Practical family SUV with permanent all-wheel drive and proven reliability. The e-BOXER mild hybrid system adds only 12 kW (16 hp) electric assist, so don't expect fuel economy like Toyota or Honda hybrids - real-world consumption is 30-35 mpg (7-8 L/100km). The FB25 engine avoids the head gasket problems of older Subarus, but watch for weak 12V batteries draining in a week, fragile windshields costing €1,200+ to replace with EyeSight recalibration, and premature CVT failures if fluid isn't changed every 40,000-60,000 km. Some 2019-2020 cars had AC compressor failures and infotainment freezing issues addressed by TSBs.
Battery dies within 7-10 days if car not driven, original battery inadequate · more· less
The 2019-2020 Foresters shipped with undersized batteries that cannot handle the electrical system's draw, especially with features like auto stop/start and the "smart" alternator that prioritizes reducing engine load over battery charging. The smart alternator typically sits at 12.2V while driving and only jumps to 15V when decelerating, preventing proper charging. The power rear gate module in 2019-2020 models also causes excessive dark current draw, draining the battery when the hatch is left open. Subaru later upgraded the PRG module for 2021+ models. If the car sits for more than a week, battery will likely be dead. Solution: keep on a battery tender/maintainer, or upgrade to a higher CCA battery. There's a class action lawsuit over this issue affecting recent Outbacks and Ascents, though the Forester was not specifically named.
Windshields crack easily from small impacts, replacement requires EyeSight recalibration · more· less
Subaru windshields are notoriously fragile and prone to cracking from minor rock chips. Some owners report windshields cracking with no apparent impact while the car was parked. The high replacement cost is due to the EyeSight driver assistance cameras mounted on the windshield, which require expensive recalibration after replacement. Typical cost breakdown: windshield parts and labor €1,050-1,100, plus EyeSight recalibration (static and dynamic) €600, for a total of €1,650+ before tax. A class action lawsuit over Subaru windshield cracking was settled in April 2024. Some owners are on their third windshield within a few years.
CVT can fail if fluid not changed regularly, valve body and belt issues · more· less
The SK Forester uses the TR580 CVT transmission. While newer than earlier problematic Subaru CVTs, it still requires proper maintenance. Common issues include shaking/jerking when accelerating from a stop (worn fluid, belt slippage), hesitation before accelerating (fluid degradation, failing valve body), and whining noise when accelerating (worn pulley bearings, fluid aeration). Subaru officially recommends CVT fluid changes every 100,000 km, but experienced mechanics recommend 40,000-60,000 km intervals for longevity. Subaru CVTs are not easily rebuildable - most shops must replace the entire unit, costing €4,000-7,000. Consumer Reports data shows Forester transmissions scoring above average for reliability since 2015. Subaru extended CVT warranty to 10 years/160,000 km on many 2010-2018 models; verify if your car qualifies.
AC compressor failure (2019-2020 models)€1,200 - €2,800
Premature compressor failures on 2019-2020 models, TSB issued for replacement · more· less
A significant number of 2019 and some 2020 Foresters experienced AC compressor failures, often while still under warranty. Symptoms include AC not cooling and unusual noise when the system is off. Subaru issued a TSB introducing a replacement compressor to address the strange noise issue. Typical repair costs: compressor replacement €1,200-1,400, or complete AC system replacement (compressor and condenser) €1,400-2,800. Some owners reported Subaru of America contributing €1,000 toward out-of-warranty repairs. If buying a 2019-2020 model, verify AC operation thoroughly.
EyeSight camera system failure€2,400 - €4,500
Cameras can fail in extreme cold or get blocked, disabling safety features · more· less
EyeSight uses stereo cameras mounted behind the windshield for driver assistance features. The system can malfunction when cameras are blocked/dirty or during poor weather (rain, snow, fog). In extreme cold (around -45°C), cameras can freeze and fail to recover. When EyeSight fails, it also disables backup camera and cruise control. Recalibration typically costs €200-300. Complete camera replacement with installation and calibration costs €2,400-4,500. There was a class action settlement related to EyeSight issues. A TSB addressed cooling fans becoming inoperable with EyeSight cameras in high humidity/temperature conditions.
