but Subaru eliminated the transmission filter on the 2008 models, beginning in mid-year 2007. For 2008 they blanked off the filter opening with a wide threaded plug, and for 2009 the opening was cast closed. ... Read More

Extended Service Contract

• Extended Service Contract

  Written by: razzy on Aug 10, 2010 5:48:41 AM

  The warranty on my 2008 Forester runs out end of this month and I am considering purchase of either the Added Security or Gold Plus Extended Service Contracts. Can anyone comment on their experience with such. Purchased directly from Subaru or from dealership? Thank you.

BlueConnect

• Re: What does bluconnect for forester cost? [boas13]

  Written by: occking on Aug 2, 2010 6:08:59 PM

  I am responsing to all of these messages. I have had "build in" bluetooth both on my 2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid as well as 09 Forster. Both are lousy, let me clafify. The sound goes thru the speakers, interrupts the radio. The sound is fine, it is excellent for retreiving messages while you are driving. Unfortunately, unless the car is not moving the mike (on my Subaru is mounted on the ... Read More

Gold Plus Extended Warranty -- worth it?

• Re: Low Priced Genuine Subaru Extended Warranties [jogousa]

  Written by: aatherton on Jul 20, 2010 1:45:24 PM

  I don't think I will buy either the regular or gold extended warranty. My 2008 LL Bean Forester will have gone only 21, 000 miles in 3 years, garaged all the time and gently driven by a retired senior, with not one thing having gone wrong. In another 3 years the car will only have 42,000 miles. To pay $500 to $1000 to warrant such use seems a waste. To make ... Read More

Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Subaru Forester

• Consumer Guide Ratings

  Written by: ateixeira on Mar 23, 2010 6:57:58 AM

  They updated their review for the 2010 Outlander: http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2010-mitsubishi-outlander-1.htm It scores 55/110, one point up from the 54 that the 4 cylinder models score. A bit below class average. Just 17.1mpg for their GT. Ouch. Forester XT Limited scores a 71, and earns their Recommended stamp. X Premium gets 70, X Limited 69 points. Class average is 58 so all models do well. http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2010-subaru-forester-1.htm Interestingly, the turbo got 22.4mpg, nearly matching ... Read More

• Re: Subaru Forester CR's Top Pick again [piast]

  Written by: p0926 on Feb 24, 2010 5:58:00 AM

  4TH PLACE: SUBARU FORESTER 2.5X PREMIUM PZEV Interesting. There's no doubt that Subaru isn't winning any points by sticking to a 4-speed auto but picking on its 170hp seems a bit much since it is still competitive (albeit no longer near the front of the pack). However, it's odd that while they did point out that the 2009 SUOTY was a turbo equipped Forester XT, they still felt compelled to judge ... Read More

All-New 2010 Legacy/Outback

• Re: Subaru Legacy, Honda CRV or Toyota Camry? [elena_l]

  Written by: ateixeira on Jan 26, 2010 10:56:36 AM

  The CR-V is more comparable to the Forester, right around the same size, as both are a bit shorter and more upright than the Outback. Forester actually beat the CR-V in residual value, and won "Best Compact Utility Vehicle" from Automotive Lease Guide, the company that sets actual residuals for leases. Outback won for "Best Midsize Utility Vehicle" as well. Subaru also won "Best Mainstream Brand", though I think Honda wasn't ... Read More

• Re: Subaru Legacy, Honda CRV or Toyota Camry? [doggrandma]

  Written by: jeffm5 on Jan 26, 2010 7:52:50 AM

  I've had a 2010 Outback, 4 cyl. Limited since late Oct. I have about 4,000 miles on it. We love it. Handles fine, including on ice/snow covered roads. Like the CVT tranny. While no race car, has enough power for our needs. You'll see talk on this thread about weak heat on your feet. I have noticed that. Not a big deal for me. I just let the car warm up ... Read More

Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Subaru Forester

• Re: 3 Challenges - 3 surprising results [ateixeira]

  Written by: dodo2 on Dec 30, 2009 3:55:12 PM

  I haven't checked this forum for more than a year I think and I could not believe that the Outlander vs Forester "war" went on for so long. "I used cargo volume numbers from the Mitsubishi brochure for the 2008 Outlander, listed as 36.2-39 cu ft. Maybe I'm interpreting it incorrectly, but what else would account for the difference? " The difference accounts for the min/max cargo space due to the ... Read More

• Re: Chase Freedom Rewards [chelentano]

