2008 Subaru Forester

The 2008 Subaru Forester is a compact SUV known for its standard all-wheel drive, practicality, and reliability. It came with two engine options: a 2.5L SOHC naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5L DOHC turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 224 horsepower and 226 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Forester’s all-weather capability, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. Common dislikes include the somewhat bland styling, road noise, and the 4-speed automatic transmission’s performance.

Engine

2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Engine

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, bubbling in the coolant overflow tank. The head gasket material degrades, causing leaks between the cylinder and coolant passages.
  • Solution: Replacement of the head gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips on the ground, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak locations include the valve cover gaskets, head gaskets, and oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (per gasket)
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L DOHC Turbocharged Engine

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling sound from the turbocharger, excessive oil consumption, check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Starvation
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking sound from the engine, sudden engine failure. Can be caused by clogged oil pickup tube or insufficient oil changes.
  • Solution: Engine replacement or rebuild. Addressing the cause of the oil starvation (e.g., replacing the oil pickup tube).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, difficulty engaging drive or reverse.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body replacement, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Strut Sag/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear suspension, bouncy ride, clunking noises from the rear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear struts and potentially the springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Humming or grinding noise that increases with speed, excessive play in the wheel.
  • Solution: Wheel bearing replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per wheel
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, rough idling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Windshield Wiper Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Wipers not working, wipers only working on certain settings, wipers stopping mid-wipe.
  • Solution: Replacement of the wiper motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around wheel wells, door panels, and other areas of the body.
  • Solution: Rust repair and painting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin, damp carpets, moldy smell.
  • Solution: Cleaning or repairing the sunroof drains, replacing the sunroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Subaru Forester, while generally reliable, has some common issues owners may encounter. Engine problems, particularly head gasket failure in the naturally aspirated models and turbocharger issues in the turbocharged models, can be costly to repair. Suspension and electrical issues are also prevalent. While not all 2008 Foresters will experience these problems, being aware of them can help potential buyers make informed decisions and budget for potential repairs. The severity and cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the specific issue and the extent of the damage.