Does the Subaru Forester have a skid plate?
Yes, but only on certain trims and model years. The Forester’s front engine protection is standard on the rugged Wilderness trim and some regional variants, while base trims rely on plastic underbody panels rather than a dedicated metal skid plate.
Skid plate availability by trim and year
The following outlines which trims typically include a skid plate and how underbody protection is configured across common model years.
- Forester Wilderness (2021–present): Includes a front steel skid plate as part of rugged underbody protection for off-road readiness.
- Other trims (Premium, Sport, Limited, Touring) in recent years: Rely on plastic underbody panels; no dedicated metal skid plate on standard configurations.
- Regional variations and packages: In some markets or with optional off-road packages, a skid plate or additional underbody protection can be included or added.
The presence or absence of a skid plate can depend on model year, region, and trim. If you’re shopping used or verifying a new model, check the undercarriage or look for Subaru's "underbody protection" features in the official brochure or window sticker.
What a skid plate does and why it matters
Skid plates protect the engine, oil pan, and other critical components from rocks, stumps, and rough terrain. They also contribute to the vehicle's ability to handle modest off-road driving by shielding vulnerable parts from impact and dirt intrusion.
Practical notes for buyers
For buyers who plan off-road use or want added protection, consider one of these options or trims:
- Choose the Forester Wilderness (2021–present) for standard underbody protection, including a front skid plate and enhanced ground clearance.
- In other trims, you can still protect critical components with aftermarket skid plates or by selecting factory accessories that include undercar protection in some regions.
- Always verify the current spec for your market, as features can vary by country and model year.
In practice, the Wilderness is Subaru's most rugged Forester variant, designed to handle light off-road use, while other trims focus more on on-road efficiency and comfort with protective plastic covers rather than a rigid metal skid plate.
Summary
Overall, the Subaru Forester does offer a skid plate on certain trims, notably the Wilderness, and possibly as part of optional packages in some regions. Most base and mid-level trims use plastic underbody protection rather than a dedicated metal skid plate. If you need true underbody protection for off-road work, choose the Wilderness or look for official accessories in your market, and verify the exact spec for the model year you’re considering.
