If you’re thinking about buying a Subaru Forester, be aware that some model years have more problems than others. For example, the first generation from 1998 to 2001 is known for head gasket issues, which can be costly to fix.
Additionally, the 2003, 2010, and 2011 models have their own problems, like transmission failures, engine troubles, and interior faults.
To avoid these issues and make a smart choice, it’s important to know which years to avoid saving you from higher repair and maintenance costs.
So, what other years should you watch out for?
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Key Takeaways
- Stay away from the 1998-2001 Forester because of ongoing head gasket issues and costly repairs.
- The 2003 Forester has problems with the transmission and frequent turbo engine failures.
- The 2010 Forester deals with blown head gaskets, high oil consumption, and sudden acceleration.
- The 2011 Forester has major engine issues, oil leaks, and safety risks from sudden acceleration.
- The 2014 Forester tends to have engine stalling, power loss, and uses too much oil.
First Generation (1998-2001)
When looking at a Subaru Forester, be careful with the first-generation models from 1998-2001 because they often have head gasket problems. These early Foresters tend to develop leaks around 50,000 miles due to head gasket issues.
This can lead to oil leaks, overheating, and even engine damage if not fixed quickly. Fixing these problems can be expensive and hurt the vehicle’s reliability. If you’re thinking about buying one of these models, know that you’re likely to face these issues, which can affect how well the car runs in the long term and make it more costly to maintain.
It’s best to avoid these years to skip these hassles.
The 2003 Forester
The 2003 Subaru Forester has a lot of mechanical and accessory issues, making it a tricky choice for buyers. You might face transmission problems like jerking and shuddering. Blown turbo engines are also common, which can be expensive to fix. The air conditioning often fails, leading to hot air and faulty condensers.
Here are the main problems:
- Transmission issues: jerking and shuddering
- Blown turbo engines: expensive repairs
- Air conditioning problems: hot air and broken condensers
- General mechanical issues: door seal damage and power window problems
Because of these issues, the 2003 Forester can be unreliable, so you might want to consider other model years.
The 2010 Forester
When looking at the 2010 Subaru Forester, you’ll notice some common engine problems like blown head gaskets and frequent turbo engine failures.
There were also a lot of issues with interior accessories, which hurt its reputation.
On top of that, many owners reported high oil consumption and leaks, making this a year to steer clear of.
Common Engine Problems
The 2010 Subaru Forester may seem appealing at first, but it’s known for serious engine problems. These include blown head gaskets and issues with the turbo engine. Owners often report that the car uses too much oil, meaning they’ve to check and refill it constantly. These problems can also lead to unexpected acceleration, which is a big safety risk.
Here are the main engine problems:
- Blown head gaskets: These can happen earlier than expected, causing coolant leaks and the engine to overheat.
- Excessive oil consumption: Owners need to frequently add oil, which is inconvenient and can cause engine damage.
- Turbo engine failures: Fixing these can be very expensive and might require a complete engine overhaul.
- Unexpected acceleration: Sudden increases in speed can make driving unsafe.
Because of these engine issues, it’s best to avoid the 2010 Forester.
Interior Accessory Issues
Many owners of the 2010 Subaru Forester face ongoing problems with the car’s interior features, especially the power windows and door seals. The power windows often stop working, leading to expensive repairs and a lot of hassle.
The door seals are another frequent issue, causing water leaks that can mess up the inside and damage electrical parts. These leaks are more than just a small inconvenience; they can lead to pricey repairs and shorten the life of the vehicle.
On top of that, there have been problems with the airbags in the 2010 Forester. Faulty airbags mightn’t deploy properly in an accident, putting passengers at risk. These interior problems affect the car’s overall comfort, ease of use, and safety, making the 2010 model one to be cautious about.
Blown Turbo Engines
Owners of the 2010 Subaru Forester often face big problems with their turbo engines blowing out, which leads to expensive repairs and worries about the car’s long-term reliability.
These engine troubles aren’t rare; many drivers have experienced them. The turbocharged engine in the 2010 Forester is especially prone to breaking down, and blown head gaskets make things even worse. This results in lower performance and high repair costs.
Blown turbo engines: A frequent and pricey problem.
Blown head gaskets: Usually happen with turbo failures, making repairs tougher.
Costly repairs: Heavy on the wallet, lowering the car’s value.
Engine reliability concerns: Hurt trust in the 2010 Subaru Forester.
Potential buyers should think carefully about these issues.
The 2011 Forester
The 2011 Subaru Forester has serious engine problems that make it risky to own. One major issue is that it uses too much oil, which can lead to oil leaks and poor engine performance.
Another problem is that the car can speed up unexpectedly, which is dangerous. Many owners of the 2011 Forester have to add oil often to prevent engine failure.
Because of these ongoing engine issues, it’s best to avoid the 2011 Forester if you want to steer clear of mechanical and safety problems. This model year has a lot of risks.
