2006 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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Common 2006 Subaru Forester problems
The Subaru Forester 2006 is known for a few common problems that have been reported by its owners. One of the most significant issues is related to the engine, particularly the head gaskets. At higher mileages, head gasket leaks have been reported, leading to overheating, coolant loss, and a coolant odor coming from under the hood. If not addressed promptly, the engine can sustain costly damage from overheating. Regular maintenance, including checking the coolant (antifreeze) level and using a special cooling system conditioner, is recommended to prevent such issues
Another common problem with the Subaru Forester 2006 is the catalytic converter failures, which tend to occur as the vehicle ages. This issue, along with blown head gaskets, piston slap, and other engine problems, can lead to engine noises, misfiring, and various leaks at higher mileage. These issues may require frequent repairs and maintenance, making it a suitable project for those who enjoy doing things themselves and don't mind getting their hands dirty
The interior of the Subaru Forester 2006 is also known for its delicate nature. The interior can age, ding, scratch, and tear easily, especially with heavy use or in construction environments. The carpet at the feet may also wear and tear over time. Additionally, major and minor repairs become more frequent after about 120k miles, with some owners reporting head gasket repair, multiple belt issues, thermostat problems, leaking and burning oil, brake issues, and weather stripping coming undone, among other problems.
Lastly, the 2006 Subaru Forester's power steering pump may cause issues, making a lot of noise and making it difficult to decipher any odd engine noises. In some cases, a bad power steering pump can lead to overheating, unresponsive gas pedals, and vibrating engines, as reported by some owners.
Is Subaru Forester 2006 reliable?
The engine isn't very powerful and the fuel economy isn't great either, around 10L/100km on the highway. It's been a very reliable car, except for one instance where the air hose had a hole and melted the thermostat, nearly overheating the engine.
What is the most common problem with the Subaru Forester?
Most Common Subaru Forester Problems
- Engine Issues. There are a variety of issues that owners have reported that are related to the Check Engine light being illuminated. ...
- Transmission Problems. Subaru Forester transmission problems typically occur in two ways – shuddering or jerking. ...
- Oil Consumption. ...
- Electrical Issues.
How many miles will a 2006 Subaru Forester last?
The Subaru Forester has impressed owners with its durability since its 1998 debut, with many of the machines lasting up to 200,000 miles or longer.
Are Subaru Foresters cheap to fix?
The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Subaru Forester is $632, compared to an average of $521 for compact SUVs and $652 for all vehicle models.
Is Subaru Forester 2006 reliable?
The engine isn't very powerful and the fuel economy isn't great either, around 10L/100km on the highway. It's been a very reliable car, except for one instance where the air hose had a hole and melted the thermostat, nearly overheating the engine.
What is the most common problem with the Subaru Forester?
Most Common Subaru Forester Problems
- Engine Issues. There are a variety of issues that owners have reported that are related to the Check Engine light being illuminated. ...
- Transmission Problems. Subaru Forester transmission problems typically occur in two ways – shuddering or jerking. ...
- Oil Consumption. ...
- Electrical Issues.
How many miles will a 2006 Subaru Forester last?
The Subaru Forester has impressed owners with its durability since its 1998 debut, with many of the machines lasting up to 200,000 miles or longer.
What are common problems with 2005 Subaru Forester?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Noises And Leaks. Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks. ...
- Climate System. ...
- Fuel System/Emissions. ...
- Engine Minor. ...
- Engine Major. ...
- Brakes. ...
- Drive System. ...
- Paint And Trim.
2006 Subaru Forester car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Forester problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Suspension problems
- Engine problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2006 Subaru Forester vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2006 Subaru Forester
The NHTSA has received 88 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2006 Subaru Forester. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2006 Subaru Forester vehicles.
