by Angela » Thu Sep 03, 2009 3:48 pm
[quote="peder_y2k"][b]We use a 2003 Forester to tow the Mity Lite trailer. Towing across the western US last season, we got 22mpg average through the Rockies and 70mph in the heat of Nevada with AC full on. Without the 1000lbs. of the loaded trailer, the car gets an average 28mpg on trips. We're planning to go to southern Wyoming this summer ($$$$permitting) with the Mity Lite to poke around in the fossil beds of the Green River area.
The Forester is an excellent all purpose travel vehicle. It can go places most people won't, and that makes things fun. And, it will tow up to 2000lbs. if the trailer has its own brakes/1000lbs. without. I installed an off the shelf class II hitch from U-Haul that cost $100 and went on in 1/2 hour of my time.
The car just doesn't like the 86 octane fuel sold as 'regular' in several western states. The 'emissions' light comes on with continued use, and when we switch back to 87 octane that is considered regular here at home, the light goes out. Now when travelling, I mix octanes when I think about it, and the light does not come on.
We use Mobil 1 and the Purolator Pure One oil filter and change oil once a year or every 15,000 miles whichever comes first. The oil sells for some $20 at Costco for a 6-pack, and the filter is $6 at GI Joes.
The only change to the car being considerd is impoved front brake pads to deal with the heat of braking in the mountains. The trailer does not have brakes, so the car does all the work. We're considering the "HAWK HPS Street" brake pads as the only upgrade.
What I personally don't like about the car is all the 'safety interlock' stuff that makes opening the car, rolling down the windows etc. all a key dependent function. The car is not made for a quick getaway, or to roll the windows up in a sudden thunderstorm..........unless the key is in the ignition and turned on. Rather frustrating at times......but that's modern cars for you.
I reccommend the Forester to anyone seeking a good handling, eonomical all around travel SUV......for two people, maybe with one child.
-Pete, in Tacoma WA USA[/b][/quote]