Here are eight Subaru Forester years to avoid. Make a smart preowned vehicle shopping decision by learning which ones (and why) are the best.
Forester, a crossover based on Impreza, was introduced by Subaru in 1997. Forester’s boxy design and rough style became synonymous with the car, and its low shape made it stand out from the competition.
As soon as it was released, the new Subaru Forester was positioned comfortably between the Impreza and the Legacy. In spite of its popularity and loyal following, it still has some common issues. What are some Forester model years to avoid?
Short Answer: 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2010, 2011, 2014
Despite the fact that there are many Forester model years to avoid, each has its own good reason. According to conventional thinking, redesign years should be avoided in order to give the updated models time to work out their kinks, and those redesign years are 2002, 2008, 2014, and 2019. Redesign models were only significant problems in 2014, in reality. The remainder are mostly first- and second-generation products, with a few outliers.
Forester Model Years To Avoid: First Generation 1998-2001
1998 was the worst of the first-generation Foresters in terms of gasket head problems. There was a problem with a weak single-layer head gasket. A head gasket leak usually occurred around 50,000 miles in virtually every Forester from this period. Considering all things considered, these aren’t too bad but consistent enough to make it worthwhile to avoid first-generation models altogether.
Forester Model Year To Avoid: 2003
Problems:
Breaking door seals and wind noise from the window seals are the top Subaru Forester problems for this year. You could only resolve this problem by replacing the door; otherwise, the power window might not roll up. With today’s technology, drivers shouldn’t have to deal with this problem even after 80,000 miles.
Two of the most common complaints about airbags and seatbelts are the airbag light going on and the airbag not deploying. A 3.3 out of 10 severity rating is assigned to these issues at 60,000 miles. You may experience problems with your Subaru Forester’s engine system due to a failed head gasket, misfiring during acceleration, and engine failure. Suddenly losing power as you decelerate.
Forester Model Year To Avoid: 2010
Problems:
Most 2010 Forester owners have problems with blown head gaskets, engine failures, loud, cold starts, blown turbo engines, and the diesel filter warning light turning on during operation. For blown head gaskets, the typical repair cost is $2,380 at about 91,000 miles. Interior accessories include a non-working compass, a collapsing driver’s seat, and a non-working critical lock-in.
Seats collapsing, hatch arms breaking, and the check engine light appearing on the dashboard while driving are some of the most common complaints about the 2010 Forester’s interior accessories. After about 64,000 miles, the only solution is to install a new seat.
Forester Model Year To Avoid: 2011
Problems:
There are a variety of engine issues that plague Subaru Foresters in 2011, including excessive oil consumption, engine failures, leaks of oil, burnt oil odor, and unexpected acceleration. This year, consumers began to experience significant problems with these issues, which were far more prevalent for the 2014 model. High oil use is most often treated by replacing the engine or adding oil, which costs about $1,640 on average and frequently occurs around 46,000 miles.
Forester Model Year To Avoid: 2014
It is the 2014 Forester that should be avoided if there is one specific model. One of the worst model years for this car due to engine failures, excessive oil consumption, suspension problems, and gearbox problems.
Problems:
When a lousy suspension is coupled with transmission problems, it’s even worse. Most suspension issues for the 2014 were related to broken coil springs. Spring, strut, and rear coil spring replacement costs average $1,200 on average and were common around 50,000 miles.
Most transmission problems occur when the vehicle surges, the clutch breaks, the car rolls backwards when parked, and the transmission gets stuck in park. Manufacturers and dealers were primarily responsible for solving these problems. There are many more fixes that usually need attention whenever there is an electrical problem, even though they are not the most expensive. The 2014 Forester is the worst Forester model year when it comes to electrical failures, blown fuses, and warning miscommunication lights.
Forester Model Year To Avoid: 2015
Problems:
Engine issues reported by 2015 Forester owners include excessive oil consumption, unexpected acceleration, stalling, the check engine light staying on, reluctance when accelerating, and engine fire or malfunction.
In 2015, interior accessories will continue to be available. The Bluetooth connectivity was inconsistent, had trouble responding on command, and speech recognition was difficult to use, especially while driving. It wasn’t necessary to replace the radio with a new one, but it was the easiest solution. Radios typically cost between $150 and $250 to repair.
Engine and transmission repeats are also standard for the Forester. Vehicles from the 2015 model year are known for surging at low speeds, slipping transmissions, and experiencing a delay when turning on the ignition.
Forester Model Year To Avoid: 2017
Problems:
There were fewer issues in 2017 than in previous years, but it was still not without its share of problems. Several drivers have been left stranded due to a weak battery, a faulty radio, and a faulty navigation system. As early as 25,000 miles, the vehicle’s battery died, and it stalled throughout its lifetime. The Forester isn’t the worst, but it hasn’t significantly improved since this year.
