Subaru Forester problems
The Subaru Forester (Japanese: スバル・フォレスター, Hepburn: Subaru Foresutā) is a compact crossover SUV that has been manufactured by Subaru since 1997. The first generation was built on the platform of the Impreza in the style of a taller station wagon, a style that continued to the second generation, while the third-generation model onwards moved towards a crossover SUV design. A performance model was available for the second-generation Forester in Japan as the Forester STi.
First generation (SF; 1997)
The Forester was introduced at the Tokyo Motor Show in November 1995 as the Streega concept, and available for sale in February 1997 in Japan, and to the US market in 1997 for MY1998. The Forester was one of the first crossover SUVs; the idea was inspired by Volkswagen (VW). It was built in the style of a station wagon, but had a taller stance, higher h-point seating, and an all-wheel drive drivetrain. Subaru advertising employed the slogan "SUV tough, Car Easy". It used the Impreza platform but with the larger 2.5-liter DOHC EJ25D four-cylinder boxer engine from the Subaru Outback, making 123 kW (165 hp; 167 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 220 N⋅m (162 lb⋅ft) of torque at 4,000 rpm.
Japan
In its domestic market, the Forester replaced the Impreza Gravel Express, known in the US as the Subaru Outback Sport. However, the Outback Sport remained in production for the U.S. market. The Forester appeared after the introduction of the Nissan Rasheen in Japan with a similar appearance, and the Forester's Japanese competitors include the Toyota RAV4, Mitsubishi RVR, and the Suzuki Grand Vitara. Because of the Forester's low center of gravity, it meets the United States federal safety standards for passenger vehicles and does not require a "risk of rollover" warning label on the driver's visor. Size- and price-wise, it fits between the shared Impreza platform and the larger Legacy.
The automatic transmissions used on AWD-equipped vehicles will normally send 60% of the engine's torque to the front wheels and 40% to the rear wheels, using a computer-controlled, continuously variable, multi-plate transfer clutch. When the transmission detects a speed difference between the front and rear axle sets, the transmission progressively sends power to the rear wheels. Under slip conditions, it can achieve an equal split in front and rear axle speeds.
When accelerating or driving uphill, the vehicle's weight shifts rearward, reducing front-wheel traction, causing the transmission to automatically send torque to the rear wheels to compensate. When braking or driving downhill, the vehicle's weight shifts towards the front, reducing rear-wheel traction. The transmission again compensates by sending torque to the front wheels for better steering control and braking performance. If the automatic is placed in reverse or first gear, the transmission divides the torque 50/50 to both front and rear wheels. The manual transmission cars are set up with a near 50/50 torque split as a base setting, and it varies from there. Essentially, manual cars are set up with more bias towards the rear than automatic cars.
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Subaru Forester model years
Common Subaru Forester problems
The Subaru Forester is a popular compact crossover SUV known for its smooth ride, standard all-wheel drive, and comfortable cabin. However, like any vehicle, it is not completely free from issues. Here are some of the most common problems reported by real owners:
- Recall of front O2 sensor: The front oxygen sensor, which measures the air-to-fuel ratio, can develop a crack, resulting in an illuminated check engine light. Subaru issued a recall for some models (1998, 2000-2007, and 2009-2014) to fix this issue.
- Failed catalytic converter: This problem also produces an illuminated check engine light and might cause the vehicle to fail a smog test. If the vehicle is still under warranty, Subaru will likely cover the cost of the repairs or replacement of the catalytic converter.
- Head gasket failure due to cooling system issues: Subaru extended the head gasket warranty coverage to eight years or 100,000 miles for some vehicles due to the frequency of this problem.
- Engine issues: Forester engine issues include the Check Engine light being illuminated due to a crack in the oxygen sensor or issues in catalytic converter efficiency. These problems can cause the vehicle to fail a smog test. The knock sensor can also fail, causing intermittent issues.