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-27
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF1SG63676H
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: Front drivers side control arm broke at bracket point and lost control of vehicle steering. And car was damaged hitting a post. Vehicle per recall for control arm had already been “fixed” contacted Subaru if control arms were replaced under recall or the “rust proofing” applied.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-27
- VIN: JF1SG656X6H
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that upon purchase of the vehicle, he discovered that the vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V464000 (Suspension). The contact then took the vehicle a dealer where he was informed that the recall was serviced. Less than two months later, the contact stated that while driving 60 MPH, the steering wheel began to shake as he began to lose control of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact used excessive force to steer the vehicle off to the highway shoulder. The contact inspected the vehicle and discovered that the front driver’s side lower control arm was fractured. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where the contact discovered that no work was performed on the vehicle. The contact purchased the parts and replaced the control arm himself. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 189,000.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-18
- VIN: JF1SG63616H
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Front control arm failed on car. Which snapped the front axle and sway bar link on right side. Found out it was a known issue that was taken care of by dealer. Waiting to see if they will cover repairs.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-11
- VIN: JF1SG63656H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: It just the airbags light turn on
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-06
- VIN: JF1SG63686H
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: I was made a turn at roughly 15mph and the front passenger side control arm sheared in half causing me to lose control of the vehicle and then abruptly come to an immediate stop. My family was in the car and at a higher speed this could have been fatal. Had there been any vehicles behind me that could have caused an accident with unknown results. Had this been moments early I would have been in a head on collision. This is a known issue for this year, make, and model that was not properly resolved in the past by the manufacturer. The part should not fail in that manner. There were no warnings. The failure was inspected by the tow truck driver.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-13
- VIN: JF1SG63676H
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Five years ago my "check engine" light came on and the cruise control light came on and it would not work. I took it to Suberu in Fort Worth and they couldn't find the problem bu tsaid my gas cap was not sealing. God new one but didn't help. This year when I went to get it checked for regisration they woudn't pass it. Took it to mechanic who installeda new Evaprotive Vapor Canister for $920. That didn't work but wouldn't try again. Later another mecanic said the problem was "Not enough driving". (less that 100 miles a month. I have been driving the car with the check engine on an no cruise control for 6-7 years with no trouble, so it is a fault of the car's systems. I can't get it registered because of this problem. I can disconnedt the negative battery post briefly and the light goes off for a day or two. So what can you do for me? I love the car but hate the problem. I am 90, but that's not the problem.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-31
- VIN: Jf1sg65656h
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: As I was going down the road my car sped up and my foot was off the gas pedal as the pedal was stuck-I managed to stop my car but not before it reached 75 mph in a 50 I was originally going 50
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-12
- VIN: JF1SG65666H
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: I was traveling down a steep two lane road (California route 32) on my way to Chico, CA when my rear drivers side wheel came off. With some difficulty, I was able to pull the car off to the left side of the road (steep embankment on the right side, 50-60 foot ravine on the left side). I had my car safety inspected before I left on this trip at the Missoula, MT Subaru dealer and I suspect that they did not properly tighten the wheel and my spare tire was flat even though that was also supposed to be checked in the safety inspection. The body around the wheel well was slightly damaged, my muffler under the car broke and Chico Subaru refuses to fix any of it. I also contacted Subaru America and am waiting to hear back from them
