Subaru Forester’s Best and Worst Years: Your Guide to Finding the Most Reliable Model Year

Apr 7, 2021

Subaru’s Forester has set the standard for the compact SUV class. However, even this Goliath has some years that are best avoided.

2020 Subaru Forester-Photo by Subaru

In 1997, Subaru announced an Impreza-based crossover that would be named the Forester. The trademark for the Forester in the years to come was its boxy exterior and rugged design.

A key difference between the Forester and its competitors is its low design. In fact, the Forester was so low that it did not need the “risk of rollover” warning on the visor. This meant the Forester had the capabilities of an SUV, but essentially drove like a car.

Subaru described this trait as “SUV tough, Car Easy.” Upon release, the new Forester had fit comfortably between the smaller Impreza and larger Legacy. Undeniably, it’s a road legend.

However, even legends have their flaws. Let’s check out its history of raves, recalls, and crash tests to find the Forester years that are best avoided.

2002 Subaru Forester-Photo by Subaru

First-generation Forester (1998-2002)

The Subaru Forester rolled into showrooms for the 1998 model year. Although it shared many similarities with the Impreza, there were key differences between the two.

Of course, the Forester was taller and came equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD). However, what made the Forester so attractive was that it had the best of both the SUV and car worlds. From the SUV world, the Subaru Forester received 7.5-inches of ground clearance and a spacious interior.

From the car world, the Forester received its sporty handling and on-road capability. This crossbreed meant that it was easy to get in and out of, but also easy to load cargo since it was slightly lower than rival SUVs of its time.

The first-ever Forester received a 2.5L H4 dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) engine. However, for the 1999 model year, this DOHC engine was scrapped for a 2.5L H4 single overhead camshaft (SOHC) engine.

Both engines were problematic and came coupled with a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission. The standard AWD system used a 60/40 split for power between the front and rear wheels, respectively.

However, the AWD system dynamically adjusted the power split as needed. When going up-hill, the AWD system would put more power to the rear. When the weight shifted forward, such as going down a hill, the Forester would add more power to the front.

First-gen. Forester: Years to Avoid & Better Alternatives

Years to Avoid: 1998-2002

As is normal for the Subaru brand, the Forester was exceptionally safe. The IIHS gave the Forester an overall evaluation of good. According to the NHTSA, the Forester received one recall and just over 100 complaints on average per model year.

Common problems on the first-generation Forester were the vehicle not shifting into drive, rear-wheel bearings failing, and the common Subaru problem of a head gasket blowing.

Unfortunately, Subaru never fixed the blown head gasket on either of the Forester’s engines. The original DOHC EJ25D engine’s (1998) head gasket leaked internally.

Whereas the SOHC EJ251 engine (1999-2002) leaked externally, which could alert drivers to the problem. However, a leaky head gasket is a leaky head gasket, so all years are best avoided.

2004 Subaru Forester-Photo by Wikicommons

Second-generation Forester (2003-2008)

The second-generation Forester bore a striking resemblance to the previous model. Similar to the previous generation, it shared the Impreza’s platform, came standard with AWD, and the 2.5L H4 engine returned.

However, there were many refinements made to the latest generation. It was even larger than the previous generation, increasing cargo space.

Also, the new Forester weighed 100 lbs less than the previous generation. This is thanks to an aluminum hood, perforated rails, and a hydro-formed sub-frame. Other changes included a reshuffled trim lineup and turbo engine offerings for the later model years.

Second-gen. Forester: Years to Avoid & Better Alternatives

Years to Avoid: 2003-2008

Like its predecessor, the new Forester was exceptionally safe. It received top marks from the IIHS for every model year and even attained a Top Safety Pick for the 2007 and 2008 model years.

Also, like the last generation, it averaged about 100 complaints to the NHTSA per model year. Common problems included a smell of fuel inside the cabin, rust on the subframe, and airbags that do not deploy. It should be noted that these problems were mostly resolved for the later model years (2005-2008).

A problem that Subaru never resolved was the head gasket issue. So, the second-generation Forester should be avoided entirely as well. It appears to affect about 15% of these Foresters and is a very costly fix, costing between $1,600 and $1,700.

2012 Subaru Forester-Photo by Subaru

Third-generation Forester (2009-2013)

Sporting a more rounded and less boxy design, the third-generation Forester hit showrooms for the 2009 model year. Here is where the Forester shifted from being a wagon to just another small SUV.

