1999 Subaru Forester problems
The Subaru Forester (Japanese: スバル・フォレスター, Hepburn: Subaru Foresutā) is a compact crossover SUV that has been manufactured by Subaru since 1997. The first generation was built on the platform of the Impreza in the style of a taller station wagon, a style that continued to the second generation, while the third-generation model onwards moved towards a crossover SUV design. A performance model was available for the second-generation Forester in Japan as the Forester STi.
First generation (SF; 1997)
The Forester was introduced at the Tokyo Motor Show in November 1995 as the Streega concept, and available for sale in February 1997 in Japan, and to the US market in 1997 for MY1998. The Forester was one of the first crossover SUVs; the idea was inspired by Volkswagen (VW). It was built in the style of a station wagon, but had a taller stance, higher h-point seating, and an all-wheel drive drivetrain. Subaru advertising employed the slogan "SUV tough, Car Easy". It used the Impreza platform but with the larger 2.5-liter DOHC EJ25D four-cylinder boxer engine from the Subaru Outback, making 123 kW (165 hp; 167 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 220 N⋅m (162 lb⋅ft) of torque at 4,000 rpm.
Japan
In its domestic market, the Forester replaced the Impreza Gravel Express, known in the US as the Subaru Outback Sport. However, the Outback Sport remained in production for the U.S. market. The Forester appeared after the introduction of the Nissan Rasheen in Japan with a similar appearance, and the Forester's Japanese competitors include the Toyota RAV4, Mitsubishi RVR, and the Suzuki Grand Vitara. Because of the Forester's low center of gravity, it meets the United States federal safety standards for passenger vehicles and does not require a "risk of rollover" warning label on the driver's visor. Size- and price-wise, it fits between the shared Impreza platform and the larger Legacy.
The automatic transmissions used on AWD-equipped vehicles will normally send 60% of the engine's torque to the front wheels and 40% to the rear wheels, using a computer-controlled, continuously variable, multi-plate transfer clutch. When the transmission detects a speed difference between the front and rear axle sets, the transmission progressively sends power to the rear wheels. Under slip conditions, it can achieve an equal split in front and rear axle speeds.
When accelerating or driving uphill, the vehicle's weight shifts rearward, reducing front-wheel traction, causing the transmission to automatically send torque to the rear wheels to compensate. When braking or driving downhill, the vehicle's weight shifts towards the front, reducing rear-wheel traction. The transmission again compensates by sending torque to the front wheels for better steering control and braking performance. If the automatic is placed in reverse or first gear, the transmission divides the torque 50/50 to both front and rear wheels. The manual transmission cars are set up with a near 50/50 torque split as a base setting, and it varies from there. Essentially, manual cars are set up with more bias towards the rear than automatic cars.
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Common 1999 Subaru Forester problems
The 1999 Subaru Forester has several common problems that owners have reported, including engine problems, transmission issues, fuel economy, and electrical problems.
One of the most significant issues with the 1999 Subaru Forester is engine problems, particularly leaky head gaskets. According to Subaru Complaints, the 1st generation Forester (1998-2002) ranks 27th in reliability out of 38 generations, with 57 complaints, mostly about engine problems. The automaker has had issues with leaky gaskets in their 4-cylinder engines since the 1980s, and repairing the issue is expensive as it requires the engine to be removed. The Subaru Forester 1999 has four complaints about coolant leaks and blown head gaskets, which can cause significant damage to the engine if not addressed promptly.
Another common problem with the 1999 Subaru Forester is transmission issues. The car can struggle to get into drive, often requiring the driver to wait 10-30 seconds before it grabs into drive and begins creeping. Additionally, the automatic transmission can fail, which can be a significant expense to repair.
Fuel economy is another issue that owners of the 1999 Subaru Forester have reported. The car's fuel economy is terrible, with the needle moving even lower after only a few minutes of driving. This can be an annoyance for drivers, particularly those who drive long distances or commute to work.
Electrical problems are also common in the 1999 Subaru Forester. The car's check engine light can flash constantly while the car is on, indicating a problem with the engine or emissions system. Additionally, the battery can unexpectedly stop working, requiring the driver to jump-start the car or fiddle with the wires to get it working again.
While these problems can be frustrating for owners, the 1999 Subaru Forester is still considered a reliable car for the money. The ride is loud, and the interior design is funky, but it does the job. However, it's essential to address any engine or transmission issues promptly to avoid significant repair costs.
How many miles will a 1999 Subaru Forester last?
Since 1998, the Subaru Forester has enjoyed an impressive reputation among its loyal owners. Even the first models were known to last up to 300,000 miles. That early success should indicate that today's generation can be relied upon to soar past 200,000 miles.
