New to Foresters, Hello from PA

psiofries · 2025-09-25T13:53:05-0400

Hello, nice to meet you all. I'm pretty young (20 y/o) and very new to cars in general. I was able to get my hands on a 2009 Subaru Forester. It's not too bad of a ride from what I can tell, 197k miles, brakes changed recently, a couple fixes to get it smooth and drivable. Only major changes I feel are necessary are the starter & maybe the suspension.

Are there any things I should be aware of or focus for this specific year/model? I hope to maintain this as my daily driver as long as I can, and learn to work on cars through this. Thank you to any and all who respond! (please update me on any forum ettiequte as well.)

bman400 · 2025-09-25T13:57:41-0400

@psiofries Welcome to the forum from DFW, TX. Please update your profile with details of your vehicle: https://www.subaruforester.org/threads/your-forum-public-profile-how-to-fill-this-out.824165/

Regarding what you should focus on?

Timing Belt, Idler and Tensioner
Water Pump.
Frequent oil changes.
Oil leaks related to the Turbo.

Which transmission do you have? The Auto (4EAT) or Manual (5MT).

Thank you,
bman

psiofries · 2025-09-25T14:59:57-0400

Thank you for your reply! Adding details to my profile now. I have an Auto transmission.

Do you have any suggestions for regular cosmetic fixes/additions (how to repair/change torn leather seats, a good carpet cleaner, etc.)?

bman400 · 2025-09-25T17:11:26-0400

@psiofries I used carpet cleaner for house carpets to clean my non-leather seats in my 2001. repair/change leather seats you should ask your local upholstery place.

Since you have the 4EAT, I recommend you do several drain and refills of the transmission to make sure the fluid is in good condition.

psiofries · 2025-09-25T17:16:07-0400

Noted! Thank you again for your replies and suggestions. Much appreciated!!

maller01 · 2025-09-25T18:24:19-0400

@psiofries Welcome to the forum from another SH owner!

New to Foresters, Hello from PA

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