The Forester grew yet again. Subaru made the Forester 3 inches longer, 1.8 inches wider, 4.3 inches taller, and added 3.5 inches to the wheelbase.

Incredibly, although the Forester got “larger” the interior and cargo space decreased. AWD remained standard and drivers still had the choice between a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.

However, a new 170 hp 2.5L H4 engine was fitted to the Forester.

Third-gen. Forester: Years to Avoid & Better Alternatives

Years to Avoid: 2009-2010

When it came to safety, the third-generation Forester did not disappoint. It received an IIHS Top Safety Pick for every model year. This is unsurprising because it received top marks across the board.

However, when it came to reliability, the Forester’s character can only be described as questionable. The Forester received about 140 complaints per model year according to the NHTSA. Common complaints included a faulty weld on the driver’s seat causing it to detach and oil leaking from the valve seals.

However, the biggest problem with the third-generation Forester was the airbags. The airbags have been recalled nine times by Takata. When the airbag inflated it propelled shrapnel with it, essentially sending a fragmentation grenade straight to the face.

The headline for this generation is that Subaru finally fixed the leaky head gasket issue. Originally, the Forester came with the same EJ25 engine Subaru had put in the previous Foresters.

However, in 2011 they replaced the engine with a modern FB25B engine. Not only did this increase fuel economy and performance, but it also fixed the head gasket problem that plagued the Foresters of the past.

Due to the expensive repair costs of a blown head gasket, the 2009-2010 model years are best avoided. Note that the turbo engine was never replaced, so turbocharged third-generation Foresters are still prone to head gasket failure.

2017 Subaru Forester-Photo by Subaru

Fourth-generation Forester (2014-2018)

The fourth-generation Forester was released for the 2014 model year. With the release of a new Forester came massive changes. As usual, the Forester grew, it received a one-inch longer wheelbase, .6 more inches of width, and got 1.4-inches longer.

Rationally, since the Forester grew on the outside, the cargo room and rear-seat legroom also increased. Subaru also added their EyeSight Driver Assist System as an option to the Touring trim Forester. EyeSight Driver Assist System is Subaru’s suite of driving assists.

Also, X mode was added to the Forester for the fourth generation. This is used to keep drivers from getting stuck in inclement weather. However, the most important update is that a continuously variable transmission (CVT) was added to the lineup.

Although the CVT marginally improved fuel economy, it cut the old 3,000 lb. max towing capacity in half. Although the 2.5i and 2.5i Premium trims came standard with a six-speed manual transmission. Every other model came standard with the new CVT.

Fourth-gen. Forester: Years to Avoid & Better Alternatives

Years to Avoid: 2014-2018

The theme of safety for the Forester is further reinforced by the fourth generation. The IIHS awarded the Forester the prestigious Top Safety Pick+ for the 2014-2017 model years, receiving the Top Safety Pick for the 2018 model year.

However, there is a catch. These awards were only awarded to the Foresters equipped with Subaru Eyesight and specific headlights. The only area the Forester struggled for the safety test was the small overlap front test on the passenger side.

As for reliability, the Forester received around 300 complaints per model year on average according to the NHTSA. Common problems included faulty ignitions, excessive oil consumption, passenger seat airbags not deploying, a frail windshield, and defective lower control arms.

Although the fourth generation does not suffer from the same problems as the previous generations, it’s not a reliable vehicle and thus should be avoided.

2020 Subaru Forester-Photo by Subaru

Fifth-generation Forester (2019-Present)

The fifth-generation Forester landed in showrooms for the 2019 model year. Like its predecessor, the fifth generation grew yet again adding additional cargo space and extra room in the cabin.

Importantly, the new Forester made EyeSight and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto standard. Also, only one engine and transmission are offered on the new Forester, a 2.5L H4 mated to a CVT.

To maintain the status quo, the Forester comes equipped with standard AWD. However, there are three trim-dependent AWD systems for the fifth-generation Forester.

Fifth-gen. Forester: Years to Avoid & Better Alternatives

Years to Avoid: 2019-Present

The fifth-generation Subaru Forester is hands down the safest Forester yet. It received an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for every model year, 2019-2021. The only black mark on the Foresters safety sheet is the headlights equipped on the Sports trim for the 2019-2020 model year.

This can be chalked up to the fact that it was not equipped with curve-adaptive headlights like the rest of the lot. When it comes to reliability, the new Forester is on par with the previous generations.

