Conquer Ontario’s GTA: A Used Subaru Test Drive Guide For 2025

Finding the right car in Ontario's Greater Toronto Area can be tough. As President of Erinwood Ford, I know a lot about cars. Our "Used Subaru Test Drive Guide 2025" helps you pick a great used Subaru.

Let's find your next car together!

Key Takeaways

• Erinwood Ford in Mississauga, Ontario helps you choose a good used Subaru. They check each car for quality.

• Used Subarus are durable and affordable. Models like the Forester are reliable and efficient on fuel.

• Before buying, look at the car's history and test drive it to check its condition. Pay attention to engine performance, brakes, and interior features.

• Common issues in used Subarus include oil consumption, transmission problems, and rust. Erinwood Ford checks for these problems before selling a car.

• Erinwood Ford offers expert advice, vehicle inspections, and flexible financing options to help you find the right used Subaru.

Why Consider a Used Subaru in Ontario’s GTA?

As the President of Erinwood Ford in Mississauga, Ontario, I witness firsthand why a pre-owned Subaru is a wise selection for drivers in the GTA. These vehicles are recognized for their resilience and longevity, making them a superb investment.

They are more affordable compared to ones freshly out from the factory, however, they provide an equally impressive quality and performance. Our team at Erinwood Ford recognizes the significance of securing a vehicle that accommodates your financial capacity without jeopardizing dependability.

Opting for a pre-owned Subaru signifies obtaining a vehicle that's constructed to endure and primed for everything Ontario roads can throw at it – from urban travels to escapades around Lake Ontario and further.

Reliability and durability of Subaru vehicles

Subaru cars are known for lasting a long time. They're built to handle tough roads and harsh weather, which is perfect for Ontario's changing seasons. The Subaru Forester got an engine upgrade that makes it even more reliable than before.

Plus, every Subaru comes with the EyeSight safety system to help drivers stay safe on the road.

Our team at Erinwood Ford believes in giving you cars that won't let you down. That's why we stand behind Subarus. They come with solid coverage that lasts up to ten years or 160,934 kilometres.

This shows how much trust there is in their ability to go the distance.

At Erinwood Ford, our promise is to offer vehicles that bring peace of mind - making sure your journey is safe, enjoyable, and uninterrupted.

Cost-effectiveness compared to new models

Delving into the subject of Subaru's consistent performance and longevity, it's evident why opting for a previously owned model is a wise choice. Acquiring an already-owned Subaru can be economical.

These vehicles maintain the same standard as more recent ones but are available at a reduced price. At Erinwood Ford in Mississauga, we comprehend the significance of value for our patrons.

Hence, we propose outlet pricing amalgamated with superior service.

Our crew ensures every previously owned Subaru undergoes exhaustive checks for quality. This practice guarantees you won't encounter unforeseen repair expenses in the future. Moreover, swapping your existing vehicle at Erinwood Ford can make your finances go a long way.

Added to that, governmental rewards for purchasing a previously owned Subaru make it even more budget-friendly. Considering all these components, opting for a previously owned Subaru turns out to be not just an economical choice but also a smart move for reducing fuel consumption and upkeep over time.

Preparing for Your Test Drive

Before you come in for a test drive, doing your homework will set you up for success. Check out the model year and specific features of the Subaru you're eyeing. This step ensures that when you visit us at Erinwood Ford in Mississauga, Ontario, we can match you with a vehicle that meets your needs and expectations right away.

Our team believes informed customers make confident decisions, so reviewing past care records is crucial too. It gives insight into how well the previous owner maintained the Subaru, guiding your choice even further.

Research the model and year of interest

Looking for a used Subaru means knowing details about the model you want. Let's talk about the Subaru Forester. It has a powerful flat-4 engine with 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque.

This car is great for comfort inside and looks good outside too. It uses fuel well, giving you 8 L/100km combined.

