I have one of these and I have run it on LPG and have done 200k. Best small car for a tall driver. Great rear view visibility. Airy, roomy and great lumber support. Couldn’t rate them high enough.
I replaced my headgaskets without pulling the engine, like you, fully agree that removing the engine makes things much easier. It may not seem like it but the most difficult part is torquing the head bolts because, per FSM, you have to use angles instead of just relying on a specific torque value. So I painted a mark on the freshly oiled head bolts (almost impossible) and jammed a mirror between the frame rail to check the marks. There is not enough room for full sweeps on the ratchet so you are constantly checking the paint mark, that is reversed due to the mirror reflection... lol. I had a 1 car garage so it was my only option. 3 full, 10 hour days later, I was back on the road.
This is hilarious that I'm reading this right now. I just test drove a 2003 Sub Forester and kept flipping that switch when I was driving. I was trying to test the hazard lights and assumed it was broken lol
@@carlosvillarjr.682 It is needed as the parkers don't go on otherwise, without the key in the ignition. The plus side is that you can leave the headlights etc on all the time (I do anyway) as they all go off when the key is removed. And yes, took me a while to figure that out!
I have a 2002 and it's the best car I have ever owned (aside from my 1967 396 Chevy Super Sport.... tricked-out with 550 horses). Still runs like a dream.
Just curious, whats the milage? I own a 2001 @ 171k. Taking it for the second timing belt package @ 180k. Have you had any transmission issues? Thank you.
My 2005 Forester 2.5 X with very low kilometres required a new exhaust system, from block to tailpipe, a new horn, shift cable, alternator, drive belts and belt tensioner, various interior and exterior bulbs, front brake pads, dust plates and calliper pins, front rotors, both front window’s weather stripping, spark plugs, front control arms (free from dealership due to recall), front Oxygen sensor, sway bar links. All replaced myself. Interior was like new. Lots of rust (Canada), but got it from the scrapyard for $1,100 + tax (CDN), about $850 US.
I’m getting a 2000 forester next week and I’m f@@@@@@ pumped! It’s got 120k miles on it, what do I need to look out for? What’s the best exhaust? Intake? Lowering kit?
Great to know! I just bought an 03 today for a vehicle for my 2 dogs. It just had the head gaskets, water pump, and timing belt replaced. I pick her up tomorrow!!!
Just bought one (2002 L trim) 4 months ago for my 16 year old son. Only bought it for $2800 because it's had the head gasket fail, resulting in a full short block replacement (records showed proof) Since then we have installed a new catalytic converter (California version) and o2 sensors, new power steering rack, and rebuilt the power steering pump due to MASSIF leaks. O rings failed on AC lines so replaced those and charged AC, blows like a freezer now. It was a lot of work but I would do it again. Car is fantastic and my son loves it. Next up is fuel level sending unit(s), and new shocks. THE WORLD IS FLAT! 🥊🥊
Great Video! I also live in Tas and currently own two foresters and work on subies regularly. Very informative video for anyone looking to purchase one. Great value for money vehicles. And very capable offroad.
So my forester started leaking oil around 130k miles. It was leaking a lot... like park somewhere for a week and there would be a massive puddle, I was losing a quart of oil in about a month. Next oil change I put in a bottle of STP Stop Leak and it worked! 100% for now... my engine doesn't leak a single drop of oil and I burn less than a quart of oil between 5k mile oil changes. Not sure if anybody else was able to fix this easily but damn, that stuff worked for me. I put in roughly 3.7 quarts of mobile 1 full synth 5w30 and a bottle of the STP stuff.
Hey just wanted to say thank you so much for your video I just bought a used 2001 forester and I noticed the wind whistling noise on the hwy and thought it might be an expensive fix. I had no idea I could fix it so easily with a clamp!
I suggest the next time someone rebuilds a suby engine and cannot pull it out. Remove the brace up top by tranny and engine bell housing, and the lower motor mounts, then you can jack the side of the engine up and get to the head bolts more easily.
I gently squeezed my window gussets with wide mouth, 80mm, vice grips(from the welding industry i think) and a tea towel for protection. Both sides now perfect.... 5 min job.
When you get a new head gasket, be sure to get the MLS (multi layer steel) gasket, it's the one the turbo models use. This is how you prevent the issue returning, as the flaw with the non-turbo head gasket is that the coating wears out. MLS gasket has no coating and multiple layers.
One thing I can add as a 2001 forester owner, the hydraulic fluid limes and slave cylinder wears out. You will notice the clutch pedal getting stuck to the floor followed by not being able to change gears. If you have the tools and know where to buy the parts it should only cost around $120 for parts and. It cost me a $100 tow and $340 fix at the mechanic.
@@takumif7056 If the clutch is starting to stick, buy some hydraulic fluid from a gas station and top it up before it runs out. Otherwise you'll be in for a tow and a hefty bill 😬
@@takumif7056 yep, or it might have a small leak. Check the master cylinder. It's located above the air filter near the fire wall under the front bonet. Top it up to the line marker and run the car, pump the clutch a few times and let it run through then check the levels again and top it up if need be.
I had the exact problem, due to failed slave cylinder. I found, after sitting blocking traffic for a few mins, that I could pull the pedal up with my foot, and then it worked to disengage the clutch until I got home.
Hi there! Good video, but I'd like to add some issues I had with this great machine: Look out for rust everyone, especially in the rear suspension - clean mud and snow every chance you get. Friend of mine had nasty suprise with one of dampers popping inside trunk. Sad end for Forester. If you have sunroof, don't drive on dusty roads with it open. I've got mine stuck, with bit of luck I've managed to close it. Something broke inside the mechanism, and one side wouldn't retract. Getting ready to deal with it - it's gonna be long weekend to replace the mechanism. Other thing, is that SLS dampers tend to wear off, and they are quite expensive. For price of one damper I bought replacments for both with springs, but normal not SLS. Other than that, maintain your fluids, engine timing gear and enjoy great car 😁
I get rough idle when stopped no clue what it is :/ 106k miles 03 forester new belt, water pump, radiator, tirple layer head gasket, new intake filter, cleaned the throttle body, new spark plugs, new map sensor, and new iac valve and still a rough shake on my driver and passenger seat time to time when stopped at signs or lights car idles at 600 and below all of the time it kinda goes away not really when put on neutral so I did get new trans, and motor mounts have not installed yet and I do have a missing ac belt and possibly serpentine belt might need replacement here I know AC belt wont affect it neither the serpentine belt but its driving me nuts! Also no CEL!