What is the most common problem with the Subaru Forester?
Most Common Subaru Forester Problems
- Engine Issues. There are a variety of issues that owners have reported that are related to the Check Engine light being illuminated. ...
- Transmission Problems. Subaru Forester transmission problems typically occur in two ways – shuddering or jerking. ...
- Oil Consumption. ...
- Electrical Issues.
Is Subaru Forester a reliable car?
In general, this is a solid generation for the Forester SUV. As per Consumer Reports, all of the models from this generation have at least a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0. Therefore, if you're looking for a newer used Subaru Forester, the 2020 year is a good choice in terms of reliability.
What is high mileage for a Forester?
Throughout its more than two decades of production, the Forester has gained a reputation for easily crossing the 200,000-mile threshold. Based on various sources and owner accounts, Foresters can last 200,000 and 250,000 with proper TLC – nothing short of impressive.
How many miles will a 1999 Subaru Forester last?
Since 1998, the Subaru Forester has enjoyed an impressive reputation among its loyal owners. Even the first models were known to last up to 300,000 miles. That early success should indicate that today's generation can be relied upon to soar past 200,000 miles.
What is the most common problem with the Subaru Forester?
Most Common Subaru Forester Problems
- Engine Issues. There are a variety of issues that owners have reported that are related to the Check Engine light being illuminated. ...
- Transmission Problems. Subaru Forester transmission problems typically occur in two ways – shuddering or jerking. ...
- Oil Consumption. ...
- Electrical Issues.
Are 1st gen Subaru Foresters reliable?
Q: What were the major issues with the first generation of Subaru Forester (1998-2001)? A: The first generation of Subaru Foresters, particularly the 1998 model, struggled with head gasket problems. The issue was linked to a single-layer head gasket that was too weak, often leading to leaks around 50,000 miles.
Is Subaru Forester a reliable car?
In general, this is a solid generation for the Forester SUV. As per Consumer Reports, all of the models from this generation have at least a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0. Therefore, if you're looking for a newer used Subaru Forester, the 2020 year is a good choice in terms of reliability.
1999 Subaru Forester car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Forester problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Suspension problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Subaru Forester vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1999 Subaru Forester
The NHTSA has received 141 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Subaru Forester. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1999 Subaru Forester vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-21
- VIN: JF1SF6350XH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: (PARTIAL COPY OF MESSAGE I SENT TO SUBARU EARLIER THIS WEEK.) [MY] FORESTER IS OLD, BUT I WOULDN'T BE REPLACING IT IF I DIDN'T NEED ANOTHER HEAD GASKET. YOU SURELY ARE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM YOUR 4 CYL. ENGINES HAVE HAD WITH FAILING HEAD GASKETS. UNFORTUNATELY, THIS IS THE SECOND ONE EXPERIENCING SUCH FAILURE. I REPLACED THE ORIGINAL ONE SEVERAL YEARS BACK AT MY OWN EXPENSE. LET ME STATE MY UNQUALIFIED CASE THAT I SHOULD NOT HAVE HAD TO PAY FOR THIS REPLACEMENT, AS YOU--SUBARU--KNEW WELL THAT GASKET FAILURE WAS IN THIS CAR'S FUTURE. HOW DO I MAKE THIS CLAIM? WELL, WHEN I BOUGHT THE CAR, IT CAME WITH AN ADDITIVE IN THE RADIATOR. SOMETHING YOU CALL "COOLANT CONDITIONER." NOBODY TOLD ME WHY THIS WAS NECESSARY. I FOUND OUT ONE DAY WHEN MY TEMPERATURE GAUGE RED-LINED AND MY RADIATOR RAN DRY. I