2020 Subaru Forester

Introduction

The 2020 Subaru Forester is a compact SUV known for its ruggedness, spacious interior, and all-wheel drive. It comes standard with a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. For the XT trim, a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine is available, producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The base engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the turbocharged engine uses a CVT with an 8-speed manual mode.

Owners appreciate the Forester’s reliability, comfortable interior, and off-road capabilities. However, some issues have been reported across different components.

Engine

2.5-liter Naturally Aspirated Engine

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking oil from the top of the engine, visible as oil stains on the valve covers or engine block.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vacuum leak, rough idle, or performance issues.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4-liter Turbocharged Engine

• No Issues Found

Transmission

CVT (2.5-liter Engine)

• Jerking or Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission hesitating or lurching during gear changes.
  • Solution: Software update, CVT fluid change, or CVT replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

CVT with 8-Speed Manual Mode (2.4-liter Engine)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or creaking noises from the rear suspension.
  • Solution: Replace rubber bushings or suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Premature Strut Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven tire wear, excessive body roll, or excessive vibration.
  • Solution: Replace struts or strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery losing power quickly, especially when parked.
  • Solution: Identify and fix electrical drain, such as parasitic electrical devices.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, unresponsive buttons, or navigation issues.
  • Solution: Software update, system reboot, or replacement of infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Wiper Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Wiper blades not moving or intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Replace wiper motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Taillight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Water or condensation inside the taillights.
  • Solution: Replace taillights or reseal lenses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rear Seatbelt Buckle Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or squeaking noise from the rear seatbelt buckles.
  • Solution: Lubricate or replace seatbelt buckles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattles or wind noise coming from the sunroof.
  • Solution: Lubricate tracks, adjust sunroof alignment, or replace sunroof components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Subaru Forester has various issues, including oil leaks, transmission problems, suspension noise, electrical malfunctions, and some minor interior and exterior concerns. While the issues can be annoying or inconvenient, they do not appear to be widespread or catastrophic. However, the cost of repairs can vary, ranging from minor expenses to significant out-of-pocket costs for major issues.