@@Kaandacan have you done the idle re learn procedure? Clutch fluid new and full? just cause if its worse when sitting in gear.. I just bough an 05 with 378000km :D runs nice but also has low idle around 650 but only stmubles when accerelating from under 1500rpm. lambda preheat fault code appears after playing in the snow or after driving some time so might just be a bad connection... Ridge has a slight tapping/knocking sound but i think its just a bad lifter since it comes and goes and is usually better after starting it hot.
@@vihreelinja4743 so from my understanding car idle relarns after being off and starting up after 3-5 times after new idle air control valve beins installed! Also mine is the lame 4 speed auto :/ forums say do not ever flush the fluid just simply top it so that is what I do! I do live in 0 to -40 degree weather so only having the car during winter time seems like when its too cold out the boxer engine goes crazy which is normal due to the way the engine is setup but I am going to keep messing around and see!
Easiest motor configuration and in general an easy car to work on, love these cars. Except for their n/a OEM failing H/Gs, these are otherwise fantastic vehicles. I installed turbo H/Gs on mine, it never leaked again.
I replaced the head gaskets in my 05 Forester a couple weeks ago. I did not pull the engine. Sure, it was not an easy job but I got it done over the weekend and had no hangups.
Headgaskets don’t often leak on the 2.0 liter non turbo models. I have actually almost never heard or seen it on those. Only the turbo models and 2.5 liters. Of course with a few exceptions
It doesn't happen nearly as much on the turbo 2.5 because they use MLS (Multi Layered Steel) gaskets while the N/A 2.5 uses a single layer gasket that is known to fail around 100k miles
Great stuff. I live in Tassie too and have one of these. Oil smell when hot and wind noise. Had those sway bar ends replaced too so you spot on. Great little car though. I have done 180k so next cambelt change at 200k. Cheers.
Just bought a 2005 Forester with a lot of distance on he clock. I'm about to look at the only visible issue, drivers side window slides down by itself and doesn't move either direction when the window motor spins. Thanks for the good info.
The mounting hardware inside the door can come loose, mine did. Window would flop forward when going down at an angle and have to lift it when going up. Remove door trim and check all bolts and guides. Tighten.
cheers for sharing all of the work you had to put in. I was contemplating getting one for caravan towing but my fears about the headgasket seem to be valid. Fun fact i asked a guy in a petrol station if he has a boxster engine in his forester and he had no clue of what i was on about.
I took the engine out of my sister's Liberty - essentially the same engine bay - in a few hours first go. It was pretty easy. Note: Bob could also be your mother's brother :)
I bought an 04 Forester XS Luxury the other week for $2k with 4 months rego, bit of a bargain.... Just needs a bit of TLC. I already ordered new end links as I noticed mine are totally shot. Surprised at the grunt of the 2.5, pulls pretty good.
love my forester, just had the head gaskets done at 163k. love those headlights ! mine has the hideous black housing from factory.. i will have to try that whistling noise fix, mine does it bad.. you must be in different continent, I'd love to find a set of headlights like yours..
Mine is a 2000 GT with 215,000kms, I picked it up for $1,000. The brakes began grinding noises, Subaru quoted me $2,000 to fix. I bought new disc pads at Repco's for $85, watched a TH-cam video and a few hours later I have perfect brakes again.
Never ever take it to a dealership. My SG Forester XS needed rear rotors and pads all-round. Fairly straightforward to work on. Also did front left hub and bearings, both front driveshafts. Swaybar rubbers and link bars. Then lifted it with 2" blocks. Some adjustable rear camber pins, subframe mount spacer kit for transmission and off to an alignment centre after all that. Goes great off road now.!
Just got one, there seems to be a problem with the locks not working. It seems everyonce and awhile they do. I just read about an easy solder fix for the clock that's common. Mine is making that noise under it. Hopefully the sway bars links will stop the popping. Someone put radiator sealant in there maybe to stop the headgasket failure. Never heard about the window noise trick, that's cool. Cannot get bank 1 o2 sensor out. Bank 2 was much easier, but I can't get to bank 1, before the catalytic converter. Love this car
Did you figure out how to get bank 1 sensor 1 out? Mines throwing the code for it but havnt got around to checking it out yet, just curious how bad its gonna be lol
You gotta love older cars. I have an 02 that requires me to open the drivers door at times from the outside while I’m in the car. The car is just being mischievous.
The handle is plastic and eventually gets brittle and breaks on the inside where it pulls the cable that releases the door latch. I disassembled the door and pulled the handle off. Drilled a small hole on the inside part of the handle and screwed in a small metal picture frame hook and bent it with pliers so that it would grab onto the metal ball at the end of door latch cable. It works better than new as those plastic components that break off are now replaced with metal.
@@eugenef0zzy it worked great for a little while but some noise has returned but my seals are quite perished and split, but at least it's not roaring so loud on the highway that I could barely have a conversation 🤣🤣🤣
I used to work at a shop and I used to do sometimes two of those Subarus a week I quit doing them in the car because they leak oil from behind easier just to pull the engine out
Excellent Video - thanks so much or sharing. I have the 2003 Forester X and experienced the same window whistle, blower fan issue and suspension rattle. Fortunately for me, the weak link on the fan motor was the connector to the fan itself. The connector had melted and the wires fried so I just replaced it with a couple spade lugs. I did what you suggested for the window whistle, hopefully that's fixed now. I can't take it for a test drive yet because I also need to replace the catalytic converter, which decided to fail on me (clogged and throws an engine light/error code) and I'm waiting on the replacement to arrive. I'm curious about what you used to polish the headlights though. Was it a rubbing or a cutting compound?