QUICKLY MADE MY WAY TO THE NEAREST SUBARU DEALERSHIP SO, RECOGNIZING THE PROBLEM, THE MECHANIC THERE TOLD ME ABOUT THIS COOLANT CONDITIONER AND HOW IT WOULD HAVE BEEN INSTALLED IN MY FORESTER THE DAY I DROVE IT FROM THE DEALERSHIP. HE SOLD ME ANOTHER BOTTLEAND ADVISED ME TO POUR IT INTO THE RADIATOR IMMEDIATELY. I THOUGHT THAT WOULD BE THE END OF THE PROBLEM, AND I DROVE ANOTHER, SAY 30,000 OR SO CARE-FREE MILES, UNTIL THE GASKET AGAIN BROKE DOWN. TIME FOR A REPLACEMENT, MY PERSONAL MECHANIC ADVISED ME. I RELENTED AND DROVE ABOUT 40,000 MILES ON THE NEW GASKET...UNTIL EXPERIENCING FAILURE AGAIN. AS I INDICATED BEFORE, FROM A LEGAL STANDPOINT, YOU--SUBARU--MUST HAVE KNOWN IT HAD A BIG PROBLEM ON ITS HANDS. WHY YOU FAILED TO INITIATE A RECALL AND WERE NEVER CALLED TO TASK FOR IT IS A MYSTERY TO ME. RECALL WHAT HAPPENED TO VOLKSWAGEN ONLY A FEW YEARS BACK. THEY KNEW ABOUT THEIR "PROBLEM" AS WELL. LET ME ADD THAT I KNOW OF SCORES OF OTHER SUBARU OWNERS MORE RECENT THAN 1999 THAT FEEL THE SAME WAY.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-07
- VIN: JF1SF6555XH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHY IS THE BRAKE LINE CORROSION RECALL WQK-47 ONLY FOR 2009-2013 FORESTERS? I OWN A 1999 FORESTER WHICH HAS JUST HAD A CATASTROPHIC BRAKE LINE FAILURE THAT IS EXACTLY THE SAME AS WHAT IS DESCRIBED IN THE RECALL. CORROSION OF THE BRAKE LINES IS IN THE AREA OF THE JUNCTION BLOCK THAT IS LOCATED UNDER THE CAR BEHIND THE AREA OF THE PASSENGER SEAT. IT SEEMS THAT VEHICLE SAFETY SHOULD NOT BE DEPENDENT ON THE AGE OF THE VEHICLE, ESPECIALLY SOMETHING AS CRITICAL AS THE BRAKING SYSTEM. WHEN THE SYSTEM FAILED, THE BRAKE PEDAL BECAME VERY SOFT AND I COULD FEEL IT SINKING TOWARD THE FLOOR. PUMPING THE BRAKE PEDAL HELPED SOME, BUT IT WAS STILL SINKING UNCOMFORTABLY QUICKLY. I WAS LESS THAN A MILE FROM HOME AND WAS ABLE TO MAKE IT THERE SAFELY BY PUMPING THE BRAKE PEDAL. AFTER PARKING, THAT WAS A LARGE PUDDLE OF BRAKE FLUID IN THE AREA UNDER THE JUNCTION BLOCK. I AM RESEARCHING WHETHER MY LOCAL MECHANIC CAN FIX THE PROBLEM, BUT I DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHY SUBARU IS NOT RESPONSIBLE WHEN THIS IS CLEARLY THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM DESCRIBED IN THE RECALL.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-15
- VIN: JF1SF6354XH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 SUBARU FORESTER. ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, WHILE DRIVING, THE ENGINE OVERHEATED AND SEIZED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 170,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-15
- VIN: JF1SF6550XH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AS OTHERS HAVE STATED HERE AND MANY MORE FROM VARIOUS SUBARU FORUMS, I'VE BEEN DEALING WITH THE SHIFTING INTO DRIVE ISSUE (IT ACTS AS IF IT'S IN NEUTRAL) WITH THE AT. IT CAN TAKE SEVERAL SECONDS TO SEVERAL MINUTES (AND SOMETIMES LONGER OR NOT AT ALL) BEFORE IT ENGAGES. I USUALLY HAVE TO REV/PUMP THE ACCELERATOR UNTIL IT CORRECTS ITSELF. ONCE I'M IN DRIVE ALL IS WELL AS LONG AS I STAY THAT WAY. THIS IS RANDOM UNTIL IT STARTS TO GET WORSE OVER TIME. I'VE READ THAT THIS IS FAIRLY COMMON AND IT'S A WORN PISTON SEAL OR SOMETHING THAT PREVENTS ENOUGH PRESSURE FOR THE FORWARD GEAR TO ENGAGE. THIS BEGAN IN 2010 WITH ONLY 89K MILES. THE ONLY TEMP FIX HAS BEEN TO DRAIN & REPLACE THE AT FLUID & FILTER, BUT THAT MAY ONLY LAST FOR MAYBE 500-1000 MILES OR SO. THE LATEST TEMP FIX INCLUDES THAT PLUS AN ADDITIVE (TRANS X) THAT WORKS BY SWELLING SEALS. THIS HAS BEEN MORE EFFECTIVE WITH 2500-3500 MILES BETWEEN FLUID CHANGES, SO I BASICALLY HAVE IT DONE EVERY TIME I CHANGE THE OIL NOW. I FIND THIS APPALLING THERE'S NO RECALL FOR THIS SINCE THERE'S SO MANY I'VE SEEN ONLINE WITH THE EXACT SAME ISSUE. PERHAPS THEY JUST HAVEN'T GONE THROUGH THE RIGHT PROCEDURES IN REPORTING THIS, WHICH IS WHY I'M JUST DOING THIS NOW MYSELF.
