Is A Used Subaru Forester Good For You?

As a proud Subaru Forester owner, I’ve driven this compact SUV through snowy mountain passes, rugged trails, and busy city streets a few years ago, and it’s never let me down. Its all-wheel-drive grip, roomy family-friendly interior, and top safety ratings make the Subaru Forester my go-to for every adventure. But when I shopped for a used Subaru Forester, I learned not all model years are equal—some are rock-solid, while others have costly quirks. In this guide, I’ll share my firsthand tips on why a used Subaru Forester could be your perfect match, the best years to buy, and which ones to avoid to save you time, money, and headaches. Please take the following advice seriously if you plan to buy the car soon.

Related:  Should You Buy A New Japanese Car Or A Used One?

What Makes the Subaru Forester Special?

The Subaru Forester, launched in 1997, was one of the first compact crossover SUVs, blending car-like driving with SUV toughness. Built on the Subaru Impreza platform, it’s a five-seat SUV with standard all-wheel drive (AWD), perfect for slippery roads or light off-roading. Japanese automaker Subaru, which sold 3.2 million vehicles globally in 2024, is known for rugged, reliable cars like the Outback and Crosstrek. The Forester sits between the smaller Crosstrek and the bigger Outback, offering a sweet spot of size, price, and capability.

A used Forester typically costs $15,000–$30,000, depending on the year and condition, making it cheaper than rivals like the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V. It’s a hit with families, outdoor enthusiasts, and commuters for its roomy interior (up to 76.1 cubic feet of cargo space), high safety ratings, and long lifespan—many hit 200,000–250,000 miles with proper care. But some model years have problems, so let’s dive into what makes the Forester shine and where it stumbles.

Fun Fact: The Forester’s boxy shape isn’t just cool-looking—it maximizes cargo space and gives you great visibility through big windows!

Why Buy a Used Subaru Forester?

Here’s why a used Forester might be perfect for you:

• All-Wheel Drive Standard: Unlike most SUVs, every Forester has AWD, great for rain, snow, or dirt roads. Its 8.7-inch ground clearance (9.2 inches in the Wilderness trim) handles rough trails better than a Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic.

• Top Safety Scores: Since 2007, the Forester has been an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+. Models from 2016 on include EyeSight, with features like automatic braking and lane-keeping assist.

• Reliability and Longevity: Subaru’s boxer engine and zinc-galvanized body resist rust, and many Foresters last 13–17 years or 200,000+ miles, per Consumer Reports.

• Strong Resale Value: The 2022 Forester won Kelley Blue Book’s Best Resale Value Award for compact SUVs, meaning it holds value better than a Ford Escape or Hyundai Tucson.

• Practicality: With 28.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats (76.1 with seats folded), it fits strollers, bikes, or camping gear. The rear seat fits three kids or two adults comfortably.

Owner’s Take: “My 2016 Forester has 150,000 miles and still runs like a champ. It’s been through blizzards and desert trails!”—Edmunds reviewer.

Best Years to Buy a Used Subaru Forester

Not all Foresters are equal. Based on reliability, owner satisfaction, and features, here are the best years to target in 2025, with average prices from CARFAX and Kelley Blue Book:

1. 2016–2018 (Fourth Generation)

• Price Range: $15,000–$22,000

• Why Buy?: These years balance modern tech with affordability. The 2016 model introduced a touchscreen infotainment system, and EyeSight became widely available. Reliability is solid, with Consumer Reports giving 4/5 ratings. The 2018 model has the best owner satisfaction in this generation, per Autotrader.

• Features: Apple CarPlay (2017+), 2.5L four-cylinder engine (182 hp), 28 mpg combined, optional turbo (250 hp in XT models).

• Watch Out: Some 2016 models had minor CVT transmission issues, costing $1,200 to fix, per CarComplaints.com.

2. 2020–2023 (Fifth Generation)

• Price Range: $20,000–$30,000

• Why Buy?: These are the most reliable Foresters, with 4/5 reliability scores from Consumer Reports. The 2020 model added lane-centering and tire pressure monitors, while 2021–2023 earned top safety ratings. Owners love the spacious cabin and smooth ride.