They go in aus too, it's a difficult job, if you can unscrew the stator on the motor 4 screws and by hand roll it up or down to access window use a mirror to view fixing bolts, good luck
Cheers, Ive just bought an 03 Forester (also Tas) and have that annoying wind noise. Found out the screws holding the mirror in are JIS not PH, so thats a pain.
@@cristianvelasquez893 if you look inside you’ll see a metal plate that you have to bend back in place, use some sort of clamp or vice grip and just pinch it back in place. Roll your window up after doing it to see if there are gaps you need to pinch shut more then you’re golden
It is easy you just pull that motor out it's only six bolts in the back on the bell housing and two on the bottom plus the three on each side for the exhaust manifolds comes right out easiest way in the world just set it on a tool cart pull the intake manifold off first before you pull the motor gives you a lot more room to get to the torque converter bolts yeah I forgot about that there's four of them go through the little hole in the window up the top behind the intake and there's also oil leaks behind the flywheel replace the main seal and seal the leaks on the covers in the back while you're at it
I have an '05 Forester with the 2.5 turbo. Turbo doesn't work, has 224k miles. Its not frozen shut tho. Wastegate lever moves back and forth by hand. Just no boost, at all.. probably needs a rebuild. Its AWD. Check engine light flashes. Need to change an 'intake runner valve/sensor' and I'm a mechanic. Just not a Subaru mechanic. So I need to figure out where Intake Runner Sensor #1 is.. 🤣
Any country that uses road salt in winter, strip your brakes out exercise and lubricate them well with the correct brake grease, like all Japanese cars the calipers will suffer wherever salt is used.
Thanks Josh - just bought a 2006 Forester. How difficult is it to DIY change time belt please. I suspect it needs doing every 100,000. I live in Geelong Victoria. Thanks.
Cheers Josh 👍 . I feel a little more confident about DIY repairs at home. I’ve got a 2003 forester and it just started making a noise when I turn left at slow speed & almost at full lock ? Any ideas would be much appreciated 👍🇦🇺✌️Tim
If I installed a cold air intake on my 03 automatic, would I succeed in my goal having my engine perform better for more gas mileage? I am not trying to add horsepower, I just want my engine to be able to run efficiently as possible and I was thinking of adding a cold air intake so she can get better airflow I doubt it’s “cold”… But let me know what your thoughts are because my 03 Forrester only had one previous owner and she drove it off the dealership with 14 miles and I bought it from her two years ago and it had 130,000 miles, when she was the mother of the family and they always had its scheduled recommendation maintenance performed at the dealership therefore the car was always taken very well care of it was kept in the garage and during the last 45 years of his life I was only used a couple months during the winter time as their ski vehicle…. So I know for a fact that it was not ever used for racing or off roading. And I want to do everything I can to make sure this car will last as long as possible as I can get her to last two so please feel free and let me know what things I can do to make the engine run more efficiently and have a longer lasting. FYI- I will use Subaru or wix oil filters, with full synthetic high mileage oil every 5k And I use 87 octane gasoline.
I installed a snorkel from Pajero onto my XS . With some minor heat gun bending it was a fairly easy instal. I run a 4" flexible heavy duty duct from inner guard to airbox connector. This deleted all the original airbox crap and small plastic ducting from the factory. Made sure all joints sealed airtight using good screw clamps and fibreglass matting. Works a treat, and you can hear the engine sucking in air when you floor it. Breathes much better and still get around 10litres / 100km on highway use. Cold air is good.
The main thing on those vehicles is putting a quality water pump on them only use the Japanese and or Subaru water pump just bought one for $800 with 125,000 MI water pump went out destroyed the timing belt and bent six valves bought a set of valves for $47 genuine Subaru head gaskets Japanese water pump and Gates timing belt kit it runs like brand new about $350 total the felpro gaskets were already failing that they'd replaced before only use genuine Subaru MLS it's clean has cold air and it's white like that one
ive been having problems with my automatic locks. the locks unlock and lock by its self non stop. today i got locked out of my car while car was running. its a 01 forester. its definitely an electrical issue. i just dont know where to start to diagnose it. my power windows dont work at all as well
First I'd get a spare key and hide it so you don't get stuck. I had a car lock me out once. After that I don't close the door with the keys in the ignition unless a window is rolled down. Might try getting a new key fob battery or a whole new fob. That could be shorting out. Mine switches my locks when it's in my pocket so it's kinda touchy. If it's not that then you get a spare at least. If it's not the fob then it's the car. Maybe one door isn't closing fully or a lock cylinder is sticky so it keeps trying. Try lubing locks and linkages. The little grabber that latches the door closed gets sticky. It probably is a relay but best to check the simple stuff first. Try cleaning up the fuse contacts for the windows and a shot of electrical contact cleaner around the switches. Some mobile window repair might be able to help both problems. Good luck.
I have a common problem with my 04 model and it was driving okay then it started making a loud grinding sound like the timing was out now it won’t start what’s the good idea to get that going again
Timing gear idlers collapse and strip the belt and sometimes damage valve gear , how much do you want for it? Another in Tassie, I've got 3, just bought one $1000 immaculate Hg job coming up 375km , a must is to use
Yes, if you change engine oil yourself, always put a new gasket on the sump plug. I learn't the hard way, they leak heavy onto pipes as you drive and smoke. Always replace with a new gasket :-)
I do love my 2003 forester (non-turbo)! However in my opiniob it is quite noisy at higher speeds. This is not the mirror rubber with my car. Anyone else has this issue? Any thoughts on how to make it more quiet with regard to wind noise and maybe reduce the motor noise too?
A huntsman nested in your car? OMG Australia is terrifying. I would literally park it on the side of the road......Well actually I would have leapt screaming from the still moving vehicle and considered it parked wherever it stopped. Step 2: Air strike from space.
