Faults:

1st problem: My dueler bridgestone tires wore extremely quickly. I have replaced them several times with brand name tires, but have resorted to generic ones because of the short life span. I suspect alignment problems after reading some other posts on similar problems. I did have them realigned every time (at various non-Subaru) places.

2nd problem: Within the first year, my clutch started shuttered in the mornings for the first five minutes. Since the problem went away after the car warmed up, I ignored it. After doing some research I find that this problem has happened to others. The shuttering gradually became worst until I replaced it at 53k miles. Cost me $1500 because the fly wheel and pressure plate were scored. Dealer didn't help pay any cost.

3rd problem: Rear right wheel bearing was replaced at 47,000 miles. Then the same wheel bearing needed to be replaced again at 55,000 miles. I called Subaru corporate the first time and they paid for the parts (similar too many other customers with the same problems). The second time (55k) the dealership picked up 100% because it was within a year for the first repair (standard procedure). The dealer told me that they are now using a different type of bearings (taper), which the manufacture has deemed to correct the mistake. However since the taper bearing has gone bad within 7000 miles this can't be true. I don't know what could be causing these wheel bearings to defect so quickly other than bad design on the part of the manufacture. I am shocked that this problem is so widespread and I am intending to sell this car. Subaru corporate should recall their cars and fix these wheel-bearing problems once and for all.

General Comments:

Even if the Subarus seemingly score higher than other mini-SUVs in crash tests. I doubt they account for your wheel flying off due to repetitively bad wheel bearings and excessively bad tire wear.

Faults:

Road debris kicked up, went through the bottom shield and knocked a hole in the oil filter. Although this is not a major fault with the car, this shield is glorified cardboard and not really appropriate protection.

Today, upon taking the car for regular service and complaining of excessive noise, I learned that both rear wheel bearings need replacement. This at 49622 miles.

General Comments:

Until visiting this site and reading comments, I had no inkling that this wheel bearing problem might be pervasive in Foresters. Neither the dealer's service rep. or the telephone contact at Subaru America admitted knowledge of any pattern. Subaru America has promised to call me back tomorrow. I will let you know their position. It does seem that the parts involved have an unacceptable weakness.

It is a shame. The car has otherwise super characteristics.