Seems to be related to the catalytic converter, at least that is what we have been told. Sometimes it goes off for a while. The mechanics say that we need to replace the catalytic system to the tune of $1,500! Since it has >150,000 miles on it and we are about to purchase a new car, we don't think we it is cost effective to fix it. However, I read on this site that many others have had what appears to be the same problem. I have a 2006 Forester with about 30,000 miles on it and so far I have not had this particular problem.
Ok - here goes!!!! I found this website, while researching the reliability of the GMC Yukon XL and Chevy Suburban. I am in the market for a "new" used vehicle, due to all the headaches I am experiencing with my 01 Forester. For the last two years and 30,000 miles AND $1,200 (parts only) my check engine light issue has never been resolved. Both oxygen sensors replaced twice, knock sensor replaced twice and two catalytic converters. I am repeatedly told that a part has failed - I think this is a crock! No one can diagnose the problem and don't seem to care; they assume that because each time a part is replaced the second time it's under warranty so not costing me additional $'s. Then the CV axle and joint needed replacing on the right side, it only lasted 12 months and was replaced again one month ago. I knew the left sided needed replacing too so that was done two weeks ago. Last week the car developed noise in the front end and took it back to the shop. The left side was bad/defective and needed to be replaced. When they test drove it, they found that did not solve the noise and upon further inspection found the right side to be defective also!!!!!!!!!!
Keep in mind - The check engine light work was performed at one shop and the CV work performed at another shop.
WHAT IS WRONG????
Is it the car - the shop (s) or - Are the parts so poorly made they fail almost immediately or what???
At the moment I'm disgusted with my Forester, it's the second Subaru that I have owned and I didn't have any of these problems with my other one. I don't think I'll buy another one anytime soon. I'm just about to the point that the next mechanical failure will be the last because at 150,000 miles I can only justify spending but so much money on it.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
Seems to be related to the catalytic converter, at least that is what we have been told. Sometimes it goes off for a while. The mechanics say that we need to replace the catalytic system to the tune of $1,500! Since it has >150,000 miles on it and we are about to purchase a new car, we don't think we it is cost effective to fix it. However, I read on this site that many others have had what appears to be the same problem. I have a 2006 Forester with about 30,000 miles on it and so far I have not had this particular problem.
- cbassett, Keedysville, MD, US