The Forester comes with an all-wheel-drive system that adjusts based on how you steer the car. Make sure to check brakes, tires, and gear selector when taking one for a test drive.

Our team at Erinwood Ford in Mississauga can help you find this model or any other used Subaru that fits what you're looking for.

Review the vehicle’s history and maintenance records

Checking the vehicle's history and maintenance records is key. It shows how well the previous owner took care of the Subaru. Look for regular oil changes, inspection dates, and any repairs or recalls.

This info helps you avoid cars with hidden problems.

At Erinwood Ford, we make sure every used Subaru has a clear record. We check everything from engine performance to brake functionality. Our team wants you confident in your choice.

Trust us to find a well-maintained Subaru for you in Mississauga, Ontario.

Key Inspection Points for a Used Subaru

Checking a used Subaru thoroughly before buying ensures it's a good choice. Our team at Erinwood Ford focuses on engine health and the condition of brakes and suspension to guarantee reliability.

Engine performance and reliability

The Subaru Forester comes with a 2.5-litre flat-4 engine. This setup gives the car strong performance and good gas mileage. We at Erinwood Ford have seen how this boxer engine design offers smooth rides and reliable power for drivers in Mississauga, Ontario.

Our team checks every used Subaru to make sure they meet high standards of quality and reliability.

Gas efficiency is also a big plus with these engines, thanks to guidelines from Natural Resources Canada on fuel consumption. Those who choose a used Subaru can expect an efficient drive without sacrificing performance.

Next up, let's look into the suspension and steering system that supports such solid engines.

At Erinwood Ford, we're proud to offer vehicles that combine robust performance with outstanding reliability.

Suspension and steering

Checking the suspension and steering is a must when looking at a used Subaru. These parts make sure your ride is smooth and that you have control over the car. A good suspension system absorbs bumps, while efficient power steering helps in easy turns and better handling.

You want to feel steady with no shaking or hard turns.

Look for signs like odd noises when driving over bumps or difficulty in steering; these could mean issues. At Erinwood Ford, we inspect each Subaru's suspension systems and power-steering fluid levels carefully, ensuring every vehicle meets our high standards before it gets to you.

This way, you can drive away confident in the performance of your chosen pre-owned Subaru.

Brake functionality

After checking the suspension and steering, it's crucial to focus on brake functionality. This part is key during a test drive of a used Subaru at Erinwood Ford. Our team ensures that every used Subaru, including the Forester with its  updates, has brakes that perform well in all driving conditions.

We run through checks in city traffic and on highways to make sure they meet safety standards.

Testing the brakes lets you feel how they respond under your foot. Pay attention to how quickly the vehicle stops when you press down on the brake pedal and if it stays straight or pulls to one side.

It's our job at Erinwood Ford in Mississauga to make sure you drive away confident in your car's safety features, especially the brakes.

Interior condition and features

The Subaru Forester shines with its updated cabin. It brings comfort and utility together like never before. You'll find the seats offer more support for long drives, making every journey in Ontario’s GTA a pleasure.

Our team at Erinwood Ford appreciates how the redesigned layout gives you easy access to controls and storage. The Forester's tech is also top-notch, including features for navigation, entertainment, and keeping an eye on your driving habits.

Experience enhanced performance and unmatched comfort in the Subaru Forester's interior.

At our Mississauga dealership, we point out the importance of these interior updates during test drives. Customers love the adaptive cruise control and traction control system that make driving safer and more enjoyable.

We believe checking these features should be high on your list when considering a used Subaru. With options like paddle shifters for those who enjoy a sportier feel or continuously variable automatic transmissions (CVTs) for smooth cruising, there's something for every driver here at Erinwood Ford.

Common Issues to Watch for in Used Subarus

When looking for a used Subaru, it's smart to check for oil use issues, shifting troubles in the gearbox, and signs of rust. Our team here at Erinwood Ford in Mississauga will guide you through these common concerns to ensure you feel confident in your purchase.