- Transmission problems: Subaru Forester transmission problems typically occur in two ways – shuddering or jerking. These issues are often not resolved by updating the car’s software.
- Oil consumption: Many drivers have reported that they need to get their oil changed more frequently than they have had to in other cars. This is likely due to oil cracks or leaks in the camshaft and crankshaft seals as well as the oil pump seal.
- Electrical issues: These issues span from not being able to open the tailgate to issues with the car’s GPS system. While these issues may cause an inconvenience, they do not render the car inoperable.
These problems do not affect most Forester models, but they are the most frequently cited by owners. It is essential to pay close attention to the engine and transmission before purchasing a Subaru Forester, especially if considering an older used model.
Does the Subaru Forester have any problems?
When it comes to Subaru Forester common problems, one of the most commonly reported is related to the car's oil consumption. Many drivers have reported that they need to get their oil changed more frequently than they have had to in other cars.
What are the downsides of a Subaru Forester?
Common Subaru Forester Problems
- Transmission issues: Many Subaru Forester models with CVT transmissions reportedly had numerous issues. ...
- Excessive oil consumption: Various Subaru models, including the Forester, had oil consumption issues. ...
- Check engine light: An illuminated check engine light points to a dozen issues.
Are Subaru Foresters long lasting cars?
The Subaru Forester has achieved as one of the longest lasting cars through its years of requiring minimal maintenance.
What is common problem with Subaru?
Here are some of the most common Subaru problems to look out for: Damaged bumper. Fast battery drain. Dings and dents.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Subaru Forester years
We have researched Subaru problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Subaru Forester cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Subaru Forester model years:
- Subaru Forester 2019
- Subaru Forester 2015
- Subaru Forester 2020
- Subaru Forester 2017
- Subaru Forester 2018
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Subaru Forester model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Subaru Forester years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Subaru Forester car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Subaru Forester , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Subaru Forester vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Forester model years
A total of 501 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Forester model years
There were a total of 88 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Forester model years
There were a total of 271 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Forester model years
There were a total of 8 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 5929 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Subaru Forester . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Subaru Forester vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Subaru Forester 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-18
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF2SKAJC4PH
- Components: LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: I was driving on a two lane highway in the mountains and came around a small right-veering turn in the road. I straightened out the wheel to resume traveling straight, and my car’s auto-steer kicked in and pulled left into the center divider, and then right across two lanes and crashed into the side of the mountain. The auto-steer has pulled me out of lanes prior to this incident as well.
Subaru Forester 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: JF2SJAJC3JH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: After starting the car for the first time of the day, letting it warm for a minute or two, I started driving and when I went to stop at a stop sign about three blocks from my starting point I pressed the brake. The engine started to rev immediately so I had to stomp the brake to the floor and push the gear selector to the neutral position to avoid hitting a pedestrian and the dog she was walking. She was within 10 feet of the front of my car when I finally stopped. I have not taken it to a dealer yet since I am sure they will not be able to replicate the intermittent problem. There were no warnings of any kind that this was about to happen. I did note though, that the cold engine temperature indicator light on the dashboard was still illuminated.
Subaru Forester 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: JF2SJARC3GH
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The windshield cracked without incident while parked. The is the exact same issue for which there is a class action lawsuit against Subaru for year models 2017-2020. The crack has spread to the drivers side and is obstructing the view. The dealer has reviewed the issue and provided a price quote but will not cover under the extended covered ordered as result of the class action lawsuit. There was no warning of this issue prior to noticing the cracking.
Subaru Forester 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: JF2SKAGC5KH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: As I was driving, every warning light came on, my car emitted a high pitched alarm and the car stopped working. This happened twice. I had to put my car in park. Turn off the car and turn it back on to make it driveable. I took it to the dealer and was informed that the battery and starter required replacement. The battery was covered by an extended warranty (I paid $100 or 20% of the cost), but the starter was not covered by any warranty since my car has 41K miles and is 5 yrs old. I contacted Subaru and they agreed to pay $800 towards the $1209.13 repair. My Subaru Case # 241016-1801159. I believe my starter failed because of the automatic start/stop engine feature. I asked the dealer if the starter failure could have been detected during a regular maintenance and they said no.
