IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2000 Subaru Forester Mk1 (SF)

Final year of the SF Forester. These newest examples are now over 25 years old, so expect significant age-related wear on all components. Well-preserved examples are increasingly rare and sought after.

What changed for 2000

  • •Final production year before SG replacement
  • •All models now include basic safety features as standard

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Structural corrosion on chassis rails
  • !Cooling system failures from aged radiators
  • !Brake pipe corrosion
2
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Rear Strut Tower and Chassis Corrosion

SeriousBodywork & Rust

UK road salt attacks the rear strut towers and the "U-brace" front subframe, often rotting them from the inside out.

Est. Repair Cost: £500–£2,500
Warning Signs:

Corrosion in the boot area, Knocking from rear suspension, MOT failure for structural rust

What to Inspect:
  • Pull back the boot carpet to see the towers
  • Check the front subframe for flaky or holed metal
  • Inspect brake lines for heavy corrosion
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Rear Wheel Bearing Failure

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The SF is known for chewing through rear wheel bearings, which can be a difficult and labor-intensive job to replace if the hub bolts are seized.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£400 per side
Warning Signs:

Low-frequency drone from the rear, Noise changes when cornering, Vibration at speed

What to Inspect:
  • Listen for humming on a smooth road
  • Check for play in the rear wheels when jacked up
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2000 Subaru Forester Mk1 (SF)

  • Look for a full service history with timing belt changes
  • Check the radiator for cracks in the plastic end tanks
  • Inspect the brake pipes for heavy corrosion
1998–19992001–2002
Check a 2000 Subaru Forester Mk1 (SF) by Registration