Used 1999 Subaru Forester Consumer Reviews
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Love my scooby!
dirtyru, 02/25/2011
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
This car is a blast to drive. Handles like a true rally car in the curves! With the AWD, it handles exceptionally well off road. I honestly believe that this car handles/ drives even smoother in the rain! 154,000 miles and still counting! I have the S model, which on here says it's a manual, but i do infact have the crafty automatic. The leather interior has held up greatly & the seat warmers come in handy on those brisk mornings. Getting rid of my car & having this vehicle has truely inspired me to make it a point to get out of the office & enjoy the outdoors. It's the perfect utility vehicle that also doubles as an economical, every day driver. I hope to keep this for a looong time!
Still rolling thru Snow and Ice!
Goldie Dreyer, 11/30/2016
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
Sally my subaru has been a trooper. I bought at her in 2010 with 115,000 miles and now have 215,000 miles on her. We go everywhere from freeways to off road. My mechanic patiently fixes her oil leaks, a common problem with Subarus, I understand. I make sure I check the oil every fuel fillup. Engine works great, mileage is roughly 21 mpg, combined highway and city. I have replaced brakes, all 4 axles-its a necessary maintenance item with AWD to have them checked periodicly. I bought really good tires at 185,000 miles since I plan to drive her until 300,000. Some rust developing around rear wheel wells, and rusty under carriage. This year I had to replace front shocks at 210 K miles. Overall, a fantastic buy. I will buy another Subaru and keep Sally for my grandkids.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Money's Worth and Then Some
Ronnie, 11/23/2007
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new and still own it after almost 9 years. This car now has over 100k miles and the only maintenance I have ever done is oil changes and replaced the front brake pads at 98,000 miles. That is correct the front originial brake pads lasted until 98k miles and the back pads still have 1/2 wear left so they have never been replaced. The AWD works great and I will buy another Subaru when and if this one ever wears out. If you need a 4 wheel drive vehicle then I don't think you can beat a Subaru. I only wish they made pick up trucks.
Is the engine problem fixed?
Renee, 02/14/2006
1999 Subaru Forester 4dr Wagon AWD
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
I replaced the head gaskets @ 70k, they started seeping again @100k. Subaru sent out a letter to all owners about the seeping head gaskets and to fix it, you have to add a additive to your antifreeze every time you flush your radiator. This seeping problem is starting to affect my pistons. I've replaced everything around the engine. I have 150k on it now, and with this piston problem, I'm not sure if I should buy another Subaru. I love everything else about it, but am concerned about sinking a ton of money into a new one, as I have with this one. I've replaced a couple of wheel bearings, both axles, all 4 struts & mounts, radiator, heater blower & the air sensor twice.
Buying a Forester today with 130k
Donald Tenn, 07/15/2019
1999 Subaru Forester 4dr Wagon AWD
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I have read the reviews, most are good but I have owned 5 Subaru Outback Legacy's. The issues from 1996 through 2006 seem to also be inherent in the Forester. SUBARU CHANGED HEAD GASKET MATERIAL IN 1996, it was problematic through 2006 when they changed back to the old material. My 1995 Subaru got 400k trouble free miles! My 2- 96' 2-97' and 1'98 onky got about 130k before the head gaskets went out. FACT: If you own a Subaru, you will have to replace your head gaskets AND your passenger side bearings and hub. I have had to do so on all 5 Subaru'a and I see the same issue commented on the forester. I am STILL buying a 99' Subaru Forester today with 130k. I am disabled and poverty stricken. I actually. Obviously LOVE SUBARU as stated, my 95' Subaru turbo was the best car I ever owned. But when they changed the head gasket material in 96' it went downhill for a full 10 years before they changed the material back. Other than the head gaskets and passenger side hub and bearings. The car is fabulous. All other maintenance issuea such as front brakes and other trial items are standard replacement and maintenance you should expect. It is a damp shame they ruined a good engine with bad head gaskets. I don't even mind replacing the front wheel hub. I am disabled and had it down to 5-6 hours. I could do front brakes, I had changed many. With all tools and parts laid out. My quickest time was 15 minutes. Yes, I replaced many but no big deal. It is the Head Gasket that is problematic and not worth replacing. Subaru engineers ruined a fabulous car in 1996 but... how are they gonna sell cars if they all get 400,000 miles. They had to do something to sell new cars, so they put in inferior head gasket material. I did the research, you can too! Wish I could afford a new Subaru! But being a disabled senior. I have to have something. This forester looks real nice and has several added amenities, upgraded alarm. Upgraded stereo, new tires. Added cell phone system to stereo many upgrades but still has the original head gaskets. The car looks beautiful in black, the price is all I can afford so... wish me luck!