Infotainment system freezing€0 - €1,500
Touchscreen freezes randomly, usually fixable with software update · more· less
The Harman-manufactured infotainment system in 2019-2020 Foresters commonly freezes or becomes unresponsive. Subaru issued Service Bulletin 15-228-18R covering display screen freeze-up concerns. Quick reset: press and hold the audio power knob for 10+ seconds, or press power/volume, tune/scroll, and CD eject knobs simultaneously for 10 seconds until screen reboots. Dealerships can apply software updates that resolve most freezing issues. In rare cases where the head unit is defective, replacement costs approximately €1,500. Most cases are resolved with free software updates.
Rear struts wear causing bumpy ride, typically after 80,000-120,000 km · more· less
Forester Premium models often experience rear strut wear causing a very bumpy ride on rough roads. Typical failure occurs between 80,000-120,000 km. Aftermarket struts cost approximately €80-100 each, with labor at certified shops adding €400-500 for rear struts. OEM struts are €210 each (list price). Dealer quotes for all four struts range from €1,600-3,000 depending on whether you choose loaded struts (with springs and mounts pre-assembled) or just cartridges. Front struts alone cost €850-1,000 at dealers. Independent shops can save 30-40% compared to dealer prices.
Hybrid battery pack failure (rare)€3,000 - €6,000
Hybrid battery covered by 8 year/160,000 km warranty, very rare failures · more· less
The e-BOXER system uses a small lithium-ion battery pack. Subaru provides an 8-year/160,000 km warranty on the hybrid battery and related components (battery pack, onboard charger, electric motor). During the warranty period, replacement is free. Out-of-warranty replacement costs €3,000-6,000, though these batteries are designed to last the vehicle's useful life and failures are extremely rare. This is NOT the 12V starting battery - that's a separate, well-documented problem area.
Generally reliable, but some costly weak spots
The Forester SK is mechanically solid with the improved FB25 engine avoiding head gasket problems of older Subarus. Consumer Reports ranks Subaru #7 out of 28 brands for reliability. However, the weak 12V battery system, fragile windshields, and high EyeSight-related repair costs are significant concerns. The CVT is reliable if properly maintained with fluid changes every 40,000-60,000 km (not Subaru's official 100,000 km interval). The mild hybrid system adds minimal complexity and has proven dependable.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete service records essential. Verify CVT fluid changes every 40,000-60,000 km, not just at 100,000 km intervals.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Battery should crank strongly without hesitation.
Body condition
Check for rust, especially underbody if car spent time in salt belt regions.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including varied speeds. CVT should shift smoothly without jerking.
Specific for this vehicle
Battery voltage test
Check 12V battery voltage (should be 12.6V+ when off). Ask when battery was last replaced. Test by leaving car off for 5+ days - will it still start?
Windshield condition
Inspect carefully for any chips or cracks. With EyeSight, replacement costs €1,650+. Look at all corners and edges.
CVT fluid condition
Ask for proof of CVT fluid changes every 40,000-60,000 km. If none, budget for immediate service or walk away from high-mileage examples.
AC system test
Test AC thoroughly, especially on 2019-2020 models. Should blow cold immediately. Listen for unusual noises when system is off.
EyeSight system test
Test all EyeSight features: lane keeping, adaptive cruise, pre-collision braking. No warning lights should appear.
Infotainment system
Test touchscreen responsiveness. Ask if software has been updated. Try all functions - radio, navigation, phone pairing.
Rear gate operation (2019-2020 models)
If power rear gate, verify it opens/closes smoothly. Ask if PRG module was updated (TSB for battery drain issue).
Suspension feel
Drive over rough roads. Excessive bouncing or harsh ride indicates worn struts, especially in rear.
Hybrid system operation
Watch for hybrid system indicator. Should show electric assist during acceleration and regeneration during braking.
Contact Subaru dealer with VIN to verify all recalls completed. The 2019 model year had 134 technical service bulletins issued - more than typical. Pay special attention to power rear gate and AC compressor TSBs for 2019-2020 models.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years / 60,000 km)Expired on 2018-2021 models
Powertrain warranty (5 years / 100,000 km)Check VIN - may still apply to 2019-2024
Hybrid battery warranty (8 years / 160,000 km)Still active on most 2018-2024 models
CVT extended warranty (10 years / 160,000 km)Some 2010-2018 models - verify with dealer
Corrosion warranty (5 years / unlimited km)Perforation only - excludes surface rust
Most 2018-2024 Foresters still have active hybrid battery warranty coverage (8 years/160,000 km), which is a major advantage. Verify exact warranty status with a Subaru dealer using the VIN. Note that Subaru warranty specifically excludes rust on underbody floor pan and cosmetic/surface corrosion.
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.