praxis

p73 and ggary - thanks for the input. The cars101 is a handy site - thanks for the link. both vehicles seem to have a 48 offset, so it looks like I'm in luck. Regards

I have a lead on a set of nearly new snows + rims that came off a 00 outback. Does anyone know if the rims would fit my 00 forester? The tire size is the same as the tires on my car now - 215/60/R16. The tires are "winterforce" - I think they are made by firestone. If anyone has had these on their subaru, postive or negative feedback would be appreciated. Thanks

Subaru Canada warranty did cover the CAT (just under the five year emissions limit) at 45000 miles (about 65000 kms). Seems early for a CAT failure. As suggested, I will look into the 02 sensor to rule it out. Seems fragile. I put 200000 miles on a mazda pick-up, and drove the last 70000 with a shot sensor. It passed emissions tests with flying colours. Once I get the bugs out of this RU, I'm sure I'll be happy. Already amazed that I got a five foot soaker tub and 72 inch glass slider doors into it with the hatch closed. Thanks for the reply.

Sounds like you have been through the brake issue -- they sqeal less when applied.....next time I will hold out for OEM, or bendix as has been recommended. As for the bearings (if that is the issue), I will ensure that they are replaced with the legacy parts. The 'go-cone' humour will assist while paying the bill. Re the sensor, I will ask if it can be tested. I won't be a happy camper if I have to have the CAT replaced again. Thanks

Ferret - Thanks for your posts. I would never have located that dipstick - hidden behind wires as you suggested. After a miracle of contortion, I have discovered that the fluid there is full and clean. Same for the differentials. Xing fingers that it is a wheel bearing problem... seems as if this would be the least-worst case scenario. Cheers,

It is a 5 speed There was no noise before fluid change, which has me wondering if it was done properly. They also changed the gearbox fluid.

Hello All. As a new member, and a relatively new (used) RU owner, I sense that this site will be a great resource. While I have very much enjoyed driving the forester for the past eight months, I am tiring of noises. The latest seems to be a diff or bearing problem. Just had the diff fluids replaced at a lube shop and now I have a droning sound (sounds front and rear) that seem to peak at around 3000 rpm in third. The noise persists when coasting out of gear, and sounds like an invasion of baritone mosquitos. I did not notice this noise prior to the fluid change. There is no evidence of leaking fluid on the housings. The swerve test doesn't seem to affect the niose/pitch. If this is a bearing problem, it sounds ulike the grinding that I have experienced in other vehicles with front bearing failure. I also have squeaking brakes (new rotors and pads all around). Usually rear. Can bearing falure cause brake noise (when brakes not applied?) With only 45000 miles on the vehicle, I am surprised to have these problems. Then again, I was surprised to have to replace the CAT in a vehicle with such low mileage. Any suggestions to prepare me for a trip to the dealer? Thanks,