For the 2019 model year, the Forester received 420 complaints according to the NHTSA. The most common problem is once more the fragile windshield, which seems to be single-handedly keeping the windshield repair industry in business. This rather expensive problem has yet to be recalled, however, it accounted for most complaints for the 2019-2021 model years.

Subaru Forester Reliability: Pros & Cons

Unfortunately, we found almost all Subaru Foresters are best avoided. While the Forester is exceptionally safe, it is all for not because it is seriously unreliable.

In the first three generations (1998-2010), the biggest problem was a blown head gasket. This repair can cost somewhere between $1,600-$1,700 or $2,300-$2,400 if you also need to replace the timing belt, water pump, idlers, tensioners, and seals. The only bright spot comes from the 2011-2013 model years because they did not have the head gasket problems of their predecessors.

Finally, the fourth and fifth generations fall victim to cracked windshields. Windshields are usually relatively cheap to fix. However, because of Subaru’s Eyesight technology, it can cost owners over $1,000.

If you’re in the market for a CUV, we recommend you check out something more reliable, like the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V.

Cheat Sheet

Subaru Forester: Model Years to Avoid

2019-Present: Fifth-generation Forester
2014-2018: Fourth-generation Forester
2009-2010: Third-generation Forester
2003-2008: Second-generation Forester
1998-2002: First-generation Forester

Subaru Forester: Model Years that are Best Buys

2011-2013: Third-generation Forester

Photos: Subaru, Wikicommons

Frequently Asked Questions

Apr 26, 2022

What is the best year for a used Subaru Forester?

If you are in the market for a used Subaru Forester then the most recommended years are 2011 through 2013. These are part of the third generation of the Forester and it is a point in time when Subaru put the FB25B engine into the Forester which increased their reliability and quality.

If you have a higher budget then I recommend taking a look at the Foresters that are from 2019 and newer. These are in the fifth generation of the Forester and they have all of the latest Subaru safety equipment and technology in them. You can find these with low miles and save a decent amount of money off a brand new one.

The Forester is a good crossover that is built on the same platform as the Impreza and it is overall a rugged crossover wagon. They have had some issues in the past with bad head gaskets as all Subarus have, but they have gotten better over the years.

Why are Subarus so unreliable?

Subaru's reliability woes tend to stem from engine problems that have happened across several generations. The head gaskets in these engines have been known to fail, and that can lead to the engine failing if it is ran too long with the failed gasket. The high rate of failure has led to experts lowering the reliability ratings for several model years.

Another reason that Subarus have some reliability issues involves technology problems. In the early, to mid-2000s there were known electrical and technology problems that led to them having problems running reliably. It is a good idea to avoid some Subaru vehicles from this era that have a lot of technology.

The final reason that Subarus are known for being unreliable is due to their high-performance cars such as the WRX and WRX STI. People typically modify these and wind up damaging the engines and transmissions in them. When people damage the vehicles then complain about them it leads to a general sentiment in the car community of them being unreliable.

At what mileage do Subaru head gaskets fail?

It is difficult to judge when a head gasket may fail on a Subaru 2.5L boxer engine. These can fail at any point between about 50,000 miles and 200,000 miles. There do tend to be more failures between 100,000 and 150,000 miles, so this would be the time to have it inspected if it has not failed yet.

The Subaru 2.5L boxer engine is very popular amongst the tuning community as well and that modifying these engines can cause the head gasket to fail sooner. When you increase the boost and pressures within the engine you are putting more stress and strain on the gasket, and that can cause them to fail in as little as 20,000 miles.

The Subaru head gasket issues have been plaguing Subaru since they started happening on the 2.5L boxer engine years ago. Nowadays Subaru has begun producing much more reliable engines, and there are not nearly as many head gasket failures as there were on cars from 10 to 15 years ago.

Owner Reviews

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Subaru Fan on January 9, 2024

Take the recomendations with a box of salt.