Best way would be connecting some kind of ELM adapter (not that expensive) and connect it using Torque app. If you have any check engine light, it will tell the error code, and you can search that code on the web. There are tons of problems that can cause that light, so the light alone won't tell you anything. Or, take your car to some shop that do the check for free.
Yes don't freak out, it's probably nothing major, just get it checked because it could result in something major if left alone. In my subies it's always just been a stuffed oxygen sensor.
Precat 02 sensor, do not buy aftermarket crap, go genuine nippon denso, $250aus,@cool drive, also to access it pull off the front manifold 8nuts 1bolt, sensor will be seized ,reuse gaskets and bolt up, no special tools 30 min job, it will affect your mixture lf you don't change it, this is one thing you can't simply on $2.40 a litre today
I’m getting a 2000 forester with 120k miles on it, anyone help me out in what exhaust is the best for the deepest iconic Subaru sound? Best intake and lowering kit?
I just got an 06 Forester that came with a Magnaflow muffler and it's throaty without setting off car alarms. A bit droning on the freeway but you can talk without yelling. Sounds bad ass. Maybe too much in quiet places. I put a glass pack on another car and it's too much like a burbly motorboat. No braap and loud. Bwaaaa! Got a Turbo free flow on a third and it's right in the middle with no drone less noise and braaap. It's supposed to be what the Corvette has and my four cylinder sounds like half a Vette. For me it's like Goldilocks and the middle turbo one is just right. It's not on a Subaru so your results may vary.
They are brown and have red eyes, 80mm across, and are very quick, not dangerous but have caused a few accidents walking over windscreens, here in aus even the birds have toxic spurs,
Great video! Subarus are Way overrated. I bought one to flip and made some money on it but I would never keep one. No car should have head gasket and timing belt issues at 100 or 150k miles and no other car I've owned has ever had so many issues. I highly don't recommend. I think they're popular because of false images they represent.
You must be new to cars huh??? Cuz there's not a brand out there that is dead reliable to 200k... and if headgaskets are the only problem that's better than what other manufacturers have issues with but hey talk down about a car you've never owned my subaru starts up just fine in -30 ° weather and has never left me stranded
Have a 2003 forester and 19 years later it runs like a champ
That wind noise at the window seal is sooo annoying in my 04 Forester. Now I know what to do! Ty ty!!
I have one of these and I have run it on LPG and have done 200k. Best small car for a tall driver. Great rear view visibility. Airy, roomy and great lumber support. Couldn’t rate them high enough.
I have the same model and have had every issues you’ve noted here. Still love it.
😂🎉 and your still driving it?
I replaced my headgaskets without pulling the engine, like you, fully agree that removing the engine makes things much easier. It may not seem like it but the most difficult part is torquing the head bolts because, per FSM, you have to use angles instead of just relying on a specific torque value. So I painted a mark on the freshly oiled head bolts (almost impossible) and jammed a mirror between the frame rail to check the marks. There is not enough room for full sweeps on the ratchet so you are constantly checking the paint mark, that is reversed due to the mirror reflection... lol. I had a 1 car garage so it was my only option. 3 full, 10 hour days later, I was back on the road.
Another minor confusion for first time owners - the parker light switch on the top of the steering column and the initial confusion it brings!
This is hilarious that I'm reading this right now. I just test drove a 2003 Sub Forester and kept flipping that switch when I was driving. I was trying to test the hazard lights and assumed it was broken lol
@@carlosvillarjr.682 It is needed as the parkers don't go on otherwise, without the key in the ignition.
The plus side is that you can leave the headlights etc on all the time (I do anyway) as they all go off when the key is removed.
And yes, took me a while to figure that out!
Sent my battery flat several times before I found the freakin switch.
I had accidently flicked it on while cleaning the dash area.
I almost got dumped by a mech for this too😂
I believe its so u can leave them on in a blizzard so people don't run into ur car
I have a 2001 subaru forester and so far into this video, he is naming EVERY minor problem I have lol
Besides the fire, smell, and spiders, she’s great.
Spiders? 😳
First mod: spoydah delete
aif you got spiders, you got no freakin fly's.
Don't forget the wind noise.
I have a 2002 and it's the best car I have ever owned (aside from my 1967 396 Chevy Super Sport.... tricked-out with 550 horses). Still runs like a dream.
Just curious, whats the milage? I own a 2001 @ 171k. Taking it for the second timing belt package @ 180k. Have you had any transmission issues? Thank you.
My 2005 Forester 2.5 X with very low kilometres required a new exhaust system, from block to tailpipe, a new horn, shift cable, alternator, drive belts and belt tensioner, various interior and exterior bulbs, front brake pads, dust plates and calliper pins, front rotors, both front window’s weather stripping, spark plugs, front control arms (free from dealership due to recall), front Oxygen sensor, sway bar links. All replaced myself. Interior was like new. Lots of rust (Canada), but got it from the scrapyard for $1,100 + tax (CDN), about $850 US.
As a general comment, and as an owner of one of those cars, I could not recommend them highly enough.
I’m getting a 2000 forester next week and I’m f@@@@@@ pumped! It’s got 120k miles on it, what do I need to look out for? What’s the best exhaust? Intake? Lowering kit?
Great to know! I just bought an 03 today for a vehicle for my 2 dogs. It just had the head gaskets, water pump, and timing belt replaced. I pick her up tomorrow!!!
@@carlosvillarjr.682 congratulations with those replacements the car will last you forever!
@@Aikaramba12 Awesome!
@@roloduarte3100 change oil often and don’t let it overheat. that’s the key.
Just bought one (2002 L trim) 4 months ago for my 16 year old son. Only bought it for $2800 because it's had the head gasket fail, resulting in a full short block replacement (records showed proof)
Since then we have installed a new catalytic converter (California version) and o2 sensors, new power steering rack, and rebuilt the power steering pump due to MASSIF leaks. O rings failed on AC lines so replaced those and charged AC, blows like a freezer now. It was a lot of work but I would do it again. Car is fantastic and my son loves it. Next up is fuel level sending unit(s), and new shocks. THE WORLD IS FLAT! 🥊🥊
Great Video!