  Written by: ateixeira on Dec 23, 2009 10:49:50 AM

  What was on the cover? What month, I mean? I honestly didn't see that chart. I looked again at the January 2010 issue and saw something about Owner Satisfaction (Escape and Mariner Hybrids win the category). Maybe you saw a special edition/buyer's guide? I do have that, the "Buying Guide 2010" book and on page 172 they rate the 07 Outlander "Much Better than Average" but the 08 is merely "Average". ... Read More

Subaru Forester Engine problems

• Re: 2006 Forester HG leak? [erikwi]

  Written by: aatherton on Dec 20, 2009 11:35:26 AM

  "... If I can find someone to flush, then I won't worry about changing the filter out..." If my 2008 had still had an ATF filter, I would want it changed with a flush. It would become filled with the crud that the solvent and flushing was removing. "... when I was a Honda/Acura tech... the mid-90's models didn't have a filter at all, just a screen inside to catch the ... Read More

Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Subaru Forester

• Re: Chase Freedom Rewards [ateixeira]

  Written by: chelentano on Dec 17, 2009 8:27:53 PM

  >> Mitsu needs to increase sales 300% to get back to 2002 levels, maybe they should change their marketing strategy North american market is smallest for Mitsu, but it's to big to pass on it. They will not exit this market as long as company is doing well worldwide. Mitsu still sells twice more cars vs. Subaru worldwide. Subaru sold this fiscal year 555k vs. 2008: 616k . Subaru forecasts further ... Read More

Subaru Forester Engine problems

• Re: 2006 Forester HG leak? [erikwi]

  Written by: aatherton on Dec 15, 2009 6:44:38 PM

  "... When I take it in for the 60k, I'm going to request that the external tranny filter be replaced. I don't care if they say it's supposed to be a lifetime filter..." That is only part of what the Service Schedule says. Footnote 9 says: 9. The ATF filter is a maintenance free part. The ATF filter needs replacement only when it has physical damage or if the ATF has ... Read More

2008 Subaru Forester Revving With Clutch In

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester Design Flaw [leadhead1]

  Written by: paisan on Nov 24, 2009 5:37:47 AM

  Sorry, I am basing this on USDM spec cars. It would be kind of dumb for the ECU not to keep all the updates to the memory for things like recalls and such when you changed the battery. That would be a major liability for the manufacturers! Hence why when they do flashes like that here in the US they are more or less permanent even if you change the battery. ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester Design Flaw [paisan]

  Written by: leadhead1 on Nov 24, 2009 2:03:24 AM

  This is an australian built which has different design capabilities for mapping the ECU please confirm your region before advising so called fixes

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester Design Flaw [paisan]

  Written by: leadhead1 on Nov 24, 2009 2:01:39 AM

  You will have to understand the system that there are two random access memories. One is for lets say there was a recall and or an emmision concern and the memory had to be re-learnt. The re-flash for this concern is not permanent fix and disconnecting the battery will erase it. I watched the dealer carry out this re-learn and its fool proof that i think that you could even do ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester Design Flaw [leadhead1]

  Written by: paisan on Nov 23, 2009 10:35:23 PM

  Disconnecting after a reflash does not wash out the reflash unless the dealer did not install it correctly. -mike Subaru Guru and Track Instructor

Subaru Forester Speed Control/RPM Surge Problems

• SURGING

  Written by: leadhead1 on Nov 23, 2009 10:03:10 PM

  Hi there I drive a 2008 black subaru forester manual base model. My car did the exact same thing all time and i asked the dealer what was going on. They were unsure at first and told me that they would contact subaru and get to the bottom of it. I recieved a phone call three days later saying that there was a Re-flash available I drove in the next day ... Read More

2008 Subaru Forester Revving With Clutch In

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester Design Flaw [fsb]

  Written by: leadhead1 on Nov 23, 2009 9:53:15 PM

  Hi there I drive a 2008 black subaru forester manual base model. My car did the exact same thing all time and i asked the dealer what was going on. They were unsure at first and told me that they would contact subaru and get to the bottom of it. I recieved a phone call three days later saying that there was a Re-flash available I drove in the next day ... Read More

Forester vs__

• Re: reply [xwesx]

  Written by: aatherton on Nov 23, 2009 1:23:49 PM

  "... have a Forester: 2010 X Premium... could do without the ever-present Subaru rattles... only complaint about the driving experience is the muted steering feel. I'm sure you will notice that right away... It will also have more body roll... the Forester really is better than its predecessor in every way..." Except for more back seat room, I don't think the new Forester is better. For all those reasons that you ... Read More

Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Subaru Forester

• Re: 2010 vs. 2009 [ateixeira]