Excellent car
Mike1983, 02/27/2006
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
The Forester is a very well built car. It's very well designed, inside and out. It runs very smoothly and quietly even with 100k+ miles. Very good sound reduction inside the vehicle. Handles great, feels very solid. Neat gadgets like heated outside mirrors, windshield wipers, and rear quarter windows.
LOVE my Forester!
problemcat13, 08/10/2006
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I LOVE my Forester! I put 15k miles a year on it, and I drive it hard! 5 speed and the engine pulls great. I had one problem, the headgasket, but it was covered under the service bulletin/warranty to 100k. I currently have 112k miles and this car is great. I really enjoy it. Reliable, fun, but maybe a little small for a family of four. Stereo/tape was lousy, I replaced it with an OEM 6-CD changer from a Subaru WRX for $100. MPG: if I drive hard (wide open throttle) I get 21.4, if I set cruise at the speed limit, 28.4. AWD uses more gas but is a blast to drive spirited! We miss our other Subaru (95 Legacy) and plan to purchase another when we can. I'm so glad I got this vehicle.
Disappointed
vubencne, 02/23/2003
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
After several car problems, reports said this car was the best! This car i junk. Since 10,000 miles I've endured brake problems (incessant squealing). At 40,000 the head gaskets blew, and left me stranded. Now, at 50,000 the wheel bearings went, and the car is back in the shop again. Not, to mention all the "quirky" problems along the way. Long story short, my Subaru Forester is an unreliable piece of junk, that I can't wait to get rid of! Oh yeah, the gas mileage sucks!
Darn wheel bearings
BillMopar, 10/07/2008
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love the car, had it since 1999, but I have replaced the wheel bearings six times now. Sometime the car will not engage into drive from park. That normally happens every 30 thousand miles. How I correct this problem is by changing trans. fluid and filter.
High Miles - a real workhorse
Chuck, 12/20/2006
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I put on 324,000 miles on my '99 Forester and finally have a problem with the transmission. Did a valve job about 290,000 miles. Replacement engines were hard to find. Had some more minor problems along the way but taken care of okay. I would like to replace the transmission but they may also not be easy to find or be reasonable enough.
2nd Subaru
coyoteboy, 07/12/2011
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This was second Subaru, bought 4yrs ago with 85k now has 150k on it. Dependable car great in Ct. snow storms. Headgaskets, timing belts at 104k. for $1500..Now at 150k, clutch catalytic converter, and filler pipe to gas tank at $2000 for all. No one talks about the filler tube replacement they are plagued with, all Subarus. Our 1999 legacy Gt, My wife loved it, replaced the filler tube at 110k. She was hit head on, not a scratch. Replaced it with 98 Legacy Gt, Puuu, brakes completely went. Was due for emissions engine light came on, Filler tube. 3 out 3 no way. Last Subaru, shame , Forester is our last Subaru but is expensive to repair. Might as well own a Volvo. Its a Japanes Volvo.
