Considering '98 Forester (1st model year, any issues?)

I have a 98 Forester. recently had to have a head gasket replaced. Reportedly a common problem with earlier 2.5 engines (and maybe with later ones ?).

In any case, for me, it's worth the bother (and expense) to put up with gasket problem as the car is probably the best all-around vehicle I've owned - and a ton of fun on twisty roads, whether paved or dirt or snow covered. Especially snow :-)

Unfortunately, there's probably not much to look for re the head gaskets - until the car starts overheating and filling the overflow tank and not sucking the water back into the radiator when it cools down. Until then there's not much warning or sign of problems.

But take what you may hear about the head gasket problems with a grain of salt. My very experienced Subie mechanic says that the head gasket problems are greatly exagerated and not very common among his customers, so be aware that people with problems (like me with the gaskets) probably post more to the internet than those who haven't had any troubles.

sorry to be long winded - but I love my 98 forester and can't think of a vehicle anywhere near the price I would rather have.

Hank M.

Look out for engine hesitation during excelaration. For that matter consult Technical Service Bulletin 11-53-98.

"T" schreef in bericht news:c0h5cm$16p9ru$ snipped-for-privacy@ID-223603.news.uni-berlin.de...

Tom.

I have a 98 Forester L with 141K miles and an Automatic. I have had to replace 2 boots, 1 solenoid in the Tranny, and the front seal of the engine. The engine still runs hard, uses no oil and averages 22 mpg. I drive ~500 miles a week on highways, not stop and go. Also just had a 4 wheel alignment after 100K miles, not because of tire wear; just thought it was a good idea. Last set on tires ran 70K miles.

I hope this helps.