  Written by: chelentano on Nov 22, 2009 1:12:48 PM

  >> how you were driving around with 4 year old maps, and you were OK with that? Why would I care? I have never ran into a new road. Outlander uses Navteq maps – the same map vendor as most of manufacturers: acura, audi, benz, bmw, caddi, LR, jag, infi, mazd, niss, vw, volvo and more. And they all get updates at the same time. I don’t think it’s 4 years. ... Read More

• Re: Do It Yourself [ateixeira]

  Written by: chelentano on Nov 16, 2009 4:42:05 PM

  >> The rest of your post waters things down by comparing Mitsu corporate to FHI. Subaru of America, where both of us live, is on a huge roll... 'Subaru of America' does not build cars. It’s just a marketing office and sales numbers by local market/season may be misleading for the company health. The fact is that worldwide Fuji / Subaru sales decline every year: from 597,000 cars in 2008 to ... Read More

• Re: Chase Freedom Rewards [chelentano]

  Written by: ateixeira on Nov 16, 2009 6:03:19 AM

  Dual-Clutch auto-manual True, but it's a shame the dual-clutch SST transmission didn't make it to the US-spec Outlander GT, though. Keep in mind that vehicle starts at $31 grand, and that's with cloth and no Navi. Plus - Mitsu said it was coming. may be it's not in the top 2 anymore, but top 3 or 5 Actually no, it did not make the top 6 in its class. The rest ... Read More

• Re: Chase Freedom Rewards [ateixeira]

  Written by: chelentano on Nov 15, 2009 10:19:43 PM

  >> Mitsu got their CVT first, kudos, Subaru's is due out soon. Soon! Who cares for CVT? This is old tech for cheap cars. Mitsu has been already selling cars with modern smooth 6-speed auto, and Dual-Clutch auto-manual, paddle shifters and neutral logic. . >> But keep in mind our tried-and-true Forester is on CR's most reliable list, and Mitsubishi, while deserving credit for getting their CVT to market, dropped out ... Read More

• Re: Chase Freedom Rewards [chelentano]

  Written by: ateixeira on Nov 14, 2009 9:48:18 PM

  forced to buy Subaru with its dated 4-speed transmission again Mitsu got their CVT first, kudos, Subaru's is due out soon. Slushboxes are indeed dated - even with gimmicky manual shift modes. Remember they offer a stick shift, though. But keep in mind our tried-and-true Forester is on CR's most reliable list, and Mitsubishi, while deserving credit for getting their CVT to market, dropped out of that reliable list. In fact ... Read More

2009 Subaru Forester

• Re: 2009 subaru forester recall [billwv]

  Written by: johnv on Nov 3, 2009 8:36:49 PM

  Seems like this might not apply to the 2008 Forester. At least mysubaru doesn't mention it for mine (yet...) I still need to take mine in for the 11-89-08 TSB reflash related to revving. Is there anything special the car wants when it is in "learning" mode after an ECU reflash? More highway miles, the regular stop-n-go mix, or ?

• Re: 2009 subaru forester recall [kurtamaxxxguy]

  Written by: billwv on Nov 1, 2009 6:55:14 AM

  Only applies to PZEV, viz" "Service Program WVM-23 (2006 - 2009 Legacy / Outback or 2008 - 2010 Forester 2.5L with PZEV) " bill

Subaru Forester Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: The Worst Dealership Experience-Dunning Subaru-Ann Arbor [rockp]

  Written by: gigoypotpot on Sep 3, 2009 11:08:08 AM

  Wow, I am so sorry to hear about your experience. I hope to never hear of another experience similar to that happen to anyone else. =( On another note, I'd like to get everyone's opinions on a deal that I am trying to work out with Subaru Puente Hills. 2010 Subaru Forester 2.5X, Newport Blue, PZEV. MSRP: $22950 Invoice: $21604 Sale Price: $21604 3.9% for 60 mos. I am trading in ... Read More

Subaru Crew Problems & Solutions

• Re: 08 Subaru OBW, rattling noise while accelerating.. [oldladydriver]

  Written by: cptplt on Aug 14, 2009 4:10:33 PM

  >What I'm wondering is if the normally aspirated 2008 Imprezas will end up developing serious engine problems like some of the 2008 WRX models requiring new engines at early mileage. the NA 2.5 is the same on an Impreza, Forester or outback/legacy and a different beast to the 2.5 turbo in the WRX

All-New 2010 Legacy/Outback

• Re: Encouraging July Sales [ateixeira]

  Written by: wmarton64 on Aug 4, 2009 3:31:12 PM

  I'd say that some of the content is a bit suspect rather than not well written, which is why I highlighted certain phrases. The larger point though is that FHI lost money during a period when sales were strong relative to the other manufacturers. Yes, they lost less money, but they still are/were in the red. Below is a write-up from Joe Spitz at cars101.com re. the July sales: "8/3 July ... Read More