Oil consumption concerns

At Erinwood Ford in Mississauga, Ontario, we know that oil consumption is a common concern with used Subarus. This problem can affect the car's performance, especially under hard conditions.

If you're thinking about buying a used Subaru, it's smart to ask how much oil it uses. High oil use might show engine wear or other big issues. It’s important to look at regular maintenance records too.

These can tell you how often the previous owner needed to add oil.

During your test drive of a Subaru pre-owned model, pay close attention to any signs of high oil consumption. Our team at Erinwood Ford will help you check this during your test drive and inspection process.

We want you to be confident in your purchase and enjoy driving your Subaru for years to come.

Transmission performance

Checking the transmission is key for a used Subaru. The gear selector should work smoothly, showing good performance. In models like the Subaru Forester, steering wheel controls let you pick drive modes.

These settings change how the car uses power. Sport mode gives more power when you press the gas pedal.

Our team at Erinwood Ford in Mississauga knows these details matter. We check each pre-owned Subaru's transmission thoroughly before it goes on sale. This ensures you get a reliable car that feels right on Ontario roads.

Our goal is to make sure your next vehicle meets our high standards and your expectations.

Rust and corrosion in older models

After checking the transmission's performance, it's key to look out for rust and corrosion in older Subaru models. These vehicles are built to last, but Canada’s harsh winters can take a toll on them.

On used Subarus, especially those more than a few years old, areas like the undercarriage and wheel wells are common spots where rust tends to show up first.

Our team at Erinwood Ford pays close attention to these details during our comprehensive vehicle inspections. Our thorough checks ensure you drive away with confidence.

Rust not only affects the car's look but can lead to bigger problems if left untreated. It might damage important parts that keep your Subaru running smoothly. That’s why at Erinwood Ford, located in Mississauga, Ontario, we make sure each pre-owned Subaru passes a detailed inspection for signs of rust or corrosion before making it available for sale.

This ensures that every used Subaru on our lot is ready for many more kilometres on Canadian roads without worry.

Test Drive Tips for Maximum Confidence

To ensure you’re fully confident in your choice of a used Subaru, our team at Erinwood Ford recommends focusing on how the vehicle handles and feels during a test drive. It’s crucial to listen for any unusual sounds and to pay close attention to how smoothly it accelerates and brakes.

This approach ensures you get a car that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.

Evaluate handling and comfort

Checking the handling and comfort of a used Subaru is key. Our team at Erinwood Ford in Mississauga tells customers to pay attention during their test drive. You should feel how the car turns and stops.

A smooth ride means good suspension. The seats should also feel cozy, especially for long drives.

Listen for any weird noises or shakes while driving. These could point to issues we can help fix before you buy. Models like the Forester and Outback are known for making people happy with their performance on roads.

We want you to be confident in your choice from our selection of pre-owned vehicles.

Check for unusual noises or vibrations

During your test drive, listen carefully for any odd sounds or shakes. These can hint at problems with the car's engine, suspension, or even its exhaust system. Sounds like clunks when turning could suggest issues with the steering or suspension.

A smooth ride without strange noises points to a well-maintained Subaru.

At Erinwood Ford, we make sure each used Subaru meets high standards before it hits our lot in Mississauga. Our team checks for these very issues so you can drive confidently. Remember, catching these signs early can save you from unexpected repairs down the road.

Our goal at Erinwood Ford is to ensure that every pre-owned Subaru we sell has been thoroughly inspected to avoid surprises related to unusual noises or vibrations.

Assess acceleration and braking

After checking for odd sounds or shakes, it's critical to evaluate how the Subaru accelerates and brakes. At Erinwood Ford, we know that a smooth drive depends on reliable acceleration and strong braking.

Test the car on various roads to see if it speeds up smoothly without stalling or hesitating. Braking should feel firm and bring the vehicle to a stop quickly without any pulling side-to-side.

