2018 Subaru Forester

Introduction:

The 2018 Subaru Forester is a compact SUV offered with two engine options: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that generates 250 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Owners generally praise the Forester for its spacious cabin, excellent fuel economy, and all-wheel-drive capability. However, some have encountered various issues with their vehicles.

Engine

• 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder:
  • Head gasket failure: Symptoms include excessive oil consumption, white exhaust smoke, and coolant leaks. Solution: Replace head gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Timing belt chain tensioner failure: Symptoms include rattling noises from the engine, especially on cold starts. Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder:
  • Valve train issues: Symptoms include ticking noises from the engine, reduced power, and increased fuel consumption. Solution: Replace valve springs or timing chain components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Intake manifold runner control (IMRC) valve failure: Symptoms include hesitation or stumbling while accelerating. Solution: Replace IMRC valves. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Transmission

• CVT:
  • Hesitation or slipping: Symptoms include delayed acceleration, shuddering, or slipping gears. Solution: Update transmission software or replace transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+

Suspension

• Strut noise: Symptoms include rattling or clunking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps. Solution: Replace struts or strut mounts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Electrical

• Battery drain: Symptoms include slow or no starts, flickering headlights, or malfunctioning electronics. Solution: Inspect charging system components, check for electrical shorts, or replace battery. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
• Rearview camera failure: Symptoms include a blank or distorted image on the rearview camera display. Solution: Replace rearview camera. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Exterior

• Windshield wiper blade chatter: Symptoms include streaks or skipping on the windshield while using wipers. Solution: Replace wiper blades. Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100+
• Tailgate corrosion: Symptoms include rust or corrosion on the tailgate or around the license plate area. Solution: Replace tailgate or repair corrosion. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Interior

• Seatbelt warning chime stays on: Symptoms include continuous chiming sound even when seatbelts are fastened. Solution: Reset seatbelt sensors or replace sensor harness. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Center console lid rattles: Symptoms include loose or rattling center console lid while driving. Solution: Inspect hinges or replace center console lid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
• Climate control issues: Symptoms include malfunctioning climate control system, such as air not blowing or incorrect temperatures. Solution: Diagnose and repair HVAC components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Summary:

The 2018 Subaru Forester is a reliable vehicle overall, but it has been reported with several issues. Some of the more common and expensive issues include head gasket failure, valve train issues, and CVT problems. It’s important for owners to be aware of these potential problems and be prepared for any necessary repairs.