• Features: Standard EyeSight, 8-inch touchscreen, X-Mode for off-roading, 29 mpg combined.

• Watch Out: The 2019 redesign had electrical and cooling issues, so stick to 2020+ for fewer headaches.

3. 2000–2002 (First Generation)

• Price Range: $4,000–$8,000

• Why Buy?: If you want a cheap, nostalgic project car, these early Foresters are simple and durable. The 2000 model scored 3/5 for reliability and 4/5 for owner satisfaction, per Consumer Reports.

• Features: 2.5L four-cylinder (165 hp), 21 mpg, basic but tough AWD system.

• Watch Out: Head gasket issues are common, costing $1,500–$2,000 to fix. Check repair history.

Pro Tip: Look for Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Foresters, which pass a 152-point inspection and come with a 7-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Forester Years to Avoid

Some Forester years have costly issues. Steer clear of these unless you’re ready for repairs:

• 2014 (Fourth Generation): This redesign year had engine failures, excessive oil consumption (costing $3,800 to fix), and suspension problems ($1,200), per CarComplaints.com. Owners reported oil leaks and stalling at 59,000 miles.

• 2015 (Fourth Generation): Over 170 owners reported engine issues like unintended acceleration and stalling, plus Bluetooth and voice recognition glitches. Repairs averaged $3,800 at 60,000 miles.

• 2006–2010 (Third Generation): These models had the worst reliability, with head gasket failures ($2,000) and excessive oil consumption, per Consumer Reports. The 2009–2013 models also had engine troubles.

• 2001 and Earlier (First Generation): Head gasket issues were rampant, costing $1,500+, and repairs are pricier due to the boxer engine’s design.

Buyer Beware: Always check the CARFAX report for head gasket or engine repairs, especially for older models. A pre-purchase inspection ($100–$200) can save you thousands.

Is the Forester Right for Your Lifestyle?

The Forester fits many drivers, but let’s see if it matches your needs:

1. Families

• Why It Works: The roomy cabin fits car seats easily, and the high IIHS safety ratings give peace of mind. The 2020+ models have advanced EyeSight features like adaptive cruise control.

• Example: A 2021 Forester Premium ($22,000) has heated seats, a sunroof, and 76.1 cubic feet of cargo for strollers or sports gear.

• Downside: The trunk is smaller than a Honda CR-V’s (80.7 cubic feet), and rear air vents are missing in some models, which can make kids hot in summer.

2. Outdoor Enthusiasts

• Why It Works: The AWD and X-Mode (2019+) handle mud, snow, or gravel like a champ. The Wilderness trim (2022+) adds all-terrain tires and a skid plate for light off-roading.

• Example: A 2022 Wilderness ($28,000) with 9.2-inch ground clearance and a 220-pound roof rack is perfect for kayaks or tents.

• Downside: It’s not a true off-roader like a Jeep Wrangler, so stick to mild trails.

3. Commuters

• Why It Works: The Forester gets 28–29 mpg, competitive with the Mazda CX-5, and its comfy ride suits long drives. The 2016+ touchscreen supports Apple CarPlay for music and maps.

• Example: A 2018 Forester ($18,000) with 28 mpg and EyeSight is great for daily drives.

• Downside: Highway noise is loud due to thin insulation, especially in pre-2019 models.

4. Budget Buyers

• Why It Works: Older models (2000–2002) cost as little as $4,000, and newer ones (2016–2018) are $10,000 less than a new RAV4 ($28,675).

• Example: A 2016 Forester ($15,000) offers modern features at a bargain.

• Downside: Repairs for head gaskets or CVT issues can hit $1,200–$3,800, so budget for maintenance.

Owner’s Story: “I got a 2020 Forester for $24,000 in 2024. It’s great for camping and commuting, but the engine’s a bit underpowered on hills.”—CARFAX review.

Comparing the Forester to Japanese Rivals

The Forester competes with top Japanese SUVs. Here’s how it stacks up:

• Toyota RAV4 (2016–2023): Starts at $18,000 used. It’s more reliable (4.5/5 from Consumer Reports) and gets 30 mpg, but AWD isn’t standard, and it’s less agile off-road. The RAV4’s 80.7 cubic feet of cargo beats the Forester’s 76.1.

