While they are fan favorite SUVs, there are Subaru Forester years that you need to avoid because they can be prone to costly repairs.
- Avoid Subaru Forester years 1998-2001, 2006, 2009-2010, 2011-2015, and 2019 due to head gasket failures, excessive oil consumption, CVT failures, and windshield cracks.
- The best years for reliability are 2003-2005, 2016, 2018, and 2021-2024, which scored the highest reliability & have solid safety features such as EyeSight.
- Foresters can last 200,000-300,000 miles with proper maintenance
- Toyota’s RAV4 ranks slightly higher in reliability (Consumer Reports) but Foresters outperform in AWD and off-road capability.
- Check the service history, VIN for recalls, and oil leaks by inspection before buying a used Forester.
Subaru Forester Reliability Overview
The Subaru Forester is a popular choice for its sturdy all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, acceptable fuel economy (20 mpg in the city, 38 on the highway in newer models), and off-road capability.
Owners on subaruforester.org say that with maintenance, these compact SUVs can achieve 200,000-300,000 miles. However, not every model year is a winner!
Some are outstanding & reliable trail companions, while others may suffer failure and cost a lot of money for the repairs. Some model years act like that friend who you can’t count on because of head gaskets leaking, engines that consume oil, or nightmares with the transmission.
So, which Foresters should you avoid, and which ones are the gems?
Subaru Forester Years to Avoid (Least Reliable)
1998-2001 Subaru Forester
The first-generation Forester (SF) introduced a new formula: the utility & cargo capacity of an SUV with the handling characteristics of a car & standard AWD.
Sold as a base L and upscale S with a 2.5L DOHC engine, the Forester struggled with head gasket issues that caused antifreeze, oil leaks, and potential engine damage. Additionally, these models faced transmission issues & premature wheel bearing wear that could lead to pricey repairs.
2006 Subaru Forester
The 2006 Forester from the second generation (SG) had a bolder design while being sold in X and XS trim levels, along with a turbocharged XT model with a 2.5L DOHC engine that delivered 15/28 mpg.
Head gasket issues returned, fuel line leaks became an issue in colder climates, and the front lower control arms corroded in salty areas, prompting recalls, which made this model a high-risk purchase.
2009-2010 Subaru Forester
The scenario did not improve with the third generation (SH), which provided a sturdier platform along with trim levels including X and 2.5XT turbo, and a bit better interior, along with 16/28 mpg.
However, the 2009 model year faced serious issues, including head gaskets, ruptured oil pipes, & faulty airbag inflators.
2014 Subaru Forester
The fourth generation (SJ) Foresters introduced the FB25 engine, CVT, and trim levels 2.5X Premium and 2.0XT, which had equal parts of off-road prowess & urban drama.
They suffered from excessive oil consumption, which destroyed engines, and complaints of jerking to CVT failure.
2015 Subaru Forester
The 2015 Forester was the same fourth generation, but it refined the looks. EyeSight added features to upper trims, and it could achieve 18/35 mpg.
The reputation was broken by persistent oil consumption, CVT failures, glitchy infotainment, and airbag sensor failure. It earned the worst reputation with over 600 complaints.
2019 Subaru Forester
The new generation fifth (SK) Forester had a new, stylish look, a 2.5L flat-four, a new Starlink multimedia system, and EyeSight was now standard from the base model, which gave it a better fuel economy of 20/38 mpg.
The debut of the TCV was tarnished with spontaneous cracking windshields ($1,000+ to replace), battery drains, EyeSight glitches, & TCV failures.
Subaru Forester Worst Years Reliability Snapshot
| Year | Key Issues | Notes |
| 1998-2001 | Head gasket failures, transmission issues, and wheel bearing wear | Early models with a 2.5L DOHC engine; costly repairs ($1,600-$2,300 for head gaskets). |
| 2006 | Head gasket failures, fuel line leaks, & corroded control arms | Cold weather worsened issues; avoid driving in salt-heavy regions. |
| 2009-2010 | Head gasket issues, airbag inflator failures, engine oil pipe ruptures | Safety risks from airbags; engine stalling is common. |
| 2011-2014 | Excessive oil consumption (FB25 engine), CVT issues, coil spring failures | Oil use led to engine damage; check VIN for TSB coverage. |
| 2015 | Oil consumption, CVT failures, glitchy infotainment, airbag sensor issues | Worst of 4th gen; avoid unless serviced. |
| 2019 | Windshield cracks, battery drain, EyeSight glitches, TCV failures | Windshield replacement costs $1,000+ due to EyeSight. |
“Although the 2015 Subaru Forester has the most overall complaints, we rate the 2014 model year as worse because of other possible factors, such as higher repair costs or more problems at lower mileage. The most-reported problem is with the 2014 Subaru Forester for high oil consumption.” – CarComplaints.com
The 1999-2001 models had head gasket failures that cost you $2,427-$3,190 to repair, per RepairPal. The 2019 model’s windshield extensively cracks, and TCV problems are painful, particularly without a recall from the NHTSA.