Subaru Forester 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: JF2SJAHC5FH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Passenger airbag says to be checked. Was a recall previously fixed in 2020. Same issue is arising and dealership will not fix for free Passenger airbag is off even with person sitting in it with seatbelt buckled
Subaru Forester 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: JF2SKAMC5RH
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: My backup camera would not operate after washing my car. When I was backing up, I got an alert that something was in my way. There was no picture, so I could not see what it was. I had to stop and get out to see. This could lead to serious problems, like getting hit by other vehicles while have to get out and look for obstacle. This could also be a risk to children crossing behind the car, because eventually the driver will tire of getting out and walking around the car. When I went to take the vehicle to the dealer the next day, the car had dried off, and the camera came back on. I looked at other Subaru forums and found many NHTSA recalls on cameras on different year Subaru's. The problem still seems to persist on my model, but no recall.
Subaru Forester 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- VIN: JF2SKAJC2LH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Stopped in traffic near a red light. The Auto Stop/Start was enabled and activated when stopped at the light. When the light turned green, tried to go, but the AS/S system failed. A “No Eyesight” warning flashed and disappeared; various symbol lights blinked. Car would not start, hazards would not activate. After 20-30 seconds, I was able to put the car in park and restart the engine (would not start before then). No battery or check engine lights had been on previously, up to date on oil changes, 35k total miles, and I had a quarter tank of gas. This was scary as I was stuck in the middle of the road with my children while cars behind me tried to pass on either side. Many people have reported this issue in Subarus and I’d like for this dangerous problem to be formally addressed.
Subaru Forester 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- VIN: JF2SKARC0LH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The auto start stop feature has caused my car to shutdown with all lights lit on the dash in more than one scenario. In traffic on the freeway, I had my foot on the brake. It auto stopped. Then when the traffic was starting to move, I went to push the accelerator and the dashboard lights all lit up and the engine shut off completely. The car was still in drive but it was off. I had to shift the car into park and push the start button to start the engine back up. It has happened before at traffic lights with the same outcomes. I went to subaru dealer and they said some of the batteries were faulty and replaced it but that is not the issue since it is still happening. It is dangerous in traffic!
Subaru Forester 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: JF2SJADC6GH
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: I called Subaru made an appointment for service. I was not aware of the recall, although the dealership said it was repaired. No water damage to the seat bottom, the airbag sensor in the bottom of my passenger side seat cushion was bad. It’s attached to the seat. They gave me a loaner for three months and then called to say the part is on back order until “sometime” in 2025. The part is not covered under the recall and it will be approximately $2000 to fix. This has been a complaint from many owners of the recalled airbag years. At this point it is being replaced so often the part is on back order with an undetermined in stock date.
Subaru Forester 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: JF2SJAEC2EH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: airbag inspection light comes on. Dealer verified vehicle has defective passenger harness and or seat cushion. Replaced harness under passenger seat in July 24, now Oct 24 airbag inspection light is back on. The 2014 has the same WUM 98 harness kit and seat sensor, so why isn't the 2014 Subaru Forrester included in the WUM 98 recall?
Subaru Forester 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: JF2SKAJC1MH
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The front windshield is covered in chips all over it I've got a few bigger ones repaired. However the whole windshield needs to be replaced I don't even know where they've come from I mean the whole windshield is just covered and tiny little chips and when the sun shines on it while you're driving It makes visibility extremely hard. And from what I gather researching windshields on Subaru this is a flaw... I've had plenty of vehicles and never have seen such a bad windshield. I recently purchased this vehicle in August and it has $112,000 mi on it. I did not see the issue with the windshield until after purchasing it and driving in direct sunlight. I did notice a few big chips in The windshield and the dealership did repair those...
