Do Subaru Foresters flip easily?

No. Subaru Foresters are not prone to flipping; while any tall SUV can roll over in extreme conditions, the Forester’s design—relatively moderate center of gravity for its class, standard stability features, and symmetric all-wheel drive—helps keep handling stable. This article examines rollover risk, safety ratings, and practical steps to minimize risk.

Rollover risk in context

Rollover risk is influenced by vehicle design, how a vehicle is loaded, speed, road conditions, and driver behavior. The following factors help explain how Foresters fare in real-world driving and what can push rollover risk higher.

• Vehicle geometry and center of gravity: Forester sits higher than a car but generally has a lower center of gravity than many taller SUVs.


• Stability control and traction systems: Electronic stability control helps prevent loss-of-control during cornering or evasive maneuvers.


• All-wheel drive: Symmetrical AWD provides traction in slippery or uneven surfaces, supporting stability.


• Tire condition and pressure: Worn or underinflated tires can worsen grip and increase rollover risk in emergencies.


• Payload and roof load: Overloading the roof or carrying heavy cargo can alter rollover dynamics during sharp turns or swerves.


• Driver behavior: Excessive speed, abrupt steering, or sudden lane changes raise rollover risk across vehicle types.

In practice, Foresters are designed to mitigate these risks through engineering and safety systems, but safe driving remains essential.

Design features that strengthen stability

Several engineering choices influence the Forester’s stability profile. The following points highlight how Subaru addresses rollover risk in this vehicle class.

• Symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD): Provides consistent traction, helping maintain grip in various conditions.


• Stability control and driver-assist tech: Electronic stability control works with braking and engine management to prevent skids and loss of control.


• Chassis and suspension tuning: Aims to balance ride comfort with predictable handling, reducing abrupt movements in emergencies.


• Roof strength and design: Structure resists deformation in rollovers, with published roof-load limits to guide safe loading.


• Weight distribution: A relatively even balance and a broad stance contribute to stability in corners.

These design features are complemented by active safety technologies such as EyeSight, which can help prevent situations that might lead to loss of control.

Safety ratings and what they mean for rollover risk

Independent organizations test crashworthiness and rollover tendencies. In recent model years, the Forester has earned solid safety scores for its class, reflecting strong structural integrity and protective features. Ratings vary by year and trim, so buyers should review the specific year they’re considering.

Government and independent testing

NHTSA and IIHS assess rollover risk as part of overall crash testing. Forester results across recent years have positioned the model well within its segment, thanks to a sturdy roof, effective restraint systems, and reliable stability features. Model-year differences exist, so checking the exact ratings for the year and trim is advised.

Active safety and driver assistance

EyeSight driver-assist and related features help mitigate situations that could otherwise lead to loss of control, such as pre-collision braking and adaptive cruise control. When paired with stable chassis dynamics, these systems reduce the likelihood of rollover-related scenarios in everyday driving.

How drivers can minimize rollover risk

Even with a stable design, human factors play a major role in rollover risk. Here are practical steps Forester owners and drivers can take to minimize risk.

1. Keep tires in good condition and inflated to the manufacturer’s specifications.


2. Avoid overloading the vehicle, including roof loads, and secure all cargo properly.


3. Drive at safe speeds, especially through curves and on wet or icy roads.


4. Use stability control and other safety features; do not disable them.


5. Distribute weight evenly inside the cabin; secure heavy items to prevent shifting during maneuvers.

Following these guidelines, along with the Forester’s safety systems, helps minimize rollover risk during routine driving and challenging conditions.

Summary

The Subaru Forester is not prone to flipping under normal driving conditions. Its combination of a modest center of gravity for a tall crossover, standard stability controls, and symmetric all-wheel drive contributes to stable handling relative to some rival SUVs. Rollover remains a possibility for any tall vehicle if driven aggressively, overloaded, or under poor road conditions, so prudent loading, tire maintenance, and careful driving are essential. Overall, the Forester offers favorable stability and solid safety features within its class.

Do SUBARUs flip easily?