• Honda CR-V (2015–2022): Starts at $16,000. It’s quieter and has a bigger trunk, but only higher trims have AWD. Reliability is excellent (4.5/5), but it’s less rugged than the Forester.

• Mazda CX-5 (2017–2023): Starts at $17,000. It’s sportier and quieter, with 31 mpg, but AWD costs extra, and cargo space (59.6 cubic feet) is smaller. Reliability is strong (4/5).

• Nissan Rogue (2014–2020): Starts at $14,000. It’s cheaper and comfier but less reliable (3.5/5) and not as off-road capable. Cargo space (70 cubic feet) is decent.

Why Choose Forester?: If you need standard AWD and light off-road ability, the Forester beats the CR-V or CX-5. For better fuel economy or a quieter ride, consider the RAV4 or CX-5.

Japanese Auto Industry Context

Japan’s auto industry, producing 7.8 million vehicles in 2024, is a reliability powerhouse. Subaru, with 600,000 U.S. sales in 2024, trails Toyota (1.8 million) and Honda (1.3 million) but shines for AWD expertise. Unlike Toyota’s mass-market Corolla or Nissan’s budget-friendly Sentra, Subaru focuses on rugged, outdoor-ready vehicles. The Forester, with 152,000 U.S. sales in 2024, is Subaru’s bestseller, outpacing the Crosstrek and Outback. Its boxer engine and AWD system, refined since the 1990s, give it an edge over Mitsubishi’s Outlander or Mazda’s CX-50 for all-weather driving.

Challenges to Watch For

The Forester isn’t perfect. Here are common issues and how to avoid them:

• Head Gasket Failures: Common in 1998–2010 models, costing $1,500–$2,000. Check if gaskets were replaced.

• Excessive Oil Consumption: 2011–2015 models may burn oil ($1,600 to fix). Ask for maintenance records.

• CVT Transmission Issues: Some 2014–2015 models had jerky CVTs ($1,200). Test-drive for shuddering.

• Highway Noise: Pre-2019 models are loud due to poor insulation. Newer tires can help.

• Underpowered Engine: The 2.5L engine (182 hp) feels slow on hills, unlike the turbo XT (250 hp, discontinued after 2018).

Fix It: A pre-purchase inspection by a Subaru mechanic can spot these issues. Budget $1,000–$2,000 for potential repairs on older models.

Tips for Buying a Used Subaru Forester

• Check the CARFAX: Look for accident-free cars with regular oil changes (every 6,000 miles). Avoid salvage titles.

• Test-Drive Thoroughly: Drive on highways and hills to check for CVT issues, engine noise, or suspension clunks. Ensure EyeSight works (2016+).

• Inspect for Rust: Japan’s zinc-galvanized bodies resist rust, but check the undercarriage, especially in snowy regions.

• Negotiate: Used Foresters hold value, but you can save $1,000–$2,000 in winter (January–February) when SUV demand dips.

• Consider CPO: A CPO 2020 Forester ($25,000) includes a warranty, reducing repair risks.

• Compare Locally: Use Kelley Blue Book or CoPilot to find fair prices in your area. A 2016 Forester averages $16,568; a 2020 is $28,837.

Is a Used Forester Worth It?

A used Subaru Forester is a fantastic choice if you want a reliable, safe, and versatile SUV for under $30,000. Its standard AWD, roomy interior, and long lifespan make it ideal for families, adventurers, or commuters in snowy or rural areas. The 2016–2018 and 2020–2023 models offer the best mix of reliability, tech, and value, while 2014–2015 and 2006–2010 models should be avoided due to engine and transmission issues. Compared to Japanese rivals like the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V, the Forester shines for off-road capability but lags in fuel economy and cabin quietness.

In 2025, a used Forester is a smart buy if you prioritize safety and all-weather performance. Head to a Subaru dealer, check CARFAX, and test-drive a 2020 Premium ($24,000) or 2016 Limited ($16,000) to see if it’s your vibe. With proper care, it’ll be your trusty sidekick for years. Ready to hit the road? Your Forester adventure starts now!