I know that this is way basic stuff for most of ya'll out there, but compared to my former 97 Outback, what a marvelous difference in the time and frustration factor in tuning up my 03 Forester (30K miles). First off, the factory plugs were Champion! I think it has to do with using a certain % of US parts in import cars. They were very worn, but nothing alarming, ie., oil, etc. The tip I'd like to share, due to the cant of the heads, the plugs don't just fall out, not can they be plucked out by hand. I used a (clean) small piece of rubber brake line hose I had. Shoved it in there, and it stuck to the tip of the plug, came right out. Put em in the same way, it is easier to notice cross threading that way, there's more feel than using a socket w/ extension. I also used Mobil 1 synthetic ATF and gearbox fluid. I'm skeptical, but I did notice an immediate difference with shifting and driveability. I won't doubt you synthetic advocates anymore. I use the syn. motor oil as well. Cheap investment for an expensive piece of machinery. Have a nice evening.

Thanks for the feedback