Remember to drive at different speeds to fully test the engine's power and braking efficiency. If you notice any delays when stepping on the gas or brake pedal feels soft, make sure to tell us.

Our team at Erinwood Ford in Mississauga can help sort out these issues before you decide. We want you safe and happy with your used Subaru, ensuring it meets our high standards for performance and safety.

How Erinwood Ford Helps You Find the Right Used Subaru

At Erinwood Ford, we guide you through the selection of a used Subaru with our expert advice and customer service. Our team performs thorough inspections on every vehicle to ensure quality and reliability for your peace of mind.

Expert guidance and customer support

Our team at Erinwood Ford offers expert guidance to help you find the right used Subaru. We understand how important it is for you to feel confident in your purchase. That's why we offer comprehensive vehicle inspections and share detailed history reports with you.

This helps make sure you know everything about your potential car before buying it.

We also provide great customer support. Our team listens carefully to what you need in a car, whether that's fuel efficiency like the Subaru Crosstrek or space like the Subaru Outback offers.

We then match those needs with our wide selection of pre-owned vehicles, ensuring a smooth process for trading in your current vehicle if needed.

Next, let’s explore how flexible financing options can make owning a used Subaru easier than ever.

Comprehensive vehicle inspections

At Erinwood Ford, we take pride in our comprehensive vehicle inspections. Our team looks at every trade-in to make sure used Subaru vehicles meet high standards of quality and reliability.

We check everything from engine performance to how well the brakes work. This means you get a car that is ready for the road.

We also believe in being open about each car's past. You will get detailed history reports for any Subaru you look at. This way, you can feel sure about your choice before you buy it.

Next, let’s talk about how flexible financing options can help make your dream car more affordable.

Flexible financing options

Our team at Erinwood Ford makes buying a used Subaru easy. We offer flexible financing options for all customers, based on approved credit. This means you can find a plan that fits your budget.

Our options help spread out the cost over time, making it more manageable.

We understand each customer has unique financial situations. That's why we work closely with them to create personalized payment plans. Our goal is to make sure you can drive away in your chosen Subaru without stress about finances.

Why Erinwood Ford is the Best Choice in Mississauga

Erinwood Ford stands out in Mississauga for its trustworthiness and vast selection of high-quality pre-owned vehicles. Our team offers expert advice and thorough vehicle checks to ensure you find the perfect used Subaru for your needs.

With flexible payment options available for those who qualify, we make it easy and stress-free to drive away in a great car. Discover why so many choose us for their automotive needs.

Trusted reputation in the GTA

Our team at Mississauga's Erinwood Ford knows the GTA well. We've built a trusted reputation here by offering up-front pricing without hidden fees. This honesty helps our customers feel confident and secure.

Every price tag reflects all eligible discounts, incentives, and rebates available to make sure you're getting a competitive deal.

We regularly check our prices against competitors to keep them sharp and fair. For those looking to upgrade, we welcome trade-ins which adds to the satisfaction of getting into your next vehicle with ease.

Our inventory comes mainly from these trade-ins, allowing us to offer a fresh and diverse selection of pre-owned vehicles including Subarus. Each one undergoes thorough inspections for quality assurance before it hits the lot.

This means when you choose a used Subaru from us, you're not just buying a car; you're choosing peace of mind knowing it meets high standards.

Wide selection of quality pre-owned vehicles

Building on Erinwood Ford's trusted reputation in the GTA, we offer a wide selection of quality used vehicles. This includes various models that suit any need, from family crossovers like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V to efficient sedans.

We ensure each vehicle meets high standards through comprehensive inspections.

Our customers enjoy transparent pricing with no hidden fees. We apply all discounts and rebates right away, making sure you get the best deal. Plus, trading in your current car is easy with us.

It helps us understand vehicle history better and keeps our inventory fresh with local trades and auction finds. Choose Erinwood Ford in Mississauga for your next pre-owned purchase and drive away confident in your decision.

