2002 Subaru Forester Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.35/5 Average
65 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Subaru's mini-SUV/tall wagon gains three new standard features: a cargo area cover, daytime running lights and an intermittent mode for the rear wiper. Other changes include a new color for the Forester S' lower body cladding (from Titanium Pearl to Graystone Metallic) and the option of leather seating for S models equipped with the Premium package and automatic transmission.

Pros:
  • Highest offset crash scores in its class, car-like ride and handling with rugged SUV styling.
Cons:
  • Not made for serious off-roading.

User Reviews:

Showing 51 through 60 of 65.00
  • no complaints here - 2002 Subaru Forester
    By -

    What a fun car to drive! I thought I wouldnt like anything as much as my Camry wagon, but the AWD is reassuring and a plus to have. Subarus rank up there with Toyotas and Hondas now; standard AWD is added bonus and durable.

  • Family car for 2003 - 2002 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Fun to drive, plenty of room, handles well in all driving conditions. Excellent view of road while driving.

  • No low-mileage drivers allowed - 2002 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Although I love my Forester, I dont recommend it to anyone who doesnt regularly drive more than 20 miles a day. Its a great car when it starts, but mine is on its third battery and 8th or 9th dealer visit because of dead battery problems. The dealer says its because I dont drive enough (less than 100 miles a week). So, if youre a commuter, this is a great little car: safe, comfortable, good mileage. If you work from home... If you have a two-car family... If you live near your office... If you like to bike to work instead of always driving... This probably isnt the best car for you.

  • Still Going Strong - 2002 Subaru Forester
    By -

    This Forester has been in daily use since we bought it new. It has had very few problems. Replacing the catalytic converter was the only signficant item so far. We also had to replace the CD player module when it started eating disks and keeping them! I was impressed that Subaru voluntarily replaced all the engine gaskets at no cost after some head gasket seepage was noted during dealer service. I for one like the placement of the cupholder, even though it puts your cup in front of the air distribution control knob. The cup is ergonomically in a good position -- up high and easy to reach. The holder looks flimsy, but it hasnt broken. A great little vehicle, easily the best I have owned.

  • Fun Car - 2002 Subaru Forester
    By -

    I love my Subaru. The Forester has been extremely useful and reliable in tackling the Colorado winters and mountains. My husband and I also use the car to haul materials to remodel our home. Many of the design complaints (location of cupholder, no keyless, etc) have been remedied in the 2003 model.

  • Love it! - 2002 Subaru Forester
    By -

    The Foresters size was exactly right for me. I heard only good reports from all the Forester owners I questioned before buying. My Forester S Premium was bought as a winter driver, dog car & to transport horse equipment to the stable. With the huge open sunroof, I dont miss my summer sports car! It has been everything I hoped for, & then some! It is comfortable & safe in the winter & on trips. It is the perfect ski car, & tows my Sunfish to the lakes in the summer. The sound system is icing on the cake.

  • After nearly 2 years, still a great car - 2002 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Other than a minor fuel system issue 9 days after my purchase, this car has been a great buy. The buying experience at the dealership was superb, and my service experiences have been very pleasant, if a little overpriced in the Atlanta area. The car is relatively roomy, versatile, and powerful enough that I dont really miss my 1999 Mercury Cougar V6. The OEM tires have also worn better than my Cougars Firestones. Buying a new Forester will be a less pleasant experience because Subaru has made a lot of the standard accessories that came with mine a la carte sticker items which cost a bit more. The 2002 model, regardless, remains an excellent value.

  • Still fun to drive after a year - 2002 Subaru Forester
    By -

    After a year of ownership, I can still say this a great vehicle. Things I like: 1) Handling...never feels out of control 2) 6 disc CD changer. Standard in the S-Premium and does an admirable job! 3) Overall space. For a smaller family, it fits perfect 4) My neighbors with their huge SUVs have to park outside thir garages and scrape the ice off their windows...ha! Okay...what I dont like: 1) Fuel economy. Rarely have I got over 22 MPG in mixed driving. For that mileage, I would expect a little more oomph...especially up top. 2) Cramped back seats. 4 six footers would be a squeeze. 3) Cupholders, of course.

  • Forester Review - 2002 Subaru Forester
    By -

    The Forester is an excellent vehicle. Handles like a dream and is the best value for the money. Its also the safest vehicle of its kind on the market. I love it

  • Decent Second Car - 2002 Subaru Forester
    By -

    The 2002 forester we have was bought used with 6000 miles on it. It was always our second run around car and served that purpose very well. It was always serviced on time but the engine developed an oil leak at 60,000 miles. Very expensive to repair ($5000). Really not worth getting repaired at this point we are going to trade it in. Gas mileage was about 18 miles per gallon.

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