Subaru Forester SJ 2.0 Reliability

Common Problems

CVT torque converter shudder and judder

€800 - 5,5001 of 7

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.

Front lower control arm bushing wear

€500 - 1,0002 of 7

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.

Rear coil spring corrosion and fracture

€300 - 6003 of 7

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.

Wheel bearing failure

€250 - 5004 of 7

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.

Valve cover gasket oil seepage

€300 - 6005 of 7

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.

Windshield cracking (EyeSight models)

€600 - 1,2006 of 7

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.

12V battery drain

€150 - 3007 of 7

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.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

General checks

Service history
Complete Subaru dealer or specialist service records essential. Verify CVT fluid has been changed at least every 60,000 km.
Tires
Check tread depth, age (date codes), and uneven wear patterns. Uneven wear suggests control arm bushing deterioration.
Cold start
Start engine completely cold. Listen for unusual knocking or ticking sounds from the boxer engine.
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including low-speed urban driving (CVT shudder check) and highway speeds (wheel bearing noise check).

Specific for this vehicle

CVT behavior at low speed
Drive slowly through a car park or residential area. Feel for juddering, hesitation, or jerking around 15-25 km/h when the torque converter locks up. Some vibration is normal, but strong shuddering indicates a problem.
Listen for wheel bearing noise at 60-100 km/h
On the highway, listen for humming that changes tone when turning the steering wheel slightly left or right. A noise that diminishes when turning one direction indicates the bearing on the opposite side is failing.
Check for rear spring recall completion
Visually inspect rear coil springs for rust, corrosion, or broken coils. Ask the seller to verify recall WUT-05 completion through a Subaru dealer.

+ 4 more checksShow less

Inspect for oil leaks around valve covers
Look at the bottom edges of the valve covers on both sides of the boxer engine for oil seepage or wetness. A slight weep is cosmetic; dripping oil needs repair.
Verify brake light switch recall completed
Check that recall WUE-90 (brake lamp switch, 2014-2016 models) has been completed. A faulty switch prevents starting, shifting out of Park, and illumination of brake lights.
Test EyeSight system (if equipped)
During the test drive, verify EyeSight activates without error warnings. Check for windshield chips or cracks in the camera viewing area. Any windshield damage near the cameras will disable EyeSight.
Check front suspension for clunking
Drive slowly over speed bumps and listen for clunking from the front. Worn lower control arm bushings produce a noticeable knock over uneven surfaces.

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.

Sources: Research draws on model-specific owner forums and owner communities, recall information from official authorities, German automotive press, and multiple workshop cost references cross-checked against each other.

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.

Subaru Forester SJ 2.0

↔ Also consider