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Are 2000s Subaru Foresters reliable?

Yes, 2000s Subaru Foresters are generally considered to be reliable vehicles. The Subaru Forester, introduced in 1997, has a reputation for being a dependable and durable compact SUV, with the 2000s models continuing this trend. Subaru is known for its commitment to safety and quality, and the Forester has consistently performed well in reliability surveys and owner satisfaction ratings.


Reliability of 2000s Subaru Foresters


The Subaru Forester was first introduced in 1997 and quickly gained a reputation for being a reliable and capable compact SUV. This reputation carried over to the 2000s models, which continued to be praised for their dependability and longevity. According to data from Consumer Reports, the 2000-2009 Subaru Foresters scored above-average reliability ratings, with many model years receiving "Recommended" status.


Subaru's commitment to safety and quality engineering is a key factor in the Forester's reliability. The vehicle's standard all-wheel-drive system, robust construction, and well-designed powertrain contribute to its overall durability and longevity. Additionally, Subaru has a reputation for addressing any issues or recalls promptly, further enhancing the Forester's reliability.p>

Common Issues and Maintenance


While the 2000s Subaru Foresters are generally reliable, there are a few common issues that owners may encounter:



  • Headgasket failures: Some Forester models, particularly those with the 2.5-liter boxer engine, have been known to experience head gasket issues, which can be costly to repair. Proper maintenance and monitoring of the cooling system can help mitigate this problem.li>
  • Transmission problems: Automatic transmission issues, such as slipping or jerking, have been reported in some Forester models. Regular maintenance and fluid changes can help prevent these problems.

  • Electrical gremlins: Minor electrical issues, such as problems with the climate control system or dashboard lights, have been reported by some Forester owners. These are often easily resolved by a qualified mechanic.


To maintain the reliability of a 2000s Subaru Forester, it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, which includes regular oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections. Addressing any issues promptly and using high-quality replacement parts can also help ensure the longevity of the vehicle.

How many miles will a 2002 Subaru Forester last?


Forester: The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV that offers a perfect blend of utility, comfort, and durability. Forester models are known for their long-lasting performance, with many drivers achieving 200,000 miles with minimal issues.



How long does a 2000 Subaru Forester last?


Throughout its more than two decades of production, the Forester has gained a reputation for easily crossing the 200,000-mile threshold. Based on various sources and owner accounts, Foresters can last 200,000 and 250,000 with proper TLC – nothing short of impressive.



What year does Subaru have a bad engine?


Although Subaru has been challenged with engine issues, most of the issues were isolated to a few engines, namely the EJs that were in the Impreza, Forester, Legacy, Outback and Baja models between 1996 and 2005. The latest Subaru boxer engines are part of the FB series boxer engines.



What is the weakness of a Subaru Forester?


Excessive oil consumption, unexpected acceleration, engine stalling while driving, the check engine light staying on, engine reluctance when accelerating, and the engine catching fire or malfunctioning are among the top engine issues expressed by 2015 Forester owners.



What year does the Subaru Forester have the least problems?


2016 Subaru Forester
Of all the fourth-generation Subaru Foresters, the 2016 model has the lowest number of complaints logged on Car Complaints. This model year hit a sweet spot between performance, comfort, and dependability, especially if you have found one with a six-speed manual transmission.



Are subarus reliable after 200k miles?


Good mileage for a used car typically falls between 100,000 to 150,000 miles if the car has been well-maintained. Subarus, known for their durability, can handle higher mileages, even over 200,000 miles, with regular servicing. Always review maintenance records and vehicle history for a reliable assessment.



What years did the Subaru Forester have head gasket problems?


Subaru was quick to come up with an updated version of the head gaskets. Thicker and with more layers these updates MLS gaskets fixed the problems that plagued the DOHC 2.5l produced from 1995-1999 in the Subaru Legacy, Legacy Outback, Legacy GT, Impreza RS and the Subaru Forester in 1998.



Can Subaru Forester last 300000 miles?


Well, that's where the Forester's longevity comes in. You might pay top dollar for a used Subaru Forester, but that's because it's built to last. Some first-generation Foresters can still be found on the road today with their wagon body styles and a likely 300,000 plus miles on their odometers.



Are Subarus reliable after 200k miles?


Good mileage for a used car typically falls between 100,000 to 150,000 miles if the car has been well-maintained. Subarus, known for their durability, can handle higher mileages, even over 200,000 miles, with regular servicing. Always review maintenance records and vehicle history for a reliable assessment.



What year did the Subaru Forester have transmission problems?


The Subaru Forester's 2011 to 2015 models also joined the list of lemon vehicles. Similar to other Subaru lemon years, this model suffers from excessive oil consumption and CVT issues. These models, specifically the turbocharged variants, were also prone to turbo failure.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.