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-26
- VIN: JF1SF6553XH
- Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THERE ARE DAYS WHERE THE VEHICLE WILL NOT ENGAGE INTO DRIVE. IT GOES IN REVERSE BUT STILL NOT ENGAGE THE DRIVE GEAR. AFTER ABOUT A WEEK OF THE VEHICLE SITTING AND NOT BEING TURNED ON IT WILL ENGAGE AND WORK FINE. BUT WILL DO IT AGAIN A FEW WEEKS TO A COUPLE OF MONTHS LATER.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-12
- VIN: JF1SF6350XH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: NOTE: BELOW IS AN EXTRACT FROM A MESSAGE I SENT TO AN ATTORNEY IN WISCONSIN IN 2011 REGARDING THE PROBLEMS I WAS HAVING WITH MY VEHICLE. I HAVE SINCE HAD THE COOLING SYSTEM PROBLEM REPAIRED AT MY OWN EXPENSE. NOTE ALSO: I SEE WHERE THERE HAS BEEN A RECENT ENTRY FOR PENDING DEALER REPAIRS ON A HONDA CIVIC (I THINK) PERTAINING TO "COOLANT LOSS". AT LEAST HONDA COMPANY WILL LIVE UP TO AND CORRECT ITS MANUFACTURING MISTAKES. I AND OTHERS HAVE HAD ISSUES WITH THEIR SUBARU VEHICLES CIRCA 1997-2004. THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUE HAS TO DO WITH THE COOLING SYSTEM LOSING COOLANT AT AN UNACCEPTABLE RATE. THIS IS THE RESULT OF FUNCTIONAL DESIGN FLAWS OF USING DIFFERENT METALS IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THIS ALLOWS LARGER THAN NORMAL GAPS TO OPEN UP IN THE CYLINDER WALLS AS THE TWO METALS EXPAND DIFFERENTLY WHEN THE ENGINE HEATS UP. COUPLED WITH CHEAP GASKETS, THIS FORMULA HAS LED TO MANY ENGINE SEIZURES IN THESE CARS ACROSS THE COUNTRY DUE TO OVERHEATING. (I'VE CAUGHT MINE BARELY IN TIME AS THE THERMOSTAT HIT RED-LINE TWICE NOW WITHOUT WARNING.) MEANWHILE, SUBARU KNEW ABOUT THIS PROBLEM FROM THE ONSET, SINCE DEALERS TREATED THE COOLANT SYSTEM WITH SO-CALLED COOLANT "CONDITIONER" BEFORE SELLING THESE CARS. AND THEY DIDN'T ADVISE THE PURCHASER THAT THEY WERE DOING THIS AND WHY. PROBLEMS IS...THE CONDITIONER WILL NOT WORK INDEFINITELY AND MAY EVEN ACCELERATE THE BREAKDOWN OF THE CHEAP GASKET. I'VE GOT 81,400 MILES NOW ON MY CAR AND I'M ON MY SECOND CAN OF CONDITIONER. BUT THE COOLANT LEVEL KEEPS DROPPING AND IT'S BURNING AWAY IN THE HOT ENGINE. I CAN SMELL IT WHEN I LEAVE THE CAR IN THE GARAGE OVERNIGHT. (IT SMELLS SWEET BUT I'M NOT TOO PLEASED WITH IT.). SUBARU HAS SINCE HAD THE FORETHOUGHT TO CHANGE ITS GASKETS TO MUCH STURDIER ONES. BUT, OF COURSE, THAT MEANS I'D HAVE TO SHELL OUT THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS TO REPLACE MINE. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-12-15
- VIN: JF1SF6350XH
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: IN ONE MONTHS TIME WE HAVE HAD 4 SEPARATE COOPER WEATHERMASTER S/T2 205/70R15 TIRES HAVE SIDEWALL FAILURE. THESE ARE SNOW TIRES USED ONLY DURING WINTER MONTHS. 3 OF THE 4 TIRES WERE PURCHASED FOR THE 2010/11 WINTER, AND HAD LESS THAN 5000 MILES ON THEM, THE 4TH WAS NEW WITH ABOUT 100 MILES ON IT WHEN IT FAILED. 1ST BLOWOUT) DRIVERS SIDE REAR TIRE BLEW OUT IN DRIVEWAY JUST AFTER WE RETURNED HOME FROM ERRANDS. REPLACED WITH NEW TIRE BY DEALER. 2ND FAILURE) NOTICED BUBBLE ON DRIVERS SIDE FRONT TIRE WHILE SHOPPING 45 MINUTES FROM HOME. CALLED ROADSIDE SERVICE TO PUT ON SPARE AND WHEN HOME, WENT TO DEALER WHO REPLACED WITH A NEW TIRE. 3RD FAILURE) 2 HOURS FROM HOME, STOPPED FOR GAS AND NOTICED DRIVERS SIDE FRONT TIRE WITH BUBBLE IN SIDEWALL. THIS WAS THE NEW REPLACEMENT FOR THE 2ND FAILURE. PUT ON SPARE AND DROVE HOME. THAT NIGHT WE HAD OUR 4TH FAILURE - BLOWOUT) THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR TIRE BLEW OUT DURING THE NIGHT. 3 OF THE TIRES WERE 2 SEASONS OLD, THE 4TH WAS A BRAND NEW REPLACEMENT TIRE FOR ONE OF THE EARLIER FAILURES. IN ALL CASES WE WERE GIVEN BRAND NEW REPLACEMENT TIRES OF THE SAME BRAND AND MODEL. WE WERE FORTUNATE AND NOT DRIVING WHEN THE BLOWOUTS HAPPENED. THIS ALL HAPPENED BETWEEN MID NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER 16TH 2012. ALL BLOWN AND DEFECTIVE TIRES HAVE BEEN RETURNED TO DEALER AND WE DO NOT HAVE ACCESS TO THE DOT NUMBER. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 199 SUBARU FORESTER. LETTER FROM CONGRESSMAN SARBANES ON BEHALF OF CONSTITUENT WITH CONCERNS ABOUT MECHANICAL PROBLEMS WITH SUBARU VEHICLES *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED IT WAS DIFFICULT TO PUT THE GEAR INTO DRIVE. A MECHANIC INFORMED THE CONSUMER THE FAILURE WAS WITH THE CLUTCH. THE TRANSMISSION FAILED WITH ONLY A 119,000 MILES ON THE VEHICLE. *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-30
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. THERE WAS CORROSION AROUND THE GAS CAP. SHOP DIAGNOSED PROBLEM AS RUSTED FUEL FILLER NECK - REPLACED AT A COST OF $330. I HAD STARTED TO NOTICE A FUEL SMELL IN MY GARAGE, SO FUMES WERE LEAKING OUT. MECHANIC SAID IT WAS PROBABLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE GAS MAY HAVE COME THROUGH. VEHICLE IS KEPT IN GARAGE WHEN NOT IN USE AND THERE IS NO REASON FOR THIS PIPE TO CORRODE UNLESS THE MATERIAL IS DEFECTIVE. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-19
- VIN: JF1SF6555XH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: I HAVE A SUBURA 1999 FORESTER IT IS TELLING ME ON INTERNET THEIR IS A RECALL PART NEEDED FOR BRAKES SYSTEM. BUT MY DEALER SAYS THERE IS NOT. .ONLY FOR A DIFFERENT FORESTER. I THINK MY FORESTER SHOULD BE COVERED. IT IS A FORRESTER. I AM HAVING A BRAKE PROBLEM. THE INTERNET SAYS YES THE DEALER SAYS NO. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-06
- VIN: JF1SF6354XH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND AFTER CHECKING/CHANGING GAS CAP AND HAVING LIGHT RESET, IT CAME ON AGAIN. I THEN CHECKED INTERNET SITES FOR POSSIBLE PROBLEMS AND THEN NOTICED CORROSION WHEN I REMOVED THE GAS CAP. ONE AREA HAD A SMALL HOLE STARTING IN THE METAL. WE HAD THE FUEL FILLER NECK REPLACED AT A REPAIR SHOP AND THEY GAVE ME THE OLD ONE BACK. IT WAS ALL CORRODED AND HE SAID IT WAS PROBABLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE GAS MAY HAVE COME THROUGH. VEHICLE IS KEPT IN GARAGE WHEN NOT IN USE AND THERE IS NO REASON FOR THIS PIPE TO CORRODE UNLESS THE MATERIAL IS DEFECTIVE. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-30
- VIN: JF1SF635XXH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: HEAD GASKET/ENGINE FAILED WHILE ON HIGHWAY. CAR STALLED, UNABLE TO BE DRIVEN. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-10
- VIN: JF1SF6557XH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE COASTING, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ACCELERATE ON ITS OWN. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 48,700. UPDATED 05/06/08 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED DREYER & REINBOLD CHECKED ENGINE, TRANSMISSION MOUNTS SPEED CONTROL AND FOUND NO PROBLEM. 05/06/08 *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-30
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF1SF6358XH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL TO AVOID A DOG. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP AND CRASHED INTO A TELEPHONE POLE. THE POLICE ARRIVED AND FILED A REPORT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP. THE INSURANCE COMPANY INVESTIGATED THE FAILURE AND INFORMED HER THAT THIS WAS A MAINTENANCE ISSUE, RATHER THAN A SAFETY ISSUE. THE SUBARU MANUFACTURER STATED THAT HIS VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE RECALL NUMBER WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 100,000. UPDATED 03-25-08 *BF UPDATED 03/25/08 *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-03-01