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-20
- Crash: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JF1SG65616H
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: RCN 07V043000
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-23
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF1SG67646H
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING MY CAR THE PASSENGER CONTROL ARM FAILED, SNAPPING IN HALF AND I LOST CONTROL OF MY VEHICLE. UPON LOOKIN UNDER MY CAR I COULD SEE THE SNAPPED CONTROL ARM, WHICH WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT. I ALSO OBSERVE THE DRIVER SIDE CONTROL ARM IS ALSO VERY RUSTY. BOTH CONTROL ARMS ARE THE ONLY ISOLATED RUSTED PARTS UNDER MY CAR, THE REST OF MY CAR DOES NOT HAVE ANY RUST. IT WAS ALARMING TO ME THAT BOTH CONTROL ARMS ARE THE ONLY COMPLETELY RUSTED PARTS UNDER MY CAR, SO I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP I PURCHASED THE CARE FROM TO INQUIRE ABOUT RECALLED PARTS. THEY INFORMED ME THAT THE CONTROL ARM HAD BEEN RECALLED, AND MY CAR HAD BEEN "SERVICED" FOR THIS RECALL IN 2012 THROUGH RUST-PROOF SPAYING. THE CONTROL ARMS WERE NOT REPLACED AT THE TIME OF SERVICE FOR THE RECALL. UPON CALLING SUBARU OF AMERICAN TO HAVE THESE RECALLED PARTS REPLACED NOW BECAUSE THEY FAILED IN A KNOWN LOCATION. I WAS ALARMED THAT RUST-PROOF SPRAY WAS USED TO TREAT A RECALLED PART THAT HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED TO RUST AT ACCELERATED RATES AND THE PARTS WERE NOT AUTOMATICALLY REPLACED. THE RUST PROOF SPRAY SEEMS LIKE A TEMPORARY FIX THAT WILL EVENTUALLY WHERE AWAY AND THEN THE PART WILL FAIL IN THE FUTURE (WHICH IS WHAT HAPPENED TO ME WHILE DRIVING). SUBARU REFUSED TO REPLACE THE RECALLED CONTROL ARMS IN MY CAR BECAUSE THE PARTS HAS BEEN SPRAYED IN 2012.THE ATTEMPT AT SERVICING THE RECALL DID NOT WORK, AND THESE PARTS HAVE STILL RUSTED AT AN ACCELERATED RATE, ULTIMATELY FAILING. THE CONTROL ARMS ARE THE ONLY RUSTED PARTS OF MY CAR, AND THE PASSENGER ARM FAILED CAUSING ME TO LOSE CONTROL OF MY CAR.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-25
- VIN: JF2SJABC56H
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2016 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BRATTLEBORO SUBARU (1234 PUTNEY RD, BRATTLEBORO, VT 05301) TO BE SERVICED FOR AN UNKNOWN MANUFACTURER RECALL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON RETRIEVING THE VEHICLE FROM THE DEALER, THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED AND THE POWER STEERING WAS INOPERABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING FAILURE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT EXTRA EFFORT WAS NEEDED TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL IN EITHER DIRECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN BACK TO DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND OFFERED TO FIX THE VEHICLE FREE OF CHARGE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 51,000. THE VIN WAS INVALID.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-15
- VIN: JF1SG65606H
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LOWER CONTROL ARM WAS RUSTED AGAIN. THE CONTACT CALLED THOMAS SUBARU AT 814-623-813 (LOCATED AT 4003 BUSINESS 220, BEDFORD, PA 15522) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V464000 (SUSPENSION); THEREFORE, THE REPAIR WOULD NEED TO BE DONE AT THE CONTACT'S EXPENSE. THE CONTACT WAS UNSURE IF THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 126,000.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-27
- VIN: JF1SG69646H
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN STARTING THE VEHICLE IN COLD WHETHER, THE CABIN FILLS UP WITH THE SMELL OF GAS. AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH AND TALKING TO A MECHANIC, IT IS CLEAR THAT IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THESE CARS. I ALSO SEE THAT MANY MORE OF THESE COMPLAINTS HAVE BEEN MADE, BUT NOT OPENNED AS AN INVESTIFGATION. THE GAS LINES (SOME SAY GASKETS TOO) SHRINK IN COLD WHETHER AND FUMES OR GAS LEAK. WHEN THE ENGINE WARMS UP, THE RUBBER COMPOUNDS EXPAND AND THE SMELL THIS GOES AWAY. THIS CAN TAKE 10-15 MINUTES. IT SEAMS LIKE MOST PEOPLE JUST LIVE WITH THIS BEACSUE IT GOES AWAY AT WARM UP, BUT I HAVE A PREGENANT WIFE AND THINK IT IS RIDICULOUS TO HAVE TO PUT UP WITH GAS FUMES IN THE CABIN AT ALL, NOT TO MENTION THERE IS NO TELLING IF SOME OF THOSE FUMES ARE ACTUALLY GAS LEAKING NEAR THE CYLINDER. THIS COULD BECOME VERY DANGEROUS. PLEASE OPEN AN INVESTIGATION INTO THIS ISSUE FOR THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF DRIVERS AND PASSENGERS EVERYWHERE.