I also live in Tas and currently own two foresters and work on subies regularly.
Very informative video for anyone looking to purchase one. Great value for money vehicles. And very capable offroad.
So my forester started leaking oil around 130k miles. It was leaking a lot... like park somewhere for a week and there would be a massive puddle, I was losing a quart of oil in about a month. Next oil change I put in a bottle of STP Stop Leak and it worked! 100% for now... my engine doesn't leak a single drop of oil and I burn less than a quart of oil between 5k mile oil changes. Not sure if anybody else was able to fix this easily but damn, that stuff worked for me. I put in roughly 3.7 quarts of mobile 1 full synth 5w30 and a bottle of the STP stuff.
I'm having that issue now but the STP isn't helping at all :(
Hey just wanted to say thank you so much for your video I just bought a used 2001 forester and I noticed the wind whistling noise on the hwy and thought it might be an expensive fix. I had no idea I could fix it so easily with a clamp!
This is my favorite body style. I just wish it had the window frames in these model years.
I suggest the next time someone rebuilds a suby engine and cannot pull it out. Remove the brace up top by tranny and engine bell housing, and the lower motor mounts, then you can jack the side of the engine up and get to the head bolts more easily.
I gently squeezed my window gussets with wide mouth, 80mm, vice grips(from the welding industry i think) and a tea towel for protection. Both sides now perfect.... 5 min job.
I've had my subaru 04 for 3 years, needs head gasket done,but I love it so will be getting it repaired.
When you get a new head gasket, be sure to get the MLS (multi layer steel) gasket, it's the one the turbo models use. This is how you prevent the issue returning, as the flaw with the non-turbo head gasket is that the coating wears out. MLS gasket has no coating and multiple layers.
@@promethbastard taking note of this, thanks
Hope you caught it in time
@@mmark8394 yes all good now!
Super helpful. My 04 xt exhibits 2 of these problems which look easy to fix. Thanks
One thing I can add as a 2001 forester owner, the hydraulic fluid limes and slave cylinder wears out. You will notice the clutch pedal getting stuck to the floor followed by not being able to change gears. If you have the tools and know where to buy the parts it should only cost around $120 for parts and. It cost me a $100 tow and $340 fix at the mechanic.
Wowo, reading this I realized my car does that. Going to see if I can do the work myself hopefully.
@@takumif7056 If the clutch is starting to stick, buy some hydraulic fluid from a gas station and top it up before it runs out. Otherwise you'll be in for a tow and a hefty bill 😬
@@leonmoran9323 So it might just be low on fluid don’t necessarily have to replace the part? I check that how?
@@takumif7056 yep, or it might have a small leak. Check the master cylinder. It's located above the air filter near the fire wall under the front bonet. Top it up to the line marker and run the car, pump the clutch a few times and let it run through then check the levels again and top it up if need be.
I had the exact problem, due to failed slave cylinder. I found, after sitting blocking traffic for a few mins, that I could pull the pedal up with my foot, and then it worked to disengage the clutch until I got home.
Hi there! Good video, but I'd like to add some issues I had with this great machine:
Look out for rust everyone, especially in the rear suspension - clean mud and snow every chance you get. Friend of mine had nasty suprise with one of dampers popping inside trunk. Sad end for Forester.
If you have sunroof, don't drive on dusty roads with it open. I've got mine stuck, with bit of luck I've managed to close it. Something broke inside the mechanism, and one side wouldn't retract. Getting ready to deal with it - it's gonna be long weekend to replace the mechanism.
Other thing, is that SLS dampers tend to wear off, and they are quite expensive. For price of one damper I bought replacments for both with springs, but normal not SLS.
Other than that, maintain your fluids, engine timing gear and enjoy great car 😁
I get rough idle when stopped no clue what it is :/ 106k miles 03 forester new belt, water pump, radiator, tirple layer head gasket, new intake filter, cleaned the throttle body, new spark plugs, new map sensor, and new iac valve and still a rough shake on my driver and passenger seat time to time when stopped at signs or lights car idles at 600 and below all of the time it kinda goes away not really when put on neutral so I did get new trans, and motor mounts have not installed yet and I do have a missing ac belt and possibly serpentine belt might need replacement here I know AC belt wont affect it neither the serpentine belt but its driving me nuts! Also no CEL!
@@Kaandacan Check your knock sensor. Replaced mine no more rough idle. P0325 on a code reader.
@@joem1102 Thank you
@@Kaandacan have you done the idle re learn procedure?
Clutch fluid new and full? just cause if its worse when sitting in gear..
I just bough an 05 with 378000km :D runs nice but also has low idle around 650 but only stmubles when accerelating from under 1500rpm. lambda preheat fault code appears after playing in the snow or after driving some time so might just be a bad connection...
Ridge has a slight tapping/knocking sound but i think its just a bad lifter since it comes and goes and is usually better after starting it hot.
@@vihreelinja4743 so from my understanding car idle relarns after being off and starting up after 3-5 times after new idle air control valve beins installed! Also mine is the lame 4 speed auto :/ forums say do not ever flush the fluid just simply top it so that is what I do! I do live in 0 to -40 degree weather so only having the car during winter time seems like when its too cold out the boxer engine goes crazy which is normal due to the way the engine is setup but I am going to keep messing around and see!
Thanks mate, looking at buying a 02 foz and I wanted to do my research better
02 had more features standard, supposedly, rear disc, heated seats, heated mirrors, rear differential (LSD, IDK)...
Easiest motor configuration and in general an easy car to work on, love these cars. Except for their n/a OEM failing H/Gs, these are otherwise fantastic vehicles. I installed turbo H/Gs on mine, it never leaked again.
Except accessing the spark plugs! What a pain in the arse! The one big failing of the Boxer engine format.