- VIN: JF1SF6352XH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THIS PROBLEM INITIALLY OCCURRED ONLY ONCE A MONTH OR SO, BUT HAS SINCE DETERIORATED TO OCCURRING MULTIPLE TIMES PER DAY. WHEN APPROACHING A STOPLIGHT, OR BRAKING HARDER THAN USUAL, THE VEHICLE WILL SLIP INTO NEUTRAL. THE SHIFTER DOES NOT MOVE, IT IS STILL IN DRIVE, HOWEVER, WITHOUT WARNING, THE CAR WILL SUDDENLY STOP RESPONDING TO THE ACCELERATOR (EXCEPT THE ENGINE STILL REVS). THE ONLY REMEDY IS TO REV THE ENGINE TO HIGH REVS, OVER AND OVER, UNTIL THE TRANSMISSION "CATCHES", AT WHICH POINT THE VEHICLE LURCHES FORWARD, OFTEN VIOLENTLY, EVEN WITH THE BRAKE DEPRESSED. THIS MOST OFTEN HAPPENS AT STOPLIGHTS/SIGNS, HOWEVER IT WILL OCCUR ON THE HIGHWAY IN TRAFFIC WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED HARD. THIS SEEMS TO BE QUITE POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS IF IT WERE TO HAPPEN WHEN IT WAS NECESSARY TO MOVE THE VEHICLE OUT OF THE WAY OF SOMETHING ONCOMING AND WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO. A DEALER LOOKED AT IT AND FLUSHED THE TRANSMISSION AND ADDED NEW FLUID, WHICH SOLVED THE PROBLEM FOR ABOUT 2 MONTHS, AFTER WHICH IT HAS CONTINUED TO GET WORSE. THE TRANSMISSION IS NOT LOW ON FLUID, AND THE FLUID LOOKS FINE. I HAVE HEARD THIS COMPLAINT FROM NUMEROUS OTHER 1999 FORESTER OWNERS VIA VARIOUS INTERNET FORUMS. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-13
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ABOUT 3 YEARS INTO OWNING THIS '99 FORESTER, THE ILLUMINATION FOR MY GEAR SHIFTING COLUMN BETWEEN THE FRONT SEATS WENT OUT. COST TO REPAIR WAS PROHIBITIVE, SO I LEARNED TO DEAL WITH IT. ABOUT 2 YEARS AGO, THE LED CLOCK ABOVE THE MIRROR WENT OUT. COST TO REPAIR $180, SO I DECIDED TO LIVE WITHOUT A CLOCK. LAST FRIDAY, THE LED THAT ILLUMINATES THE GAS GAUGE, SPEEDOMETER AND ODOMETER WENT OUT. NOW I HAVE TO PERIODICALLY TURN ON THE CABIN LIGHT TO SEE HOW FAST I'M DRIVING, HOW MUCH GASOLINE I HAVE AND HOW MANY MILES I'VE DRIVEN. WHAT'S NEXT? THIS IS RIDICULOUS! *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-02-10
- VIN: JF1SF6553WG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ON 1998 FORESTER 5-SPD, WHEN PULLING OUT ON FREEWAYS AND OTHER ROADS, AS I SWITCH FROM 3 TO 4 OR FROM 4 TO 5, ENGINE WANTS TO DROP TO IDLE AS I TRY TO ACCELERATE. *NM
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-08-07
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE
- Summary: CONSUMER COMPLAINT CONCERNING 1999 FORESTER GAS MILEAGE. *TS THE CONSUMER STATED HE EXPERIENCED PROBLEMS WITH THE TRANSMISSION, BRAKES, A KNOCK SENSOR, A SQUEAK IN THE CARGO PANEL AND THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-28
- VIN: JF1SF6559XH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WE HAVE A 1999 SUBARU FORESTER WITH A 2.5 L ENGINE. WE GOT A RECALL NOTICE 2-2004 REGARDING EXTERNAL COOLANT LEAKS AT THE ENGINE CYLINDER HEAD GASKETS. THIS RECALL COVERED VEHICLE YEARS 1999-2002 OR 4 YEARS OF VEHICLES. WE TOOK THE VEHICLE IN AND HAD THE SPECIFIC (SPECIAL CONDITIONER) INSTALLED AS REQUIRED BY SUBARU. UNFORTUNATELY FOR US IT TOOK SUBARU 5 YEARS TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE PROBLEM AS WE ARE ON THE FRONT END OF THE MODEL YEARS IN QUESTION. LAST WEEK THE HEAD GASKETS FAILED AND WITH IT A LARGE REPAIR BILL. SUBARU WILL NOT HONOR THE EXTENDED WARRANTY AS WE ARE OUTSIDE IT BY LESS THAN 10% IN MILEAGE BUT WITHIN THE SPECIFIED 8 YEARS IN AGE. WE LIVE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA AND IT IS OUR OPINION THE MILEAGE AMOUNTS ALLOWED DO NOT REPRESENT THIS PART OF THE COUNTRY AND ARE NOT REAL WORLD. WE HAVE DISCUSSED THE ISSUE WITH 2 EXTREMELY EXPERIENCED MECHANICS INCLUDING A NISSAN MECHANIC (NOTED THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY) WHO INDICATED THE CONDITIONER WAS MERELY A BAND-AID, A WAY FOR SUBARU TO MAKE A TEMPORARY FIX, AND NOT MAKE A PROPER REPAIR BY REPLACING THE DEFECTIVE HEAD GASKETS IN QUESTION. *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-22
