1998 Subaru Forester

June 10, 2011. Author:

The 1998 Subaru Forrester was a new model introduced that year as an all-wheel-drive SUV. But it wasn't without its problems.

1998 Subaru Forester specs

The Subaru Forester 1998 had power assisted brakes and four channel antilock brakes. The engine was a EJ 25 4 cylinder producing a bit over 160 brake horsepower. The fuel economy was estimated at between 21 and 27 depending on city versus highway driving and the type of transmission. The road clearance was not too shabby 7.5 inches.

The weight of the Subaru Forrester 1998 was a touch over 3000 pounds depending on how it was equipped. It was rated to tow up to 2000 pounds, although trailer brakes are often required for that type of load.

The platform for this vehicle shared some commonalities with the Subaru Impreza for sale. There is some cargo space behind the rear seat, however not quite as much as with a used Subaru Legacy. This model had updated driver and passenger airbags, crumple zones and other features.

Where to buy a used 1998 Subaru Forester

This vehicle can be found for sale in the used market regularly. Check publications such as Auto Trader and other online resources to find this vehicle. Auction sites such as eBay will likely have this vehicle. However, if it is not convenient for you to pick it up shipping costs on this old of a vehicle will probably be too high of a percentage of the value of the vehicle to be worthwhile.

What to look for when buying a 1998 Subaru Forester cheap

Since this vehicle is over 10 model years old at the time of this writing, it is usually available at a fairly good price. While this vehicle can be fairly reliable, like any used vehicle there are things that should be checked. It should be given a thorough test drive an inspection by a qualified mechanic before purchase.

Moreover, it needs to be checked for what is called Subaru torque bind. The 1998 Subaru Forester should be taken to a parking I was dry pavement, and slow speed tight circles made. It feels as though the parking brake is stuck on or there is a popping sound with axles of the vehicle, it may have this condition.

Sometimes this condition can be remedied with some simple steps, other times it requires more expensive repair. Either way, it can be a good bargaining point when buying 1998 Subaru Forester for sale by owner. Additionally, it is wise to ask to see maintenance documentation for the vehicle. Of particular interest will be the timing belt. If this bill brakes, a can cause engine damage. So if the previous owner does not have documentation that the timing belt was replaced recently, it can make a good case for the price to be lowered.

Head gaskets for 1998 Subaru Forester

Also, the engine in this vehicle edit increase risk of head gasket failure. It would rupture between the exhaust port and coolant port, thus allowing exhaust to blow into the coolant. It is quite possible that the used 1998 Subaru Forester you are looking at has already had that gaskets replaced. If the job was done correctly there is no cause for concern. Otherwise, you can make a good point of bargaining with the seller.

In conclusion, many people have received a number of good years of service from their 1998 Subaru Forester. This vehicle has a fairly loyal following as evidenced by the Subaru Forester forum. So, with proper care, it should be ready to give a number of additional years of driving service to its new owner.

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This article was written by . It was last updated June 10, 2011 and first published January 1, 2011. If you have questions about the article, please click here to view the author's contact information including e-mail address, telephone number and mailing address.