Why is my Subaru Forester so noisy?

John Paul, aka “the Car Doctor,’’ answers readers’ car-related questions.

By John Paul @johnfpaul

March 15, 2016

3 minutes to read

Q. I love my 2010 Subaru Forester, especially traveling in snowy weather. My only complaint is that engine is noisy. When we drive my husband’s 2005 Mercury Sable, I can hardly hear the engine and the ride is smooth and quiet. Is this a common complaint with other Subaru Forester owners?

A. The Mercury Sable even an 11 year old model is a pretty quiet car. The engine and road noise are a common characteristic of Subaru vehicles. This has to do with the engine design and the all-wheel drive system and I would guess a general lack on noise cancelling insulation. Not that you need a new car but the last Subaru I drove was much more refined and quieter than older models.

Q. I had the front brakes replaced (pads rotors and calipers) and for some reason, when I apply the brakes I get a noise that sounds like metal on metal grinding on the driver’s side wheel. This happens mostly when I leave work, but not all the time. The brakes work fine but this is annoying, any thoughts on this?

A. I would first start with going back to the shop that replaced the brakes to see if everything is okay. It is possible a brake pad is sitting incorrectly in the caliper of even a brake pad with a hard spot in the material that causes the noise. If all looks good the shop might want to consider replacing the brake pads with a different brand.

Q. I own a 2011 Toyota Highlander and I love the car and take very good care of it. The only thing I wish I had got on it is the power lift-gate. Would I be able to get that installed? If that is not possible would you recommend trading it in? I only have 78,000 miles on it so it has plenty of life left on it.

A. Adding a power lift-gate to a vehicle that doesn’t have one is possible although it may not be practical. Certainly with enough time, talent and money everything is possible. All the parts are available (motor, switches and remotes) from Toyota but it will get pricey. As a guess I would estimate $1,500 or so. I did see some aftermarket kits on line that may work. Regarding trading your car in, the mileage, condition and the age should make it a desirable used car trade so it could be worth looking into to get a vehicle with the latest features you need.

Q. Does a 2005 Ford Freestyle have a cabin air filter and how important is it to change it?

A. This model Ford doesn’t use a cabin air filter. For those cars that use cabin air filters it is important to change them when they get dirty. A dirty filter can restrict heater/air conditioner output. Also dirty filters can also be a breeding ground for mold and mildew.

Reader Comment: I read the question and answer in the paper regarding the head-gasket replacement question on the 2006 Subaru Outback. I have replaced the head gaskets on both my 1997 and 2003 Outbacks. In both cases, the cars went to 80-85,000 miles before the gasket needed replacement. At that point the dealer where my cars were serviced suggested that I replace the timing belt since I was within 15,000 miles of the recommendation. The timing belt was less than a $100 and I saved the labor cost for doing the belt separately. That worked for me both times and I felt that I came out ahead. Just thought I would share this tip with other Subaru owners.

Replacing a timing belt or any drive belt when preforming other repairs is always money well spent. This would also be the case with other items that wear out such as water pumps and belt tensioners.