GMPBoss

The work that was done was actually at a collision place and they aligned it as well. I went back there yesterday and they were very receptive to looking and test driving. It still took my notice of the antisway bar which they did not think would have much impact on handling. I have not put much miles on the car since but I will watch tire wear as you are right that is a good indicator. Watching MPG as well, another tank at 10mpg and I am going to start pulling things apart! Thanks for input!

Oh I almost forgot. I didn't check codes as i don't have the computer. If gas mileage doesn't improve I will go that route next. Thanks

So I tried to measure and look at symmetry as suggested. I got it up on the lift and found that the anti-sway bar was off center. instead of the connecting arms being symmetrically angled they were parallel. This was adjusted and the handling seem to be improved although I have not yet tried it above 30 mph. The handling was an issue at all speeds, though so I am encouraged although I have no idea why this would affect gas mileage. I am also surprised that the anti-sway bar can affect the handling. Just filled the tank and will check that as well. Also ordered a replacement cabin filter for the smell. Thanks for the advice.

I have a 2004 Forester XT with about 80,000 mi. I have two problems: 1) Starting this winter I get a burning/exhaust smell through the heater vent whenever the heater is on and I am not moving. Presumably when I am moving the fresh air clears the cowl intake. Initially it was worse but I found that the valve cover had a slight oil leak and that has been fixed and there is no further leak and everything that may have leaked has certainly burned off. I see no smoke but the garage smells of the same odor. 2) Despite my gr8 all wheel drive I slid into a curb on ice. Right rear wheel hit and bent the strut and damaged bearing and the knuckle. All were replaced. Since then the car handles horribly. Every bump or large crack and the car appears to jump to the side. Even on packed snow it seems to lose stability. Further, gas mileage is now at about 10 mpg! Any ideas, everything looks good by visual inspection. Each rear wheel, when off ground, turns in neutral (5 speed stick) but with much resistance, is this typical for AWD?