@@matthk Oh yeah.. definitely. Specially on the turbo motor 🤦🏻♂️
Easy plug change with short length of heater hose,
I replaced the head gaskets in my 05 Forester a couple weeks ago. I did not pull the engine. Sure, it was not an easy job but I got it done over the weekend and had no hangups.
Headgaskets don’t often leak on the 2.0 liter non turbo models. I have actually almost never heard or seen it on those. Only the turbo models and 2.5 liters. Of course with a few exceptions
Mine did sadly. 2014 2.0 NA at 55k km
It doesn't happen nearly as much on the turbo 2.5 because they use MLS (Multi Layered Steel) gaskets while the N/A 2.5 uses a single layer gasket that is known to fail around 100k miles
Great stuff. I live in Tassie too and have one of these. Oil smell when hot and wind noise. Had those sway bar ends replaced too so you spot on. Great little car though. I have done 180k so next cambelt change at 200k. Cheers.
Okay, the little white out dots is a very smart idea!
Just bought a 2005 Forester with a lot of distance on he clock. I'm about to look at the only visible issue, drivers side window slides down by itself and doesn't move either direction when the window motor spins.
Thanks for the good info.
The mounting hardware inside the door can come loose, mine did. Window would flop forward when going down at an angle and have to lift it when going up. Remove door trim and check all bolts and guides. Tighten.
cheers for sharing all of the work you had to put in. I was contemplating getting one for caravan towing but my fears about the headgasket seem to be valid. Fun fact i asked a guy in a petrol station if he has a boxster engine in his forester and he had no clue of what i was on about.
As long as you get one thats got low kms or already had the headjob, no worries :-)
@@soundsolutions needle in the haystack in UK all are high mileage or whipped engines.
Really appreciate all that info. down to earth and really very helpful. Good health mate
I took the engine out of my sister's Liberty - essentially the same engine bay - in a few hours first go. It was pretty easy.
Note: Bob could also be your mother's brother :)
Mate your a legend, thank you for saving me hours
I bought an 04 Forester XS Luxury the other week for $2k with 4 months rego, bit of a bargain.... Just needs a bit of TLC. I already ordered new end links as I noticed mine are totally shot. Surprised at the grunt of the 2.5, pulls pretty good.
Wow, damn these inflations man, just bought mine for 7k in a 5spd manual. Only reason why i got it. But it is what it is. Still love the car.
love my forester, just had the head gaskets done at 163k.
love those headlights ! mine has the hideous black housing from factory..
i will have to try that whistling noise fix, mine does it bad..
you must be in different continent, I'd love to find a set of headlights like yours..
Mine is a 2000 GT with 215,000kms, I picked it up for $1,000.
The brakes began grinding noises, Subaru quoted me $2,000 to fix.
I bought new disc pads at Repco's for $85, watched a TH-cam video and a few hours later I have perfect brakes again.
What state?
@@juliosaki1744 NT
Never ever take it to a dealership. My SG Forester XS needed rear rotors and pads all-round. Fairly straightforward to work on. Also did front left hub and bearings, both front driveshafts. Swaybar rubbers and link bars. Then lifted it with 2" blocks. Some adjustable rear camber pins, subframe mount spacer kit for transmission and off to an alignment centre after all that. Goes great off road now.!
Great, great video fro people looking to buy a old Subaru. Thanks mate...
It's an old video but the headgasket issue is just with the 2.5 liter, not with 2.0. Same with most Impreza/Legacy. Always the 2.5
Just got one, there seems to be a problem with the locks not working. It seems everyonce and awhile they do. I just read about an easy solder fix for the clock that's common. Mine is making that noise under it. Hopefully the sway bars links will stop the popping. Someone put radiator sealant in there maybe to stop the headgasket failure.
Never heard about the window noise trick, that's cool.
Cannot get bank 1 o2 sensor out. Bank 2 was much easier, but I can't get to bank 1, before the catalytic converter. Love this car
Did you figure out how to get bank 1 sensor 1 out? Mines throwing the code for it but havnt got around to checking it out yet, just curious how bad its gonna be lol
To get your o2 sensor out pull off the manifold, it's easy, also buy denso or your wasting your time, 250 aud$
You gotta love older cars. I have an 02 that requires me to open the drivers door at times from the outside while I’m in the car. The car is just being mischievous.
My door remote sometimes doesn't play ball!
You live in cold climate?
The handle is plastic and eventually gets brittle and breaks on the inside where it pulls the cable that releases the door latch. I disassembled the door and pulled the handle off. Drilled a small hole on the inside part of the handle and screwed in a small metal picture frame hook and bent it with pliers so that it would grab onto the metal ball at the end of door latch cable. It works better than new as those plastic components that break off are now replaced with metal.
The car is controlling you 😂
The wind noise, cheers bro
Facts💯 always dealt with this
@@eugenef0zzy it worked great for a little while but some noise has returned but my seals are quite perished and split, but at least it's not roaring so loud on the highway that I could barely have a conversation 🤣🤣🤣
@@DavetheRaveDinkum good to know. Mine aren’t terrible but every SF and SG me and bro have owned has this problem 💀
I used to work at a shop and I used to do sometimes two of those Subarus a week I quit doing them in the car because they leak oil from behind easier just to pull the engine out
Excellent Video - thanks so much or sharing. I have the 2003 Forester X and experienced the same window whistle, blower fan issue and suspension rattle. Fortunately for me, the weak link on the fan motor was the connector to the fan itself. The connector had melted and the wires fried so I just replaced it with a couple spade lugs. I did what you suggested for the window whistle, hopefully that's fixed now. I can't take it for a test drive yet because I also need to replace the catalytic converter, which decided to fail on me (clogged and throws an engine light/error code) and I'm waiting on the replacement to arrive. I'm curious about what you used to polish the headlights though. Was it a rubbing or a cutting compound?
I used a cutting compound
O
02 sensor is u/s
So true. Having these cars. Also drivers electric window motor go in wetter countries like here in blighty!