• Encouraging July Sales

  Written by: ateixeira on Aug 3, 2009 12:54:48 PM

  Bob's find, from another thread: http://www.jconline.com/article/20090803/NEWS09/90803015 • Sales of the Legacy line shot up by 34 percent to 2,340 units. • Sales of the Outback line, which includes the Legacy wagon, increased by 33 percent, to 4,971 units. • Sales of the Tribeca dropped by 10 percent, to 707 vehicles. Among Subaru's Japanese-made models, sales of the Impreza line grew by 41 percent, to 6,247 units; while sales of the Forester ... Read More

2009 Forester engine ping "They all do that"

• Re: 2009 Forester engine ping "They all do that" [tmedo1]

  Written by: oldladydriver on Jul 28, 2009 7:11:59 PM

  Hello, I have also posted on the Impreza forum about this - but my 2008 Impreza 2.5i (auto trans) does almost exactly the same thing -- pinging -- within two months of purchase. High octane gas doesn't help. Pings on hills, pings on acceleration, pings at low rpm's between gear shifts, pings pulling away from a dead stop - and the car is also slow to downshift when the engine is ... Read More

2009 Subaru Forester

• Re: 2009 Forester reliability in CR- why just average? [maybesubie1]

  Written by: bikerguy3 on Jun 30, 2009 11:56:04 AM

  I concur with the other posted responses... most of the issues that are negatively impacting the '09 Forester reliability ratings are related to it being a new 1st-year model. I bought my '09 Forester X M/T w/ Premium Package when shipments first arrived (Feb 08). I now have about 15K miles on the vehicle. While I've been fortunate and not experienced most of the problems posted/reported, I've had one minor issue ... Read More

• Re: 2009 Forester reliability in CR- why just average? [bikerguy3]

  Written by: pgb0517 on Jul 14, 2009 12:30:01 PM

  I'll have to say that I am not happy with the interior quality of my 2009 Forester LL Bean (yes, we bought one of the last of those designations in April 2008). At first, I didn't think the posts regarding the rattles and flimsiness of materials were valid. Now, having seen how easily scratched the "metallic" portions of the armrests are, and how easily scuff marks appear in places where you ... Read More

• bearing note and recall note

  Written by: kurtamaxxxguy on May 31, 2009 10:19:50 AM

  The Forester XT went on "stop sale" alert early in 2008 because some turbo engines were discovered to have bad bearings. Subaru issued a dealer check kit to test oil for excessive bearing wear. It seems some of them got missed as, aside from posts here, '09 Subaru Forester XT Reviews on Edmunds have several customers suffering from blown engines. The other known engine problem is Recall ID 08V460000 and reads ... Read More

• Re: Thanks again for the handy info [debating]

  Written by: occking on May 21, 2009 6:35:29 PM

  Since 2005, during which time I have owned a 05 Outback, 06 Tribeca, 08 Nissan Altima Hybrid, and early March 09 Forester, I have "maxed out" three Subaru cards every year, entitling me to $1500 each year. I am not exaggerating here, I really have earned $6000 through end of 2008, and already $300 in bucks this year. In fact I applied for, and got a 4th Subaru card a few ... Read More

• Update on Rear Fender Protector TSB

  Written by: bikerguy3 on Apr 6, 2009 9:28:19 PM

  Here is an update to my previous posts regarding the paint-chipping I experienced on my 09 Forester X Premium. After noticing (thanks to a heads up in this forum) that my Forester had chipped paint in the rear fender areas (just in front of the rear wheels), I printed out the TSB and made a service apptmnt at the dealership in Portland where I purchased the vehicle. The service mgr confirmed ... Read More

Subaru Crew Problems & Solutions

• 09 Subaru Forester AC Problem

  Written by: jgroveman on Mar 1, 2009 8:06:17 AM

  I am writing to today to inform you about the poor customer treatment that my family has received from Subaru Corporation of America. Upon leaving the U.S. Navy, after serving eight years, I returned from overseas duty and took a Federal position with a DC-based agency. My family and I made the difficult decision of what new automobile would be safe for my wife and our infant daughter. Based on good ... Read More

2009 Subaru Forester

• 09 Subaru Forester AC Problem

  Written by: jgroveman on Mar 1, 2009 6:29:00 AM

  I am writing to today to inform you about the poor customer treatment that my family has received from Subaru Corporation of America. Upon leaving the U.S. Navy, after serving eight years, I returned from overseas duty and took a Federal position with a DC-based agency. My family and I made the difficult decision of what new automobile would be safe for my wife and our infant daughter. Based on good ... Read More