I Miss My Forester
alycatz77, 12/21/2005
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
This was a great investment. Had only a few repairs in two and a half years (replaced alternator, brakes and wheel bearings) and the car had 82,000 miles when I lost it. It was fun to drive for a four cylinder, a smooth ride, and great on frozen Indiana roads! This car saved my life in a head on collision with a tractor trailer at 105 mph total impact speed. I will miss my car and recommend it highly to anyone who wants a safe and reliable vehicle!
Excellent '99 Forester Keeps on Humming
TNC2005, 01/03/2007
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Bought this car as a family car when moving up north to snow country between the Catskills and Adirondacks. Has always performed to expectations. With the right tires -- the original Yoko Geolanders, or the replacement Goodyear Triple Treads -- it grips exceptionally well, handles nimbly, accelerates smoothly and rapidly. My mechanics say it's got the bones to reach over 300,000 miles. So far, w/ 119K miles, it's on the 4th set of tires and it's only needed regularly scheduled maintenance. Still looks and drives like a new car. Unless some dealer comes out with a similar SUV wagon that gets >33 MPG, this car will be maintained and driven as long as possible -- hopefully 14 more years.
240K Great car
John, 12/05/2009
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Bought ours used with 90k. After normal maintenance (Battery, 1 CV joint, brakes) and another 140K it is at it's end. Engine seal leak, transmission is slipping. Has been a great car for hauling 4 dogs to park, great in the snow and rain.
Good as a first, but may not last
Thor Heller, 05/30/2016
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
4 of 6 people found this review helpful
This was my first car, so I have some love for the black Subaru that I affectionately nicknamed, "Sleipnir". Objectively, that love should not exist. My father got it new, in April of 1999, and shortly got engine problems. 62000 miles. First Engine Replacement. 230000 Miles, second Engine Replacement. Air Conditioning, Clock, and Mirror Motors do not work, and haven't since 2010, 2008, and 2007 respectively. 21 MPG was advertised, but I ended up between 14.1 and 18.3 MPG, keeping the RPMS below 2000 at just about all times. The CD player only takes ever fourth CD, no real pattern to it. At 234500, the front axle broke entirely on it's own, leaving me to limp home at 5 mph. Car needed a plethora of repairs from the moment we got it, until the moment we gave it away. Some of it was age, other bits were poor design/workmanship on the part of Subaru.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Don't believe the hype
nemo nullus, 02/03/2004
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
After relying on ratings such as Consumer Reports, I stretched my budget to buy my Forester S. What a mistake! Between 20,000 and 60,000 miles, I've had to replace the brakes, a head gasket leak, and now the manual transmission--all out of warranty. Gas mileage has been quite poor--less than 20 highway. This is undoubtedly the one of the most overrated cars on the market. The design concept is great, but with such poor reliability, what difference does that make? Don't waste your money and time.
Best all round car !!
computer guy, 04/14/2002
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
It has great head room (I'm 6'6"), can travel in any weather, drives like a luxury sedan, has great power for trips and long hills (went from SLC to Seattle at 75-80 the whole trip, downshifting the automatic to 3rd for climbing only the worst grades, holding 75mph at about 4k rpm), engine is really quite ... I really like this car. Tops in crash testing too. This car is a keeper.
1999 Subaru
ed, 01/22/2005
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought this as second forester for our family with teenagers starting to drive. Excellent reliability, not tippy like other SUVs. Only complaint is lack of attractive exterior appearance. Doesnt bother me. About 20mpg city/25 highway with automatic transmission. Looking to get another used forester as my other teens start driving.
So many problems
nosubaru4me, 03/25/2003
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought the car brand new, our first new car after 20 years of marriage and what a disappointment! Speedometer quit at 10,000mi, it threw a wheel bearing, had a transaxle leak and always smelled of sulphur. The last straw was when the combo switch (turn signal/lights) went out on it in the dark on the freeway. Traded it in on a 2000 Honda CRV, what a difference!
