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2020 Subaru Forester

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By Research the Car 3 min read

The 2020 Subaru Forester is a popular compact SUV known for its standard all-wheel drive, spacious interior, and good safety ratings. It’s powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Many owners appreciate the Forester’s comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and cargo space, while some criticisms include the somewhat underwhelming acceleration and the occasionally unrefined operation of the CVT.

Engine

2.5L Boxer Engine

  • 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 and the need to add oil more frequently than expected.
    • Solution: Subaru issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) for certain model years, including some 2020 Foresters, addressing oil consumption concerns. The fix may involve software updates to the engine control module (ECM) or, in more severe cases, engine replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly. Software update could be under $200. Engine replacement could be $6,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported the battery draining quickly. This can cause issues such as the car not starting.
    • Solution: It may be necessary to replace the battery with a new one with more amps.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Lineartronic CVT

  • Hesitation/Jerking
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noted hesitation or jerking during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds. This can be more noticeable when the transmission is cold.
    • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. In some cases, a CVT fluid flush is recommended. In more severe instances, CVT replacement may be required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: $100 - $200. CVT Fluid Flush: $200 - $400. CVT Replacement: $5,000 - $8,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

  • Starlink Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported problems with the Starlink infotainment system, including connectivity issues, slow response times, and software glitches.
    • Solution: Restarting the system may temporarily resolve the issue. Software updates from Subaru are often released to address these problems. In some cases, the head unit may need replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update is usually free at the dealership. Head unit replacement can cost $500 - $1500+.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced false AEB activations, where the system unexpectedly applies the brakes even when there is no apparent obstacle.
    • Solution: Recalibration of the EyeSight system (which includes AEB) may be necessary. In some cases, sensor replacement is required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Recalibration: $100 - $300. Sensor replacement: $300 - $800+ per sensor.
    • Recalls: 2020 Subaru Forester Recall Number 22V-478

Exterior

  • Cracked Windshield
    • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported that the windshields are easily cracked or chipped by rocks and other road debris.
    • Solution: The windshield will need to be replaced
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Infotainment Screen Freezing/Crashing
    • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen can freeze, become unresponsive, or crash entirely, requiring a system reset.
    • Solution: A software update to the infotainment system may resolve the issue. In some cases, the head unit may need replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update is usually free at the dealership. Head unit replacement can cost $500 - $1500+.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Subaru Forester has a reputation for reliability, but some owners have reported issues related to excessive oil consumption, CVT performance, electrical glitches and interior issues. The severity and cost of these issues can vary. Addressing these issues promptly can help prevent further damage and maintain the vehicle’s value.

Subaru, Forester
Subaru Forester 2020
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