Is the Subaru Forester 2010 reliable?

Yes—the 2010 Subaru Forester is generally regarded as a reliable used compact SUV when it has been properly maintained; reliability can vary by model variant (2.5i vs 2.5XT turbo) and by whether the CVT or a traditional automatic transmission is used, as well as the vehicle’s mileage and service history.

The 2010 Forester sits in the third-generation lineup (2009–2013) and includes standard all-wheel drive and a reputation for practicality and safety. Like many aging vehicles, its reliability is closely tied to routine maintenance, parts wear, and how well the previous owner cared for it. Common concerns discussed by owners include transmission wear on CVTs and oil consumption on higher-mileage EJ25 engines, though many examples remain dependable with regular service.

Reliability ratings and owner sentiment

What reputable reviews and owner feedback suggest about reliability for the 2010 Forester is summarized here to give you a quick sense of typical experiences.

• Overall reliability: generally above average for its class in the 2010 model year.


• Powertrain: the 2.5-liter four-cylinder is considered robust; oil consumption can appear in higher-mileage EJ25 engines.


• Transmission: CVT reliability is solid when serviced regularly; issues may arise if the transmission isn’t maintained or at higher mileages.


• Turbo variant caveat: if equipped with the 2.5XT turbo, expect higher maintenance costs and more components to monitor compared with the naturally aspirated model.


• All-wheel drive and build quality: AWD contributes to capability and safety, with durability generally good when routine maintenance is kept up; wear items (brakes, suspension, bearings) are typical of aging vehicles.

Bottom line: a well-maintained 2010 Forester can remain dependable into substantial mileages, but buyers should be mindful of CVT maintenance in non-turbo models and the extra upkeep a turbo-equipped version may require.

What to look for when buying a used 2010 Forester

Before making a purchase, assess the vehicle’s maintenance history and perform a thorough inspection to identify reliability risks common to this model year.

• Service history: look for complete maintenance records, including regular oil changes, cooling system service, timing belt (and water pump) replacement per Subaru intervals, transmission service (especially for CVT), and any recall campaigns completed.


• Transmission type and history: determine whether the car has a CVT or a traditional automatic, and verify that transmission fluid has been changed at recommended intervals; test drive for smooth shifting or CVT-specific symptoms.


• Engine health: check for signs of oil leaks, unusual consumption, coolant leaks, or overheating; verify that there are no head gasket concerns and that the cooling system is solid.


• Turbo model considerations: if it’s the 2.5XT, review turbo maintenance history, look for proper cooling, and be prepared for higher potential repair costs if issues arise.


• Wear items and drivetrain components: inspect brakes, tires, suspension components, wheel bearings, and rubber bushings; address any evident wear to avoid future expensive repairs.

During the inspection, request repair receipts and run a vehicle history report to confirm miles and prior accidents; a comprehensive pre-purchase check helps confirm reliability potential.

In short, a careful used-purchase evaluation focused on drivetrain health, transmission, cooling system, and service history will help you gauge the 2010 Forester’s reliability prospects.

Maintenance tips to maximize reliability

Proactive maintenance tailored to Subaru’s AWD and EJ-series engines is the best defense against unexpected reliability issues in a 2010 Forester.

• Follow a strict service schedule: regular oil changes with the recommended oil grade and interval, cooling system checks, timing belt replacement with water pump when due, and keeping up on recalls and software updates.


• CVT-specific care: if your model has a CVT, adhere to Subaru’s CVT fluid change intervals, use the correct CVT fluid, and address any transmission concerns promptly to prevent long-term wear.


• Engine health monitoring: keep oil levels in check, monitor for unusual oil consumption, and promptly repair leaks; ensure cooling system components (radiator, hoses, thermostat) are functioning properly to prevent overheating.


• Brakes and suspension upkeep: replace worn brakes, inspect and replace worn bearings, shocks/struts, and maintain alignment to avoid uneven tire wear and additional wear on steering components.


• Recall and updates: ensure all applicable recalls have been completed and apply any official software or firmware updates that affect safety and performance.

Adhering to these practices can reduce the likelihood of surprise repairs and help a 2010 Forester deliver reliable service over many miles.

Summary

The 2010 Subaru Forester offers practical all-wheel-drive capability with a generally solid reliability profile for its age. Reliability depends on maintenance history, the specific engine/trim, and how diligently service tasks were performed. The naturally aspirated 2.5L engine tends to be robust when well cared for, while the turbocharged 2.5XT adds performance but also greater maintenance complexity. Prospective buyers should seek complete service records, perform a thorough pre-purchase inspection, and be prepared for CVT or turbo-specific maintenance if applicable. With attentive care, a 2010 Forester can remain a dependable choice for daily driving and family use.

