Subaru 2001 Forester, 71,440 miles, one owner, purchased 04/2000. While driving, grinding noise from rear of vehicle. Talked with Subaru and two independent garages, and all with same conclusion - defective wheel bearing. All stated this was/is a known problem with this vehicle because part was not strong enough. Subaru mechanic diagnosed right rear wheel bearing is problem and it was replaced. Asked for and received replaced part.

- Corvallis, OR, USA

A noise could be heard while driving the vehicle. The dealer determined that the right rear wheel bearing must be replaced.

- Prospect, OH, USA

I already had to change broken bearings in both rear wheels of my 2001 Subaru Forester. I am trained to monitor noise and vibration and was able to catch the problem in-time. The replacement was made by a Subaru dealer with no cost to me. I think that most drivers would not be able to catch the problem and the situation may be life threatening if the bearing finaly completely breaks at high speed and freeze the wheel. I sent acomplain to Subaru company. The company response (case # 332444): "the parts that you had replaced are mechanical. As you know, mechanical parts can fail." I do not think that it is normal if wheel bearings fail in a new car in the first year.

- Farmington Hills, MI, USA