RepairIQ › Known Issues › Subaru Forester Common Problems and Repair Costs
Subaru Forester Common Problems and Repair Costs
The Subaru Forester has documented issues used buyers should know about — including head gasket failure. Here's a full breakdown by model year.
Known Issues — Subaru Forester (1998–2026)
Head gasket failure
EJ25 phase 1 gasket failure, coolant loss
📅 1999–2010⚠️ High
Excessive oil consumption
2.5L FB25 burns 1 qt per 1,000 miles
📅 2011–2018⚠️ High
CVT transmission failure
torque converter and valve body issues
📅 2014–2018⚠️ High
Infotainment system freeze
Starlink head unit lockup, backup camera failure
📅 2018–2018⚡ Medium
What to Check Before Buying
- Run a VIN report for accidents and title issues
- Ask about Head gasket failure — verify it has been addressed
- Check recalls at NHTSA.gov/recalls
- Have an independent mechanic inspect it ($100–$200)
- Ask for complete service records
Reliability Overview
The Subaru Forester can be a solid vehicle when maintained, but the issues above represent real financial risk. A pre-purchase inspection by a Subaru-familiar mechanic is strongly recommended.
Research Before You Buy
RepairIQ's Before You Buy tool shows known issues, repair costs, and a pre-purchase checklist for any Subaru Forester.
Use RepairIQ Free →