What are common problems with a 2010 Subaru Forester?

Common problems with the 2010 Subaru Forester include head gasket issues, timing belt concerns, and oil consumption, especially on older models, although improvements were made around this time. Other issues reported include a faulty front oxygen sensor, catalytic converter failure, and potential problems with the AC compressor or wheel bearings. Rust around the rear wheel wells and cracking interior parts like the center console can also be an issue.
 
Engine and performance

• Head gaskets: The head gasket is a known weak point, with potential leaks and overheating issues. If the head gasket has been replaced with an upgraded version, it should be a one-time fix. 
• Timing belt: The timing belt is also a common maintenance item. If the head gasket was replaced, the timing belt was likely done as well. 
• Oil consumption: Some models may experience excessive oil consumption. 
• Catalytic converter: The catalytic converter can fail, triggering a check engine light. 
• Front oxygen sensor: A front oxygen (air-fuel ratio) sensor can crack, illuminating the check engine light. 

Electrical and mechanical

• AC compressor: The AC compressor can fail, requiring an expensive repair. 
• Wheel bearings: Like other Subaru models, the Forester can be prone to wheel bearing issues, especially in areas with snow and salt. 
• Transmission: Some automatic transmission models may exhibit trembling, especially at higher speeds. 

Body and interior

• Rust: Look for rust, particularly around the rear wheel wells, especially if the car is from a region with harsh winters.
• Interior trim: The center console cubby door and its latch can be prone to cracking.
• Window seals: The frameless windows can have torn window gussets, which may lead to wind noise. 

How long will a 2010 Subaru Forester last?

A 2010 Subaru Forester can last between 200,000 and 250,000 miles with proper maintenance, and many can exceed 300,000 miles. Key factors include regular oil changes, servicing the AWD system, and addressing potential head gasket issues, which were common in this era. With consistent care, it can be a very long-lasting vehicle. 
How to maximize its lifespan

• Regular maintenance: Adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule, especially for oil changes and checking CVT fluid. 
• Head gasket replacement: If the head gaskets haven't been replaced, consider doing so. This is a common failure point for this model and a preventative replacement can help you reach 200,000 miles or more. 
• Drive and climate: Driving style and location can impact longevity. A consistent, gentle driving style (especially on highways) and avoiding harsh climates will help preserve the engine and other components. 
• Address other potential issues: Be aware of other potential problems like catalytic converter failure or worn spark plug wires, and address them promptly to prevent further damage. 

What to expect

• Potential for high mileage: With proper care, reaching 200,000 miles is achievable, and some can go much further. 
• Cost of repairs: At this age, some wear and tear is inevitable. Be prepared for potential repairs or replacements as the vehicle gets older. 

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. 

What is the reliability of a 2010 Subaru Forester?

The 2010 Subaru Forester's reliability is mixed, with major potential issues like head gasket failure and oil consumption on the naturally aspirated 2.5L engine, though some owners report good experiences if well-maintained. The turbocharged XT model also had specific engine problems and is often recommended with the manual transmission to avoid automatic transmission issues. Both engine types are affected by the Takata airbag recall, which is a critical safety issue that needs to be addressed.
 
This video discusses the reliability of Subaru Forester years to avoid, including the 2010 model: 1mCar ExpertlyYouTube · Apr 14, 2025
Engine and mechanical concerns

• Head Gaskets and Oil Consumption: The 2.5L engine in the 2010 model is known for potential head gasket failure and can also have issues with oil consumption. Proper and regular maintenance, especially oil changes, is critical for longevity, and some owners report a need for head gasket replacement even with meticulous care. 
• Turbocharged Engine: The turbocharged XT model has its own set of potential issues, but some owners report that it's less prone to head gasket failure than the naturally aspirated engine. However, the automatic transmission in the XT is a concern, and a manual transmission is the more reliable option for the turbo model. 
• Other Potential Issues: Other common complaints include the check engine light due to issues with the catalytic converter or knock sensor, and other cooling system problems. 

Safety recalls

• Takata Airbag Recall: The 2010 Forester is subject to the Takata airbag recall, which affects many vehicles from 2009-2013. This is a significant safety concern that requires attention. 

Other considerations

• Manual vs. Automatic Transmission: If you are considering a 2010 Forester, a manual transmission is generally more reliable than the automatic transmission, especially in the XT models. 
• Maintenance History: The reliability of this model heavily depends on how well it has been maintained. A well-maintained vehicle with a complete service history will be more dependable than one that has been neglected.