Is it expensive to service a Subaru Forester?
As the owner of Kevin's Autos, I often get asked about the costs associated with servicing specific vehicles, including the popular Subaru Forester. Understanding the expenses involved in maintaining your Subaru can help you budget effectively and ensure your vehicle remains in top condition. In this article, we'll explore the factors that influence service costs for the Subaru Forester and provide some tips for managing those expenses.
Factors Influencing Service Costs
The cost of servicing a Subaru Forester can vary based on several key factors:
- Type of Service Required: Routine maintenance such as oil changes and tire rotations are generally less expensive than more complex repairs like transmission work or engine diagnostics.
- Location: Service costs can differ significantly depending on where you live. Urban areas may have higher labor rates compared to rural locations.
- Parts Availability: Genuine Subaru parts may be more expensive than aftermarket alternatives, impacting the overall service cost.
- Service Provider: Independent shops like Kevin's Autos often offer competitive pricing compared to dealerships, which can help reduce your overall expenses.
Typical Service Costs for a Subaru Forester
While costs can vary, here are some average price ranges for common services:
- Oil Change: $50 - $100
- Tire Rotation: $20 - $50
- Brake Pad Replacement: $150 - $300
- Transmission Fluid Change: $150 - $250
- Major Service (including timing belt replacement): $500 - $1,000
Tips for Managing Service Costs
To keep your Subaru Forester running smoothly without breaking the bank, consider the following tips:
- Regular Maintenance: Adhering to the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule can prevent costly repairs down the line.
- Shop Around: Get quotes from multiple service providers to find the best price for the services you need.
- Consider a Maintenance Plan: Some auto service centers offer maintenance plans that can save you money on routine services.
- DIY When Possible: Simple tasks like changing air filters or wiper blades can be done at home to save on labor costs.
Conclusion
In summary, while servicing a Subaru Forester can be perceived as expensive, understanding the factors that influence costs and taking proactive steps can help you manage your vehicle's maintenance expenses effectively. At Kevin's Autos, we are committed to providing quality service at competitive prices, ensuring your Subaru remains reliable for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Subaru oil change expensive?
The price of an oil change can vary, depending on whether you drive something like a BRZ or an Impreza. But overall, expect your Subaru oil change to run around $35 to $75. We recommend checking our rotating service specials to save even more on your next visit!
What is the biggest issue with Subaru?
Most common Subaru problems
- Fuel pump failure.
- O2 sensor problems.
- Blown head gaskets.
- Oil leaks.
- Battery draining rapidly.
- Unintended acceleration.
- Cracked windshields.
- Subaru Starlink problems.
What is the cheapest car to maintain?
Cars with the Lowest 10 Year Maintenance Costs
- Toyota Prius. View the Toyota Prius maintenance schedule, predicted probability of major repairs and expected costs per year.
- Toyota Yaris.
- Toyota Prius Prime.
- Toyota Corolla.
- Toyota Camry.
- Toyota Avalon.
- Honda Fit.
- Toyota Supra.
What year to avoid a Subaru Forester?
Forester Model Years To Avoid: First Generation 1998-2001
The Foresters from 2001 and before had the most significant gasket head problems, with the 1998 being the worst of the first-generation models. The problem was caused by a single-layer head gasket that was too weak.
Why are subarus so expensive to service?
Subarus are more expensive to fix due to a unique boxer engine design and all-wheel-drive system, making access to some components more challenging and increasing labor costs. Additionally, the need for simultaneous tire replacements in AWD vehicles adds to the overall maintenance expense.
How much does it cost to service a Subaru Forester?
Capped Price Servicing Costs
| Scheduled Service Intervals1 | Forester 2.5i AWD, 2.5i Luxury AWD, 2.5i-L AWD, 2.5i-P AWD, 2.5i Sport AWD and 2.5i-S AWD CVT2 |
|---|---|
| 'A' Service 12,500kms or 12 months | $370.91 |
| 'B' Service 25,000kms or 24 months | $636.98 |
| 'C' Service 37,500kms or 36 months | $379.36 |
| 'D' Service 50,000kms or 48 months | $888.62 |
Is Toyota or Subaru better?
In conclusion, Toyota and Subaru both offer exceptional vehicles with a range of features and capabilities, Subaru stands out as the superior choice for drivers seeking a blend of safety, reliability, versatility, and value.
Is a Subaru Forester expensive to maintain?
A Subaru Forester is third on the list and will cost about $8,337 for maintenance and repairs during its first ten years of service. This is more than the industry average for popular SUV models by $87. There is also a 23.97% chance that a Forester will require a major repair during that time.
What is the most common problem with the Subaru Forester?
A list of some of the most common issues Forester owners have to deal with.
- CAN System Parasitic Drain on the Battery.
- Unintended Acceleration.
- Brake Light Switch Defect.
- Cracked Windshields.
- Lineartronic CVT Reliability.
- Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires.
- Subaru EyeSight Problems.
- Subaru Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags.
How much is a 30k service for a Subaru Forester?
The 30k mile service for your Subaru can range from $300 – $400, plus tax.
