How many miles is a 2015 Subaru Forester good for?

A well-maintained 2015 Subaru Forester can reliably reach about 200,000 miles, with many owners reporting 250,000 miles or more. The exact lifespan depends on maintenance, driving conditions, and climate.

Lifespan expectations for the 2015 Forester

What drives how far a 2015 Forester will go includes engine durability, drivetrain design, and how faithfully routine service is performed. Here is what tends to influence total mileage.

• Typical lifetime with regular maintenance: around 200,000 miles, with many examples reaching 250,000 miles or more.


• Engine and drivetrain reliability: the 2.5L four-cylinder used in the 2015 Forester is generally durable, and the CVT transmission can last a long time when serviced properly.


• Impact of maintenance: timely oil changes, transmission fluid services, cooling-system care, and addressing leaks promptly dramatically extend life.

Lifespan is variable, but the model has a reputation for longevity when cared for according to Subaru's recommendations.

Maintenance habits that maximize mileage

Adhering to maintenance guidelines and staying proactive about wear and tear are the most reliable ways to push mileage higher.

• Follow the owner's manual for maintenance intervals, especially oil changes and transmission/CVT fluid service.


• Use high-quality oil (synthetic if recommended) and monitor consumption; top off or investigate significant changes promptly.


• Keep the cooling system in good condition to prevent overheating, including regular coolant changes and leak checks.


• Inspect and replace belts, hoses, brakes, and tires as needed to prevent additional damage and ensure safe operation.


• Address unusual noises, vibrations, or warning lights promptly to avoid compounding issues.

By following these practices, you maximize the chance of reaching and sustaining high mileage on a 2015 Forester.

What to monitor as miles add up

As the odometer climbs, staying alert to warning signs can help preserve longevity and avoid major failures.

• Oil consumption or leaks, which can indicate gasket or piston issues that affect longevity.


• Transmission behavior, such as slipping or shuddering in a CVT, which may require service or repairs.


• Coolant leaks or overheating symptoms that threaten engine life.


• Suspension, steering wear, and brake system health, which impact safety and drivability on long trips.

Early detection and timely maintenance of these issues help maintain mileage and reliability.

Data note

Real-world mileage varies widely based on how well the vehicle is cared for, climate, and usage patterns. The guidance above reflects common owner experiences and broadly accepted maintenance practices for the 2015 Forester.

Summary

The 2015 Subaru Forester is widely regarded as capable of lasting into the 200,000-mile range with diligent maintenance, with many owners reporting 250,000 miles or more. While results vary, sticking to recommended service intervals, maintaining fluids and cooling systems, and addressing issues early can maximize the life of this SUV.

How many miles can you get out of a 2015 Subaru Forester?

A 2015 Subaru Forester can last between 200,000 and 250,000 miles, with many well-maintained examples exceeding 300,000 miles. Its longevity depends heavily on regular maintenance, driving habits, and climate, with key maintenance tasks like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake checks being essential for achieving this lifespan. 
Factors that influence lifespan

• Regular maintenance: Following the recommended service schedule is crucial. Key tasks include oil changes, brake checks, and tire rotations. 
• Driving habits: Consistent, smooth driving, especially on highways, contributes to a longer lifespan compared to aggressive city driving. 
• Climate: Extreme temperatures can affect components, so proper maintenance is especially important in very hot or cold climates. 
• Specific models: The Forester XT (turbocharged) model has a 200,000-mile target with good maintenance, and some owners have reported specific potential issues like cam carrier leaks and wheel bearing problems in these models. 

This video explains how to take care of your Subaru Forester to prolong its life: 31sCar Performance ProsYouTube · Jan 21, 2025
Tips for extending life

• Follow the maintenance schedule: Adhere to the manufacturer's recommended service intervals for oil changes, fluid flushes, and other checks. 
• Address issues promptly: Don't ignore warning signs like the check engine light. Getting issues checked out early can prevent more significant and costly problems later. 
• Perform routine checks: Regularly check fluid levels, tire pressure, and brake pad wear. 
• Keep an eye on potential weak points: For the XT model, be mindful of cam carrier leaks and wheel bearings. 

Is it worth buying a Subaru with over 200k miles?

You should only consider buying a Subaru with 200k miles if it has a complete maintenance history, has had major components replaced, and passes a thorough pre-purchase inspection. While Subarus can last beyond 200k miles, a vehicle at this mileage will have significant wear and tear and is likely to need costly repairs soon.
 
What to look for

• Maintenance records: A well-maintained Subaru is crucial for longevity. Look for consistent service, especially for the timing belt (if applicable), head gaskets, and other engine components. 
• History: An inspection of the vehicle history report is important to understand the car's past. Look for signs of accidents or a history of consistent use. A vehicle with one or two owners is often a better bet. 
• Pre-purchase inspection: Have a trusted mechanic thoroughly inspect the car, focusing on the engine, transmission, suspension, and any other potential failure points at this mileage. 
• Past repairs: Ideally, major repairs like the head gasket, water pump, and transmission should have already been completed. 

Potential issues at 200k miles

• Engine and transmission: These are the most expensive components to replace. Be prepared for potential failures or significant maintenance costs. 
• Suspension and brakes: Components like the suspension, brakes, and exhaust can rust out or wear out, requiring replacement. 
• Other components: Expect a higher likelihood of smaller issues like worn-out seals, bushings, and other small parts that can lead to costly repairs if not addressed. 

When to avoid

• No service history: Without records, it's a high-risk purchase. You won't know how well the car was maintained. 
• Major issues found in inspection: If a pre-purchase inspection reveals any major problems with the engine, transmission, or other core systems, walk away. 
• High number of owners: A car with many owners is more likely to have been poorly maintained or neglected. 

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 a 2015 Subaru Forester a reliable car?

The 2015 Subaru Forester has a generally positive reliability reputation, with many owners reporting strong performance and good longevity, but it's not without known issues. Common problems include issues with the CVT transmission, exhaust components, and potential oil leaks, especially with the turbo model, though these are often addressed with proper maintenance and care.
 
Positive aspects

• Consumer satisfaction: Many owners rate it highly for reliability and value. 
• Longevity: With proper maintenance, the vehicle can last for 200,000 to 250,000 miles or more. 
• Good performance: It is generally praised for its comfortable ride, all-weather handling, and safety scores. 

Potential problems

• CVT transmission: The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) has a poor reputation for reliability and can be expensive to fix. 
• Oil leaks: Both the non-turbo and turbo models can experience oil leaks, particularly from valve covers, which can be costly to repair. 
• Exhaust system: Some owners report issues with the exhaust manifold, pipes, and catalytic converter, which can trigger the check engine light. 
• Other issues: Other reported problems include rear spring failure, suspension bushing failure, and issues with the air conditioning compressor. 
• Brakes, rotors, and tires: Some models require frequent replacement of brakes, rotors, and tires, often every 20,000–25,000 miles. 

You can watch this video to learn about common problems with the 2015 Subaru Forester, including issues with the turbo engine and CVT transmission: 59sReDrivenYouTube · Nov 17, 2023
What to look for

• Maintenance records: Check for a consistent maintenance history, especially regarding oil changes and transmission fluid checks. 
• CVT fluid: Ensure the CVT fluid has been changed according to the manufacturer's recommendations, as some sources suggest this is a critical maintenance item. 
• Oil consumption: Be aware of excessive oil consumption and check for any signs of leaks before purchasing. 
• Service history: Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle to check for any current or potential issues, such as leaks or worn parts.