The 2009 Subaru Forester only lasts around 150,000 miles with serious engine and steering problems. At $6,167 to $8,448, it’s not worth the money to buy an SUV that’ll total itself out with a blown motor.
Is the 2009 Subaru Forester a Good Used SUV?
- No, 2009 is a bad year for the Forester. Owner reviews complain about high ownership costs, A/C system problems, and even widespread rust issues.
- Interior quality is average compared to other compact crossovers with soft interior fabric choices, and the infotainment system works well given its age.
- Reliability ratings are terrible. There are serious mechanical problems on models from 2009-2017, with improvements in 2018–2020 models
- Performance is average from the standard 4-cylinder engine, but the turbocharged motor offers more power and a better driving experience.
- The 2009 Subaru Forester is extremely safe, getting a perfect 5-star overall rating in government crash tests, with the lowest score being 4 stars for the rollover test.
- Fuel economy is good for an SUV, averaging roughly 22 MPG, which gives owners about 370 miles of range out of the 16.9 gallon tank.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Subaru Forester?
- Consumer Reports says the 2009 Subaru Forester offers decent safety equipment, but owner satisfaction scores are low.
- Edmunds gives the 2009 Subaru Forester a 4.3/5 praising the all-wheel-drive system, but doesn’t like the unresponsive steering.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the Forester 4.2/5 and enjoy the affordable pricing, but owners don’t like that the turbo engine only comes with a manual transmission.
What Common Problems Does the 2009 Subaru Forester Have?
The most common problems with the 2009 Subaru Forester include engine failures, broken A/C systems, and steering rattles. Overall, these problems are more severe than other compact SUVs, and repair costs are a bit higher as well.
Engine failures are the most widespread issue at around 100,000 miles. Subaru engines from this era were notorious for head gasket failures that caused the engine to fail. Replacing the entire engine costs around $6,500 if a sudden failure occurs.
Broken A/C systems show up on some Forester models at around 50,000 miles. The A/C compressor is the main culprit, but in some cases the blower motor is the problem. Replacing the compressor is about $1,200 and the blower motor is roughly $600.
Excessive steering rattles are another complaint from owners at around 80,000 miles. The steering rack starts to wear out as the vehicle ages, and costs about $1,800 to replace the components.
There are 17 recalls, which is significantly worse than other SUVs from 2009. The most serious recall is for the brake lines which corrode and lose fluid, leading to a loss of braking force. Many of the other recalls cover airbags and exterior lighting issues which are less of a concern.
How Long Will the 2009 Subaru Forester Last?
A well-maintained 2009 Subaru Forester should be able to last around 150,000 miles, which is 100,000 miles less than top rivals like the Honda CR-V. Regular annual costs are very high compared to other SUVs from 2009, according to Repair Pal, at $720 per year.
Since most 2009 Forester models will have over 100,000 miles buyers should be prepared to reseal the transmission for about $550, change out the oxygen sensors which cost $400, and replace the steering shaft, which costs $850.
I have had issues with the head gaskets leaking which needed to be replaced. Other than that it is a very safe and reliable vehicle.
Yes it is reliable. Do not like design of center console. Not a good place to put cell phone. When slide some on ice it will straighten out fairly easily.
It is been quite reliable the only major problem I have ever had with her was my fault- I neglected to check my oil & ended up having to get a new engine.
I have not experienced any problems with my Subaru forester. It has been very inexpensive to maintain and I trust it to go on road trips across the state.
Reliable. The head gasket and belts need replaced before 100,000 miles. Because Subaru foresters Head gaskets tends to blow.
The Subaru forester is a reliable vehicle. I have not had any serious problems with the car even though I am not necessarily the most careful with it.
Yes it is reliable and has had no major problems but it has a few small yet expensive ones. The remote went out and all of the tire pressure sensors had to be replaced. These were very expensive nuisance problems.
It is not reliable. It has a problem known well to Subaru with its head gaskets. Repairs are very expensive and the problem is serious. Subaru should have stood behind the defect.
How Much Is the 2009 Subaru Forester Worth?
Blue book values range from $6,167 to $8,448, which makes the Subaru Forester cheaper than rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. When new, the price range was $19,995 to $29,995. Depreciation is worse than average, losing about 13% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Subaru Forester?
There are three models of the Subaru Forester offered for the 2009 model year. The third generation of the Forester was launched in 2009, and then replaced with the fourth generation in 2014.
2.5X is the entry-level model with:
- 16-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Cruise Control
- Keyless Entry
- 4-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo With 3.5mm AUX Jack
2.5XT is next in the lineup and adds:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Rear Spoiler
- Sunroof
- Reclining Backseats
- 6-Speaker Stereo System With Added 6-CD Changer
2.5XT Limited is the flagship model and has:
- Leather Seating
- Heated Front Seats
- Automatic Climate Control
- Power Driver’s Seat
- Navigation System
What Engines Come In the Subaru Forester?
- The standard engine is an average 2.5L-4-cylinder which makes 170 horsepower and gets up to 22 MPG combined.
- An available upgrade is the stronger 2.5L 4-cylinder turbo, which produces 224 horsepower and gets up to 21 MPG combined. Performance is decent, taking 6.6 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Subaru Forester Come In?
How Big Is the Subaru Forester?
The 2009 Subaru Forester is a bit smaller than other compact SUVs, and similar in size to the Jeep Compass, and Chevrolet HHR. Passenger space is below average in the backseats, and there’s not as much legroom as some rivals.
Cargo space is average compared to other compact SUVs, with enough room for 4-5 suitcases behind the backseats, and up to 12 with the seats folded flat.
How Does the Subaru Forester Compare to the Competition?
The Subaru Forester is one of the worst compact SUVs of 2009 due to the widespread mechanical issues that are expensive to fix, making it one buyers should avoid.
The Subaru Outback is another competitor from Subaru which costs about $1,500 more. Passenger room and interior materials are both nicer in the Subaru Outback, but the Subaru Forester has more up-to-date technology. We recommend the Subaru Outback since there are fewer mechanical complaints from owners.
The Toyota RAV4 is another rival, which costs around $3,000 more. There’s more room for passengers and cargo in the Toyota RAV4, but the AWD system in the Subaru Forester works better. We recommend the Toyota RAV4 since it will last longer and is cheaper to own.
Do Owners Recommend the Subaru Forester?
Yes. It is a very reliable vehicle that gets great gas mileage. I feel safe when driving the vehicle in all weather conditions. The vehicle is not large yet there seems to be a great amount of space in the back end for storing things like groceries. The back seats folding down also make it convenient for hauling large items.
Yes. Drives well. Like that it is all wheel drive so good in dealing with winter ice and snow and unpaved wilderness roads, like that is higher from ground. Do not like way center console is designed: cup holder not good.
Yes, she's been very reliable & a comfortable car on long trips. She he talks good gas mileage & does not overuse oil.
Yes, I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone. I live down a gravel road that is not maintained well and it can handle any type or road condition from snow to mud. It has also been very reliable and cheap to maintain.
Yes, I love this car! It is reliable and I can take it to the mountains. It sits high off the ground, and the sunroof is large. Creating a beautiful view while going on nature drives.
Yes it is safe, reliable, and a great family vehicle. I am considering purchasing another one in a few years when we replace this current vehicle.
Yes it is and it is the best vehicle I have had over the years. Its performance in rain or snow gives one a very safe feeling.
It was a good vehicle. Except, Subarus have a known defect with head gaskets. The crack and leaks resulting in significant costs. I love the car and the AWD but Subaru has not stood behind the known problem.
