Are Subaru Forester engines noisy?

Not particularly loud for most drivers, especially with the natural aspirated 2.5-liter engine. Turbocharged Foresters can be noticeably louder under acceleration. This article examines why Forester engines sound the way they do, how noise varies by engine option, and what owners can do to keep cabin noise in check.

Engine design and sound profile

Subaru's flat-four boxer layout tends to minimize vertical vibration and gives a distinct, even engine note. Interior insulation, engine mounts, and under-hood shielding also shape how loud the engine feels inside the cabin. In recent generations, Subaru has relied on timing chains rather than belts for many engines, which can help reduce certain mechanical noises and simplify maintenance. The overall sound is influenced by exhaust tuning, intake design, and whether the engine is naturally aspirated or turbocharged.

Key characteristics by engine type influence the sound profile across Forester engines:

• Naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engines typically deliver a quiet idle and polite mid-range tone, with noise rising gradually as the engine is pushed harder.


• Turbocharged variants add a turbo spool and exhaust note that can become noticeable under acceleration, especially with older or performance-tuned exhausts.


• Engine mounting, age of insulation, and aftermarket modifications can amplify or dampen perceived noise.


• Vehicle speed and road noise can mask or emphasize engine sound, particularly at highway tempos in older vehicles with less insulation.

Overall, the Forester's engine noise in normal driving is not considered excessive, though the sound can become noticeable during aggressive acceleration or cold starts, depending on the trim and year.

Noise by engine variant

Naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engines

Most Forester models fitted with the 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine are praised for smooth operation and low cabin noise at cruising speeds. Idle is typically quiet, and the engine remains unobtrusive at regular highway speeds. When pushed hard, the engine will produce more audible mechanical noise and exhaust note, but it generally stays within a comfortable range thanks to Subaru's sound-deadening measures.

Turbocharged models

Foresters with turbocharged powertrains tend to exhibit more audible character under load. Expect turbo spool whine, a sharper exhaust note, and a sportier feel when accelerating. The degree of noise depends on year, engine tune, exhaust, and maintenance; a well-maintained turbocharged Forester should still feel refined, but you are more likely to notice boost-related sounds compared with the NA 2.5-liter engine.

Other factors that influence perceived noise

Beyond the engine itself, several conditions can amplify or dampen what you hear inside the cabin:

• Worn or damaged engine mounts can increase vibration and perceived noise at idle or during acceleration.


• Exhaust leaks, damaged resonators, or mufflers can create louder or raspier sounds.


• Under-hood insulation, firewall barriers, and carpeted floors reduce cabin intrusion of engine noise; age or water damage can reduce effectiveness.


• CVT droning in some speed ranges can add to cabin noise, especially if the vehicle is under heavy load or not properly serviced.


• Tire choice and road surface influence perceived cabin noise; loud or aggressive tires can amplify the sense of engine noise by association.

In practice, the noise experience varies with condition and configuration; properly maintained engines with good insulation tend to be quiet enough for most daily commutes.

What owners can do to minimize engine noise

Keep the Forester quiet by addressing common wear items and following Subaru's maintenance guidelines. The following actions are often effective:

• Use the recommended oil viscosity and change intervals; synthetic oils can help reduce engine wear noise and improve overall efficiency.


• Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, damaged gaskets, or broken hangers; repair or replace as needed to reduce rasp or drone.


• Check engine mounts and transmission mounts for wear or cracking; replace if they show excessive movement to cut vibration.


• Replace worn spark plugs and ignition coils to prevent misfires and rough idle that can amplify noise.


• Keep the air intake system clean, including the air filter and intake boots; restricted air flow can increase engine strain and noise.


• Ensure CVT transmission is serviced and address any unusual slipping or whining that could be mistaken for engine noise.


• Consider improving cabin insulation or selecting quieter tires; some noise from road surfaces or tires can be mistaken for engine noise.

Addressing these elements typically reduces noise inside the cabin; if new or unusual noises persist, a Subaru technician can diagnose issues such as timing chain tension, misfires, or exhaust problems.

Summary

Subaru Forester engines are not universally loud. The naturally aspirated 2.5-liter powertrain is usually quiet at cruising speeds, while turbocharged variants can add noticeable boost-related noise. A combination of engine design, aging insulation, maintenance, and aftermarket components shapes what you hear inside the cabin. With proactive maintenance and mindful choices about tires and insulation, most owners experience a comfortable, quiet ride.

