What year did Subaru make the Forester?

Subaru began making the Forester in 1997, with its first model year in many markets being 1998. That initial production run marked the start of a long-running line that has evolved through several generations.

The question centers on the starting point of the Forester’s production. To answer, it’s helpful to distinguish between the year the vehicle first appeared publicly and the year it began official production, as well as noting how the model year aligned with those early releases. This article traces that origin and outlines how the Forester has developed across generations.

Origins and Debut

The Forester’s origins lie in a 1997 reveal that underscored Subaru’s move toward rugged, compact crossovers. The launch fused practicality with all-wheel drive, helping establish a new category that Subaru would continue to refine for decades.

Key milestones marking the Forester's early life:

• 1997: Debuted at the Tokyo Motor Show, signaling the start of production and the concept’s transition into a production model.


• 1997–2002: First-generation Forester produced, with the initial model years rolling out across markets as the design matured.

These milestones illustrate how the Forester came to life and began its long-running presence in Subaru’s lineup.

Generational Timeline

As the model matured, Subaru released several generations of the Forester, each bringing updates in design, safety, and technology while maintaining the brand’s focus on practicality and all-wheel drive capability.

Generational overview (approximate production windows and context):

• Gen 1 (SF): 1997–2002 — the original Forester, launched after the 1997 Tokyo debut and produced through the early 2000s.


• Gen 2 (SG): 2003–2008


• Gen 3 (GH): 2009–2013


• Gen 4 (SJ): 2013–2018 (introduced as the 2014 model year)


• Gen 5 (BS): 2019–present (introduced as the 2019 model year)

These generational milestones reflect the Forester’s evolution from a niche crossover to a mainstream staple, with continual updates in comfort, safety technology, and efficiency.

Current Status and Significance

Today, the Subaru Forester remains in active production and continues to adapt to changing automotive trends, including improved safety features, enhanced fuel efficiency, and evolving infotainment options. Its ongoing presence underscores Subaru’s commitment to the crossover segment that the Forester helped popularize.

Summary

In short, Subaru began making the Forester in 1997, marking its production start and debut year, with the vehicle released to markets as a 1998 model in many regions. Since then, the Forester has evolved through multiple generations and remains a staple of Subaru’s lineup today.

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. 

When did Foresters body style change?

The Subaru Forester was fully redesigned for the 2014 model year. This fourth-generation Forester grew in length over its predecessor by 1.4 inches; it's also 0.6 inches wider. Interior volume is also up; the maximum cargo area increased to 74.7 cubic feet when seats were folded down.

Which is more reliable, the Toyota RAV4 or the Subaru Forester?

The Toyota RAV4 generally has a reputation for higher long-term reliability than the Subaru Forester, with lower average annual repair costs and less frequent, severe repairs. However, the Subaru Forester has a strong reputation and a higher rating from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, particularly with the newer models. Both are considered good choices, and recent model years of the Forester have been redesigned to be more reliable. 
You can watch this video to learn about the reliability of RAV4 and Forester: 1mAutomotive Anonymous YouTube · Dec 14, 2024
Toyota RAV4

• Higher reliability rating: Often ranks higher in reliability surveys and has lower average annual repair costs. 
• Longer-term ownership: Has a strong reputation for minimizing long-term issues and frequent maintenance, partly due to its engine technology and hybrid options. 
• Lower repair costs: Has an average annual repair cost of $429, which is significantly lower than the Forester's $632. 

Subaru Forester

• Strong safety and ratings: Earned a higher overall rating from Consumer Reports and a highest-tier safety rating from the IIHS. 
• Improving reliability: Recent redesigns have made reliability improvements, such as reintroducing mechanical thermostats and eliminating less reliable systems. 
• Average repair costs: Has an average annual repair cost of $632 and average frequency and severity of repairs compared to other vehicles. 

Which one is right for you?

• Choose the RAV4 if: Your priority is maximum long-term reliability and the lowest ownership costs, especially over many years of ownership. 
• Choose the Forester if: You want a vehicle with a strong safety record, good visibility, and a capable all-wheel-drive system. You should consider the model year, as reliability has been improving with recent redesigns. 

This video compares the performance and features of RAV4 and Forester: 52sAutoMobiYouTube · Oct 30, 2025

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