Best Subaru Forester Years (Most Reliable)
Some Forester years are less troublesome than others. Here is a list of the best Subaru Forester years.
| Year | Key Features | Notes |
| 2003-2005 | Symmetrical AWD, 2.5L SOHC engine, 15/28 mpg | Reliable engines, fewer head gasket issues than the 2006 model. |
| 2016 | EyeSight introduced, X-Mode AWD, 18/35 mpg | Smooth ride, minimal issues; great for off-roading. |
| 2018 | EyeSight, premium interiors, 20/38 mpg | Top safety ratings (IIHS); the manual option is reliable. |
| 2021-2024 | 2.5L flat-four, Starlink multimedia, EyeSight | Best fuel economy, high owner satisfaction. |
The 2016 and 2018 models are great examples of Foresters with EyeSight safety technology and an X-Mode for off-road riding. The 2021-2024 models are also excellent for good reliability & fuel economy.
Read Also: Best Ford Explorer Years: Most Reliable Picks
What are the Common Subaru Forester Problems?
Owners of Subaru Foresters commonly face problems such as head gasket failures, electrical issues, TCV failures, and excessive oil consumption.
Let’s have a closer look at them:
Head Gasket Failure (1998-2011): A leak that ultimately created coolant & oil issues, which could have resulted in catastrophic engine failure. Repairs cost between $2,427-$3,190 for head gasket failures. Worst in 1998-2001, 2006, 2009-2010.
Excessive Oil Consumption (2011-2015): Their FB25 engine burned oil at a rapid rate, resulting in engine failure due to oil insufficiency. The general repair cost is between $1,000 and $2,000.
CVT Transmission Concerns (2014-2018): Sudden jerking, shuddering, or failure to work altogether. This was particularly noted in 2014-2015, with repair costs running between $3,000 and $7,000. The 2017 model was also problematic.
Windshield Cracking (2019): Windshield cracks occurring spontaneously that turn into extremely expensive windshields (potentially $1,000) due to the EyeSight cameras.
TCV Issues (2019-2024): TCV issues, again with temperature control, repair costs could have varied between $500 and $1,200.
Airbag & Electrical Issues (2009-2015): Bad airbag inflators were noted back in 2009, which created recalls. Ongoing airbag sensor issues had continued until finally being recalled around 2014 & 2015.
What to Look for in a Used Subaru Forester
If you’re looking at a used Forester, don’t take a gamble. This is how to avoid a lemon:
Check Service History: A well-kept Forester would show regular oil changes (every 5,000-7,000 miles) & service related to the head gasket, which is especially important for models produced between 1998-2011. If there’s no service history, then walk away.
Inspect for Issues: Check for obvious signs of issues such as oil, low oil levels, or check engine lights (common with 2011-2015 models). When test-driving the vehicle, listen to the transmission for CVT shuddering.
Check for Recalls: The best way to check for recalls would be to run a VIN check.
Consider Manual Transmissions: The 2017-2018 manual transmission model(s) avoid issues with CVT.
Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection: A mechanic can easily see any major service needed involving the head gasket, CVT issues, and any other potential problems requiring substantial service and repair on a used vehicle, and could safely save thousands of dollars in repairs.
Don’t forget to look over our dashboard warning signs guide to understand a check engine light before purchasing a car.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What years did the Forester have head gasket issues?
Models from 2016, 2018, and 2021-2024 have the best reliability ratings (4/5 or 4.5/5, Consumer Reports/Kelly Blue Book), with EyeSight technology and fewer issues than others.
Which is more reliable, the Toyota RAV4 or the Subaru Forester?
The RAV4 is slightly more reliable than the Forester (4/5 RAV4 vs. 3/5 Forester for 2019, Consumer Reports). However, Foresters are better at all-wheel drive and off-roading.
What years did the Forester have head gasket issues?
The Forester years that had the most head gasket problems were 1998-2001, 2006, and 2009-2011.
What are the common transmission problems in Foresters?
The CVT issues (jerking, failure) were evident in the 2014-2018 models, primarily the 2014, 2015, and 2017 Forester models.
How many years does a Forester last?
You can expect a Forester to last 200,000-300,000 miles or 15-20 years with regular maintenance.
Bottom Line
The Subaru Forester can be a dependable vehicle that will venture through trails and last for decades if you choose a respectable year. It’s also about prioritizing the old reliable models or the new ones with modern tech & features.