Subaru Forester 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: JF2SJAJC9JH
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The initial incident happened when I was accelerating uphill. When I pressed the gas pedal to accelerate, the car began jerking and sputtering. I released the gas pedal and let the car coast, as I was heading toward a stop sign. After I stopped and then accelerated the second time, the engine seemed to smooth out. Nothing further happened until about 1 week later. The second incident, I was 35 minutes into an hour-long drive. I was going around 45-55mph when the same issue happened suddenly: I pressed the gas pedal and the car started shaking and sputtering. If I released the gas pedal, the car was fine. All check engine lights came on and were flashing. I lowered my speed into the 30s, and the issue continued to happen, regardless of what speed I was driving at. If I was accelerating, the car was shaking a lot. At stop signs, the lights would turn off, but pop on as soon as I began driving again. I was able to make it to my destination and when I parked the car, it was shaking a lot while idling. It felt like the engine was about to die or shut off. It was late so I turned the vehicle off and left it parked for the night. The next morning, when I started the car, it was continuing to shake/sputter during idle and I drove it briefly to see how it ran. It continued to shake when pressing the gas pedal, however, the check engine lights were not on. Since I had to drive back home, I decided to take it slow and began the two-hour drive back. The engine again seemed like it wanted to die as I let the car warm up, but it did not shut off. Initially when driving, the car continued to have the same problem - shaking whenever I pressed the gas pedal, no matter the speed. The check engine panel lights did not come on, however, and after driving for about 20 minutes, the issue cleared up. I've only driven it as needed since then and it is currently running ok, but, given the numerous fuel pump recalls I'm concerned there is a defect with this model.
Subaru Forester 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: JF2SJAGC7JH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated, and the air bag was not activated message was displayed. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 70, 000.
Subaru Forester 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: JF2SJADC0FG
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: My clutch fork was nearly broken in two.(pics available). I asked the mechanic to save the old parts. My 6MT was never modified; the vehicle was neither raced, taken off-road nor used for towing. A friend discovered the following article online: [XXX] Based on said article , I believe the part on my vehicle was defective. How may other manual transmission Subarus have been affected by this defect ? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Subaru Forester 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: JF2SKAGC1KH
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Forester. The contact stated while driving at 65 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed and became inoperable. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or independent mechanic for diagnosis or repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 12,000.
Latest 5 recalls Subaru Forester
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 110 recalls for different components of the Subaru Forester.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Subaru Forester 2022
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-09
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
- Consequence: An inoperative inhibitor switch may prevent the reverse lights from illuminating and the rearview camera image from displaying, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the inhibitor switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WRQ-23.
- Model: Subaru Forester 2024
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-09
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Crosstrek, Impreza, 2023-2024 Forester, and 2023 WRX vehicles. The front driveshaft assemblies' outer race may develop cracks and break.
- Consequence: A broken driveshaft can cause a loss of drive power while driving or vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is in park without the parking brake engaged. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the left and right front driveshafts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRP-23.
- Model: Subaru Forester 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-09
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Crosstrek, Impreza, 2023-2024 Forester, and 2023 WRX vehicles. The front driveshaft assemblies' outer race may develop cracks and break.
- Consequence: A broken driveshaft can cause a loss of drive power while driving or vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is in park without the parking brake engaged. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the left and right front driveshafts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRP-23.
- Model: Subaru Forester 2024
- Report Received Date: 2023-10-26
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Forester vehicles. The engine water pipe may have loose attachment bolts, allowing the pipe to lose its seal and leak coolant.
- Consequence: Leaking coolant can contact a hot exhaust pipe, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Subarus independent distributor processing facilities will tighten the water pipe attachment bolts. The affected vehicles have not been delivered to dealers or sold to owners and therefore, no owner notification letters will be sent. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRO-23.
- Model: Subaru Forester 2013
- Report Received Date: 2022-11-10
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles. The front seat belt assembly force-limiter may not operate correctly in the event of a crash.
