Does a Subaru Forester need 4 wheel alignment?
The quick answer: not always, but many Forester owners benefit from a full four-wheel alignment, especially on AWD models or after suspension or tire work. In practice, whether you need four-wheel alignment depends on your model year and whether the rear suspension offers adjustable toe.
The Subaru Forester uses all-wheel drive and independent suspension, so alignment isn’t a one-size-fits-all issue. While some generations allow rear toe adjustments, others may rely mainly on front-end alignment or have limited rear adjustment. Knowing when to align all four wheels can help protect tire life and maintain proper handling.
When a four-wheel alignment is recommended
Signs that your Forester may benefit from a full four-wheel alignment include the following:
- Your vehicle pulls to one side on a straight, flat road.
- The steering wheel is not centered when driving straight.
- Uneven tire wear appears on the inside or outside edges of tires.
- You notice vibrations or changes in handling after hitting potholes or curbs.
- Suspension work was performed or new tires were installed.
Conclusion: If you observe any of these issues, book a four-wheel alignment with a shop that can evaluate both front and rear toe where available. Even when rear toe isn’t adjustable on your specific Forester, a comprehensive check helps ensure optimal handling and tire wear for an AWD vehicle.
Model-year variations in rear alignment adjustability
Forester generations differ in how the rear wheels can be aligned. Some model years offer rear toe adjustment through adjustable links, while others have limited or no rear toe adjustability. When in doubt, a qualified technician can verify whether a four-wheel alignment is possible and beneficial for your car.
- Pre-2012 models: often have limited rear toe adjustment; front alignment is common, with occasional rear tweaks on certain trims.
- 2013-2018 models: generally provide better rear suspension geometry, with possible rear toe adjustment on many variants; four-wheel alignments are commonly recommended when tires wear unevenly or after major suspension work.
- 2019+ models: platform updates mean rear toe adjustability varies by trim and market; technicians frequently perform four-wheel alignments to maintain AWD handling symmetry, though some configurations may still have limited rear adjustment.
Conclusion: Because rear alignment capability varies by year and model, always confirm with your technician whether your Forester supports a four-wheel alignment and what the service will entail for your specific vehicle.
Summary
In short, a Subaru Forester does not automatically require four-wheel alignment in every situation. For many AWD drivers, a full four-wheel alignment helps optimize handling and tire wear—especially after suspension work, tire replacement, or when there are signs of misalignment. Use the signs outlined above to decide when to schedule service, and check your model year’s rear alignment capabilities with a trusted shop. Regular, professional assessments can help preserve steering response and tire life across the Forester’s lifespan.