Subaru Forester Lease Questions

• Re: MF for February 2009? [gdtrfb]

  Written by: Car_man on Feb 12, 2009 4:07:14 AM

  Welcome aboard, gdtrfb. Subaru's buy rate lease money factor for the 2008 Forester 2.5X did not change in February. It's still .00160. Something's off with the number that the dealer quoted you. However, the 36 month, 15k residual value of 58% that you were quoted for this vehicle is correct. $100 over dealer invoice is an excellent selling price for an '09 Forester. Just make sure that you get the money ... Read More

2009 Subaru Forester

• Re: An Answer Finally!!! Re: Inside chemical fogging of windows [sgloon]

  Written by: mgagne on Jan 22, 2009 5:28:43 AM

  Nice Job, I live in Montreal Canada and I think I have the same problem with my Forester (june 2008). What is the name and the city of your dealer that Subaru call? Thanks, and I hope that your health problem will stop.

• Time.com Article

  Written by: tinycadon on Jan 13, 2009 5:00:21 AM

  Subaru's customers are, the company admits, a little oddball. How else do you explain the fact that Subaru of America was the only car company to increase unit sales last year? Subaru buyers tend to be overeducated; they buy less car than they can afford and hang on to it forever. "They pay cash, and then you never see them again," says Tim Mahoney, Subaru of America's chief marketing officer. At ... Read More

Subaru Crew Problems & Solutions

• Re: 07 Impreza no rear end traction? [jiromo]

  Written by: aatherton on Jan 10, 2009 5:21:28 PM

  "07 Impreza AWD 11,000 miles Automatic... rear passenger tire flat... nail sticking out of the sidewall... had to have the tire replaced locally. I couldn't find the exact match for the factory tires (Bridgestone). So, I had to have a BF Goodrich with the same specs installed... took my car (50 miles) to Subaru... for other service... This morning, I got in my car and on to the interstate. I was ... Read More

2009 Subaru Forester

• TSB for rear door protection

  Written by: hitoyou on Jan 9, 2009 5:57:07 PM

  I took my 2009 Subaru Forester 2.5 Limited edition for its first oil change today. I asked about the TSB material for protection of the rear door area. He said it didn't apply to my vehicle. It was for the 2008 editions. Is he right?

2008 Forester; Reliability/Longevity of X vs. XT

• Re: 2008 Forester; Reliability/Longevity of X vs. XT [monikersupreme]

  Written by: aatherton on Jan 5, 2009 5:12:07 PM

  I would be careful about buying a used XT. In mid-2008 Subaru came out with a recommendation that the oil change interval for the XT must be changed to 3,750 miles, twice as often as the requirement for the X. This is because of turbo heat cooking the oil, bearings and seals. http://www.drive.subaru.com/Sum08/Sum08_Turbo.htm Many XT owners may have not known of or ignored the recommendation. And XT owners tend to use ... Read More

2009 Subaru Forester

• Subaru Sales Story on the AP:

  Written by: tinycadon on Jan 5, 2009 10:51:49 AM

  CHERRY HILL, N.J. (AP) -- Subaru said Monday its U.S. sales crept higher in 2008, making the Japanese manufacturer poised to be the only major automaker to post a yearly sales increase. Subaru was the first automaker to report sales on Monday. Its December sales fell 7.7 percent to 17,287 units from 18,739 in December 2007, as a big increase in Forester sales failed to overcome declines in its remaining models. ... Read More

2008 Forester; Reliability/Longevity of X vs. XT

• Re: 2008 Forester; Reliability/Longevity of X vs. XT [monikersupreme]

  Written by: ateixeira on Dec 12, 2008 12:30:43 PM

  Either one should give you 100k miles. Subaru hasn't really had that many gasket issues since about 2003 or so. I'd still pick the non-turbo for longevity, though. The turbo itself can fail, plus the whole engine is more stressed when it's making more power.

Subaru Forester Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Is this a good price on a 2008 Forester 2.5XT Sports MT???

  Written by: lickwid on Nov 25, 2008 10:55:55 AM

  2008 Subaru Forester Sports XT Sport Utility 15K Miles Standard features as far as I can tell. $22,875

Subaru Forester Passenger Air Bag Occupancy Sensor

• Subaru 2008 Impreza air bag failure

  Written by: jwmoorman on Nov 10, 2008 5:34:10 PM

  I bought a 2008 Subaru Impreza in July. After taking it back to the dealer 3 times they said that the front seat passenger air bag was designed not to activate with less than about 125 pounds on the seat. My wife is 5'4" and between 120 and 130 pounds. She is not petite or child sized. The air bag sometimes is on and sometimes is off. It changes randomly and ... Read More

2009 Subaru Forester

• Re: 2008 Forester 2.5XT Turbo M5 [mec77]

  Written by: bigfrank3 on Nov 9, 2008 8:49:04 AM

  If you activate my.subaru.com with your VIN number you can get the PDF version of your owner's manual from there.

• Re: 2008 Forester 2.5XT Turbo M5 [mec77]

  Written by: kurtamaxxxguy on Nov 8, 2008 4:23:53 PM

  Subaru requires 91 octane for the turbo, except in an emergency situation where for a short time (1 tank or less?) you can use 89 or 87. You will get less power from those as the engine will retard spark to avoid detonation. Use low octane for very long and you will either get a CHECK ENGINE warning (requires a trip to dealer to reset), or your engine will possibly overheat. ... Read More

• Re: Would you buy a Subaru Forester again?? [amiller1]

  Written by: bigfrank3 on Nov 8, 2008 9:31:44 AM

  We currently have 2 Foresters and since 2001 have had 5. These all have been the most reliable and trouble-free vehicles we have owned, and since we have each been driving more than 40 years have owned a lot of vehicles. My wife's first Forester (2001) is still in the family and has continued to be without any issues. My brother has a Forester (2008) as does one of my wife's ... Read More

Subaru Forester vs Toyota RAV4

• Re: 2008 comparison considering my needs -- thanks! [happymama]

  Written by: p0926 on Oct 24, 2008 3:05:45 PM

  I agree that the towing capacity is you biggest potential issue with the Forester. Subaru is very conservative in their tow ratings so you'd probably be okay but it depends on how often, how far and how hilly you''re talking about along with how experienced you are at towing. -Frank

• 2008 comparison considering my needs -- thanks!

  Written by: happymama on Oct 24, 2008 12:19:19 PM

  I've narrowed down my choices to either a Subaru Forester or a V6 Toyota RAV4 -- 08 in both cases. Consider my needs/wants//situation, which would you buy. drive to work only 3 x a week, but 40+ mi (most 2 lane county/state roads) ea way want best gas mileage possible both kids away at college so we primarily use the front seats must be able to tow a small camper (minimum ... Read More

Subaru Forester: Audio & Entertainment Systems

• Aftermarket Audio System for 2008 Forester 2.5xx

  Written by: sdsmith on Oct 23, 2008 11:49:15 AM

  I ran across this forum while doing a search on factory audio systems for the Forester 2.5xx. I was thinking about installing the factory Sirius satellite radio, until I found out the price tag was $390.00! Considering that the existing factory system is less than stellar, I am now considering just doing retrofitting it with an aftermarket system from Crutchfield or some other supplier. The current factory system is the double ... Read More

2009 Subaru Forester

• press request

  Written by: kirstie_h on Oct 16, 2008 9:33:16 AM

  A reporter is interested in talking with owners of a 2009 Subaru Forester. If you are interested in commenting on your experience, please reply to jwahl@edmunds.com no later than Monday, November 3, 2008 and include your city and state of residence, the model year of your vehicle and the age of your child/ren.

Subaru Forester Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• press request

  Written by: kirstie_h on Oct 16, 2008 9:32:48 AM

  A reporter is interested in talking with owners of a 2009 Subaru Forester. If you are interested in commenting on your experience, please reply to jwahl@edmunds.com no later than Monday, November 3, 2008 and include your city and state of residence, the model year of your vehicle and the age of your child/ren.

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester [jeffmc]

  Written by: alamocity on Oct 10, 2008 9:22:11 AM

  Thanks for the feedback, appreciate it.

• Is now the time to buy?

  Written by: fsrph on Oct 10, 2008 6:22:07 AM

  Hi, I'm new here and to be honest with you I was considering buying other cars but I passed a Subaru dealership and was very impressed with the 09 Forester. I did some research and here is what I would prefer: 2.5x with Premium package Manual trans. Bumper Protection package (maybe) Red or Blue color I thought that with the economy like it is that the dealers would be willing to ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester [alamocity]

  Written by: packrfan on Oct 10, 2008 5:53:50 AM

  All-weather mats cargo tray, retractable cargo cover are all must-haves for me & can be purchased cheaper online (although shipping can be an issue from some suppliers) Rear bumper cover will limit damage and is dealer installed or POA. I got aero bars but honestly have almost never use rack on either of 2 Sub's - you may tho. Autodimming/compass mirror is really nice unless you have GPS. Value of splash ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester [alamocity]