Every SUBARU boasts exceptional driving stability owing to the low centre of gravity design and suspension system that offers excellent traction. In essence, SUBARUs are engineered to have a low risk of a roll-over.

What is the weakness of a Subaru Forester?

Oil Consumption
Many drivers have reported that they need to get their oil changed more frequently than they have had to in other cars. This is likely due to oil cracks or leaks in the camshaft and crankshaft seals as well as the oil pump seal.

What year to stay away from a Subaru Forester?

You should generally stay away from Subaru Forester model years known for significant engine issues, such as the 1998–2001, 2003, 2006, 2009, and 2010 models due to head gasket failures and other problems. The 2011–2014 and 2014–2018 models are also problematic, particularly for excessive oil consumption, CVT transmission issues, and suspension problems, according to sources like Panda Hub, CoPilot for Car Shopping, CarBuzz, and MotorBiscuit. 
You can watch this video to learn more about the worst model years for the Subaru Forester: 44sCar ExpertlyYouTube · Apr 14, 2025
Specific model years to avoid

• 1998–2001: These early models are known for frequent head gasket failures, which can be costly to repair. 
• 2003 and 2006: These model years experienced recurring head gasket issues and other problems like electrical malfunctions and cooling system failures. 
• 2009–2010: These years saw engine stalling, head gasket problems, and engine oil pipe ruptures. The 2010 model received particularly low reliability ratings. 
• 2011–2014: The 2.5L engine (FB25) in these models is known for excessive oil consumption, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed. The 2011 model also had poor oil warning light design. 
• 2014: Often cited as one of the worst model years, this model is known for severe oil consumption, CVT transmission problems, and broken coil springs. 
• 2015: Continued issues with engine and transmission troubles were reported, along with airbag sensor malfunctions. 
• 2018: Recall issues related to faulty rear suspension springs and engine valves affected some models. 

Common issues across multiple years

• Head gasket failure: A common issue in many pre-2012 models, especially those with the 2.5L EJ series engine, typically occurring around 60,000 to 100,000 miles. 
• Excessive oil consumption: A major problem in models with the newer FB25 engine from 2011 to 2014, which can cause serious engine damage. 
• Transmission issues: The 2014 model's CVT transmission was prone to problems, and the 2015 model also had reports of transmission troubles. 
• Suspension and wheel bearings: Problems with rear suspension springs and premature wheel bearing wear were reported in some models, including the 2014. 
• Cracking windshields: A widespread issue across multiple model years, including the 2014 and 2017, which even led to a class-action lawsuit. 

What to look for when buying a used Forester

• If considering an older model (1998-2012), check for documented evidence of head gasket replacement, preferably with upgraded multi-layer steel gaskets. 
• For 2011-2014 models, be aware of excessive oil consumption and ensure the owner is diligent about checking oil levels. If possible, check the VIN for any service bulletins or extended warranty coverage related to oil consumption. 
• If looking at a 2014 or newer, get a pre-purchase inspection, with a specific focus on the transmission and suspension. 
• Look for rust, especially in areas with heavy road salt use. 

Is the Subaru Forester safe in a crash?

The Subaru Forester has strong safety ratings, with the 2025 model earning the highest "Top Safety Pick+" award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This is due to good scores in crash tests, effective headlights, and a superior rating in the latest vehicle-to-vehicle crash prevention test. The 2025 model also received good ratings in the updated moderate overlap front and side impact tests.
 
2025 Subaru Forester 

• IIHS: Awarded "TOP SAFETY PICK+". 
  • Crashworthiness: "Good" in small overlap front and updated side tests. Received an "Acceptable" rating in the updated moderate overlap front test. 
  • Crash Prevention: Earned "Good" ratings in front crash prevention tests, including the updated vehicle-to-vehicle test. 
  • Headlights: Received "Good" ratings. 
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): The 2025 model has not yet been fully rated, but the similar 2023 model received an overall five-star rating. 
• Other awards: Named a Consumer Reports Top Pick, based on safety, reliability, performance, and owner satisfaction. 

Safety features

• Standard: The Forester comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight safety suite, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and forward automatic emergency braking.
• Available: Higher trims offer additional features such as reverse automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera.