Two problems related to engine noise have been reported for the 2001 Subaru Forester. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2001 Subaru Forester based on all problems reported for the 2001 Forester.
Driving n on i5 highway when car made noises, pulled over & would not start again. Towed in. Was told that engine was dead. Car had just been serviced by dealer. Had to buy new engine. Subaru would not take any responsibility. Car had very low mileage & was in good shape. When doing research, found that this was an ongoing and common problem with all vehicles with 2. 5l engine and due to defective head gasket.
Engine pinging noise resulting from short skirt valve design failure. Requested advice from manufacture was told to take vehicle to a dealer. Dealer refused to acknowledge problem. Engine life is greatly reduced by this problem. Dealer recognition has occured regarding this flaw. This is the second Subaru I have purchased. Similar problem in first vehicle resulted in dealer replaceing short block. Although disappointed at flaw customer service at first dealer prompted purchase of second vehicle.