Two problems related to axle assembly have been reported for the 1999 Subaru Forester. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 1999 Subaru Forester based on all problems reported for the 1999 Forester.
Multiple major and costly repairs to a vehicle that is driven on hard road services only, and in a safe manner. The vehicle has had all routine maintenance. Repairs include replace oxygen sensor & emission control computer. I was eventually reimbursed for this service/part which took 7 visiits to dealer and much convincing on my part. Other major repairs include replace defective transmission seal (2 visits), replace oil pump, replace left rear wheel bearing. Replacement of other wheel bearings is possible and pending. I have no confidence in this car, just waiting for the next major repair.
06/27/00 at 39787 miles, noise gradually getting louder in rear, vibration. Right rear wheel bearing and axle replaced at dealership. 09/14/00 at 46801 miles, same wheel bearing replaced again. 09/25/00 at 47660 miles, bearing failed suddenly while traveling about 45 mph in rain on I-66, grinding and screeching. I was able to stop safely and exit freeway. Dealer again replaced bearing. 10/25/00 at 49750, dealer again replaces bearing and housing also this time. Concerned about the effects of vibration on tires, I also ask for an alignment. 12/19/00, problem returns. Car is scheduled for service 12/27/00. I travel roughly 500 miles per week, mostly on very rural roads. I chose Subaru very carefully and need to know I can rely on my vehicle to avoid being stranded alone on the most deserted of roads. This is the 2nd Subaru I have owned (no problems with the first one), purchased because of the safety and reliability of the awd system; however, I am losing confidence in this particular car. I love the Forester, and would buy another one! I am so disappointed.