The 2014 Forester
When looking at the 2014 Subaru Forester, it’s important to know about the major problems it has, especially with the engine and overall reliability.
Here are the main issues to be aware of:
- Engine Problems: Many owners have experienced the engine stalling and losing power.
- Oil Consumption: This model is known for using up oil quickly, meaning you’ll need to add oil more often.
- Reliability Issues: The car has a track record of mechanical failures, making it less dependable.
- Expensive Repairs: Fixing these common problems can be quite costly.
Because of these issues, the 2014 Forester mightn’t be the best choice. Knowing these drawbacks can help you decide better.
Common Issues With CVT
Shifting focus from engine reliability, let’s look at the common problems with the CVT transmissions in Subaru Foresters. These transmissions often cause jerking and shuddering when you accelerate or drive at low speeds, which can make the car harder to drive. Owners frequently report issues like transmission fluid leaks and overheating, both of which can hurt the car’s performance.
These problems aren’t just annoying—they can also be expensive to fix. Regular maintenance and fluid checks are crucial to avoid these issues. Knowing about these common problems can help you decide if a Subaru Forester is right for you, especially if you care about long-term reliability and performance.
Excessive Oil Consumption
If you’re thinking about getting a Subaru Forester, know that models made before 2014 often burn through oil quickly, especially the ones with a 2.5-liter engine.
You might see a lot of low oil warnings and have to add oil regularly to keep the engine safe.
This problem can also cause more oil leaks and might even lead to engine failures, so you’ll need to keep a close eye on it and stay on top of maintenance.
Affected Model Years
Affected Model Years
Subaru Forester models from 2014 to 2019 had a well-known problem with using too much oil. Many owners had to add oil between regular maintenance, which was a big hassle. This issue was especially bad for the 2014 Forester models, with some needing oil every 1,000 miles.
Subaru admitted there was a problem and gave extended warranties and repairs to help fix it. If you’re thinking about buying a used Forester from these years, make sure to check the maintenance records to see if the oil issue was taken care of.
Common Symptoms
If you find that your Subaru Forester’s oil levels are always low before it’s time for an oil change, that’s a warning sign of excessive oil consumption. Having to add oil frequently is a big hint that something’s wrong. Ignoring this can hurt your engine.
Watch out for blue smoke from the exhaust, which means oil is burning inside the engine. You should also check for oil leaks around the engine, as these could be part of the problem.
Keep an eye on your oil levels and fix any issues quickly to avoid expensive engine repairs. Models from 2015 and later are especially prone to these issues. Staying alert can help you avoid serious engine damage and keep your car running longer.
Engine Light Problems
Engine light problems in Subaru Foresters often come from bad oxygen sensors, but they can also be due to issues with the emission control, fuel, or ignition systems. When the check engine light comes on, it’s important to find out what’s wrong and fix it quickly to prevent more problems.
Ignoring these warning lights can lead to worse gas mileage and engine troubles.
- Oxygen Sensors: Bad sensors can make the engine light come on because of issues with the air-fuel mix.
- Emission Control System: Problems here can cause harmful emissions and turn on the check engine light.
- Fuel System: Issues like a failing fuel pump or dirty injectors can make the warning light come on.
- Ignition System: Bad spark plugs or coils can also cause the engine light to turn on.
Regular maintenance and timely repairs are key.
Air Conditioning Failures
Having your Forester’s air conditioning break down can make driving really uncomfortable, especially during hot summer days. If your A/C system isn’t working right, you’ll usually notice hot air blowing from the vents. This often happens because of broken condensers, which are essential for cooling. Fixing these parts can be expensive. It’s important to deal with these issues quickly to keep your car comfortable.
| Issue | Impact |
|---|---|
| Hot air | Uncomfortable driving |
| Broken condensers | System not working |
| A/C problems | Expensive repairs or replacements |
| Quick fixes | Keeps you cool in extreme heat |
Knowing about these problems can help you take better care of your Forester.
Reliable Models: 2019-2021
If you’re looking for a reliable car, the Subaru Forester models from 2019 to 2021 are a great choice. These years are known for being dependable and performing well.
Here’s why you should consider these models:
- Better reliability: Improved engineering and quality control.
- New features: Modern technology and safety updates.
- Positive reviews: Good feedback from drivers and experts.
- Expert approval: High ratings from car reviewers.
Head Gasket Problems
Head gasket problems have been a big issue for some Subaru Forester models, especially the ones from the first generation (1998-2001). These cars often had leaks around the 50,000-mile mark.
The engine design puts a lot of stress on the head gaskets, making them prone to leaking. This can cause the engine to overheat and lead to expensive repairs.
The 2010 Forester also had a lot of reports about blown head gaskets. If you’re thinking about buying a used Forester, it’s a good idea to avoid these years to save yourself from costly fixes.
Regular maintenance might help a bit, but these head gasket problems often come from deeper issues in the engine design that are tough to fix completely.