When I bought my 04 foz, luckily the previous owner had replaced the electric motor.
They go in aus too, it's a difficult job, if you can unscrew the stator on the motor 4 screws and by hand roll it up or down to access window use a mirror to view fixing bolts, good luck
Bob's... Bob's your ahh... father's brother. Great line 😆
I went through a motor replacement and gearbox and a few other common problems hehe
Also if the air box isn’t shut properly you will get a whistling noise ant higher rpm
Hey thanks bro for that info, I was wondering where that whistling noise would come from....its sorta grown on me now ;-p
I want headlights like yours, I’m guessing they are not factory because mine have orange coloring on besides it’s not just the bulb!
Cheers, Ive just bought an 03 Forester (also Tas) and have that annoying wind noise. Found out the screws holding the mirror in are JIS not PH, so thats a pain.
Just bought a 04 forester 62k and my God are is the wind noise horrible what did you do to fix it.
@@cristianvelasquez893 if you look inside you’ll see a metal plate that you have to bend back in place, use some sort of clamp or vice grip and just pinch it back in place. Roll your window up after doing it to see if there are gaps you need to pinch shut more then you’re golden
It is easy you just pull that motor out it's only six bolts in the back on the bell housing and two on the bottom plus the three on each side for the exhaust manifolds comes right out easiest way in the world just set it on a tool cart pull the intake manifold off first before you pull the motor gives you a lot more room to get to the torque converter bolts yeah I forgot about that there's four of them go through the little hole in the window up the top behind the intake and there's also oil leaks behind the flywheel replace the main seal and seal the leaks on the covers in the back while you're at it
thank god no leaking head gasket yet. my is a 2007 OBW wiht 117k mi.
I have an '05 Forester with the 2.5 turbo. Turbo doesn't work, has 224k miles. Its not frozen shut tho. Wastegate lever moves back and forth by hand. Just no boost, at all.. probably needs a rebuild. Its AWD. Check engine light flashes. Need to change an 'intake runner valve/sensor' and I'm a mechanic. Just not a Subaru mechanic. So I need to figure out where Intake Runner Sensor #1 is.. 🤣
I’m just buying a duel fuel gas a petrol 2 litres factory fitted any good ?
great tips champ
Do you know where to fix it? I mean the trusted mechanic? I lived in Tasmania. My car is Subaru 2003
Thanks
Any country that uses road salt in winter, strip your brakes out exercise and lubricate them well with the correct brake grease, like all Japanese cars the calipers will suffer wherever salt is used.
Thanks for that info. Good to know as I am planning on getting one for a 2nd vehicle.
Thanks Josh - just bought a 2006 Forester. How difficult is it to DIY change time belt please. I suspect it needs doing every 100,000. I live in Geelong Victoria. Thanks.
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 OMG 🙀☠☠☠
It f****** sucks, don't do it yourself, if you want to drive it again
@@jett-rampartflyer2852 no worries thanks for advice lol
@@Platypus5 Did you ever get around to having it done? How did you go about it?
@@jett-rampartflyer2852 not much room to get tools or hand in there, def hand that job to mechanic.
Thankyou Josh!
And that wind noise problem came with mine bloody annoying
do you know if have a low oil level in the diff would make the engine not crank?
Cheers Josh 👍 . I feel a little more confident about DIY repairs at home. I’ve got a 2003 forester and it just started making a noise when I turn left at slow speed & almost at full lock ? Any ideas would be much appreciated 👍🇦🇺✌️Tim
Cv joints are gone cobber. Source online and get yr mechanic to whack em in, with a set of new wheel brgs ea while its all apart.
@@juliomcdermott4696 Thanks mate, much appreciated and will do. Cheers 👍. Keep up the good vids , I’m watching ✌️✌️✌️
Cv joints rarely collapse, its a common issue, wait for a clutch or strut to go and do them all.
If I installed a cold air intake on my 03 automatic, would I succeed in my goal having my engine perform better for more gas mileage?
I am not trying to add horsepower, I just want my engine to be able to run efficiently as possible and I was thinking of adding a cold air intake so she can get better airflow I doubt it’s “cold”…
But let me know what your thoughts are because my 03 Forrester only had one previous owner and she drove it off the dealership with 14 miles and I bought it from her two years ago and it had 130,000 miles, when she was the mother of the family and they always had its scheduled recommendation maintenance performed at the dealership therefore the car was always taken very well care of it was kept in the garage and during the last 45 years of his life I was only used a couple months during the winter time as their ski vehicle….
So I know for a fact that it was not ever used for racing or off roading.
And I want to do everything I can to make sure this car will last as long as possible as I can get her to last two so please feel free and let me know what things I can do to make the engine run more efficiently and have a longer lasting.
FYI-
I will use Subaru or wix oil filters, with full synthetic high mileage oil every 5k
And I use 87 octane gasoline.
I installed a snorkel from Pajero onto my XS . With some minor heat gun bending it was a fairly easy instal. I run a 4" flexible heavy duty duct from inner guard to airbox connector. This deleted all the original airbox crap and small plastic ducting from the factory. Made sure all joints sealed airtight using good screw clamps and fibreglass matting.
Works a treat, and you can hear the engine sucking in air when you floor it. Breathes much better and still get around 10litres / 100km on highway use. Cold air is good.
Mines a 2007 and it’s the radiator that’s weird on mine yet I’ve never experienced a problem my radiator just stinks lol
Bought an 03 today, needs head gaskets. I did them on my 99, outside the car. No way I would do it in the car....
