Is the Subaru Forester a reliable car?
As the owner of Kevin's Autos, an auto service shop with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I can provide some insights on the reliability of the Subaru Forester. The Forester is a popular compact SUV known for its all-wheel-drive capabilities, spacious interior, and reputation for durability. Let's take a closer look at why the Subaru Forester is considered a reliable car.
Subaru's Reputation for Reliability
Subaru has long been recognized as a manufacturer that produces reliable and dependable vehicles. Subaru's vehicles, including the Forester, are known for their robust construction, well-engineered powertrains, and attention to safety features. According to industry reports, Subaru consistently ranks among the top automotive brands for reliability, with the Forester often cited as one of the brand's most dependable models.
Forester's Proven Track Record
The Subaru Forester has been in production since 1997 and has undergone several redesigns over the years, each iteration building upon the model's strengths. The Forester is praised for its longevity, with many owners reporting their vehicles lasting well over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. This long-term durability is a testament to the Forester's robust engineering and the brand's commitment to quality.
Key Reliability Factors
There are several factors that contribute to the Subaru Forester's reliability:
- Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive System: The Forester's standard all-wheel-drive system is a key component of its reliability, providing excellent traction and stability in a variety of driving conditions.
- Boxer Engine Design: Subaru's signature boxer engine layout, with its low center of gravity, is known for its smooth power delivery and long-term durability.
- Rigorous Testing and Quality Control: Subaru is renowned for its meticulous testing and quality control processes, ensuring that each Forester model meets the brand's high standards for reliability and performance.
Maintenance and Ownership Considerations
While the Subaru Forester is generally considered a reliable vehicle, it's important to note that proper maintenance and responsible ownership practices are key to ensuring long-term dependability. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other scheduled maintenance tasks are essential for keeping the Forester running at its best. Additionally, addressing any issues or concerns promptly, as well as driving the vehicle within its intended capabilities, can help maximize the Forester's reliability over the years.
In conclusion, the Subaru Forester is widely regarded as a reliable and durable compact SUV, thanks to Subaru's reputation for quality, the Forester's proven track record, and its key design features. With proper maintenance and responsible ownership, the Forester can provide years of dependable service for its owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
What mileage do subarus start having problems?
Engine Lifespan: Subaru engines are known for their durability and longevity, with many drivers reporting engines that last well beyond 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. The key to extending the lifespan of your Subaru engine is regular maintenance, including oil changes, fluid checks, and tune-ups.
Are Subarus just as reliable as Toyotas?
And, Toyota was awarded the most reliable brand at the 2021 Auto Trader New Car Awards. Also, Toyota's can last well past 300,000 miles (think of the million-mile Tundra), while Subaru typically lasts around 200,000 miles.
Are the Subaru Foresters reliable?
The probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 13% for the Subaru Forester, compared to an average of 11% for compact SUVs and 12% for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
Why are Subaru Foresters not selling?
The popular Forester's five-month drop in sales performance has a lot to do with the economy. Many seniors look at the Forester and compare the price with the Crosstrek and can get an excellent all-wheel-drive vehicle for about $5,000 less—and even more so on the upper Touring trim level.
What are the weaknesses of a 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.
Is the Subaru Forester a long-lasting car?
With the proper care and maintenance, Foresters can usually last on average 200,000 to 250,000 miles which can be about 13 to 17 years based on a driving average of 15,000 miles per year. While the Forester's mechanics play a large role in its longevity, so does the quality of its body.
What is better, Subaru or Honda?
Subaru vs Honda: Performance
While Honda offers commendable vehicles, the unique combination of performance, efficiency, and adventure-ready attributes found in Subaru models firmly establishes Subaru as the superior choice for those who demand adventure and reliability on the road.
Why does Subaru have a bad reputation?
Issues such as engine problems, failing oxygen sensors, Takata airbag recalls, transmission concerns, and rodent-attractive wiring can affect various Subaru models.
What is the most reliable car brand?
Consumer Reports: Subaru, Lexus Make the Most Reliable Cars. Toyota lost the top spot in Consumer Reports' list of the most reliable car brands in 2024. Subaru knocked off the usual leader, with Toyota's Lexus luxury brand taking second and Toyota's mainstream offerings in third.
Is Forester or Outback more reliable?
The 2025 Subaru Forester takes this category with a J.D. Power rating of 83 out of 100 points for projected reliability, based on the company's annual ownership surveys. The 2025 Outback comes up a little short, with a rating of 80 out of 100.