Transmission Troubles
Transmission problems have been a common issue in some Subaru Forester models, especially those with Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs). These problems can make driving unpleasant, showing up as jerking and shuddering when you accelerate, delayed shifting, and trouble keeping a steady speed.
Owners often report:
- Jerking and shuddering when accelerating
- Delayed shifting and slipping gears
- High repair costs for CVT transmissions
- Less smooth and reliable driving
Knowing about these possible transmission problems is important if you’re thinking about buying a Subaru Forester. Being aware of these issues can help you plan for maintenance and avoid expensive repairs.
Cabin and Suspension Issues
When looking at which Subaru Forester years to avoid, you should pay attention to models known for cabin and suspension problems. Common suspension issues include too much bouncing and uneven tire wear, which can mess with how the car handles and rides.
Also, many people have complained about loose trim, rattling noises, and faulty electronics inside the cabin, which can really take away from your driving enjoyment.
Common Suspension Problems
Some Subaru Forester models have suspension problems that can really mess with your ride and how the car handles. People often complain about the ride being too rough, tires wearing out unevenly, the car feeling less stable, and more noise from the road.
These issues can take away from the nice interior features found in models like the 2017 Forester. Regular maintenance and check-ups are crucial to catch these problems early, fix them, and make sure your drive stays smooth and safe.
- Uneven tire wear
- Less stable car
- More road noise
- Rough ride
Cabin Comfort Concerns
When dealing with suspension issues, it’s important to think about how they affect cabin comfort. For instance, the 2017 Subaru Forester made big improvements in both areas.
The updated suspension parts in this model provide a smoother and more stable ride, which makes the cabin more comfortable by reducing the bumps you feel. The cabin itself was also improved with better seating and easy-to-use controls, fixing many common comfort problems.
Regular maintenance helps keep these benefits, making the 2017 Forester a great choice for anyone who values a comfortable cabin and a good suspension system.
Noise and Vibration Issues
Cabin noise and vibrations in Subaru Foresters often come from suspension problems, making your drive less enjoyable. If you’ve heard rattling noises or felt vibrations in the steering wheel or seats, it’s probably due to issues with the suspension. These problems can make the ride rough and reduce the overall comfort of the car.
Common problems include:
- Squeaks, creaks, and groans from the suspension in older Forester models
- Persistent cabin noise that gets louder over time
- Rattling noises from loose or worn suspension parts
- Vibrations felt throughout the cabin, especially on bumpy roads
Fixing these suspension issues quickly can make your Subaru Forester much more comfortable to drive.
Proper Maintenance Tips
To keep your Subaru Forester in great shape, make sure to regularly check the oil levels and quality to avoid engine problems.
It’s also important to change the air filters and spark plugs on time, as this can improve how your engine runs and save on gas.
Don’t forget to flush and replace the coolant regularly to prevent the engine from overheating.
Follow the manufacturer’s schedule for oil changes and other key maintenance tasks to keep your car running longer.
Importance of Vehicle Inspections
Regular vehicle inspections are really important because they can find hidden problems that you mightn’t notice during a quick test drive. By checking out the engine, transmission, and other parts, you can spot potential expensive repairs early.
It’s important to watch for signs of wear and tear, leaks, rust, and strange noises to understand the car’s overall condition. Looking at maintenance records and the vehicle history report for accidents and recalls gives you helpful information.
- Check the engine and transmission for leaks and performance issues.
- Look at maintenance records to see if the car has been serviced regularly.
- Inspect brakes, tires, and suspension for signs of wear and tear.
- Have a certified mechanic do a thorough check.
This careful approach ensures peace of mind and can save you money on future repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Years Are Subaru Forester Most Reliable?
The most reliable Subaru Forester models are from 2019 to 2021. These years have dependable engines and few transmission problems. They also come with advanced safety features and lower maintenance costs.
What Is a Good Year to Buy a Subaru Forester?
You should think about buying a 2019, 2020, or 2021 Subaru Forester for their top features and best models. By checking costs, comparing performance, and following maintenance tips, you can make a smart and informed choice.
What Is the Most Common Problem With the Subaru Forester?
The most common problem with the Subaru Forester is that it uses too much oil. You might also have issues with the transmission, engine, head gasket, electrical system, and suspension, which can affect how reliable and well the car runs.
Which Subaru Has the Least Problems?
Imagine driving down a clear highway: the Subaru Forester has fewer issues than the Subaru Outback, Crosstrek, Impreza, Legacy, and Ascent. It’s dependable, long-lasting, and a great pick.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Subaru Impreza, Subaru Legacy, Subaru Outback and Subaru Brz. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
Conclusion
The Subaru Forester is generally reliable, but certain years like 1998-2001, 2003, 2010, and 2011 have recurring issues. If you avoid these problematic models, you can still enjoy the strong performance and versatility Subaru is known for.
Weigh the potential problems of these unreliable years against the peace of mind that comes with proper maintenance and thorough inspections, and you’ll find a Forester that lasts. Choose carefully, and your investment will be worth it.