Subaru For Life
GavinJLang, 03/07/2009
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is one of the best cars I've ever owned. That's saying a lot considering I've owned over 60 cars. No, it's no race car... the pick-up is moderate... BUT the capabilities, reliability, and overall maintenance cost have been lower than anything I've owned in the past. Perfect for running around town or getting to that hard to reach off road destination. The only thing lacking in my model is 4 high and low for better off-road capabilities, but it definitely works well. Tires make a BIG difference in it's handling and capabilities, and since there are so many aftermarket pieces available that's hardly an issue.
reliable?
bperk, 01/07/2004
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Although Subaru is known for reliablity the Forester may not be. My Forester had 2 sets of wheel bearings replaced in under 50000 miles, went through 2 sets of tires in the same time. The ABS system locked up causing the need to replace the brake pads. The coup was a leaking head gasket at 57000 miles. Thankfully just within warranty and in time to trade it. Thanks Subaru
They give you what they advertise
Tamuz1972, 01/18/2004
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The forester delivers what Subaru advertises, a stable, easy to maintain, reliable and safe car that makes for a highly enjoyable ride. Over the past 5 years I've really put it through it's paces by hauling, mountain driving and using it as a intracity commuter car in all kinds of weather. I like this car so much I would buy another in a heartbeat.
Ugly or not, she's a trooper!
Jim, 07/28/2010
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've owned the vehicle since it was new. I bought the car in NC and brought it to my home in Minnesota. what an excellent choice! I've had the same battery crank in sub-zero temps for 11 years! However, when it does break down, you will cry. Head gaskets blew at 70K and the repairs cost me $2200. After that, no problems. Fun to drive and an Excellent teen car!
Not-so-great
dvnguyen, 04/12/2002
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Started to experience minor problems when the car reached 30,000 miles mark. The interior faded significantly, engine ran rough etc.... But the most annoying thing was the failure of the rear wheel bearing. Turned out this is the common problem for this model year. Subaru started to use Legacy bearing to correct the problem; however, it refused, thus far, to admit that it is a design flaw.
99 Subaru Forester S
JoeB, 05/20/2002
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Excellent very dependable all purpose vehicle. I have 72000 miles and have done only normal maint. Has needed no repairs. Still on first set of brake pads and bought 3 new tires. Is quick to drive, hauls small boat ok. Gets 23- 24mpg at constant 80mph. Highly recommend to anyone. Full time 4wheel is great in FL downpours and for boat ramps!
LOVE my Subaru!!
Pastmaster, 06/11/2007
1999 Subaru Forester 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The Forester has given me no trouble. Beyond oil changes and regular maintenance, I have had a broken rear window (kids and rocks) and one gasket.
Not quite what I expected
c, 11/19/2005
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought car new. Every year at inspection, have to have clamps for exhaust system tacked to get rid of rattling. Was told last year that rotors will need replaced shortly. Major problem - manual transmission would not stay in 5th gear on highway at 48k miles. Took to Subaru dealer, then it was stuck in 1st gear! 3 rebuilds to fix transmission; in shop for a month! Check engine light came on at 63k, turned out to be bad sensor, lucky that it was under warranty or would have cost $600. Has been a great vehicle to haul stuff when moving, camping, mountain biking. Fun to drive the manual with AWD in winter conditions.
Over rated junk
Firefly, 02/11/2010
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought the vehicle new and at 70k miles the head gasket starts leaking just like my previous 1989 Loyale wagon did. Nice size car, my wife bought it over my objections because she wanted AWD. Replaced head gaskets twice and I know about the additive. Leaks tranny fluid. If you need something to squat on you garage floor every night this is the vehicle for you. I have 131K on it and if I could afford to get rid of it, it would be gone. So much for Japanese quality. Marginal gas mileage (20mpg) for such a small vehicle. Most expensive dealers to get anything fixed, shameful.
