Do Subaru Foresters have two catalytic converters?
Yes. In most Subaru Forester models, the exhaust system uses two catalytic converters: a front, close-coupled converter near the engine and a second converter positioned farther back along the exhaust path.
The exact arrangement can vary by generation, engine option, and market. This article explains the typical dual-cat layout, how to spot it on a Forester, and what to verify for your specific vehicle.
Typical dual-cat layout in Forester exhausts
What you’re likely to find in a Forester with common engines (such as the 2.5-liter naturally aspirated and similar setups) is a two-catalytic-converter arrangement along the exhaust trail. Below are the elements commonly associated with this design:
- A close-coupled catalytic converter located directly after the exhaust manifold to begin emissions control as soon as the engine starts.
- A downstream catalytic converter located further back in the mid-to-rear section of the exhaust, often after the resonator or mid-pipe.
- Sensor configuration: Many models use multiple oxygen sensors (typically two pre-cat sensors and two post-cat sensors) to monitor each converter’s performance for the engine computer and emissions compliance.
In practice, two separate catalytic converter housings are usually visible along the exhaust route, with the second unit positioned behind the first one and ahead of the mufflers, depending on the exact layout of the generation.
How to verify for your specific Forester
Because there are variations by model year, engine, and market, use these steps to confirm the setup on your vehicle:
- Safely inspect the underside of the car to locate two distinct converter housings along the exhaust path—one closer to the engine and a second further back.
- Consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual or a VIN-specific service manual to confirm the exact number of catalytic converters for your engine and market.
- Look for the oxygen sensor arrangement: typically, if you see sensors positioned both before and after each converter, that indicates a dual-cat system.
- When purchasing parts or diagnosing issues, verify part numbers and specs with an authorized Subaru dealer or official parts catalog using your VIN to ensure you’re matching the correct configuration.
Note that some early or market-specific Forester variants may differ. For the majority of current US-market and global models, a dual-cat arrangement is common and designed to meet emissions standards while maintaining performance.
Summary
Across most Subaru Forester generations, two catalytic converters are standard: a front, close-coupled cat near the engine and a downstream cat further along the exhaust. This setup is typically paired with multiple oxygen sensors to monitor exhaust gas treatment. Always verify your exact model-year and market configuration via the owner’s manual, service manual, or a dealership using your VIN, as there can be variations by generation and trim.
Are Subaru Foresters targeted for catalytic converter theft?
Lower-emission cars like Toyota Priuses, Subaru Foresters and Honda Elements are primarily targeted due to higher concentrations of valuable metals inside converters.
What is the most common problem with the Subaru Forester?
Most Common Subaru Forester Problems
- Engine Issues. There are a variety of issues that owners have reported that are related to the Check Engine light being illuminated.
- Transmission Problems. Subaru Forester transmission problems typically occur in two ways – shuddering or jerking.
- Oil Consumption.
- Electrical Issues.
Which Subaru Forester has dual exhaust?
The previous generation Subaru Forester was the first chassis to receive our renowned Dual Chamber no drone exhaust design, and the 2025+ models continue to benefit from this excellent sound profile with updated design to fit the bumper of the new '25 chassis.
What cars have two catalytic converters?
Engine size and type: Larger engines often have two separate exhaust banks, each with its own catalytic converter. Exhaust system design: Vehicles with dual exhaust systems have two converters, one for each pipe.
