Used 1998 Subaru Forester Consumer Reviews
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Watch Out!! $$
Mike, 07/25/2008
1998 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Own 1998 and 2001, both bought new. 1998 clock above mirror went out as apparently with most of these cars. The center differential pack went out at 60K to the tune of $1200. The head gaskets and transmission failed at 86k. Cost for these two items is almost double the value of the car. The transmission on the 2001 car went out at a little over 100,000. Cost to replace was given as $3500 or about the value of the car when sold to Carmax.
Love My Forester
Forester Lover, 07/09/2003
1998 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased new in 98 have had nothing but good luck with this car-agetting 25- 28mpg. Now has 107000 miles and is still going strong. This is without question the best vehicle I have ever owned.
Disappointing Reliability
QuintrKD, 06/27/2002
1998 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my 98 Forester with great enthusiasm. However, I had to replace wheel bearings on two separate occasions by 40,000 miles. I had to replace both oil seals by 75,000 on my Forester (and at the same mileage on my wife's 95 Legacy), which by my research seems to be a common and recurring problem. Finally, I've been dealing lately with some pulsing and squeaky brakes, and the brake mechanics seem to be at a loss to find the problem. The reliability of my Forester dues not favorably compare to my experience with Toyota trucks, and I'll probably opt for a Toyota or Honda the next time around.
Great Transpo
mac/s, 08/31/2003
1998 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Drive many many highway miles in this delightful vehicle...always comfortable and has never let me down. Snow, rain, fog, heat--always feel safe and secure. Toots right down the road with passing power when I need it. This is my second Subaru, won't be my last.
A lemon!
LJN, 02/11/2009
1998 Subaru Forester 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought the vehicle for durability and reliability. Have gone through multiple sets of tires, several sets of wheel bearings, two water pumps, and most recently replaced head gaskets ... all before 45K! Vehicle has known design flaws (head gaskets, for example) that Subaru of America refuses to be accountable for, offering cheap, short-term fixes. Will never buy another Subaru unless/until company stands behind their product!