- VIN: JF1SF6352XH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED FUEL LEAKED ONTO THE GROUND WHILE FILLING THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY THE CONTACT WHO DETERMINED THE FUEL FILLER PIPE WAS RUSTED. THE PLASTIC COVERING AROUND THE FILLER PIPE BECAME CLOGGED WITH ROAD DEBRIS AND APPEARED TO HAVE CAUSED THE RUST. ADDITIONALLY, THE PIPE APPEARED TO HAVE RUSTED MORE QUICKLY BECAUSE IT WAS MADE OF MILD STEEL. THE REPLACEMENT PART WAS ORDERED THROUGH THE LOCAL DEALER, WHO INFORMED THE CONTACT THIS WAS A COMMONLY ORDERED PART.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-20
- VIN: JF1SF6557XG
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: AFTER PURCHASING MY 1999 SUBARU FORESTER, AT 67,000 MILES THE LEFT REAR WHEEL BEARING BEGAN TO FAIL. THIS APPEARS TO BE A COMMON EVENT JUDGING FROM THE COMPLAINTS I HAVE RESEARCHED FROM VARIOUS INTERNET SOURCES. INSTEAD OF RECALLING THE DEFECTIVE PARTS, SUBARU HAS DECIDED TO IGNORE THE ISSUE AND MAKE THE VEHICLE OWNERS HAVE THEIR DEFECTIVE WHEEL BEARINGS REPLACED (WITH DIFFERENT BEARINGS) AT THEIR OWN EXPENSE.*JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-12
- VIN: JF1SF6554XH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: HEAD GASKET FAILURE. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-10-15
- VIN: JF1SF6551XH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED SINCE PURCHASE OF THE VEHICLE THERE HAS BEEN ANTIFREEZE SMELL. HE WOULD PERIODICALLY CHECK THE RESERVOIR, AND ONCE HE NOTICED IT WAS LEAKING. HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A MECHANIC, WHO DETERMINED THE HEAD GASKET WAS LEAKING. THERE WAS MANUFACTURER RECALL WWP-99, FOR THIS PROBLEM, BUT WHEN HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP THEY STATED THERE WAS NO PROBLEM WITH THE VEHICLE. THEY TOLD THE CONTACT HE PROBABLY FILLED THE RESERVOIR TOO HIGH, CAUSING THE LEAK. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED, AND SUGGESTED HE KEEP AN EYE ON THE PROBLEM. IF IT PERSISTS, THEY WILL FIX THE VEHICLE UNDER THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. *AK
SUSPENSION,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-19
- Components: SUSPENSION,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: BOTH REAR WHEEL BEARINGS HAVE FAILED TWICE. REPLACED TWICE BY REPAIR SHOP. ORIGINAL ONES LASTED 50,000 MILES, 1ST REPLACEMENT LASTED 10,000 MILES. *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-13
- VIN: JF1SF6556XH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: DT: THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WOULD ONLY GO INTO REVERSE. *JB
1999 Subaru Forester recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1999 Subaru Forester.
- Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS). (THE 1999 2.2 LITER LEGACY VEHICLES ARE EXCLUDED). IN EXTREMELY COLD WEATHER, THE BRAKE PEDAL GOES TO THE FLOOR AND THE VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCE IS INCREASED.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAUSES THE VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCE TO BE INCREASED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER.
Negative 1999 Subaru Forester car reviews
Positive 1999 Subaru Forester car reviews
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The forester delivers what Subaru advertises, a stable, easy to maintain, reliable and safe car that makes for a highly enjoyable ride. Over the past 5 years, I've really put it through its paces by hauling, mountain driving and using it as an intracity commuter car in all kinds of weather. I like this car so much I would buy another in a heartbeat.
