Forester advice

[Gruber]

Any chance of a bit of advice please?

I've got a £3k-ish budget for a winter hack and the Forester has caught my eye. Looks like my budget gets me a N/A or turbo'd car from 2002-4. I'm guessing the n/a is a bit gutless and the turbo rather thirsty, but how gutless / thirsty? Would like to be able to do 30mpg on a run without being bored to tears.

Anything particular to look out for? Any big-bill maintenance items?

And what's the cambelt interval on these? Is it a big job?

Any help and hints much appreciated. Thanks in advance!

[ratboy]

i have a n/a older model and yea there a bit gutless, but i live with it as i got lpg on it as well. have a shop round for a turbo with lpg, speed and a bit of economy as well.

[CaptainSlow]

I have a 2004 turbo currently for sale. You'll just get 30mpg on a run. One thing to watch is the rear shocks, at the age you're looking at they have either been replaced or will need replacing soon. This is a 1k job at the main dealer, or about 400 using an alternative method.

[Gruber]

Thanks for the advice!

Captain - where is yours advertised? Can't find it on PH...

[CaptainSlow]

The ad has expired now. I'm.on holiday for the.next week and a bit. Pm me andc ill drop you the details.

Re cambelt..60K miles or 5 years. About 400 all in if you source the kit wisely. Mine needs doing early next year.