I do not know why this site says nearly all year models are to be avoided. A Subaru is, for the most part, a very reliable and dependable vehicle / brand. My Grandfather owned three, some of the earliest in the country, and they were very good vehicles. Maintained well, they, as with all cars, will really let you down. Skimp on the routine maintenance, a relatively small, planed expense, and you will be faced with a large unplanned for expense. I bought his third one, a Justy with 40K, and sold it for more than I paid at 80K when I traded it for a 2002 Forester. Now has 300K and going strong. Yes, it has had the head gasket issue, twice, but is gave plenty of warning. The company should have fixed it. Shame on them. Easy to do over a weekend. Longer job if you have to hire out the valve maintenance. Later bought a 2001 for my son and at 180K no head gasket issues. We did replace the timing belt and idlers as it is an interference engine and belt failure while running is catastrophic. If you do not maintain your vehicle, either on your own or at the local shop, best trade any car at less than 125 to 150K. The key to not needing AAA is keeping up with the maintenance, including fluid levels and changes. Long story short - do not be scared off by this site's aversion to a Subaru Forester.

Eric S on August 20, 2022

Overall Reliable

I'm the original owner of a 1998 Forester with 5-speed manual transmission. It's 24 years old now. In all that time it stranded me only once: the head gaskets blew, of course. Even then I was able to limp the car to the dealership, so I wasn't truly stranded. I replaced the head gaskets with the updated ones. Once you do that, you're good for quite some time. In 24 years the car has always started, always got me to my destination. I'd say that's reliability. The thing about these cars is this: you absolutely, positively, *MUST* replace the timing belt, idler, water pump and belt tensioner every 105,000 miles. These are interference engines and when the timing belt goes, your motor is destroyed. The boxer engines s**k/leak oil, so you *MUST* keep on top of the oil level. Of course, with a car that old many, many things wear out and must be replaced. I keep track of every penny I spend on that car, and even with all of the repair/maintence costs, it's cheaper than buying a new car. Biggest factor is depreciation: it's gone to zero. Unfortunately, parts are getting scarce on that car. I love my Forester. It has close to 300,000 miles on it and I'm going to literally run it into the ground.

Jesse A on November 19, 2021

Costly Repairs: 2014 Forester

My Forester was great until I hit the 80K mile mark and the low oil level light came on. Took the car to the dealer and it was determined that oil consumption was an issue. Subaru paid for the small engine block replacement and it took care of the oil consumption issue for about 6 months and then my oil level came on again at 128,033 miles. As of 08/25/2020, the car is back on an oil consumption check monitoring by the dealer. Around this time period, my check engine light came on and it was diagnose error code “P0700 Active” and “P2762 History” recommended replacing valve body assembly which is kind of rare, nonetheless, Subaru indicated repairs are not covered under warranty because the mileage on the car is over 100K. Cost of repairs was $1,710 parts & labor. Note: Most of my driving commute are freeway mileage.

Jeff M on October 21, 2021

Too many repairs over first 5 years/55k miles with 2015 Forester

Tarted to notice rust on the underbody after about a year. After 40k miles we have taken to the dealer 4 times for issues. One was a faulty alternator, two for standard recalls, and the third because the rear strut literally fractured into pieces and left the car incapacitated while parked in the garage. Had to have it towed for the last one but it was covered under a newly released recall. In addition, new tires were down to 5/32 after 9K miles. Car is now 5 years old with 55K miles. Had to replace the battery, fan controls are malfunctioning, needed another set of new brakes, and had to replace the rear passenger side wheel bearing.

Erin W on October 29, 2021

2012 Subaru Forester Premium

My Forester runs great and works great. It also looks amazing for being 7 years old. The bucket seats are very comfortable and the car is very spacious. The moonroof is huge and makes the car feel even more open. It gets great gas mileage for an SUV. I love the heated leather seats and the roof rack is great for extra storage. It's drives very well and handles curves/bumps easily. It also has lots of safety features, making it one of the safest vehicles on the market. The all wheel drive makes it the perfect mountain car. The sound is great too and the Bluetooth works very well.

Ashley P on July 5, 2021

2012 Subaru forester- an all around reliable family vehicle.

A very reliable vehicle. Does excellent in the snow and has all around good handling. The vehicle is also very comfortable, as you can adjust the driver's seat to virtually any position (including customizable lumbar support). In particular, I find that the heating and ac system works amazingly! I also love the moon roof, it is such a fun feature! As far as repair problems, the breaks needed repair (air bubbles in the lines) and the cost of this, in addition to oil changes is fairly pricey. Overall it is a great vehicle, and I would highly recommend it as a used purchase.