What Are Some Good Years? 2019 2020 And 2021
Foresters have been popular since their introduction, but the most recent model years are the best to look at if you’re interested in buying one. Customer reviews for these models are favorable, they have better connectivity and technology, and they are highly rated for safety. Whether they will have long-term problems like their predecessors is yet to be seen, but these three appear to be safe bets for the time being.
2019 Subaru Forester
Consumers seeking an all-wheel crossover SUV will find a lot to like about the 2019 Forester. With its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and snappy handling, this vehicle is sure to impress. Subarus also come with all-wheel drive, as one would expect.
There are a few, albeit minor, reliability issues with the 2019 Forester. Although low-mileage cars tend to chip easily, its windshield is its most common complaint.
2020 Subaru Forester
A well-executed SUV, the 2020 Forester offers a roomy interior, excellent fuel economy, and plenty of safety features as standard. Among the best AWD systems in its segment, the standard all-wheel-drive works as advertised.
The Forester’s windshield is a major source of reliability issues, as it cracks easily. In addition, there are problems with the SUV’s electrical system, particularly with its spotty power liftgate.
2021 Subaru Forester
Forester has been highly rated for its ruggedness and practicality, making it one of Subaru’s most popular SUVs.
Despite its plain design, the Forester more than makes up for its lack of flash with practicality. There is nothing wrong with the 2021 Forester, from its generous interior space to its top-notch AWD system to its excellent EyeSight driver assistance suite.
Common Subaru Forester Problems
With its excellent off-road capabilities, the Subaru Forester is one of the most popular SUVs on the market. There are, however, some problems with it, as you can see:
Subaru Forester History
Aside from the sporty WRX, the versatile Crosstrek, and the family-friendly Outback, the Subaru Forester was introduced in 1997, sitting between the compact Impreza and the larger Legacy. With its rugged capability, spacious interior, and reliable performance, Subaru’s Forester quickly became a standout when it came to all-wheel drive.
With multiple generations under its belt, the Forester has continually improved in terms of technology, safety, and overall driving experience, making it a top pick for both families and adventurers alike.
Over 2.6 million Foresters have been sold in the United States alone as of the end of 2023. Since the Forester was introduced in 1997, Subaru has sold over four million units worldwide, contributing significantly to its global sales.
Over six million Subaru Outback vehicles have been sold worldwide, making it the best-selling and most popular Subaru nameplate. Outdoor enthusiasts and families alike find the Forester to be a versatile and reliable vehicle that appeals to a wide audience.
- Best & Worst Subaru Outback Years & Year To Avoid
- Best & Worst Subaru Impreza Years | Years To Avoid
Conclusion
Certain years of the Subaru Forester have stood out more than others for their reliability and capability. It’s good to leave the 2002, 2008, and 2016 Foresters in the rearview mirror, although they’ve set the bar for reliability. It’s important to do some research, check out previous owners’ reports and complaints, and identify the bad apples of the group if you’re shopping for a used Forester.
Frequently Asked Questions: Subaru Forester Years to Avoid
Which years of the Subaru Forester are recommended to avoid?
Subaru Foresters from the following years should be avoided by potential buyers: 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2010, 2011, and 2014. The 2014 model is the most problematic of the three due to its significant issues.
What were the major issues with the first generation of Subaru Forester (1998-2001)?
Subaru Foresters from the first generation, especially the 1998 model, suffered from head gasket problems. Leaks usually occurred around 50,000 miles because of a single-layer head gasket that was too weak.
Why is the 2014 Subaru Forester considered one of the worst model years?
Due to engine failures, excessive oil consumption, suspension breakdowns, and gearbox problems, the 2014 Subaru Forester is considered one of the worst vehicles in the world. A high level of reliability and high repair costs resulted from these issues.
Which Subaru Forester models are considered reliable and safe to purchase?
The most recent Subaru Foresters, specifically the 2019 model year, 2020 model year, and 2021 model year, are the best ones to consider. Customers have given these models positive reviews, they have better connectivity and technology, and their safety ratings are excellent.
Are Subaru Foresters typically reliable?
In the early years of the Subaru Forester, head gaskets are notoriously problematic, leading to costly repairs. Foresters older than 2015 are a recipe for headaches, so proceed with caution.
How much does a used Subaru Forester typically cost?
Foresters are popular used cars, with good availability in most markets. A high demand exists, however, for compact crossovers. Second-hand Foresters are now selling for a 20%-29% premium compared with pre-pandemic prices. Our reports indicate that a 2015 edition has an average asking price of $16,568. For the 2020 model year, this number rises to $28,837.
Is the Subaru Forester a good car to purchase?
The Subaru Forester is a reliable form of transportation that can be found with careful research. There is no perfect model year, so keep that in mind. Before you buy a Forester, take the time to learn about the most reliable models.