Forester — Generation guide
SF (1997–2002)
First-gen — essentially a lifted Impreza wagon. EJ25 phase-1 head gaskets are a known issue. Avoid unless you enjoy engine work.
1 known problems0 NHTSA recalls20 repair-cost references
Documented problems (1997–2002)
All problems →NHTSA recalls
All recalls →No NHTSA recall campaigns for Forester model years 1997–2002 are currently in our database. For authoritative status, look the vehicle up by VIN at NHTSA:
nhtsa.gov/recalls — ForesterRepair-cost references
All costs →Repair-cost entries are model-wide; verify applicability for 1997–2002 before quoting.