Is the Subaru Forester a reliable car?
The Subaru Forester is generally considered a reliable and dependable compact SUV. According to industry reviews and owner surveys, the Forester has a reputation for being a well-built, durable, and long-lasting vehicle. Its reliability is one of the key factors that has made the Forester a popular choice among buyers seeking a practical and capable crossover.
Reliability Ratings and Accolades
The Subaru Forester has consistently earned high reliability ratings from respected automotive research organizations. Consumer Reports has named the Forester one of the most reliable compact SUVs on the market, with the latest model year scoring a 5 out of 5 for predicted reliability. Similarly, J.D. Power has given the Forester above-average reliability ratings in its annual Vehicle Dependability Study.
The Forester's reputation for reliability has also been recognized through various industry awards and accolades. It has been named a "Best Bet" by the Car Book, a publication that evaluates vehicles based on factors like safety, reliability, and value.
Owner Satisfaction and Longevity
Surveys of Forester owners further reinforce the vehicle's reliability. Consumer Reports data shows that Forester owners report fewer problems with their vehicles compared to the average for the compact SUV segment. Additionally, the Forester is known for its longevity, with many owners reporting their vehicles lasting well beyond 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
Factors Contributing to Reliability
- Subaru's reputation for building durable, well-engineered vehicles
- The use of proven, reliable powertrain components, including the Boxer engine and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system
- Rigorous quality control and testing during the manufacturing process
- Availability of comprehensive maintenance and repair resources through Subaru's extensive dealer network
Overall, the Subaru Forester's strong reliability ratings, owner satisfaction, and longevity make it a compelling choice for those seeking a dependable and practical compact SUV. Its reputation for reliability is a key factor in the Forester's enduring popularity among buyers.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