  Written by: jeffmc on Oct 10, 2008 12:26:42 AM

  All-weather mats, cargo tray, retractable cargo cover, roof rack base + aero cross bars, and rear bumper cover are must-haves, for me. (The cargo tray, cargo cover & roof rack were standard on '08s, I believe.) Many of these things are available in packages that are cheaper than ala carte. You can see packages and their invoice & MSRP prices here: http://www.cars101.com/subaru/forester/forester2009.html#option%20packages

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester [packrfan]

  Written by: alamocity on Oct 9, 2008 1:36:02 PM

  Thanks for the feedback. I haven't had a chance to drive the 09 model yet but the initial quote on a bare bones X model with auto is $20,668 so something I'll definitely have to give some thought to. What basic amenities would you recommend?

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester [ateixeira]

  Written by: alamocity on Oct 9, 2008 1:29:45 PM

  Thanks for the feedback. I was surprised that they had any 08 model's left but they just moved their dealership here and guess they are trying to move them out. The 09's with auto start out at $20,668 so will definitely give it some serious thought.

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester [alamocity]

  Written by: packrfan on Oct 9, 2008 12:46:07 PM

  The price sounds great but as noted, don't fail to look at 09 next gen model. It's a substantial upgrade in some key respects: ride quality, interior noise and dimensions, performance (I know engine hasn't changed but performance seems better) and amenities. Your decision is on price vs. improved product. We traded in earlier forestor for 09 and would do it again.

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester [alamocity]

  Written by: ateixeira on Oct 9, 2008 10:09:02 AM

  It's a steal. Go for it. New 2009s start at around $19k, so you're getting a $2000 discount, though it is the previous generation model. I'd say that is a fair discount. Now you have to decide - do you want a bargain 2008? Or would you rather just spend more and get the new and improved 2009? Totally your call.

• 2008 Subaru Forester

  Written by: alamocity on Oct 8, 2008 10:55:42 PM

  I recently found a dealership that has a 2008 Forester X model with auto for $16,932 and wanted to check what others thought of the price.

2009 Subaru Forester

• subaru recall take 2

  Written by: kurtamaxxxguy on Oct 7, 2008 7:26:44 AM

  Actually, there _is_ another impending Subaru recall (info from cars101.com) : 9/18/08: From SoA, a voluntary Safety Recall to inspect, modify and possibly replace the turbo charger oil supply pipe on approximately 16,715 '07 & '08 Legacy GT, Outback 5XT, 2008 Impreza WRX (except STI) and a very small number of early production 2009 Forester XT models. My '09 XT was built in Jan. '08. - here we go again

• Re: SUBARU STOP SALE VICTIM [totallypissed]

  Written by: tinycadon on Oct 7, 2008 5:01:03 AM

  Hey Totallypissed Jackalope, maybe you should've actually READ those Stop Sale Notices, it occurred back in APRIL!!! Turbo Engine Stop Sale checking Procedure On April 7, 2008 we informed you of a stop sale order on 2008 Impreza, STi and Legacy vehicles and 2009 Forester vehicles equipped with 2.5L Turbo Engines and produced with the beginning chassis number/production dates and later as shown below: Model Body Type Chassis Number Production Date ... Read More

• Re: Contrarian approaches [board_jay]

  Written by: volkov on Sep 22, 2008 2:02:43 PM

  I did do my homework. You might want to go back and see you have made a few mistakes. Diesels can be really clean, but the vehicle Subaru is producing for Europe is not. It is clearly stated in the article that the Subie is not emissions compliant for the US, therefore not as clean. In fact, most diesels aren't that's why there are so few in the US. I won't ... Read More

• Euro-Forester diesel info

  Written by: rsholland on Sep 2, 2008 6:39:43 AM

  http://blogs.edmunds.com/straightline/2008/08/subaru-forester-diesel.html

Subaru Forester Lease Questions

• Re: 08 Forester XT Lease? 09? [mojo6666]

  Written by: Car_man on Jul 11, 2008 4:14:09 AM

  Greetings mojo6666. Subaru Finance's current buy rate lease money factor and residual value for a 24 month lease of a 2008 Subaru Forester XT Limited with 15,000 miles per year are .00150 and 57%, respectively. The numbers for an otherwise identical lease of an '09 Forester X Premium are .00230 and 71%. Car_man Host Prices Paid: Buying & Leasing Experiences Forum

• Re: 09 Forester Money Factor / Residual [gtmada]