- Consequence: The seat belt assembly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the seat belt assembly, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 9, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRJ-22.
Latest negative Subaru Forester car reviews
Latest positive Subaru Forester car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2021
We recently upgraded from our 2016 Forester to the 2021 model and we are absolutely thrilled with it. We had the Premium line for both models, but the 2021 has so many more features included that it's truly amazing. The ride is noticeably smoother and quieter, and the instrumentation and comfort have also been significantly improved. Overall, we couldn't be happier with our purchase. It's worth noting that the cargo rails are now sold separately due to the increased features, but at $200 it's a reasonable additional cost.
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Vehicle year: 2000
The Forester is a fantastic small SUV with a lot of great features. It has decent pickup for a 4 cylinder and handles very well. Although the back seat is a bit cramped, it is still a comfortable ride. The cargo area is laid out nicely and has plenty of room. Overall, I am extremely happy with this purchase and would definitely recommend it to others.
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Vehicle year: 2005
This is my first car and I got it for a great price, even though it has 192k miles on it. I was a bit hesitant about buying a car with that many miles, but it was the only Subaru I could afford. Subarus have been a part of my family for years and I know they are reliable. The previous owner took good care of it and did regular maintenance, so I haven't found any issues with it. I've only had it for a few weeks, but it runs great. I plan on keeping up with maintenance to make sure it lasts for another 100k miles. I love my Forester and I even tease my mother, who drives an Impreza sedan, that my car is cooler than hers.
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Vehicle year: 2010
My 2005 Forester was a true hero, protecting me when a semi ran me into a cement median at 65 mph. Thanks to its safety features, I walked away with only a few bruises from the seat belt. When it was time to replace it, I chose the 2010 Forester, which is even more spacious and comfortable than its predecessor. I particularly love the fabric upholstery, which keeps me cool in the summer and warm in the winter, and the heated front seats are a real treat! Despite its larger size, the car still has an impressive turning radius, and I have not experienced any rattles or noise. In fact, the '10 model is even quieter than the '05. Above all, I have always found my Foresters to be reliable, spunky, and excellent at handling any challenge that comes their way.
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Vehicle year: 2009
After retiring my beloved 1998 Impreza to project car status, I needed a new daily driver. Since I travel about 50% for work, I was looking for a car that wouldn't break the bank. The 2009 Forester was redesigned to be more SUV than wagon, and it's a great choice. With the turbocharged boxer, it's quick and efficient. The driver's seat is incredibly comfortable, and I can drive for 90 minutes without feeling the need to stretch. The back seat is spacious and has plenty of headroom for even the tallest folks, plus a sizable cargo area. Subarus are known for their reliability and performance, and the Forester is no exception. It's a great car to drive, especially in winter conditions. Subaru owners become very loyal, very quickly, and it's easy to see why.
Are you having problems with your Subaru Forester?
Max Stracke 2025-05-20
Vehicle year: 2010
After conducting 6-7 months of research, I finally purchased a new Forester 2.5X (basic). My plan is to use it as a family car and to access trail heads via back roads. Unfortunately, after only 3 weeks and 600 miles on asphalt, it began to rattle at relatively low speeds, around 20-40 mph. This was quite disappointing, as the last time I experienced a rattle like this was when I was much younger and driving a small Soviet-made piece of junk - quite different from my cute new Forester! Although the service department was able to reduce the rattle, it is still present. They even gave me a replacement Forester, but it rattled just as loudly as my own. Needless to say, the rattle has taken away from the joy of owning a new car. Additionally, the gas mileage in the city is relatively poor, even when we drive it gently.
