2012 Subaru Forester
The 2012 Subaru Forester is a compact SUV known for its standard all-wheel drive, practicality, and reliability. Engine options included a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often praise the Forester for its spacious interior, good visibility, and off-road capability, but some criticize its somewhat dated interior design and lackluster fuel economy for its class.
Engine
2.5L Naturally Aspirated Four-Cylinder
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings, blue exhaust smoke (in severe cases), and the need to add oil every few thousand miles.
- Solution: Subaru issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 02-157-14R regarding excessive oil consumption. The fix involves a revised PCV valve. In more severe cases, piston ring replacement or engine replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100 for PCV valve replacement, $2,000 - $6,000+ for piston ring/engine replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
- Head Gasket Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The 2.5L engine is known for potential head gasket failures. Symptoms include overheating, coolant leaks (internal or external), and white smoke from the exhaust.
- Solution: Replacement of the head gaskets. This is often done in conjunction with resurfacing the cylinder heads.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or jerky shifting between gears.
- Solution: Fluid flush or transmission valve body replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 for fluid flush; $500 - $1500 for valve body replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Strut Mount Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Creaking or clunking noises from the rear of the vehicle, especially when going over bumps.
- Solution: Replacement of the rear strut mounts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Premature battery failure or a dead battery after short periods of inactivity.
- Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic drain, which could be caused by a faulty relay, a malfunctioning sensor, or an aftermarket accessory. Replacement of the battery may also be needed.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ for diagnosis, $100 - $300 for battery replacement, varies for parasitic draw repair.
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Window Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate properly, either intermittently or completely.
- Solution: Replacement of the window motor or window switch.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$400 per window.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions, including sticking, failure to open or close completely, or unusual noises.
- Solution: Inspection and lubrication of the sunroof tracks, replacement of the sunroof motor, or repair of damaged components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the severity.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust on Rear Wheel Arches
- Description/Symptoms: Rust development on the rear wheel arches, particularly in areas with heavy road salt use.
- Solution: Rust removal, body repair, and repainting.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per wheel arch depending on severity.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2012 Subaru Forester has a mix of common issues, with the engine being the most prevalent area of concern due to potential oil consumption and head gasket failures. These engine issues can lead to significant repair costs. Electrical and suspension problems are also present, but generally less expensive to resolve. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to potentially major repairs, making pre-purchase inspection and maintenance history review essential.