What size is a Subaru Forester gas tank?
The standard gas tank size for most Subaru Forester models is 16.9 gallons (64 liters).
Fuel-tank capacity refers to the total volume the tank can hold when full. Real-world range depends on driving conditions, engine choice, and transmission, and there can be slight variations by model year or market. Below is a practical guide to what you’ll typically find across the Forester lineup and how to confirm the exact figure for your vehicle.
Tank size across the Forester lineup
Here are the typical figures you’ll encounter across the Forester lineup, noting that exact capacity can vary by market and year.
- 16.9 gallons (64 liters) for most modern Foresters
- Approximately 15.9–16.0 gallons (60–61 liters) for some older or export-market variants
As a rule, the majority of current Foresters use 16.9 gallons. If you need the precise capacity for your exact vehicle, consult the owner’s manual or the official specifications for your model year.
How to verify the exact tank size for your car
If you want to verify the exact capacity for your own Forester, use these steps.
- Check the owner’s manual or Subaru’s official specifications for your model year and trim.
- Look at the label inside the fuel-filler door, which often lists tank capacity and related specs.
- Contact a Subaru dealer or use Subaru’s VIN-based lookup to retrieve precise, vehicle-specific data.
Verifying with official sources ensures you have the precise capacity for your exact vehicle configuration.
Summary
For most Subaru Forester models, the standard fuel tank capacity is 16.9 gallons (64 liters). Variations exist for older or special-market versions, typically around 15.9–16.0 gallons. To be sure, consult your owner’s manual, the fuel-door label, or a Subaru dealer with your VIN.
What is the most common problem with the Subaru Forester?
The most common problem with the Subaru Forester is the continuously variable transmission (CVT), which can suffer from issues like shuddering, delayed acceleration, and whining noises, and may require expensive repairs. Other frequent issues include problems with the engine (especially oil consumption), the electrical system, and, in certain model years, issues with windshields cracking and batteries dying quickly.
You can watch this video to learn more about Subaru Forester common problems: 51scar PROblemsYouTube · Feb 19, 2024
Transmission (CVT)
- Shuddering and jerking: This often occurs when accelerating from a stop.
- Delayed acceleration and slipping: The engine revs up but the car doesn't speed up as expected, which can be dangerous when merging.
- High-pitched whining: This can be a sign of worn pulley bearings inside the transmission.
- Repair cost: CVTs are often not rebuildable and require a complete, expensive replacement.
Engine
- Excessive oil consumption: Many model years, particularly from the 2014-2018 generation, are known for burning through oil rapidly.
- Oil leaks: Leaks, often requiring expensive engine replacements, are another reported problem.
Electrical and other issues
- Electrical malfunctions: Issues can range from infotainment system glitches and GPS errors to more serious problems like a battery dying prematurely or the EyeSight safety system turning off unexpectedly.
- Air conditioning (AC): Some models experience AC failure that can be costly to fix.
- Windshields: In the 2019-2024 generation, windshields can crack from small chips.
- Airbag malfunctions: Older models, such as the 2009-2011, have been associated with malfunctioning airbags.
This video explains some of the most common issues with the Subaru Forester, including the transmission and engine: 57sGear GazetteYouTube · Oct 23, 2025
Does the Subaru Forester have a big gas tank?
That impressive total driving range is based on the EPA-estimated 26/33/29 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1 rating and 16.6-gallon Subaru Forester gas tank size.
How many miles can a Subaru Forester go on a full tank?
A Subaru Forester can go between approximately 431 miles (city driving) and 540-547 miles (highway driving) on a full tank, depending on the model year and driving conditions. The 16.6-gallon tank is a common feature, and modern models like the 2023 and 2024 often advertise a highway range of around 540 miles. Actual mileage will vary based on driving habits, terrain, and payload.
- Highway driving: Around 540-547 miles
- City driving: Approximately 431 miles
- Fuel tank capacity: 16.6 gallons is a common capacity
- Factors influencing range: Actual mileage is affected by driving behavior, tire pressure, payload, and road conditions
How big is the gas tank on a Subaru Forester 2025?
The 2025 Subaru Forester has a 16.6-gallon fuel tank size for both the standard and hybrid models. This capacity is consistent across the different trims and powers the vehicle with unleaded gasoline.
- Tank Capacity: The fuel tank holds 16.6 gallons.
- Fuel Type: It is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane).
- Hybrid Models: The hybrid version also has the same 16.6-gallon tank, which contributes to its impressive driving range, although it may result in the loss of a spare tire, according to this YouTube video.
