Subaru Forester 1997 Release (1997-2002) Questions & Answers

I recommend the duel range manual if wanting off-road and go Subaxtreame for a sump guard and Bull bar if can and talk to subieliftoz on Facebook for lift wifes SH has been a ripper car to own

I cant really answer this as mines not old. But I love Japanese technology and all my landcruisers have gone beyond 350000 kms before i sold them to happy customers so I expect Subaru to be similar.

You've probably knocked the separate park light switch that is on top of the steering wheel coloumn... turns park lights on with no need for key in the ignition.

My first thought based just on the question, would be check for a slipping clutch - in other words, take it to a good mechanic

Sorry - I am not a mechanic.

Is it in low mode thats for low speed 4WD not cruising at 110KM/H, at 110 it should be at around 3500rpm (due to the diff ratio`s) in high range.

Hi, Mileage is a good indicator, around 80K is the ballpark figure, [or multiples] I have tried 2 different makes of bearing- same distance different noise!. I would strongly suspect wheel bearings, have done 2 left & 1 right. Don't like the 4th & 5th noise, generally gearbox noises are 'faster' in sound of rotation than wheel bearings. We live in Adelaide Hills so it windy but we do get 45K from tyre sets.I use a stethoscope on lots of analysis for noises -great for idlers,alternators etc Not so good for 4wd, is there a 4wd dyno? It is difficult to 'run' the vehicle jacked up Not much help, but all my noises turned out to be wheels! cheers R ps early days I spoke to Subaru car club mechanic

Thank you very much Richard.

Yes it will be the throw out bearing. Change the spigot bearing in the flywherl while your at it

The aerial is built into the rear side Window on the passenger side.
If you have an aftermarket stereo tge rem wire will need to be connected to the power feed for the aerial.

Ask your mechanic to check out the catalytic converter. As they age the little holes start to clog up. The best I recall was about 700k on a tank highway conditions with premium unleaded. I would suggest not to use e10 fuel tends to create carbon build up. I wouldn't use e10 in any motor.

Also the type of oil you use helps. The thicker the oil, the more engine resistance (poor economy). I use full synthetic. Either 0w 40 or 5w 40.

If it is a turbo then it should go well.

Nope none at all. If treated properly they will quite easily last 400,000km plus.

I have not experienced any head gasket problems in 175000km with my 2001 GT Turbo Forester.

I am not a mechanic. My advice to you is take it to your trusted mechanic. All sensors are put there for a reason. If the sensor itself is giving an incorrect reading then that is not helpful as you lose the ability to determine if the area it is protecting is functioning correctly. If the area it is detecting is not functioning then it needs repair. I have found Subaru are good vehicle for long life motoring if they are driven with care and serviced regularly. If you are on Central Coast of NSW I can recommend Wilkinson Auto for repairs. Good luck

Go see an auto sparky, I am one but you need to get the cars computer scanned for codes so they know what has to be fixed

I have been driving with my light on for 20,000klm. I believe I was told it was the fuel emissions sensor also and given a quote of $750 to fix.....I opted to keep driving with the light on.

I'm not sure, but my old one had done around 260,000kms and still going very well.
(My old one because it was my ex's car, he still has it!)

I have just sold a 1999 Forester that had 475000km on the original motor

581000 in an 85 subaru, not a forester but same engine