Buying a used Subaru Forester (1997-2003)

HISTORY
In the early 1990s when Subaru took its brand upmarket, thousands of devotees mourned the absence of a model to replace the basic but rugged L Series 4WD wagons. The Forester that was launched late in 1997 revived Subaru's presence in the compact all-wheel drive market. At a time when exchange rate fluctuations were sending car company bean counters into rehab, Subaru managed to deliver a well-equipped package for just $27,000. Air-conditioning, however, was a $2000 dealer-fit accessory.

A Limited model with air, power sunroof, ABS, leather trim and ABS appeared early in 1999 and at a value-packed $33,180. An engine upgrade in late 1998 boosted power by just 2kW but took torque to a useful 184Nm.

From October of that year, a turbocharged GT was available. Although 30kW shy of the WRX sedan's 155kW, the GT featured some engine management gyrations that ensured a sizeable chunk of its 240Nm of torque was delivered below 2000rpm.

Suspension and brake upgrades ensured standout performance on sealed or loose surfaces and there was rarely a comparison test against similar-sized all-wheel drives that the GT didn't win. Power increased by 5kW during 2000, but the GT disappeared in 2002 when a larger, non-turbo engine was introduced.

With 2.5 litres and 112kW, the MY03 Foresters came in three trim levels and at prices from $31,000-39,000. The XS Luxury included leather trim and a power roof.

During 2003 the range was briefly extended to include an XS Special Edition at $35,485.

PRICES
Outstanding resale values ensure that the only cheap Foresters in the market will be ones you really don't want to own.

Pre-2000 models showing fewer than 170,000km and with complete service histories start at $8000, rising to $11,000 for a Limited with auto transmission and around 150,000km on the clock.

Spending $15,000 delivers some very smart machinery including low-kilometre 2001-02 Limiteds, early GTs with some life left before needing major maintenance -- even the odd Special Edition XS, of which only 200 were imported.

CHECKPOINTS
All-wheel drive Subarus have a deserved reputation for durability and exemplary build quality. Therein also lies the potential for neglect and component failures, simply because some owners believe these vehicles will run almost indefinitely with minimal maintenance.

The Forester is blessed with a minimum of inherent weaknesses, however, neglected servicing of higher-kilometre examples (especially turbos) can have expensive consequences.
>> Regular maintenance of the cooling system and use of high-quality oils and coolant is essential. The Forester's all-alloy engine won't take kindly to being fed plain water and overheating can have expensive consequences. With the engine COLD, remove the radiator cap to check for powdery deposits that signify internal deterioration. Even in heavy traffic with the air-conditioning running, the temperature gauge should not go past its half-way point
>> Timing belts need to be changed at or before 100,000km. If the vehicle has passed this mark without a belt change, allow $1000 to cover the cost of having this work done immediately
>> Front CV joints are durable and will last more than 150,000km, providing the grease boots are undamaged. Torn boots allow dirt to enter and wreck the joints. Clicking or shuddering when accelerating indicates worn CVs. Don't forget to check the rear axle joint boots as well, which can be torn during off-road use
>> Foresters occasionally suffer rear wheel bearing failures. Coasting in neutral, listen for a rhythmic rumble that will indicate an unrepaired problem
>> Misfiring under acceleration in early models was cured by replacing one or more spark plug leads
>> High-intensity bulbs will improve lousy night-time lighting but can damage the headlamp unit's plastic innards

With its boxer engine for increased performance and grunt, AWD for exceptional handling and light offroad capabilities, this vehicle continues to offer broad-based appeal.

Good retention value, durability and a high standard of build quality still stand out, making the Forester a desirable family vehicle.

Things to look out for: As wear and tear kicks in, and the replacement of the timing belt draws near, seeping head gaskets are common, which is something to look out for in managing ongoing maintenance costs. Subaru parts can also be costly, so if buying a Forester always look for regularly serviced vehicles with evidence of receipts. If the odometer is showing more than 100,000km, look for signs that the timing belt, head gasket and suspension bushes need replacement.