TIRES,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-01
- VIN: JF1SG63656H
- Components: TIRES,WHEELS
- Summary: TWO FLAT TIRES ON BRAND NEW COOPER EVOLUTION TOUR 215-60R16 (@100 MILES), BOTH ON THE FRONT. ONE FLAT NOTICED AFTER THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN DRIVEN BUT SAT FOR A FEW HOURS (NO VISIBLE DEFLATION UPON EXITING); THIS TIRE HAD NO VISIBLE PUNCTURES, THOUGH THERE APPEARED TO BE A BIT OF TEAR BETWEEN THE TREADS (SEE PHOTO). AFTER DRIVING HOME ON A SPARE, ALL REMAINING TIRES SEEMED OK. THE NEXT MORNING THE OTHER FRONT TIRE WAS VISIBLY DEFLATED AND HAD A SIZABLE BULGE.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-29
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CAR ACCELERATED WHEN MY FOOT WAS NOT ON THE GAS PEDAL. I NEEDED TO STEP HARD ON THE BRAKE TO CONTROL THE CAR. I PUT GEAR INTO NEUTRAL, AND REVIVING ENGINE SOUND DID NOT STOP. I REMOVED ORIGINAL RUBBER FLOOR MAT, AND PROBLEM STOPPED. DANGEROUS! 2 KIDS IN THE CAR WITH ME. TODAY IS 88 F TODAY.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-27
- VIN: JS1SG368H71
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: EVERY TIME I REACH SPEED OF 80MPH IN THE FREEWAY MY STEERING WHEEL IS VIBRATING OUT OF CONTROL
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-15
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JF1SG63606H
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: SITTING IN THE CAR, ENGINE RUNNING; HAD PULLED OVER FOR A COUPLE MINUTES TO LET PASSENGER OUT. NOTICED SMOKE STARTED TO SEEP OUT FROM ENGINE. CHECKED TEMP GAUGE AND SAW IT WAS COOL. TURNED OFF ENGINE AND MOVED AWAY FROM THE CAR IMMEDIATELY. AFTER A MINUTE OR TWO, SAW FLAMES COMING OUT FROM ENGINE COMPARTMENT. CALLED THE FIRE DEPARTMENT, THEY ARRIVED WITHIN A FEW MINUTES AND EXTINGUISHED THE ENGINE FIRE. ENGINE, FRONT TIRES, EVERYTHING IN ENGINE AREA COMPLETELY DESTROYED BY THE FIRE. PRIOR TO THIS, NO PROBLEMS, NO ENGINE LIGHT LIT, NO UNUSUAL SOUNDS OR HANDLING OR SMELLS, NOTHING TO INDICATE ANYTHING WAS WRONG.
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-04
- VIN: JF1SG65656G
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION ON A HIGHWAY, I DROVE OVER A POTHOLE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE AND MY LOWER CONTROL ARM BROKE DUE TO A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH CORROSION IN THIS MODEL YEAR. THERE WAS A NOTICEABLE PROBLEM WITH WHEEL ALIGNMENT WHICH WAS ABLE TO BE FELT IN THE STEERING WHEEL. SUBARU RECALL WVX-34 WAS SUPPOSED TO FIX THIS SAFETY ISSUE. THE 'REPAIR' WAS COMPLETED ON MY VEHICLE IN JANUARY OF 2012. AS YOU CAN SEE FROM THE PHOTOS, THE RUST PROOFING DID NOT HELP.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-25
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: 2006 SUBARU FORESTER. CONSUMER WRITES STATING THAT RUNNING HEADLIGHTS BEING A REQUIREMENT ON VEHICLES. *LD *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-13
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: CONTROL ARM IS RUSTED COMPLETELY THROUGH. I NEED TO FULLY REPLACE THE ENTIRE ARM. IT'S URGENT, AS THE ENTIRE WHEEL AND MECHANISM COULD FALL OFF AT ANY TIME.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-13
