Mid-size SUV · Subaru
Subaru Forester: common problems & what to check
A practical all-wheel-drive SUV that's great in the wet and off the beaten track. Strong overall, with a couple of boxer-engine items to check on older cars.
2013-onward; older EJ-engine models pre-2013.
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Common Subaru Forester problems
⚠️ Head gasket & oil use (older EJ engines)
Older EJ-powered Foresters are known for head-gasket and oil-consumption issues. On these, check for oil leaks and ask about any head-gasket work.
⚠️ CVT behaviour
Later models use a CVT — generally fine, but it should drive smoothly with no flaring or judder. Confirm it's been serviced.
⚠️ AWD tyre matching
Subaru's AWD wants evenly-worn, matched tyres. Mismatched tyres can stress the driveline — check all four.
What to check before you buy
- ✓On older EJ cars, inspect for oil leaks and ask about head-gasket history.
- ✓Confirm smooth CVT operation with no shudder on later models.
- ✓Check all four tyres match and are evenly worn.
- ✓Look for genuine off-road/underbody damage if it's been used adventurously.
How many kms is too many for a Subaru Forester?
What high kilometres actually mean on a Subaru Forester, what falls due and when, and what to check before you buy one.
Read the kms guide →Price & value
Foresters hold value with outdoorsy buyers. On older ones, factor potential head-gasket work into your offer; on newer ones, pay for clean history.
The verdict
A capable, sensible AWD SUV; the key is matching the check to the age — head gaskets on older EJ cars, CVT smoothness on newer ones.
Frequently asked questions
Do Subaru Foresters have head gasket problems?
Older EJ-engine Foresters are known for head-gasket and oil-consumption issues. Newer models with revised engines are less prone — inspect for oil leaks and ask about prior work.
Is the Subaru Forester reliable?
Broadly yes, and excellent in the wet thanks to AWD. Match your inspection to its age and keep an eye on tyre matching for the driveline.
Looking at a specific Subaru Forester?
Paste the listing and get the risks, fair price and inspection checklist for that exact car.
Subaru Forester compared
Related buyer's guides
This guide is general information for Australian buyers — not a PPSR check, a mechanical inspection, or a guarantee about any specific car. Always run the exact listing through Beforehand and arrange a pre-purchase inspection before you buy.