[Motoroil weight ?]

We have a 2005 Forester non-turbo which calls for 5w-30 motoroil. We have been using 10w-30 weight since we live in So Calif. Will this cause any engine damage over the long-term.

[Torqueing lug nuts]

When I rotate tires on alloy rims on my Forester is it absolutely necessary to use a torque wrench. If yes, how important is it to spend big bucks ($30-$50) for one or do the cheapies ($15-$18) work just as well. I don't want to over-invest in a torque wrench when I'll probably only use it when rotating the tires. Appreciate any feedback.

[Jacking up 05 Forester]

I'd like to do some of the routine maint. on my new Forester. I want to lift my car so I can rotate the tires but I'm not sure best place to put floor jack to lift it so I don't do any damage to frame or body. The manual only shows where to put the original tire changing jack. I'd like to lift the car so I can get a couple of jackstands under the car for more security when I go to rotate the tires. Or can I get enough safe lift from using just the tire changing jack in one position, fore or aft.

Thanks.

[Tire rotation]

I'm approaching 7,500 miles on my new 05 Forester XS. Should I take it to a dealer for the rotation or is any tire shop okay? I just need rotation not re-balancing...........what is a fair price for this service ? Thanks.

[2005 Forester Oil Filter]

Thanks Ferret.............Had a feeling the PL 14612 was correct but needed input from Subie veterans.

PL-14612......Forester 2003 Turbo, ALL 2004, ALL 2005. Subaru is changing all 4 cyl to this filter.PL-14460 is for 2003 Non-Turbo and all previous Foresters.

Subaru has a dealer Memo though that states 'for NON-Turbo applications, the older filter CAN be used without voiding the warrenty' or some statement to that extent.

The newer 14612, although smaller on the outside, has a larger filter surface area, BUT a lower bypass valve setting.

[2005 Forester Oil Filter]

What is the correct Purolator oil filter for the 2005 Forester 2.5 NA engine ? Some say the PL-14612 and others say the PL-14460. Which is correct ?

Thanks.

[Tire rotation]

When it comes to rotating my tires should I have the dealer do this because of the AWD system, or can any old hack like myself lift the Forester properly. And do you recommend always having the tires re-balanced each time the tires are rotated. What can I expect the dealer to charge for either of these services ?

 

Last question, I promise, what do you folks recommend when I have to replace the original Yokohamas. Are the Michelins a good tire for the Forester.

 

First time subie owner.

2005 Forester

[Unequal tire pressure for 05 Forester]

My owner's manual recommends 29 PSI for front tires and 36 PSI for rear tires. On previous cars I've owned the manuals always called for same PSI in both front & rear tires. Why does Subaru call for lower pressure in front tires. I assume there is a good reason but would like to know why ! Hope you guys have patience for a first time Subaru owner who will probably have a lot of dumb questions in the future. I just love my Forester and want to become savy about all the nuts & bolts of it.

[Cabin Air Filters]

I work in a shop where we replace those sometimes. Usually penzoil carries some. If you can't find any from any auto stores. You can usually get someone to replace them at Jiffy lube, grease moneky...places like that.

Believe it or not, I called the largest Subaru dealer in So. Calif. today, and their parts dept told me that they don't have any and their computer doesn't even list one for the 05 Forester. So now I have a climate control system with filter element unavailable. This is a first for me. I also tried Pep Boys, Kragen, and internet parts outlets and have yet to find one. Thanks for your ideas, though.

[Cabin Air Filters]

Can anyone help in locatiing a source for cabin air filters for 2005 Forester XS AT.

Havabal

[Coasting downhill]

Have my first Subaru. 2005 Forester. When coasting down hill by my home my former car, Toyota Camry, would increase speed by 10 mph by time I got to bottom. My Forester only increases about 3 mph in same distance and at same starting speed. Is this due to AWD system, or is it possible brakes are draging or something like that ?