- VIN: JF1SG67646H
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A TIRE SHOP TO PURCHASE A SET OF NEW TIRES. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED BY THE TECHNICIAN THAT THERE WAS NO POINT OF REPLACING THE TIRES BECAUSE BOTH FRONTAL CONTROL ARMS WERE SEVERELY RUSTED AND THE VEHICLE SHOULD NOT BE DRIVEN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TOO OLD TO BE INCLUDED IN A RECALL FOR THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 136,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-15
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF1SG63646H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I HAD A HEAD ON COLLISION AND NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. THE CRASH WAS AT APPROXIMATELY 30 MILES AN HOUR. I WAS HIT IN THE FRONT. THE CRASH WAS ON A MAIN ROADWAY IN LONG ISLAND NY.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-18
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WENT TO DEALERSHIP (HERITAGE, SUBARU IN CATONSVILLE, MD) TO GET LEVER CONTROL ARM ON 2006 SUBARU FORESTER REPLACED. WAS TOLD BY THE DEALERSHIP SERVICE MANAGER VERBALLY AFTER CAR IN SHOP FOR A WEEK THAT DUE TO RUST, THREADING IF REPLACED AND ADDITIONAL DAMAGE OCCUR IT WOULD COST ME UP TO 9K FOR ADDITIONAL DAMAGES. OFFER MADE, REQUESTED IT IN WRITING, TOLD I NEED TO DISCUSS WITH MY ATTORNEY. I JUST PURCHASED THE CAR 5/31/2018 AND WAS DOING MY DUE DILIGENCE IN GETTING THE RECALLS UP TO DATE. I WOULD TAKE A SUBSTANTIAL LOSS IF I WAS TO SELL THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP. LOOKING TO HAVE THE REPAIRS MADE AT NO ADDITIONAL COST TO ME.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-30
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JF1SG63666H
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: ON JULY 30, 2017, WHILE DRIVING ON A SOUTHEASTERN MICHIGAN FREEWAY (M-14), OUR 2006 SUBARU FORESTER'S ENGINE SUDDENLY AND WITHOUT WARNING CAUGHT FIRE. EMERGENCY PERSONNEL RESPONDED AND VEHICLE IS A TOTAL LOSS. EVEN OLDER VEHICLES SHOULD NOT SPONTANEOUSLY CATCH FIRE WITHOUT A REASON. THIS WAS A VERY TRAUMATIC EVENT FOR OCCUPANTS OF VEHICLE AND ONE HAD TO TAKE ANTI-ANXIETY MEDICATION. UPDATED 10/23/2017*JS
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-15
- VIN: JF1SG69606H
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: UPON START UP IN COLD WEATHER THERE IS A VERY STRONG SMELL OF FUEL INSIDE THE CABIN OF THE CAR. IT MADE MYSELF AND MY DAUGHTER FEEL VERY ILL. HAD TO EXIT MY 2006 SUBARU FORESTER XT. INSPECTED ENGINE UNDER THE HOOD TO FIND LEAKING FUEL LINES. GOOGLED THE PROBLEM TO DISCOVER IT IS REACURRENT WITH THIS MAKE/MODEL/YEAR AS EVIDENT BY SIMILAR COMPLAINTS IN SUBARU FORUMS, GOOGLE SEARCH, AND FB PAGES. THIS IS A DANGER TO HEALTH AND SAFETY AND SHOULD BE RECALLED. VEHICLE IS UNDER 100,000 MILES. LEAKING FUEL DRIPS DIRECTLY ONTO THE ENGINE CYLINDER AND CLOSE PROXIMITY TO THE TURBOCHARGER ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. THERE IS SIGNIFICANT RISK OF ENGINE FIRE! HEALTH AND SAFETY RISK ALSO FROM THE FUEL FUMES IN THE ENGINE CABIN. SUBARU DEALERSHIP QUOTED $1,300. TO FIX.