Vehicle stops with no warning
Misty, 03/15/2002
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love the handling and ease of the vehicle. Approximately 6 months ago the vehicle completely stopped on me on an interstate. This has happened quite frequently and the service department cannot figure why. I was told to drive the vehicle until it dies so that they can determine the cause. I feel this is a safety issue and Subaru does not want to help. Don't expect help from Subaru headquarters or the Farrish Subaru dealership in Fairfax, VA. I love the vehicle but will never buy another one.
Wheel bearings forever
jimbo54, 11/16/2004
1999 Subaru Forester 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very pleased with design/concept of vehicle, however have had rear wheel bearings replaced 8 times from 25k thru 166k; have fought Subaru tooth & nail to get them to acknowledge that there might be a design problem; debating buying another Subaru product or switching to Rav 4 in near future (200k)
Reliability and Value
gooddesign, 06/15/2002
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Nice amount of space offsets abundance of plastic parts in the cabin. Plenty of nooks and crannies. Great value with all-wheel drive.
Great car, what's up with the engine?
Clint, 08/22/2005
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Forester. I searched far and wide ending on eBay for one with the right price and look, but the engine was a disaster just waiting to occur. I could hear some kind of rod knock but all the dealerships said it could run for another 100K. 10K later the car was at 115K and it cost $4400 to get a new engine. Now it's in good shape. It still only gets 20mpg compared to 27 by rating, but all the girls love it!
Overall , satisified
mccorky, 09/16/2003
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Its a great car to have if you live where the weather turns bad in the winter. It handles great, but like any car, ice is ice and AWD does not stop you from sliding. I noticed a difference with snows. I did have a$400 engine repair at 37K, just after my warrenty went (egnition coil??) Other than that, it has run smooth.
Great Car
Harry 15558649998+95, 11/01/2003
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car about 6 months ago and I have had only one problem and that was with a leak in my windsheild. I love this car I gets me to all the good lakes in the Wa area and it gets good gas milage for an SUV also.
Good Riddance
Good riddance, 11/02/2003
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Traded in a Toyota for this model. Boy am I sorry. First service was after a brake recall and brakes never sounded the same since. Blew a head gasket at 60,000 miles then 10,000 miles later needed a full transmission replacement. Now, I'm suspected another head gasket problem. This shouldn't happen on a subaru ( I was told). Do you think I was just unlucky? I'm trading it in and cutting my losses- good riddance!!
Best car ever owned
AndrewDK, 03/23/2003
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Took this car from New York City to Seattle - then to San Diego and then to Maine. Not a single problem!! I get good mileage - good even with aircon blowing. I use it almost everyday and it is always a pleasure to drive. I will never buy domestic cars (Ford/Chev/GM) again - NEVER! I have to say, however that the dealer was not always so helpfull. Will reconmend this car again and again!
I love Subarus
subarulover, 06/25/2002
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The 99 Forester L is my 5th Subaru, but first new one. I love the room for taking my 3 girlfriends x-country skiing. The car has no problem getting up the mountains with a full load. It also gets around town with comfort and manueverability. My husband and I have taken it on many 300 to 600 mile trips through the mountains of the northwest and love the performance and comfort.
Loved My Subbie
JakeFL, 04/01/2003
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car! Very fun to drive. All controls, etc. are exactly where you intuitivly think they should be. Great traction in poor driving conditions. This vehicle saved my life in a horrendous head-on accident. It was totalled, but I wasn't.
A solid performer!
gplind007, 01/07/2004
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Dependable & efficent, it has never failed. New tires and tune-up, also one of the highest passing grades in crash tests by Consumers Report. We bought it for the children's safety, now we are looking for something larger for a growing family.
