Hello Scotty,
I’m helping an elderly person to buy a new car, she never owned a new vehicle in lifetime so she wants to be sure the vehicle is reliable and will last 200k+ miles. What is your opinion on Subaru Forester and crosstrek, are they reliable? one mechanic talks about it on youtube and says good things. Older ones had motor oil consumption issues and sealent instead if actual gaskets which she’s not interested. She’s not interested in any used vehicles as every used vehicle she bought in the past are nothing but issues. Are 2025 2026 Forester & Crosstrek have timing chain? and an actual motor head gaskets, valve gasket or Sealant instead of gaskets? Her first choice most likely Forester. Any opinion’s suggestions will greatly appreciate. Thank you.
If money is tight, Subaru sales are way down and those dealers may be more open to negotiation. However, getting 200,000 miles or more out of a Subaru is going to be a sporting proposition. More likely between 100,000 and 150,000 miles and you may need an engine-out reseal along the way. If unlucky the CVT could crater during that period as well.
This video from "The Car Care Nut" may help you decide on a Toyota instead:
Whatever you decide on you should familiarize yourself with the dirty tricks that many dealers try to pull on their customers. These youtube channels and others may help:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4VmiBpdOVWW-zueaAsJrjQ
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzGxSaDv_5dgSe4RgJ99sfA
Well they have timing change but they still use a lot of silicone glue instead of gaskets. That's a Subaru thing to save money when they build them. She would be much better off buying a Toyota product