  Written by: Car_man on Aug 22, 2008 3:31:27 AM

  No problem, gtmada. Here you go. Subaru Finance's current buy rate lease money factor and residual value for a 36 month lease of a 2008 Subaru Outback i Limited Wagon with 12,000 miles per year are .00105 and 53%, respectively. Car_man Host Prices Paid: Buying & Leasing Experiences Forum

Subaru Forester MPG-Real World Numbers

• Re: First tank 21 MPG [peteshaw]

  Written by: aatherton on Aug 1, 2008 4:53:30 AM

  "Our 2006 Subaru Forester with AT and no Turbo, gets exactly what the sticker said it would 23 town, 28 hwy. That is driving right on the speed limits, and driving sensibly." I think our cars are physically identical, yet the sticker on my 2008 Subaru Forester with AT and no Turbo says 20 town, 26 hwy. Driving at the limits and using gentle accelerations, I am getting 26 around town ... Read More

Subaru Forester Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Could I have done better than this price?

  Written by: irollit on Jul 19, 2008 8:39:35 AM

  We are still waiting since the first week in June for a Newport Blue Pearl 2009 Forester Limited PZEV. We still have no idea where it might be, even though I have talked to SOA a few times. With this long wait, I have read of great deals people are getting. I am thinking we could have done better. If so, does anyone have a suggestion on how to improve this ... Read More

2008 Subaru Forester Revving With Clutch In

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester Design Flaw [ateixeira]

  Written by: fsb on Jul 3, 2008 7:32:30 AM

  Hi ateixeira, I reset the ECU (by disconnecting the battery for 20+ minutes) and got some interesting results. For the first 20 minutes (in surface streets driving), the idle (albeit a bit unstable*) did not bounce between 1000 to 2000 RPM when coasting in gear. However, after that (in freeway driving) the problem came back and is now behaving consistently as before. *By unstable, I mean that, when coasting in gear, ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester Design Flaw [fsb]

  Written by: paisan on Jun 30, 2008 4:42:12 PM

  I'm not sure that will work though Juice. I think he'll need it to be re-programmed as there is definitely a problem in programing. -mike

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester Design Flaw [ateixeira]

  Written by: fsb on Jun 30, 2008 1:02:41 PM

  Excellent! I'll try it. Thanks very much!

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester Design Flaw [fsb]

  Written by: ateixeira on Jun 30, 2008 8:01:25 AM

  You can still reset the ECU by disconnecting the battery. Disconnect the negative, wait 20 minutes, reconnect. Have your keyless remote ready and lock and unlock a few cycles to reset the alarm.

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester Design Flaw [paisan]

  Written by: fsb on Jun 29, 2008 9:55:28 PM

  Thanks for your reply, ateixeira. The dealer wouldn't do it because they said that my car already has the latest version already. I'll have to go back and insist that they re-flash it.

2009 Subaru Forester

• 09 Forester build quality

  Written by: ncc4 on Jun 15, 2008 8:13:28 PM

  I was at my local Subaru dealer having some servicing done on my Outback so I had an hour to wait in the showroom. They still had a new 2008 Forester as well as a new 2009 Forester on display. I wanted a better look at the tires on the 2009 model and leaned on the fender, above the front tire, to get a better look and it almost dented it ... Read More

2008 Subaru Forester Revving With Clutch In

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester Design Flaw [ateixeira]

  Written by: paisan on Jun 11, 2008 4:57:41 PM

  Get your ecu re-flashed. I had messed with an ECU modifying program on my 05 LGT and the same thing happened. I reflashed the ecu and it fixed it up for me. -mike

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester Design Flaw [fsb]

  Written by: ateixeira on Jun 11, 2008 12:56:53 PM

  We did get a PZEV, but the idle is smooth. Just got it last night so I'll pay close attention to how it idles tonight.

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester Design Flaw [fsb]

  Written by: aatherton on Jun 11, 2008 11:14:11 AM

  My 08 Forester does not have this flaw. But it's a non-PZEV automatic.

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester Design Flaw [p0926]

  Written by: fsb on Jun 10, 2008 9:54:00 PM

  I don't know if it matters, but my Forester is a PZEV (Partial Zero Emission Vehicle). The problem can be duplicated at will and occurs any time I push in the clutch while I'm in motion in any gear, incline, or speed, with or without air conditioning. Strange eh?

• Re: 2008 Subaru Forester Design Flaw [ateixeira]

  Written by: fsb on Jun 10, 2008 9:45:18 PM

  Thanks for your reply ateixeira, The dealership mechanic who worked on the problem, having exausted everything he could think of, did open a case with Subaru. But they weren't able to help him.