toddmck

Very thoughtful replies here. All bring up good points. I don't like the idea of an inaccurate speedo, so that's a good issue. The ground clearance thing doesn't bother me (in fact, a little lower might be a good thing; I'm not often offroad, but I think the '09 Forester grew by just a tad too much in overall size). The pothole question is real in Michigan, too. The funny-looking thing makes sense ... the wheel well on this car is pretty wide, and having an even-smaller tire in there might be a little dorky. Maybe I'll put these on Craigslist and give someone a good deal ... I can split the money with the pal who laid them on me. Any other comments are welcome ... I always leave here smarter than when I jumped in! --T

Thanks, friend. By the way, the mirror you sold to me installed very nicely in my daughter's Soob ... painted it and it looks terrific. Thanks again. -T

Hi, all: A friend (GOOD friend) just gave me 4 Blizzaks with about 1000 miles on them. I'm still running my 2-year-old original tires on my 2009 Forester, and they're 16" tires. Is there any reason that I shouldn't buy a set of 17" wheels to get these 225/45R17/91R winter tires on my Soob before the snow flies? It looks like 17" is an acceptable tire size on this car. Thanks, guys. -T

Hey Russ... I just bought a '99 Forester, manual, S-type, 171k Montana highway miles, and the dealer originally was going to ask $6995. I paid considerably less than that, but I've purchased from this dealer before, and I think I worked out a pretty good deal. We also own a 2004 Legacy (my wife drives that one) ... I'll join nipper in his advice ... buy it, love it, drive it, repair it when it needs it. Best, -T

To all who helped me on this: Thanks. I ended up purchasing the 1999 Forester for $4600. Your input gave me a good perspective on the value of the car. I'm happy with the deal, and the salesman and finance manager received, from me, a bottle of Irish whiskey for their work on the deal (and as insurance for their future cooperation with me when it's time to buy the next Soobie). Happy holidays, all ... and be safe out there. --Todd

Thanks ... I'll be talking to the dealer again tomorrow, and will pop some of these matters into the mix ... especially all the service records of the items you specified. I'll let you know how it all turns out, if you're interested (and you must be ... you replied). -T

I'm looking at a 1999 Forester with 177,000 on it. It's at a dealer I trust. Car was a Nevada highway driver. New clutch, drives nice, all details appear good. they're asking $6000 out the door. I'm getting flack from friends/family about the high mileage, but I know that these engines can drive strong for a long time. We also own a 2004 Legacy Special Edition that's been reliable so far, has 36,000 on it. Any advice on the 1999 possible purchase is really appreciated. --Todd