I'm new to Subaru's and am looking at 2 Foresters, an 05 and an 06. They both seem like they are in pretty good condition, is there any reason one model year would be better than the other? I need all the help I can get, thanks!

Edited April 29, 201510 yr by haleyd

No difference as far as I know.

What are the trim level, mileage, and cost of each?

The 05 has 156,991 miles and is $7418. I'm not sure what you mean by the trim level? And the 06 has 111,238 miles for $8571.

Trim level would be X, XS, or XT for those years. Trim level affects the value of the car. 

 

There is also a LL Bean package that adds value. 

 

The XT has a Turbo engine and will cost more to maintain. 

The '06 is an X and the '05 is an XS. I don't believe either has the LL Bean package or is an XT.

The only real difference is the facelift between 05 and 06. Underneath everything is going to be the same. They did add variable valve timing on the 06 engine which can be problematic if any oil changes have ever been neglected. 

Both of those are prone to external leaks from the head gaskets so be sure to ask if the Head gaskets have been replaced. That's about a $2,500 repair, so consider that as an extra cost for future maintenance if they have not previously been done. 

If one of those vehicles has had the gaskets replaced already, that one will likely be the better choice for longevity. 

As others have said, they're basically identical except for the taillight color and the shape of the front end. I think the 03-05 Foresters look way better than the 06-08. I love my 04 XS.

 

Assuming they are in similar condition, I would take the 05. Its cheaper, nicer trim level, and looks better! On either one, though, find out about the timing belt, pulleys, water pump, and head gasket changes.

 

Edit: Where do you live? I paid around $7500 for my 2004 XS 3 years ago at a dealer and it had less than 100k on the clock and was in beautiful condition inside and out. You might be getting had. Maybe other can chime in on value.

Edited April 29, 201510 yr by jmoss5723

Thanks for the advice! That helps a ton. I'm going to check them out tonight.

 

I'm in Salt Lake City. Does location affect price?

Location does have an affect on price. It varies depending on how popular a particular vehicle is in your area and how much demand there is for that vehicle. 

Prices of those look Ok to me if theyre both in good shape and have all current maintenance done, such as the timing belt and idlers mentioned above. 

 

It is also wise to have a trusted mechanic inspect any vehicle prior to purchase to identify any problems. 

Where are they located, car lot? If it's Nate Wade Subaru there in downtown slc stay clear, I haven't had a very positive buying experience from them, mark miller Subaru seems better to me. Or is it on KSL classifieds?

It's at Mark Miller. After last night I can now say that haven't had a very positive experience with them either.

Check out Craig's list for a used Subaru. Sometimes, you can snag a nice car at a good price from a private owner.

2006 was the first year of the variable valve timing on the nonturbo 2.5 liter.