Cars almost 20 years old! In 02 find a 1982 and see if they this good
The main thing on those vehicles is putting a quality water pump on them only use the Japanese and or Subaru water pump just bought one for $800 with 125,000 MI water pump went out destroyed the timing belt and bent six valves bought a set of valves for $47 genuine Subaru head gaskets Japanese water pump and Gates timing belt kit it runs like brand new about $350 total the felpro gaskets were already failing that they'd replaced before only use genuine Subaru MLS it's clean has cold air and it's white like that one
ive been having problems with my automatic locks. the locks unlock and lock by its self non stop. today i got locked out of my car while car was running. its a 01 forester. its definitely an electrical issue. i just dont know where to start to diagnose it. my power windows dont work at all as well
First I'd get a spare key and hide it so you don't get stuck. I had a car lock me out once. After that I don't close the door with the keys in the ignition unless a window is rolled down.
Might try getting a new key fob battery or a whole new fob. That could be shorting out. Mine switches my locks when it's in my pocket so it's kinda touchy. If it's not that then you get a spare at least. If it's not the fob then it's the car. Maybe one door isn't closing fully or a lock cylinder is sticky so it keeps trying. Try lubing locks and linkages. The little grabber that latches the door closed gets sticky. It probably is a relay but best to check the simple stuff first.
Try cleaning up the fuse contacts for the windows and a shot of electrical contact cleaner around the switches.
Some mobile window repair might be able to help both problems. Good luck.
Ahhh huntsmans. Every subaru owner's worst nightmare. Not exactly something you can prevent lol
Mine live in the door mirrors ;-b
I have a common problem with my 04 model and it was driving okay then it started making a loud grinding sound like the timing was out now it won’t start what’s the good idea to get that going again
Timing gear idlers collapse and strip the belt and sometimes damage valve gear , how much do you want for it? Another in Tassie, I've got 3, just bought one $1000 immaculate Hg job coming up 375km , a must is to use
My mechanic changed the head gaskets in one day. otherwise a trouble free car for me.
you will be back
These cars are so good but they would be unbreakable if Subaru actually made those small-in between parts stronger and used better materials.
I justgot a 2003 forester with 150k miles on it.. Lil oil leak but nothing much anything i should keep a eye on?
Yes, if you change engine oil yourself, always put a new gasket on the sump plug.
I learn't the hard way, they leak heavy onto pipes as you drive and smoke.
Always replace with a new gasket :-)
Head gasket????
Thank you!
I do love my 2003 forester (non-turbo)! However in my opiniob it is quite noisy at higher speeds. This is not the mirror rubber with my car. Anyone else has this issue? Any thoughts on how to make it more quiet with regard to wind noise and maybe reduce the motor noise too?
prolly wheel / hub bearings
Anyone have an issue with cig lighter outlets not working after fuse change and socket replacement?
A huntsman nested in your car? OMG Australia is terrifying.
I would literally park it on the side of the road......Well actually I would have leapt screaming from the still moving vehicle and considered it parked wherever it stopped.
Step 2: Air strike from space.
Well I never! A G clamp will let me hear the kids arguing again.
Nice work Dave
I have a 2003 and the engine warning light has come on any idea on what could be the problem thanks
Best way would be connecting some kind of ELM adapter (not that expensive) and connect it using Torque app.
If you have any check engine light, it will tell the error code, and you can search that code on the web.
There are tons of problems that can cause that light, so the light alone won't tell you anything.
Or, take your car to some shop that do the check for free.
Yes don't freak out, it's probably nothing major, just get it checked because it could result in something major if left alone. In my subies it's always just been a stuffed oxygen sensor.
Precat 02 sensor, do not buy aftermarket crap, go genuine nippon denso, $250aus,@cool drive, also to access it pull off the front manifold 8nuts 1bolt, sensor will be seized ,reuse gaskets and bolt up, no special tools 30 min job, it will affect your mixture lf you don't change it, this is one thing you can't simply on $2.40 a litre today
I like the stick
Gday from Tasmania
Anyone else think they had an electrical problem when they accidentally flicked the parking light in front of the wheel?
Do you voice Bluey?
Have a forester 2005 and iside air sounds horrible
I’m getting a 2000 forester with 120k miles on it, anyone help me out in what exhaust is the best for the deepest iconic Subaru sound? Best intake and lowering kit?
all you have to do is replace your shocks and springs to ones from imprezza of the same year. they are bolt on
@@Tianthe thank you, I will look to see how much there are. I’m assuming from a Subaru dealer or parts store?
@@cliftonsargent1572 Go to a parts store, dealers always have highest prices.
Save your cash for your upcoming gasket change
I just got an 06 Forester that came with a Magnaflow muffler and it's throaty without setting off car alarms. A bit droning on the freeway but you can talk without yelling. Sounds bad ass. Maybe too much in quiet places.
I put a glass pack on another car and it's too much like a burbly motorboat. No braap and loud. Bwaaaa!
Got a Turbo free flow on a third and it's right in the middle with no drone less noise and braaap. It's supposed to be what the Corvette has and my four cylinder sounds like half a Vette.
For me it's like Goldilocks and the middle turbo one is just right.
It's not on a Subaru so your results may vary.
Is 156k considered high mileage for a 2002 Forester??
When you hit over 250- 300k that's high mileage for a Subaru around 2002
There’s no such thing as HIGH MILEAGE ON A SUBARU
(Owner of a ‘03 Forster 142k)
Mines got 390,000k and the driveline is a bit sloppy but it runs a dream,
window motor
all of the comments are from forester owners im home
Jesus, how big was that spider!!!!
Yeah huntsman can get pretty big eh haha
They are brown and have red eyes, 80mm across, and are very quick, not dangerous but have caused a few accidents walking over windscreens, here in aus even the birds have toxic spurs,
bob is your uncle lol
Great video! Subarus are Way overrated. I bought one to flip and made some money on it but I would never keep one. No car should have head gasket and timing belt issues at 100 or 150k miles and no other car I've owned has ever had so many issues. I highly don't recommend. I think they're popular because of false images they represent.
You must be new to cars huh??? Cuz there's not a brand out there that is dead reliable to 200k... and if headgaskets are the only problem that's better than what other manufacturers have issues with but hey talk down about a car you've never owned my subaru starts up just fine in -30 ° weather and has never left me stranded
Hardly a comment with any substance, please disregard any sweeping comments from this guy