Any Forester years that you have your eyes on? Or, do you already own a model?
Let us know your experience in the comments below!
6 Responses
I used this article in my search for and decisions about purchase of a Forester. I wanted a 2018 but the few available in the trim level I want (Limited) were all priced above my budget limit. I found a 2016 Limited with everything I wanted and a good service history. Had a prepurchase inspection which gave the Forester an A minus – only issue mechanic found was that serpentine belt would need replacement in the not too distant future. I bought the Forester and except for the glitchy touch screen I was happy. But two months after I bought this vehicle the dash lights dll came on when I picked it up after having new tires put on . Tire store denied all responsibility. AT fluid drain/ refill x3 didn’t resolve all codes. Codes showed solenoid failure so solenoid was replaced and also front cv axles and one wheel bearing replaced. Sadly the shop used wrong AT fluid to refill after solenoid placed – they put in high torque fluid . I didn’t know this till 3 mos later when I took vehicle in to a Subie specialist for clunking in front end when turning. Specialist test drove snd felt that trsnny was failing . He also pointed out the error made by interiors shop with adding wrong fluid, which supported his thought that tranny was going.
Went for a second opinion at another shop , also had AT fluid drain / refill again to remove st least a good part of the wrong fluid . Also had new spark plugs placed. That shop thought blinking due to differential ( didn’t ssy which one) They weren’t helpful as far as giving any details about how old fluid looked but they did show me the correct fluid they would put in. Went to yet another shop- trsnny place- who test drove xbd ssid that tranny was failing , said diferrntial ptob not the issue . Car sales place owner had me tow car to him and he took to another shop who said clunking was rear differential . I suddenly O disagreed but sales guy agreed to pay for needed repairs so he went ahead with rear diff replacement. Surprise, that didn’t fix clunking . His shop the said it must be front diff and they’re gonna replace that . I’m not paying for any of this , the car sales place that sold me the Forester is footing the bill . They also paid for the first visit for solenoid and so it was that shop that put in wrong AT fluid , which I think screwed up my tranny. No dash lights since that visit just the clunking developed . I’m frustrated because I’m getting different answers from shops about the clunking and no confirmation about condition of tranny. Sakes guy has authorized new front differential to be placed so they’ll need to drop the tranny to do that – can they assess tranny for damage at that time ? Hope this makes sense and thanks for bearing with my long story!
Hi,
I’m really sorry you’ve had to go through all that.
The wrong CVT fluid was definitely a serious mistake. Subaru transmissions are very sensitive to fluid type, and using the incorrect one can cause real issues. The fact that different shops are giving you different answers about the clunking only makes it more stressful.
Since they’ll have to drop the transmission to replace the front differential, that is a good opportunity for them to properly assess the transmission and look for signs of damage. I would ask them directly for a clear written update on the condition of the transmission while it’s out.
It’s at least a positive that the selling dealer is covering the repairs. I really hope the front differential resolves the clunking and that your transmission turns out to be okay. Please keep us posted, your experience will definitely help other Forester buyers.
I own a 2015 Forester with eyesight. I love it!! I’m female, 77 years old and it fits me well. I’m 5” 1′. It’s just turning 88,000 and is showing oil consumption. If it only cost $1,000-$2,000 to fix the problem I’m willing to do that. What work is done to stop the oil consumption? I’m not driving much as I’m retired.
Hi, thanks for sharing this. I’m glad to hear you’re enjoying your Forester.
The oil consumption you’re seeing is a known issue on some 2015 models. You can replace the piston rings, which stops the oil burning, but it does involve engine work. Some owners choose to do it, but if you don’t drive much simply monitor on the oil level and top it off.
At your mileage, I’d suggest having a trusted mechanic check how severe the oil use is before deciding.
Wishing you many more safe and comfortable miles!
Well I think that’s blow me having to pay $2,000 at $88,000 mi for car burning oil when it’s not really that old come on Subaru get your act together I just got the 2025 Subaru Forester I had a 2018 that seem to like to jerk like it was going to stall for 3 seconds when I try to pull out and traffic every once in awhile and that was annoying. My new model when I press the start button it makes a quick noise I took it into the shop I was told nothing’s wrong with it it wasn’t making that sound right at that time but every time I brought it home and they’re on it started making it. So I took it back and they kept it for a week they did give me a loaner cuz I said do not bother giving it back to me until you find out the problem turns out it a modular in the steering wheel which they did not change out I’m sure I will be taking it back and that was only with 1200 miles on it in like 6 months old should not have those kind of problems especially when the car cost over $35,000
I’ve a 2017 with approx same mileage with an oil consumption issue. I must top it off oil between oil changes. Yellow oil light comes on about every 2000