2011 Subaru Forester

Introduction

The 2011 Subaru Forester is a compact SUV known for its reliability, safety, and all-wheel drive capability. It is available with two engine options: a 2.5L 4-cylinder and a 3.6L 6-cylinder. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

People who like the Subaru Forester appreciate its spacious interior, off-road capabilities, and fuel efficiency. However, some owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, exterior, and interior.

Engine

2.5L 4-cylinder

• Oil consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, resulting in low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace piston rings and oil seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant, overheating, and engine misfiring.
  • Solution: Replace head gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L 6-cylinder

• Timing belt tensioner failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noisy engine, reduced power, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace timing belt tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed manual

• No issues found

4-speed automatic

• Transmission slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, hesitation during acceleration, and loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace transmission clutch plates and solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

CVT

• Hesitation during acceleration
  • Description/Symptoms: Sluggish response when accelerating, particularly at low speeds.
  • Solution: Update transmission software and reprogram control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front strut failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace front struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear suspension sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of rear suspension components, causing the rear of the vehicle to sag.
  • Solution: Replace worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle after sitting for an extended period, dim headlights, and dead battery.
  • Solution: Replace faulty battery or fix electrical drain caused by faulty components (e.g., alternator, starter).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• ECU failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, reduced power, and check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replace engine control unit (ECU).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear quarter panel rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion and rusting on the rear quarter panels.
  • Solution: Replace rusted panels or treat rust.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight assemblies.
  • Solution: Replace headlights or seal assembly to prevent condensation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate control malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning AC/heater system, difficulty controlling temperature, and uneven airflow.
  • Solution: Replace climate control module or repair wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leakage through the sunroof, causing water damage to the interior.
  • Solution: Seal sunroof channels or replace entire assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Subaru Forester is a generally reliable vehicle, but some owners have experienced issues with its engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, exterior, and interior. The severity of the issues varies, with some being minor and inexpensive to fix, while others are more serious and costly. It is important to note that not all Foresters will experience these issues, and individual experiences may differ.