What is the most common problem with the Subaru Forester?

The most common problem with the Subaru Forester is the continuously variable transmission (CVT), which can suffer from issues like shuddering, delayed acceleration, and whining noises, and may require expensive repairs. Other frequent issues include problems with the engine (especially oil consumption), the electrical system, and, in certain model years, issues with windshields cracking and batteries dying quickly.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about Subaru Forester common problems: 51scar PROblemsYouTube · Feb 19, 2024
Transmission (CVT)

• Shuddering and jerking: This often occurs when accelerating from a stop.
• Delayed acceleration and slipping: The engine revs up but the car doesn't speed up as expected, which can be dangerous when merging.
• High-pitched whining: This can be a sign of worn pulley bearings inside the transmission.
• Repair cost: CVTs are often not rebuildable and require a complete, expensive replacement. 

Engine

• Excessive oil consumption: Many model years, particularly from the 2014-2018 generation, are known for burning through oil rapidly.
• Oil leaks: Leaks, often requiring expensive engine replacements, are another reported problem. 

Electrical and other issues

• Electrical malfunctions: Issues can range from infotainment system glitches and GPS errors to more serious problems like a battery dying prematurely or the EyeSight safety system turning off unexpectedly. 
• Air conditioning (AC): Some models experience AC failure that can be costly to fix. 
• Windshields: In the 2019-2024 generation, windshields can crack from small chips. 
• Airbag malfunctions: Older models, such as the 2009-2011, have been associated with malfunctioning airbags. 

This video explains some of the most common issues with the Subaru Forester, including the transmission and engine: 57sGear GazetteYouTube · Oct 23, 2025

Are Subaru Foresters quiet?

Compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4, the Forester tends to let in more noise, especially at higher speeds.

Why is my Subaru Forester so loud?

A Subaru Forester can be loud due to normal engine characteristics, wind noise from its design, or potential mechanical issues like worn wheel bearings, exhaust leaks, or engine component problems. The unique sound of the boxer engine is normal, but any sudden or unusual noises, particularly those that change with engine speed or driving conditions, should be investigated by a mechanic.
 
You can watch this video to learn why Subaru engines have a unique sound: 57sMartiniWorksYouTube · Mar 3, 2024
Normal or design-related causes

• Boxer engine: The horizontal layout of the boxer engine creates a unique sound due to the unequal length of the exhaust headers, which is normal and can be more pronounced when the engine is cold. 
• Aerodynamic design: The Forester's boxy shape and large windows can create significant wind noise, especially at higher speeds. Accessories like roof racks or moonroofs can increase this noise. 

Potential mechanical issues

• Wheel bearings: A bad wheel bearing is a common cause of noise in Foresters and can sound like a loud rumbling or "garbage truck" sound that gets worse over time, according to Dayton Daily News. 
• Exhaust system: Leaks in the exhaust system, a damaged catalytic converter, or failing engine mounts can cause rumbling or other loud noises, says Valley Subaru of Longmont. 
• Tires: Unevenly worn, under-inflated, or misaligned tires can cause loud, and sometimes uneven, noise from road contact. 
• Engine internal issues: A loud ticking or grinding noise could point to a worn valve, low oil pressure, or other engine problems. A loud knocking or banging noise could indicate a serious issue like a failed connecting rod bearing. 
• Belts: A squealing noise could mean a worn or loose belt on an accessory like the water pump, according to Quora. 

What to do

• Identify the noise: Try to determine when the noise occurs (e.g., cold engine, highway speeds, acceleration) and what type of noise it is (e.g., rumbling, ticking, squealing). 
• Check for easy fixes: Ensure tires are properly inflated and remove any unused roof accessories to reduce wind noise. 
• Get a professional diagnosis: Because many loud noises can signal serious mechanical problems, it is best to have a mechanic inspect the vehicle to pinpoint the source of the noise. 

Why are Subaru engines noisy?

Persistent engine noise in Subaru vehicles often stems from worn valve lifters or leaking gaskets. Valve cleaning can improve performance temporarily, but gasket deterioration may cause oil leaks and combustion inefficiency. Regularly check oil levels to prevent damage.