Why Buy From Us

At Erinwood Ford, our team and I make sure you always get a fair deal on a used Subaru. We have up-front pricing with no hidden costs. Our prices include all discounts, incentives, and rebates right away.

We also check what others are offering every day to keep our prices competitive. You won't see extra fees for Admin or Registration when buying from us.

We welcome trade-ins too, which can help lower the price of your next car. Most of our high-quality pre-owned vehicles come from customer trade-ins, ensuring a reliable selection. Choose us for tips on how to test drive a used Subaru and find the best Foresters with boxer engines that offer great litres per 100 kilometres.

With Erinwood Ford in Mississauga, enjoy expert advice and flexible financing options for qualified customers, making your vehicle shopping experience both fun and rewarding.

Erinwood Ford's Used Inventory

Erinwood Ford offers a great selection of used Subarus and other brands. We check prices from our competitors every day to make sure we give you the best deals. Our team makes sure all price discounts, incentives, and rebates are included upfront.

This means no extra fees like Admin or Registration Fees for our used cars. We also welcome trade-ins which helps us keep a varied inventory with a good history.

Our dealership gets many of our pre-owned vehicles from auto auctions and prefers trade-ins because they often have better histories. This practice ensures that you can find reliable used Subarus ready for test driving anytime you visit us in Mississauga, Ontario.

With flexible financing options available for qualified customers, buying your next vehicle at Erinwood Ford becomes an easy choice.

Conclusion

Choosing a used Subaru in Ontario's GTA is smart. My team and I at Erinwood Ford in Mississauga make sure you get a reliable car. We inspect every Subaru carefully, offer advice, and have easy financing for those who qualify.

You can trust us for your next vehicle buy. Let us help you find the perfect Subaru for your needs.

FAQs

1. What should I look for when choosing a used Subaru at Erinwood Ford?

When selecting a used Subaru, focus on the vehicle's maintenance history, overall condition, and specific features that meet your needs. At Erinwood Ford, we ensure every Subaru undergoes thorough inspections for quality assurance, so check the vehicle history reports we provide to understand its past care.

2. How does Erinwood Ford ensure the quality of its used Subarus?

Our team at Erinwood Ford performs comprehensive inspections on each used Subaru, including checks on engine performance, brakes, and interior condition. We also provide detailed vehicle history reports to ensure you know everything about your potential car before making a purchase.

3. What are the advantages of buying a used Subaru instead of a new one?

Buying a used Subaru can be significantly more cost-effective than purchasing a new model. Used Subarus at Erinwood Ford come with the reliability of a new car but at a reduced price

4. Can I trade in my current vehicle when buying a used Subaru at Erinwood Ford?

Absolutely! We welcome trade-ins as they help provide value towards your next vehicle purchase. Trading in your current car can make your transition to a used Subaru smoother and more affordable, plus it helps us keep our inventory fresh with high-quality options.

5. What financing options are available for purchasing a used Subaru at Erinwood Ford?

Erinwood Ford offers flexible financing options for all our customers, based on approved credit. We work with you to find a financing plan that fits your budget, making it easier to own the Subaru you’ve chosen without the financial stress.

Dave Raymond

President, Erinwood Ford & Direct Nissan

Dave Raymond has been a dedicated leader in the automotive industry since 2006, serving as the President of Erinwood Ford and Direct Nissan in Mississauga. With a wealth of experience and a customer-centric philosophy, Dave has consistently aimed to deliver the highest level of satisfaction to his customers.

His involvement in industry relations is extensive, including his roles as a former member of the Ford National Roundtable, President of the Toronto Dealers Association, and various leadership positions on advertising and action committees at the national and local levels.

Dave is deeply committed to social responsibility, actively participating in numerous projects that reflect his dedication to making a positive impact on society. His approach to business ethics focuses on continuous improvement, fostering a team ethos through community service, and creating an interactive and satisfying buying experience for customers.