2000 Subaru Forester

The 2000 Subaru Forester is a compact SUV known for its practicality, reliability, and standard all-wheel-drive. It offers a blend of car-like handling with the added capability of light off-roading. The 2000 Forester came with a single engine option: a 2.5L SOHC EJ25 flat-4 engine producing 165 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners appreciate the Forester’s versatility, fuel efficiency for an AWD vehicle, and comfortable ride. Common complaints revolve around age-related issues such as rust, and wear and tear of components consistent with a vehicle of this age.

Engine

2.5L SOHC EJ25

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, bubbling in the coolant overflow tank.
  • Solution: Replace the head gaskets, resurface the cylinder heads, and inspect the cooling system for leaks or blockages.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak locations include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the location of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t start, or runs very rough. The EJ25 is an interference engine so failure of the timing belt can cause significant engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt, water pump, tensioner, and idler pulleys.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Shift Flare
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or erratic shifting, especially between gears, causing a noticeable “flare” in RPMs during the shift.
  • Solution: Often caused by worn clutches or valve body issues. Can sometimes be addressed with a fluid change, but a rebuild or replacement is often necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ for rebuild or replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting, high RPMs without acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throwout bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Sagging Rear Suspension
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than the front, especially when loaded. Can cause poor handling and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the rear struts/shocks and springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and alignment issues.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows work intermittently or not at all. Common causes are worn window switches or faulty window motors.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window switch or motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery not charging, stalling, battery light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels, apply rust inhibitor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in sun-exposed areas.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on replacement or cover)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Subaru Forester, while generally reliable, is susceptible to common issues typical of vehicles its age. The most prevalent problems revolve around engine head gasket failures, oil leaks, rust, and suspension wear. The severity and cost of repairs can vary significantly depending on the issue and the extent of the damage. Addressing these issues promptly can help maintain the Forester’s reliability and extend its lifespan.