What is the life expectancy of a 2018 Subaru Forester 2.5 I premium?

Most 2018 Forester 2.5i Premium vehicles with regular maintenance can reasonably be expected to last well beyond 200,000 miles, and many examples reach 250,000–300,000 miles with diligent upkeep and careful driving.

The 2018 Forester 2.5i Premium relies on Subaru’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Durability isn’t guaranteed, but with a solid maintenance routine, these models are known for longevity. Below is a closer look at how long these vehicles tend to last and what drives that longevity.

Typical lifespan and mileage milestones

Below are commonly cited mileage milestones for a well-maintained 2018 Forester 2.5i Premium. These numbers reflect typical owner experiences under standard maintenance and normal driving conditions.

• 100,000 miles (160,000 km): a common early-life milestone where routine service remains crucial to prevent future issues.


• 150,000 miles (240,000 km): many owners report continued reliability with ongoing maintenance.


• 200,000 miles (320,000 km): a widely expected threshold for durable Subarus when maintenance is kept up.


• 250,000 miles (400,000 km): achievable for drivers who adhere to maintenance schedules and drive in favorable conditions.


• 300,000 miles (480,000 km) and beyond: a minority of high-mileage Foresters reach this level, indicating substantial longevity with meticulous care.

These milestones are illustrative and depend on care, environment, and driving habits. Conditions such as climate, road salt exposure, maintenance history, and driving style can significantly affect outcomes.

What factors influence life expectancy for this Subaru Forester

Several elements determine how long a Forester will remain reliable, including how well it’s maintained, where and how it’s driven, and how promptly issues are addressed. The engine’s durability and the CVT’s reliability are important, but they improve with disciplined care.

Maintenance and service history

Regular, manufacturer-recommended maintenance is the single most important factor in longevity. Key areas include routine oil changes, CVT fluid service, coolant changes, brake fluid checks, and inspections for leaks or wear.

• Follow the official maintenance schedule and use approved fluids and parts.


• Keep up with CVT fluid checks and replacements per the manual or dealer guidance.


• Address cooling system needs to prevent overheating and potential head gasket concerns.


• Attend recalls and service bulletins relevant to the model year.


• Tend to rust prevention and underbody care, especially in regions with snow and salt.

Skipping regular maintenance or delaying repairs can dramatically shorten a Forester’s life, even if the vehicle remains operable in the short term.

Climate, road conditions, and driving style

Environment and usage play a big role. Harsh climates, heavy salt exposure, frequent short trips, and aggressive driving can accelerate wear, while steady, moderate driving and warm-up periods tend to preserve components longer.

• Severe winters and road salt can hasten corrosion on undercarriage parts and fasteners.


• Frequent short trips prevent the engine from reaching optimal operating temperature, which can affect efficiency and wear.


• Aggressive acceleration, sustained high RPMs, and heavy loads place extra stress on the engine and transmission.


• Rough roads or poor suspension alignment can wear suspension components more quickly, though Subarus are generally robust.

Choosing routes and driving habits that reduce strain can meaningfully extend the life of the vehicle.

Maintenance plan to maximize life

To maximize the Forester’s lifespan, follow a proactive maintenance plan tailored to the vehicle’s age and usage. The following guidelines reflect common best practices for longevity.

• Adhere to Subaru’s maintenance schedule and use the recommended fluids and parts.


• Perform regular CVT fluid checks and replacements as advised by the manual or a qualified technician.


• Keep the cooling system in good condition, including timely coolant changes and leak checks.


• Stay current on recalls and service bulletins applicable to the 2018 model year.


• Protect against rust and perform routine underbody cleaning, particularly in salted or coastal environments.

With disciplined care, the 2018 Forester 2.5i Premium can provide many years of dependable service, with the potential to exceed 200,000 miles when issues are addressed promptly and maintenance is kept up to date.

Summary

The life expectancy of a 2018 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium is highly contingent on maintenance, climate, and driving style. In general, well-maintained examples can reach or exceed 200,000 miles, with many owners reporting 250,000–300,000 miles and some pushing beyond. Adhering to the manufacturer’s service schedule, attending to minor problems early, and reducing harsh driving conditions can help maximize longevity and reliability.

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. 

How long will a Subaru 2.5 L engine last?

A Subaru 2.5L engine typically has a lifespan of 200,000 to 300,000 miles when properly maintained. However, a known issue with certain model years (especially 1996-2012) is head gasket failure, which can lead to engine damage and premature failure if not addressed. Proper maintenance, including regular oil changes, is crucial for longevity. 
You can watch this video to learn about a common engine issue that can affect the lifespan of a Subaru engine: 1mScotty KilmerYouTube · Nov 4, 2022
Factors affecting engine life

• Head gasket issues: The EJ25 head gasket was a known problem in many 2.5L engines between 1996 and 2012. Failure could occur between 60,000 and 150,000 miles. Newer models have improved designs, but it's still a factor to be aware of, especially with older engines. 
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, fluid checks, and tune-ups, is the most critical factor in extending engine life. 
• Driving habits: Avoiding aggressive driving, sudden starts and stops, and driving within the speed limit can also help the engine last longer. 
• Tire care: Keeping tires properly inflated and rotating them regularly helps the entire vehicle, including the engine, last longer. 

Extending your engine's life

• Follow the maintenance schedule: Adhere strictly to the manufacturer's recommended service intervals for oil changes and other fluid services. 
• Address issues promptly: If you notice any signs of problems, such as overheating or oil leaks, have them diagnosed and repaired by a qualified mechanic immediately. This can prevent minor issues from becoming major engine-damaging ones. 
• Consider repairs: For engines with older head gasket designs, getting the head gaskets replaced proactively can be a worthwhile investment to ensure long-term reliability. 
• Drive responsibly: Avoid hard acceleration and harsh braking whenever possible. 

What is the resale value of a 2018 Subaru Forester?

A 2018 Subaru Forester has depreciated $11,144 or 53% in the last 3 years and has a current resale value of $9,698 and trade-in value of $8,325. A 2018 Subaru Forester has depreciated $11,144 or 53% in the last 3 years and has a current resale value of $9,698 and trade-in value of $8,325.

How many miles does a 2018 Subaru Forester 2.5 i Premium last?

between 200,000 and 250,000 miles
With proper maintenance, a Subaru Forester lifespan typically ranges between 200,000 and 250,000 miles, with some models reaching well beyond 300,000 miles. Oil changes, CVT fluid checks, and proper AWD servicing all contribute to maximizing a Forester's durability and performance.