XTrminator on November 23, 2023

World Rally Car chassis SUV

My 2005 Forester XT, like other early Foresters is based on the same chassis as the WRX (World Rally eXperimental),weighs the same, and has more gear reduction. With turbo and suspension upgrades this vehicle is track worthy - unlike just about any other so-called Sport Utility Vehicle. For the non- mechanic, these vehicles will likely be a less satisfactory choice than a Honda or Toyota, but for those into auto mechanics, these vehicles offer more potential for breathtaking performance while exhibiting a stealthy exterior.

Adam on August 26, 2022

2009 XT Forester - Lemon Law Anyone?

I love how much fun my 2009 Forester XT is to drive, however the maintenance costs are crazy once you hit 90K Miles. I've had Burnt Heads, radiator cracks, flow sensors, power steering pump, turbo hose, stuck brake calipers, rim corrosion, bushings, rust, clear coat flake on turbo scoop and spoiler. Fun driving is not worth it, luckily most of my repairs got covered under warranty. Currently at 220K and just had it die on me in the middle of the street due to a failed O2/flow sensor.

Jacqueline S on September 13, 2021

2011 Forester is still a worthy vehicle to own and drive 7 years later.

Many safety features included, which makes a parent driver feel more secure. Great visibility in the windshield and rear window. Engine is very reliable and just keeps going. Car does not take long to warm up even on chilly mornings. Even though it is bigger than a sedan, it is not hard to park. Some comfort features (ex. Heated seats and sunroof) only included in the premium package for our model, but that is okay for now. Extremely satisfied. Could get a little better gas mileage.

V Bess on October 21, 2021

Piston/oil issue and ac compressor and condenser - 2014 Forester

I had problem w oil light coming on. Found out certain vin #s had what they call soft pistons. It was random vin and years. I never got a notice but I was losing oil. They did an oil consumption test and it failed. Pistons were replaced, paid for by Subaru. If you have this isssue have dealer check vin # And get it checked Also just had to have condenser replaced it was leaking. Still had issue with intermittent cool and hot air. Now found out the compressor is bad.

Eric P on July 1, 2021

Mine is a 2012 and I would recommend this SUV if it suits your needs.

I like my Subaru forester. It is a basic model, not a lot of frills, power everything, sunroof etc. But it is a basic functional, reliable vehicle. One thing I especially like is that the seats are actually comfortable. I have had Toyotas in the past--one of my major quibbles is they can be downright uncomfortable--especially on longer trips. The motor has some guts, it kicks in and gets me up steep hills nicely.

Beth B on August 28, 2021

2013 Subaru forester, love it!

My 2013 Subaru forester is comfortable and reliable. I have never had any major issues or repairs in my 6 years of owning the vehicle. All the features work. It has been on long road trips, we never had any issues with comfort or reliability on long drives. It is not too bad on gas mileage. The only thing this I wish was different is the performance. I wish it had a little more power.

Ana P on September 4, 2021

Many problems with my 2006 Forester

My car is a used car however it has problems with the engine, the cruise control, and the catalytic converter. The car makes strange sounds and takes a while before picking up the speed. Sometimes the brake pad and the accelerator lock up on me when I am trying to reverse and parallel park into a spot which makes me think the car is just not safe to have my children in.

Sarah F on July 21, 2021

My 2013 Subaru forester is an amazing adventure car.

I just recently bought my 2013 Subaru forester! I am so happy with the all wheel drive, the sound system, and the accessories Subaru offers. I was looking into buying a Subaru for a while and really fell in love with this car for the gas mileage and much more. All the accessories work great and I recently purchased a roof rack which fit perfectly with no problem at all.

Lerma on October 8, 2021

Audio issue with 2015 Forester

It keeps on unpairing my phone, therefore I cannot take or answer calls, and listen to my music. I brought it to the dealership several times; I was told my car's audio is an old model, cannot cope up with the new phone's upgrade, therefore cannot sync. The dealer said they cannot do anything about it, cannot change or upgrade the audio or sound system.

Charles on September 5, 2021

2018 Forester is not reliable and can be dangerous to drive.

Auto Star/Stop function is a BIG problem, very DANGEROUS when doesn't work propertly, the auto stop abruptly in any moment. Another big issue is the CVT Transmission doesn't last more that 5 years without big problems. I don't recomend this vehicle, it's a shame because I really like the look ans the AWD when works propertly.

Josef B on July 30, 2021

It's a 2011 Subaru forester 2.5x premium.

