A rugged compact SUV with genuine permanent all-wheel drive and a horizontally opposed boxer engine. The SJ generation Forester earned a loyal following for its off-road capability, generous ground clearance, and practical cabin. The 2.0-litre FB20 uses a timing chain rather than a belt and largely resolved the head gasket problems of older EJ engines, though the Lineartronic CVT and some suspension components need watching.
Robust FB20 engine, timing chain
Genuine symmetrical AWD system
CVT torque converter shudder
Suspension bushings wear quickly
Buy if: You want a capable all-weather SUV with a proven boxer engine and can accept CVT-related quirks with regular fluid changes.
Avoid if: You primarily drive short urban trips (battery drain, CVT issues worsen) or want a car with readily available cheap parts from any workshop.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
Common Problems
Torque converter lock-up mechanism causes shuddering at low speeds, typically around 15-25 km/h · more· less
The Lineartronic CVT uses a torque converter that locks and unlocks at low speeds, causing a noticeable judder or jolt. This is the most common CVT complaint on the SJ Forester. A software reflash (TSB available) resolves the issue in many cases at minimal cost. However, if the torque converter itself is damaged, replacement requires removing the entire CVT assembly. A torque converter replacement runs approximately €800-2,000 at a specialist. In worst cases where the CVT itself fails, a full replacement costs €4,000-5,500 at a Subaru dealer in Europe. Subaru extended the CVT warranty to 10 years/160,000 km (EU) on 2014-2018 models, so check coverage status. Regular CVT fluid changes every 60,000 km significantly reduce the risk of failure.
Rubber bushings in front lower control arms degrade prematurely, causing clunking and poor alignment · more· less
This is one of the most frequently reported issues on the SJ Forester across all markets. The front lower control arm bushings wear out significantly faster than expected, often between 60,000 and 100,000 km. Symptoms include clunking over bumps, steering wander, and uneven tire wear due to alignment drift. Replacing just the bushings costs approximately €300-500 (parts and labor), but many workshops prefer to replace the entire control arm assembly at €400-600 per side plus alignment. Upgraded polyurethane bushings from aftermarket suppliers like SuperPro (approximately €150-200 per set) offer improved longevity.
Protective coating on rear springs wears from road debris, leading to corrosion and potential breakage · more· less
Subaru issued a global recall (WUT-05) covering Foresters manufactured between March 2013 and October 2018 for rear coil spring corrosion. The springs' protective coating can be damaged by stone chips and road debris, after which corrosion progresses until the spring fractures. Visible symptoms include one corner of the car sitting lower, metal flakes under the vehicle, or a clunking noise from the rear. Replacement springs with improved corrosion protection are available through the recall at no cost. If the recall has already been completed, the risk of recurrence is low. If not, verify with a Subaru dealer using the VIN.
Hub bearings fail prematurely, typically at 80,000-130,000 km, causing humming noise at speed · more· less
Subaru wheel bearings across multiple models have a reputation for shorter-than-average lifespan. On the SJ Forester, rear wheel bearings tend to fail first, typically between 80,000 and 130,000 km. The primary symptom is a humming or droning noise that increases with speed and may change when turning. Replacement cost per bearing is approximately €150-250 at an independent workshop (parts plus labor). The hub assembly is bolt-in on the SJ, making it a straightforward repair compared to press-fit designs on older Subarus.
Boxer engine layout causes oil to pool on gasket surfaces, accelerating gasket deterioration · more· less
The horizontally opposed boxer engine design means that oil naturally sits on the valve cover gasket surfaces when the engine is at rest, accelerating rubber degradation over time. Oil seepage from the valve cover gaskets is common on FB20 engines after 80,000-120,000 km. Initially this appears as a slight weep that does not require immediate attention, but it can progress to dripping onto the exhaust manifold, creating a burning oil smell. Repair involves replacing both valve cover gaskets and the spark plug tube O-ring seals. The boxer layout makes access slightly more involved than an inline engine, with labor typically running 2-3 hours.
Thin windshield glass cracks easily; EyeSight-equipped models require expensive recalibration after replacement · more· less
Subaru Forester windshields are notoriously thin and prone to cracking from minor stone impacts. On models equipped with EyeSight driver assistance, replacing the windshield costs significantly more because the stereo cameras must be professionally recalibrated afterward. The windshield itself costs approximately €300-500 for an OEM replacement in Europe, with EyeSight recalibration adding another €200-400 at a Subaru dealer. Non-EyeSight models cost roughly €300-600 total. Some owners report going through multiple windshields during ownership. Using a thicker aftermarket windshield is not recommended as it can affect EyeSight camera performance.
Parasitic electrical draw of 50-80 mA drains the battery within 7-14 days if car is not driven regularly · more· less
The SJ Forester has a documented parasitic draw issue where the 12V battery can be depleted within one to two weeks if the car is parked. The draw typically measures 50-80 mA, which is within Subaru's specification but higher than many competitors. Contributing factors include the keyless entry system, EyeSight standby mode, and various control modules. Replacing the battery with an AGM type (approximately €120-180) improves resilience, and using a trickle charger during extended parking is recommended. This is particularly relevant in Europe where cars may be parked for holiday periods.
Dependable mechanically, but CVT and suspension need attention
The FB20 boxer engine is fundamentally sound and can exceed 250,000 km with proper maintenance. It resolved the head gasket issues of earlier EJ engines and uses a maintenance-free timing chain. The main financial risks come from the CVT transmission (torque converter shudder, potential failure), premature suspension bushing wear, and wheel bearing replacements. Regular CVT fluid changes are critical. European models are less affected by oil consumption than US-spec cars due to heavier-weight oil recommendations.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Rear coil spring corrosion (2013-2018 models, recall WUT-05)
Verify completed
Brake lamp switch failure (2014-2016 models, recall WUE-90)
Verify completed
Valve spring fracture (2012-2014 FB20/FA20 engines, built Jan 2012-May 2013)
Verify completed
AC condenser corrosion (2017-2018 models, service campaign WRB-21)
Verify completed
Brake line corrosion (2009-2014 models, recall WQK-47)
Verify completed (earlier models)
Takata airbag inflator (passenger side, various years)
Verify completed
The Forester SJ has a significant number of recalls. Contact a Subaru dealer with the VIN to verify all applicable recalls have been completed. The rear spring corrosion recall (WUT-05) and brake light switch recall (WUE-90) are the most important to confirm. Subaru also extended the CVT warranty to 10 years/160,000 km on 2014-2018 models - check if this still applies to the vehicle in question.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years / 100,000 km)
Expired on all SJ models
CVT extended warranty
10 years / 160,000 km from first registration (2014-2018 models)
Rust perforation warranty (12 years)
May still apply to 2014+ models
All Forester SJ models are outside their original 3-year factory warranty. The CVT extended warranty (10 years / 160,000 km) may still cover 2016-2018 models if within the period and mileage limit. Verify coverage with a Subaru dealer using the VIN, as this extended warranty also applies in Europe.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.