1999 Subaru Forester L 5-Speed
qwertyuiopasdfghj, 05/22/2003
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
So far my only complaint about this car has been with the dealer. The window sticker said the car had a CD player and the "gauge pod" in it; I got neither, and took it home in the early evening (when I didn't realize what was missing). Other than the traditionally lousy Subaru dealer network, though, this is a great car. Though it has worse fuel economy than I expected/was accustomed to, everything else on the car is very well-thought-out and well-designed. I expect to have it for at least 200,000 miles (if the motor holds; I've heard the 2.5Ls are not anywhere near as reliable as the 1.8Ls in the EA81/82 series cars.)
works for me
practicalfun, 06/08/2003
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
boght the forester used and have had for a year now. no problems, fun to drive. I live on a steep, winding canyon road - the car handles the curves great. Lots of room in the back for stuff. I've bought 72" bookcase and carried it home no problem. Gets 24 mpg. I needed a basic, reliable car that could tote around a lot of stuff, with AWD because of where I live, and this was it. Happy with the purchase.
Buy something else
UGGGHHH, 11/06/2005
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car used in '01, and had nothing but problems ever since. 2 sensor replacements, a transmission replacement (2 if you count that the first replacement put in didn't work), an engine seal replacement, 2 wheel bearing replacements (same wheel, and I think it's going again), short in power door locks that make them unusable, cruise and horn stopped working, CD player only works when it wants to, and there is a constant squeak when driving that no one can find the source of. I had good luck with a previous Subaru, but am looking to replace this one and will probably not be getting another Subaru again.
My Review
smithdc, 07/25/2002
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Forester has been great. i have had no problems with this vehicle. I recommend it for small families (4 or under.) Having dealt with multiple dealerships, every one has been very friendly and helpful.
Sad looking but still fun.
Larry Greenbaum, 03/24/2019
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought a Subaru Forester with 230 k miles on it. Paid only $600.00 for it. It is rather banged up, but still runs good, and is fun to drive. I will be replacing my other car, and buying a later model of these when I can.
- Safety
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
subaru success
bogus, 03/13/2002
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
this car has been trouble free and my wife loves it. we had one problem with the speedometer and it was replaced under waranty. this car is incredible in snow and on slippery roads
What does awd do
sad sad awd, 03/05/2003
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought a 1999 Forester, L version. It had less than 60000 miles on it, and it has been a really good car. However, can someone explain the wonders of the awd system. I am from SWeden and have driven in nasty weather conditions and snow/sleet all my life, and I fail to see the grsatness of the awd system. Tell me, if my front tires are slipping and spinning what would make the rear ones to grip when they are activated by the awd system. I'm already slipping down the road! Give me a switch so I know when all four wheels are engaged, that way I at least know that.
Love my 99 Forester S
MaineBob, 03/14/2004
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought mine off the dealer lot the day after I moved to Maine. It has been humming along now for nearly 5 years with no repairs of any significance whatsoever and 126,000 miles. A few minor annoyances -- the led for the Cruise Control switch went out 2 years ago and I was told the entire switch needed replacing (for about $60). Also, the led for the clock near the ceiling, above the rear view mirror also went out this year. Here in Maine, I am fearless. I have never had the slightest problem navigating in heavy snow, ice, slush, and rain.
1999 Forester S
FrankS, 08/20/2004
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have been very satisfied. It has done what I expected it to do. Goes in snow. Minor(to me) repairs: LR wheel bearing, front struts. 60,000-mile belt replacement is a blow.
great car
ocean1492, 04/21/2002
1999 Subaru Forester L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had no difficulty or major problems with the car. The firstthing to go was a fuse within a few months of purchase. The second is a clogged rear windshield washer. I would definitely buy another one if some of my suggested improvements were made.
Not perfect, but close
CarDudeMeister, 11/19/2002
1999 Subaru Forester S 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I traded a Suzuki Sidekick 4-door for this Forester, and it was everything I missed in the Suzuki - adequate power, comfort, features, smooth, quiet - of course, it cost twice as much, but it was worth it. The full time AWD is fantastic, the ABS worked perfectly, the seat heaters were great on ski trips. . .in a nutshell, you can't find a better general purpose vehicle that combines capacity, comfort, and economy for anywhere near this price. Oh, and as a topper - the build quality was on par with my last BMW - and THAT'S saying a lot! A must buy. . .