It is an all wheel drive vehicle and comes in manual transmission which is very rare and has a panoramic sunroof typically a sunroof is not an available feature on any vehicle that also is a manual transmission. It has the best gas mileage for any non hybrid SUV. Extremely reliable. Very comfortable and excellent performance.

Erika H on September 23, 2021

I love my 2011 Subaru forester.

I just recently got my 2011 Subaru forester and I love it a lot. It drives super well with 130,000 miles on it and is very comfortable. It has Bluetooth and a backup camera which make it feel even newer, and mine was priced very well. It is been almost 6 months since I got it and I haven't had a single problem since.

Travis on December 9, 2021

2015 Subaru Forester - Nothing but problems

We've had to replace the front right axle twice, the front left axle once, among many other issues. This car has had nothing but issues. The horn stopped working and Subaru wants $500 to replace it. The A/C has now stopped working (as summer approaches here in Texas). The other issues are too numerous to count.

MG on June 27, 2021

Navigation System Is Poor - 2019 Forester

Won't let you enter addresses like a normal NAV system. Must enter everything in a search box and the searches are usually unsuccessful even for common points of interest and street names. Voice recognition is awful and completely useless. Paid 1500 for top of the line NAV system and ot is complete GARBAGE!

Ellen B on October 2, 2021

2011 forester great in all weather.

It is a mostly reliable car that does well in all conditions. I have had some issues with three (so far, knock wood) oil leaks. My only other complaint is that the car is bigger than I like. My 2004 forester was smaller and I like that size. I also like that the rear window is big enough to see through.

Kim Jackson on June 24, 2021

False Advertising on fuel mileage for 2018 Forester

This is one of the worst vehicles I have ever owned, and will never buy a Subaru again. I get only 15 MPG in town and 22 highway. I have had 2 manifold leaks on the car since new and expect that this will continue. Subaru refuses to acknowledge poor fuel mileage as there is no engine code being thrown.

Jenny M on October 18, 2021

2013 Subaru Forester review.

There are little to no problems with the vehicle. The performance is good; drives well, good gas mileage, all of that. It is very reliable. I can count on it to get me where I need to be safely. It is pretty comfortable overall, pretty average. And the features are also good and average for the year.

Jay K on October 31, 2021

My 2011 Subaru forester has needed no maintenance of any sorts.

My Subaru forester has been a great car! Great gas mileage and dependability makes this car a great choice. I have had no maintenance needed on my 2011 Subaru forester and I bought it used. It is an extremely safe car and works perfect for when I am in the city or take it to the mountains.

Annette N on November 19, 2021

The 2012 model I have does not allow adjustment of steering wheel, which is sometimes a little awkward.

Ery few problems. Has 4 wheel drive, gas economy, just large enough, has cargo space, easy to maneuver. Good performance and years of good performance records. No real problems. Can expect to get over 100, 000 miles before having problems. Have had 4 and they last for years. Very reliable.

Katie M on September 19, 2021

Review on 2012 Subaru forester.

I have never had issue with this car, it is reliable and comfortable. Two features that I wish that was better was the speaker quality and the miles per gallon. Normally my car can range from 20 to 26 miles per gallon. A problem I have had with this car is that it is slow at accelerating.

Susan P on November 12, 2021

2011 Subaru forester comfort meets safety.

Purchased in 2011, car is an SUV. Features heated seats which is a plus during winter months. Safety is higher for Subaru. Some mechanical issues but overall has been reliable. It is a very comfortable ride, though on freeways it can be quite loud at times going over 60 miles per hour.

Josie H on December 11, 2021

My 2011 Subaru forester is the best car ever, I love it so much!

I love this car very much. It runs super smooth and it has a nice interior. I learned to drive in this car and it was perfect for me. Super comfy seating and a nice trunk. Plenty of space. I can bring my kayaks with me wherever I go! I highly recommend this mode of car to everyone!

Michelle H on December 10, 2021

2012 Subaru Forester Basics

It performs well and I find it very comfortable. Because it is old, I don't know if it reliable but any issues I've had with it were easy and quick to fix. The features of the car and simple and average. It doesn't have any fancy features but has all the basics and are easy to use.

Megan R on October 31, 2021

2012 Subaru forester with heated seats and sunroof.

It handles well. It does well in rain and snow. I like the size but wish it was a bit bigger. It is 4 door with hatch in back. Large area in back with seats that fold down. I like the heated seats and love the sunroof. It does have decent pick up when going in traffic. Brakes well.