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The cabin has a nice amount of space and plenty of nooks and crannies, which offsets the abundance of plastic parts. Additionally, the all-wheel drive option provides great value.
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It's a great car to have if you live where the weather turns bad in the winter. It handles great, but like any car, ice is ice and AWD does not stop you from sliding. I noticed a difference with snow tires. Unfortunately, I did have a $400 engine repair at 37K, just after my warranty expired (ignition coil??). Other than that, it has run smoothly.
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The Forester has been a reliable car for me. Other than regular oil changes and maintenance, I've only had to deal with a broken rear window (thanks to my kids and some rocks) and one gasket issue.
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Hi there! I'm glad to hear that your 1999 Forester has been treating you well. I understand that you're curious about the wonders of the AWD system, especially since you're from Sweden and have driven in some pretty nasty weather conditions. From my experience, the AWD system can really come in handy when you're driving on slippery or uneven surfaces. It works by distributing power to all four wheels, which can help improve traction and stability. If your front tires are slipping and spinning, the AWD system can transfer power to the rear wheels to help them grip the road better. While there isn't a switch to indicate when all four wheels are engaged, you can trust that the AWD system is working hard to keep you safe on the road. I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1999 Subaru Forester problems:
('98-'00) - Having a few problems with my 1999 Forester | Subaru ...
May 12, 2016 ... The car struggles to get into drive. It seems this is a common problem that I've seen when searching a lot of forums. Reverse works fine but ...
1999 Subaru Forester Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Problem with your 1999 Subaru Forester? Our list of 8 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1999 Subaru Forester.
Buying a 1999 Subaru Forester | Subaru Forester Owners Forum
Jun 29, 2016 ... I'll second the durability of the early Foresters once the known issues (i.e. head gaskets) have been addressed. Our '98 has 350k on the clock ...
Common 1999 Subaru Forester Problems: Q&A on Fuel Pump Issues
Jun 26, 2019 ... The most common cause for the slow fueling concern you are having on your 1999 Forester is in most cases due to a restricted Evaporative ...
1999 Fuel Gauge Problem - 1990 to Present Legacy, Impreza ...
Nov 4, 2004 ... It's probably the fuel level sender unit. This is a very common, and welll known, problem with Subarus. In fact, my 1999 Forester has a probem ...
Other years of Subaru Forester
Are you having problems with your 1999 Subaru Forester?
King Shanahan 2024-11-17
I hope you're doing well! From my experience, I've been quite satisfied with this product. It has done exactly what I expected it to do, even in the snow. There have been some minor repairs needed, such as the LR wheel bearing and front struts. However, the 60,000-mile belt replacement was a bit of a setback.
Keshaun Herzog 2024-08-24
I've owned the vehicle since it was new and brought it to my home in Minnesota after buying it in NC. It has been an excellent choice! The battery has been able to crank in sub-zero temperatures for 11 years! Although, if it does break down, it might make you cry. Unfortunately, the head gaskets blew at 70K and the repairs cost me $2200. However, after that, there have been no problems. It's a fun car to drive and an excellent choice for a teen!
Lon Runolfsdottir 2024-07-13
Although this car has had some issues, I have gained a lot of experience in dealing with them. I have replaced 2 sensors, the transmission (twice, if you count the first replacement that didn't work), the engine seal, and 2 wheel bearings (on the same wheel, and I suspect it may need replacing again). Additionally, there was a short in the power door locks that made them unusable, and the cruise and horn stopped working. The CD player only works when it wants to, and there is a constant squeak when driving that no one has been able to locate. Despite these challenges, I have learned a lot about car maintenance and will use this knowledge to make a more informed decision when purchasing my next vehicle.
Kale Pfannerstill 2024-06-24
I recently traded in my Toyota for this model, but unfortunately, I have had a number of issues with it. After the first service, which was due to a brake recall, the brakes have not sounded the same. Additionally, I experienced a blown head gasket at 60,000 miles, and then 10,000 miles later, I needed a full transmission replacement. Now, I suspect another head gasket problem. I was told that this shouldn't happen on a Subaru, so I'm feeling quite disappointed. I have decided to trade it in and cut my losses. Thank you for your understanding.
Jeremy Monahan 2024-06-14
At 30,000 miles, the car began experiencing minor issues such as significant interior fading and a rough-running engine. However, the most frustrating problem was the failure of the rear wheel bearing, which is a common issue for this model year. Despite using Legacy bearings to address the problem, Subaru has yet to acknowledge it as a design flaw. It is clear that this issue needs to be addressed and resolved by the manufacturer.