2006 Subaru Forester recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2006 Subaru Forester.
- Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
- Summary: SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2002-2007 IMPREZA, MODEL YEAR 2003-2008 FORESTER, AND MODEL YEAR 2005-2006 SAAB 9-2X VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 THROUGH NOVEMBER 26, 2007 ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, MASSACHUSETTS, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW YORK, PENNSYLVANIA, VERMONT, WISCONSIN, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IOWA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, MAINE, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW JERSEY, OHIO, RHODE ISLAND, WEST VIRGINIA AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THE FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARMS MAY BREAK AT THE HANGER BRACKETS DUE TO CORROSION IF THE HANGER BRACKET IS EXPOSED TO SALTY AND HUMID ENVIRONMENTS SUCH AS ROADS CONTAINING SNOW MELTING AGENT.
- Consequence: A BROKEN CONTROL ARM CAN RESULT IN THE LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: SUBARU WILL HANDLE THEIR VEHICLES AND SAAB WILL HANDLE THEIRS. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE DEGREE OF CORROSION OF THE FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARMS, AND WILL EITHER RUSTPROOF OR REPLACE THEM. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING DECEMBER 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SAAB AT 1-800-955-9007.
- Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE WIRING HARNESS FOR THE AIR BAG OCCUPANT DETECTION SYSTEM IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT MAY HAVE BEEN PINCHED DURING PRODUCTION. PINCHING OF THE WIRING HARNESS BETWEEN THE FLOOR CROSSMEMBER AND THE SEAT MOUNTING BRACKET COULD RESULT IN A SHORT CIRCUIT.
- Consequence: THE PASSENGER'S FRONT AIR BAG COULD BECOME DISABLED AND MAY NOT DEPLOY IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT. ALSO AN ELECTRICAL SHORT CIRCUIT COULD CAUSE A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT TO SEE IF THE WIRING HAD BEEN INCORRECTLY ROUTED UNDER THE SEAT BRACKET. IF SO, THE DEALER WILL REPAIR ANY DAMAGED WIRING, REROUTE AND SECURE THE WIRING HARNESS IN THE CORRECT LOCATION, AND RE-CALIBRATE THE OCCUPANT DETECTION SYSTEM AS NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 9, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
Negative 2006 Subaru Forester car reviews
Positive 2006 Subaru Forester car reviews
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with this car. I've driven it for about 2000 miles now and I have to say, it's been flawless! The interior is upgraded and has features that remind me of a Volvo (I've owned 4!). The performance and handling are similar to my old BMW 530i. Plus, it gets great gas mileage - 31 mpg on the highway and 29 mpg in the city, using regular unleaded fuel. Inside, the car is well-designed with lots of convenient features, and the ride is super smooth. In my opinion, this car is a fantastic alternative to a Honda or Toyota. It offers more value for your money and drives better than a Honda CR-V or a Toyota RAV4. Thanks for reading!
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I'm so glad to hear that you've had your Subaru for 10 months now! It sounds like the ride is really comfortable and you have a great view of the road. Plus, with full-time 4-wheel drive, you're ready for any weather. And how great is it that the 5-star crash rating lowered your insurance by $300.00 every 6 months? That's fantastic!
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to let you know that this car has had a single owner and has low mileage for a 2006 model. It's also pretty clean both inside and out. Let me know if you have any questions!
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This vehicle is such a pleasure to drive! The standard 4 cylinder engine delivers more than enough power and the steering is extremely responsive. The ride is comfortable and there is plenty of leg, shoulder and head room. As for reliability, we had an '84 Legacy Wagon that gave us 13 years with no major problems, so we are confident that this vehicle will surpass that one. Thank you for considering this amazing car!
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You've only had it for 2 1/2 months and 4,000 miles, but it's already proving to be an excellent vehicle! The engine is peppy (for a non-turbo), the ride is nice, and it handles well. Plus, the AWD is perfect for NE winters. With the Premium upgrade, you get heated seats, a sun/moonroof, alloy wheels, heated mirrors & windshield, and a great sound system. It's also very comfortable, with top ratings from Consumer Reports and really good crash-test results. And the best part? It's a great value!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2006 Subaru Forester problems:
2006 Subaru Forester Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues
Problem with your 2006 Subaru Forester? Our list of 9 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2006 Subaru Forester.