Penelope W on July 22, 2021

Subaru 2011 forester great overall, but burns oil.

This model burns oil very quickly. I guess there's a class action suit for all subaru models 2011-1016. This car is excellent in the snow, especially since I live in ny. I love the Bluetooth hands-free features as well. This car is very roomy and very convenient for long trips.

Sarah C on June 14, 2021

2013 Subaru Forester seats five people with a lot of room in the trunk.

I love my Subaru, it is a great family car. The only issues I have with this vehicle is that the AC is horrible and it burns oil. It did great in the snow but as soon as I moved south I've discovered that the AC barely works and I've looked it up and many have had this issue.

Emilie D on July 6, 2021

Subaru 2013 forester has still got it!

My vehicle does not have any issues! It rides super smooth even though it's a bit older. It rarely rusts and I've never had any issues with it. I always purchase Subarus! It's very comfortable and is always easy to clean. My dogs love to sit in the spacious back seats.

Matt S on July 15, 2021

2011 Subaru forester is good.

My Subaru forester is very comfortable and easy to drive. I have only had issues with traction in the winter. It gets up to speed on the highway fairly quick and cruise control is seamless. The sound system is great, it has Bluetooth a spot for an aux cable and USB.

Amanda M on June 23, 2021

2011 Subaru Forester 2.5XT Touring review.

It goes through gas pretty quickly but is very reliable in the snow and rain. If it is windy sometimes it will blow around on the highway. The seat warmers are nice. It has had many mechanical problems in the past few months but it is from 2011 so that is expected.

Hannah H on November 12, 2021

Silver 2011 Subaru Forester.

My car is great. It is comfortable, great seat warmers. The visibility is fairly great. It would be cool if there was a third row of seats though. The performance is amazing, and it feels super reliable. I have had zero problems that are worth noting.

Cathleen on March 19, 2022

My 2018 Subaru Forester-3 recalls!

I have a 2018 Subaru Forester which has 2 recalls and one repair for the compressor covered under the warranty which Subaru has told me that if you want to split hairs is a recall. I would never buy another Subaru

Linda K on July 18, 2021

My 2010 Forester has burned through 3 sets of tires and brakes quickly

I have put 3 sets of tires and brakes in it and it only has 36,000 miles. I don't think this should have happened since I bought it new. Also my air conditioner has a leak. I think I got a lemon.

Samantha H on September 1, 2021

2013 Subaru Forester with good gas mileage

I have now had two subarus that have had issues with the electrics in the vehicle. I love the gas mileage and all the trunk space. My car also needs a new airbag as the old one has been recalled.

Brittany P on June 14, 2021

2011 Subaru Forester 2.5x

I love the safety features and the AWD system of Subaru. Just pay attention to what year vehicle you are buying because there have been some oil consumption issues with years 2009-2013.

Dallas C on July 19, 2021

I've had nothing but a good experience with my 2012 Subaru Forester.

It always starts and runs good. The all wheel drive works great all year round. Plenty of room inside. I've put the back seats down and had enough room to haul 8 pallets in the back.

Elliott on March 13, 2022

2010 Forester

So far l have had great performance from 2010 Forester. My daughter bought it new. I bought it from her in 2017 with 78k miles. Currently l have 158k on it. So far no problems.

Rachel V on October 22, 2021

Buyer beware: speed sensor trouble in 2010 Forester

While the car is a good height from the ground the seat sits low in the car. We are having continuous problems with the speed sensors going out. Had to replace the engine.

Thomas on June 24, 2021

Camera Broke Already On 2019 Forester

I have had the 2019 forester sport not even 3 months and brought into the shop for Eye Sight Indicator issue. They tell me they have to order a new camera not happy.

David Strock on August 22, 2021

2014 subaru forester owner

We have owned our subaru forester limited since new(2014). Knock on wood- we havent had any problems. It has been a great vEhicle.

Daniel M on September 16, 2021

I hate it squeaks too much, and had a lot of miles on it to wear every week I'm working on it - 2000 Forester

I hate it squeaks too much, and had a lot of miles on it to where every week I'm working on it

Austin Kinney

Austin M. Kinney’s auto coverage can be found on popular sites like DriveTribe and Vehicle History. When he’s not busy writing about cars, he can be found hosting videos on his popular automotive YouTube channel, Kinney’s Reviews, which has grown to garner over 4,000 monthly views, and his writings have been viewed over 200,000 times.