2009 Subaru Forester

The 2009 Subaru Forester is a compact SUV known for its practicality, standard all-wheel drive, and reliability. Available engine options included a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. This engine could be paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. A turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 224 horsepower and 226 lb-ft of torque, was also available, paired exclusively with a 5-speed manual. Owners generally appreciate the Forester’s cargo capacity, all-weather capability, and comfortable ride. Common dislikes include the fuel economy, especially with the automatic transmission, and some concerns about reliability as the vehicles age, primarily with the 2.5L engine.

Engine

2.5L Naturally Aspirated Four-Cylinder

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, external coolant leaks around the head gasket.
  • Solution: Replacement of the head gaskets. Machining the cylinder heads may be necessary to ensure a proper seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable decrease in oil level between oil changes, requiring frequent top-offs. Blue smoke may be visible from the exhaust.
  • Solution: In mild cases, switching to a higher viscosity oil may help. More severe cases may require piston ring replacement or engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 (oil change) - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light with codes related to catalytic converter efficiency (P0420), reduced engine performance, and potential failure to pass emissions tests.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whining noise from the turbocharger, excessive oil consumption, and blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger. Inspecting and cleaning the oil feed lines to the turbo is also recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Timing Cover)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks around the valve cover and timing cover areas. Oil drips on the exhaust manifold can cause a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets and resealing the timing cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, especially when cold. Harsh or delayed shifting.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and filter change can help. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or a transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Sagging/Weak Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, especially when loaded. Reduced ride quality and potential for bottoming out.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear springs. Upgrading to stiffer aftermarket springs may be beneficial for those who frequently carry heavy loads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Humming or grinding noise from the wheels, which increases with speed. Excessive play in the wheel when checked.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+ per wheel
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light illuminated, dimming headlights, difficulty starting the vehicle, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially around rear wheel wells and quarter panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust bubbling or perforation around the rear wheel wells, quarter panels, and rocker panels.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the affected body panels, sanding down rust, and reapplying paint/clear coat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, especially during heavy rain. Staining on the headliner around the sunroof.
  • Solution: Cleaning the sunroof drain tubes to remove debris. In some cases, resealing the sunroof may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Subaru Forester has several potential issues, with engine-related problems being the most common and costly. Head gasket failures and oil consumption are prevalent in the naturally aspirated engine, while turbocharger issues can plague the turbocharged version. Suspension and electrical problems can also occur. The severity of these issues ranges from relatively minor to requiring major repairs. Addressing these issues proactively can help maintain the vehicle’s reliability and longevity.