Anything bad about a 2006 Forester LL Bean? | Subaru Forester ...
Jun 13, 2012 ... Is/are there any common problems with that year/model that I should be aware of? (At least the head gasket shouldn't be a problem!) Thanks ...
2006 Subaru Forester Reliability - Consumer Reports
THE PASSENGER'S FRONT AIR BAG COULD BECOME DISABLED AND MAY NOT DEPLOY IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT. ALSO AN ...
2006 Forester XT - good or bad buy? | Subaru Forester Owners Forum
Jun 6, 2010 ... I wouldn't worry too much about potential reliability issues due to having a turbo. I mean, anything can happen and things can break, but I ...
Help with buying a 2006 Forester 2.5 X : r/SubaruForester
Jan 6, 2024 ... I saw on the Subaru subreddit that the head gasket and timing belt are both issues, also that I should check the oil, coolant, and exhaust color ...
Other years of Subaru Forester
Are you having problems with your 2006 Subaru Forester?
Clovis Klein 2024-10-21
I recently switched from a Toyota 4Runner to a Subaru LL Bean, but unfortunately, I am quite disappointed with my new vehicle. The leather seats can be uncomfortably cold in the winter until they warm up, and the heater design causes my legs to be too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter. Additionally, the air only circulates at chest level, making it uncomfortable for passengers in the back seat. The exterior paint job is also quite poor, as it scratches incredibly easily. Furthermore, the windshield takes a long time to thaw. While it handles well in small amounts of snow, it struggles in anything over 6 inches. Overall, I am disappointed with my experience so far.
Marty Welch 2024-09-12
Although I expected a quality, problem-free vehicle based on my research, I have noticed some issues with certain parts and pieces of the car. Despite these minor inconveniences, I still find driving the vehicle enjoyable. I have experienced some issues such as a loose piece of rubber under the hood, a squeaky clear plastic on the engine gauges cover, and a malfunctioning windshield washer sprayer. However, I am confident that these issues can be resolved and do not detract from the overall quality of the Subaru brand. With only 1050 miles on the car so far, I am optimistic about its future performance.
Dane Abshire 2024-08-12
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my new '06 Forester with the 5-speed manual transmission that I bought in Sept '05. While I've enjoyed driving it, I've noticed a few issues that I wanted to bring to your attention. During cold starts, the engine races uncontrollably after the clutch is released, which can be potentially dangerous. Additionally, the car bucks when the throttle is lightly depressed, and the engine speed cycles when slowing to a stop with the clutch depressed. While I haven't had any accidents, I wanted to caution other drivers about these conditions. The dealer has been cooperative, but unfortunately, they haven't been able to fix the problem. According to Subaru, all '06 Forester 5-speeds have this issue, but they are working on a solution. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter!
Toy Stanton 2024-04-17
I recently traded my 4Motion Passat for a Forrester, hoping to find another AWD wagon. While it was a logical decision, I quickly realized it was a big mistake. Although I didn't experience any mechanical problems, the Forrester was simply not as fun to drive as the Passat. Additionally, the exterior design of the Forrester was unattractive and the paint looked cheap. On the other hand, the interior finishes were sturdy and reliable. Despite my habitual driving, I found that the gas mileage varied widely in town, ranging from 17 to 26 mpg. Unfortunately, the Forrester did not have a digital
Theo Sporer 2024-01-28
The alert light came on, and I took the car to the dealer. They diagnosed the issue as a faulty electronic gizmo and recommended a replacement, which I agreed to. However, I have since experienced trouble with braking on loose gravel, and the ABS light has reappeared. I returned the car to the dealer for similar work, but the charges were too high. As a result, I decided to lease a 2017 Forester. While the car has some battery issues due to excessive computer usage, I cannot let it sit for days in the desert heat. I must exercise the car every day to keep the battery charged. I would prefer a car without all these extra computer software draining the battery while the car is sitting, and I am looking for a new car with basic features similar to my 2006 model.