relli1130 Posted June 8, 2015 Share Posted June 8, 2015 Greetings, My wife and I are looking for a new vehicle. We have 2 very young boys ages 6 months and 2.5 years. Looking for a family friendly vehicle that will be reliable, decent mpg, safe, and can handle PA winters. The forester seems like a logical choice. We are also considering a Tribeca. We would very much like to purchase an older vehicle with very low miles. These gems are out there...Anyway, I came across a small family-owned used car dealership that has several foresters for sale: 2003 X with 65k miles asking 7988.00 2003 x with 74 k miles asking 6988.00 2006 x with 53k miles asking 10988.00 Asking prices for all seem in line with the exception of the 2003 with 65k miles - the asking price is about 1k high from what I can tell. From the research I've done, there weren't any significant model changes during these years. Just wanted to see what kind of feedback I might get from some of the owners here of similar vehicles. Specifically what pitfalls/common model issues I need to be aware of. Any general advice is appreciated. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gbhrps Posted June 9, 2015 Share Posted June 9, 2015 relli1130, The 2006 would be my preference. It hasn't spent as much time in the winter salt (get it oil sprayed immediately when you buy it), and by that year Subaru had solved their head gasket issues. The previous generations' head gasket problems were almost unheard of by 2006. Prior to 2005, it was an issue that kept showing up in the forums frequently. If you can swing the money, go with the newer unit. Good Luck! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Paddlefish Posted June 14, 2015 Share Posted June 14, 2015 I have a 2003 Forester , I've had the heads done already and am currently having an issue with a blown fuse leading me on a wild goose chase . But I've put a ton of miles on it and absolutely love the car . A Subaru's ride is what it is , but for dependability and economy there's nothing better. That said I think your right that price is steep and I would also go as new as your finances will allow. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AdventureSubaru Posted June 14, 2015 Share Posted June 14, 2015 Avoid the 98 model year as it had the motor with prolific head gasket issues. 99-04 were far improved and especially if you can confirm head gaskets were done once, you should be in god shape. 05+ was better. Personally I haven't viewed the head gasket issue as "resolved" until 2010 models. All three of those vehicles are good candidates on paper. Do your homework and look it over thoroughly to check all fluids. I have bought subarus in excess of 300,000 miles with no hesitation and driven them cross country with no doubts. I've also walked away from cars with only 50k if they appear like they've been neglected or abused/raced. The 03 models will have much higher parts availability and lower price tags in case repairs are ever needed. But all are low enough on miles that they should last you a long time. Remember to do a full timing belt kit at 100-110k Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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