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Used 2001 Subaru Forester Consumer Reviews

4.1 out of 5 stars
115 reviews

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4.25 out of 5 stars

So far, so good.

Mike, 08/11/2010
2001 Subaru Forester S AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 5 people found this review helpful

We bought this vehicle last year after wrecking our Jeep Cherokee. Wife wanted a smaller vehicle, but one with AWD also. We knew nothing about Subarus, but bought this one anyway. It drives beautifully. Great in the snow, AWD is a necessity where we live. Only routine maintenance so far. Gas mileage could be better with a vehicle this small, but I'm sure the AWD has something to do with this. As others have noted, the location of the cup holder is poor. I think the engineer was on crack when he designed it. Also, the clock doesn't work (also noted in other reviews). Backing up is tricky (visibility). Other than that, no major issues. Our next car will be another one of these.

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1.63 out of 5 stars

Bad Quality buyer beware

Kevin, 01/08/2010
2001 Subaru Forester S AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 10 people found this review helpful

I have had this Subaru for quite some time and have not driven it over 31,000 miles to date . First of all the rear wheel bearings started sounding like a landing plane, they were replaced under warranty , thank God, but then only 10,000 miles later the same thing , like a growling landing plane , the wheel bearings again , this time guess who is responsible. I contacted Subaru and told them exactly what I think about their poorly designed junk. I wouldn't but another Subaru if they were the only vehicle made. Piece of garbage, if you have to pay over 600.00 every 10,000 miles , you call that reliability ? Not in my book.

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3.38 out of 5 stars

Shame on Subaru!

Gail, 04/01/2009
2001 Subaru Forester S AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful

At 40,000 miles I replaced the 02 sensor. At 45,000 miles I had to replace the catalytic converter. The check engine light has been reset 3 times. At 55,000 miles it needed new rear wheel bearing assembly. At 58,000 miles it needed a re-built transmission, new shocks, and engine mounts. Tires needed replacing at 20,000 miles. The dealership I have been taking the car to for years in Pompano Beach, FL never checked the transmission fluid, though they always claimed to. The transmission fluid was low, but no leaks which another dealer said their neglect caused the transmission failure. Neither Subaru nor the dealer would take responsibility. It is JUNK and I will buy a Honda next time!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

I love my Forester!!!

Harry Velez, 06/08/2009
2001 Subaru Forester L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful

I bought my Forester in 2001 and in all this time I have had to replace only the head lamps... only one if I remember correctly. Other than that I have 2 flats. That's it. This car is the best performing vehicle I have ever owned. It runs great. It is comfortable. Its reliability is outstanding. Wish I could buy a new one... but the old one is just going too strong to consider that.

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2.38 out of 5 stars

2001 Subaru Forester

suzieque69, 11/18/2008
2001 Subaru Forester L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful

I had a baby and wanted a safe vehicle. After doing much research, chose the 2001 Forester. Within the first year had problems ranging from 02 sensors, cruise control issues, paint coming off sport grille, sluggish acceleration, etc. I have thrown several thousand into repairs for this vehicle. Multiple 02 sensors, uneven tire wear (mult. sets), cup holder broke, clock went out, defrost out, head gaskets need replacing and had to replace catalytic converter and timing belt all before 110000! Gets lower than stated mileage, loud road noise, can't ever use cruise control or car starts jumping and jerking dangerously (but no dealer can replicate or figure out). DON'T BUY!!!

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