Camron Steuber 2025-05-17
Vehicle year: 2011
Congratulations on your first Subaru and AWD car! Living in New England, it's great to have a reliable winter car like this one. It's awesome to hear that it saved you from the brutal winter of 2011 and was able to handle the snow and salt banks with ease. While the interior may have some room for improvement, it's great that you were able to get such a good deal on the car. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
Kian Swaniawski 2025-05-17
Vehicle year: 2003
This car is a great buy. It handles well, has good acceleration, and fair gas mileage. However, after owning it for less than two years, I encountered an issue with the head gaskets. This is a common problem that can be fixed for $1600. It's worth noting that this issue is mentioned in MSN Autos' reliability ratings. Despite this setback, I still recommend this car.
Dashawn Hickle 2025-05-16
Vehicle year: 2013
I purchased my Forester new in the Fall of 2012. I was looking for a car that met a variety of needs, including AWD, good fuel economy, mid-size, roof rack, and trailer hitch. While the Forester did meet many of these needs, some were not met as well as I had hoped. This review comes after almost 6 years of heavy use (168K as of this writing). First, the good news; the car gets pretty good mileage all things considered, exactly 1 mpg less than the dash readout. I keep a detailed spreadsheet of fuel and mileage costs for my business. The car is glued to the road like nothing I've driven before. It did everything I asked it to, including hauling extension ladders and trailers. Now for the not-so-good news: oil consumption. How does a quart every 1K sound? Don't let anyone tell you that's normal. My car had reached 100K when the consumption test notice came. I got an $80 check for extra oil, which was laughable. I won't go into the details here, but you'd benefit yourself to google Subaru/Oil Consumption, as it's a defect they're well aware of. The car is also quite noisy, with more cabin noise than a Jeep Wrangler (top up). Passengers often comment on the noise. I added Dynamat soundproofing material throughout with little success- it took away noise outside but did nothing for road/chassis noise. The materials used match the price, and are average at best. The paint is easily scratched, the carpet is hard to clean, and the laminated leather seating won't age gracefully like a vintage 60's car. This stuff will split and delaminate where thin, but that is probably true of most contemporary cars. So, would I buy another Forester? No. It served me well, but I hung on to it a bit too long and I'm now replacing parts at an increasing alarming rate. I usually do my own work, so I'm not spending as much as someone who would pay a mechanic, but I've had to replace the wheel bearings twice (very difficult due to corrosion here in the NE, garages may charge $300-$400 for one alone), just put in my second set of front transaxles, and fixed numerous lesser items. However, the oil consumption is the real big deal.If you are considering purchasing a Subaru, it's important to be aware of potential oil consumption issues that could affect the model you are interested in. I have personally experienced these issues and wanted to share my perspective. Additionally, as a car enthusiast, I have owned a variety of vehicles and while the Subaru served its purpose, I never felt a strong connection to it. However, I understand that everyone has different preferences when it comes to cars. It's worth noting that while Subaru has marketed their cars as long-lasting, there are still some challenges that owners may face. I hope this information is helpful in your decision-making process.
Jerod Rosenbaum 2025-05-14
Vehicle year: 2013
I purchased this vehicle from a Subaru dealership with 72,000 miles on it. Unfortunately, I experienced some issues with oil consumption from the beginning. I initially thought it was due to a lack of oil during my first oil change at Wal-Mart. However, I noticed that the oil level was over a quart low halfway through my second oil change. As I continued with the oil change, the oil consumption increased. If you plan to drive around 3,000 miles on the oil change, please be aware of this issue. My wife drives 120 miles round trip to work, and I had to top off the oil before she left and add a quart the next day. I had to get the oil changed the next day at only 3,000 miles when you should be able to go 5,000 with full synthetic. Unfortunately, I found out that this was a common issue with this year's Forester when we had 105,000 miles on it. However, Subaru would only do something about the problem up to 100,000 miles. I tried to get help from the Subaru dealership and customer service, but they were unable to assist me. Although I have owned a 2003 and 2004 Forester before, which never had any oil consumption issues, this was the most expensive and worst vehicle I have ever owned. If Subaru had helped me out, I would have given them another chance. However, since they did not, I am disappointed and will not be purchasing another Subaru. I hope this information helps you make an informed decision when purchasing a vehicle.