Subaru Forester - Best and Worst Years & Common Problems

We've listed the top five Subaru Forester model years and highlighted five others that you should stay away from in order to assist you. We also examine the most prevalent complaints for the Subaru Forester.

Timecode:
00:00:00 - Short intro
00:00:36 - Best years of Subaru Forester
00:00:43 - Best Year 1
00:01:06 - Best Year 2
00:01:29 - Best Year 3
00:01:49 - Best Year 4
00:02:10 - Best Year 5
00:02:36 - Worst years of Subaru Forester
00:02:43 - Worst Year 1
00:03:04 - Worst Year 2
00:03:25 - Worst Year 3
00:03:50 - Worst Year 4
00:04:08 - Worst Year 5
00:04:39 - Subaru Forester Common problems
00:04:54 - Engine Failure
00:05:23 - Transmission Problems
00:05:47 - Electrical System Malfunctions
00:06:12 - Failing Air Conditioning System
00:06:30 - Conclusion

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[billbradley]

I purchased a new Forester in 2015. I had to replace the brake light switch a few months ago. After 7 years I replaced the battery even though the old one was working fine. No other repairs needed. Just oil changes. It doesn’t burn any oil and no leaks. I’m averaging 31 mpg right now and that’s city & Hiway combined.

[Cesium]

I have a 2015 Forester 2.5i with 94, 000 miles on the clock. I have had oil consumption but not too bad. Adding about 1/2 quart every 4000 miles. Replaced all wheel bearings. Had the valve body replaced under warranty. Wears tires prematurely. Have had alignments done. Air conditioning needs attention. Likely low on refrigerant. But I like that car. It’s drives good.

[DK-ijrp]

Regarding the assertion that there are issues with the 2003 forester air bags not deploying, I can attest that I owned a 2003 forester which I purchased new. About a month ago, a reckless driver ran a red light and totaled her. My 22 year old airbag deployed just as it was supposed to, which along with the angel that was no doubt on my shoulder, saved my life. Yes, there are issues with the head gaskets. I had to replace mine around 50k miles. But I loved that car, miss her dearly, and would like to find another one. I think it is still the nicest body design of any Forester model.

[manumr]

I bought used 2013 forester at 140000 km I had to fix engine oil leak issue for $1500 with Subaru now its still running at 240000km with no major issues

[gregoryhall]

had an 08 sold it, have a 12 going on 4 years. both 5sp and I love them!

[MB.]

I owned a 2001 model for nearly a decade, never once serviced it (at a dealer), probably ran on 400ml of oil for a period of time there and it lasted over 400, 000kms even until the day I sold it. Because of that I bought and still own as our second car a 2014 forester, it’s never missed a beat in the last 8 years. Because of my experience I swear by the petrol foresters and highly regard them as some of the most reliable vehicles out there.

[mikeforester]

Owning a 2004 Forester SG 2.0X since 2013. No problems with engine and 5MT + Low gear whatsoever, given the annual inspection and fluid changes. The Fozzy sees offroad activity, so rear wheel bearings were replaced in recent years. Slight problems with AC when cooling but nothing fatal, yet. That baby has never let me down, and I intend to keep it as long as possible.

[geovanireyes]

2010 Forester had the Ac evaporator changed at 86k miles, other than that regular maintenance, flawless.

[SimonManning-zc]

I have a 2012 forester all wheel drive. I think it's a bueaty, has 150 kms. Very happy. I bought it second hand. I'm writing to you from Australia. Cheers

[guilhermecardoso]

I have a 2010/11 XT 2.5 turbo and I'm very happy with it. Never had a single problem.

[mecca]

I had my shopping list in the range from 2004 to 2008 but now i know that some of the newer ones are worth it. thanks

[Roger]

I have a 2019 Forester, only the thermostat valve failed at approximately 50, 000 km and it did not fail again.

[malcolmmarzo]

I have had three Foresters. 2004, 2006, 2011. The first two were reliable. The 3rd generation 2011 has been fairly reliable but has developed pesky problems -- enough to think it will be the last Subaru for me.

[blakelandfair]

I will say the one showcased for the 2013 is actually a 2014. A lot of people seem to get confused but 2013 was the final SH Forester year, not 2012

[goodhorsekeeping]

Ty . I have a 2010 I bought from CARVANa. It had 61k on it . Had fuel tank n r
Evaporator replaced . No charge. Was told by mechanic cat was in good shape . They slapped on brakes at CARVANA but it would up needing calipers and rotors. Makes me Leary about 150 pt inspection . Car is running fine now . Let me know what I should keep and eye out for Z it’s a manual

[magalyalasa]

Bought brand new a 2019 Forester Sport. Left us stranded in the middle of the road 4 times. Back to dealer numerous times. Before 23 k miles had to change the battery, Thermo Control Valve, all 4 tires cracked poor quality. Afraid to drive it!!! Our worst car ever!!!!

[JuanGarcia-ykfg]

I used to own a 2005 Forester. I loved it, it was one of the most reliable vehicles I've owned. Great for road trips and dirt roads. Been thinking about maybe a 2015, but if I buy will probably go with the 2013 model after watching this video

[abdulazizsaleh]

I was thinking to get 2014 ...😮thanks alot...i appreciate it 💐🇸🇦

[visionsL]

Super helpful I was about to purchase 2017 foresterThank you

[bahatirogers]

Please guide me on the forester 2015. And what's the difference between the 2015 and 2016?