2024 Subaru Forester

The 2024 Subaru Forester is a popular compact SUV known for its standard all-wheel drive, practicality, and reliability. It comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Drivers often praise the Forester for its spacious interior, excellent visibility, and off-road capability. Some criticisms include the somewhat lackluster acceleration and the occasionally noisy CVT.

Engine

2.5L 4-Cylinder Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil warning lights and noticeable oil level decrease on the dipstick.
  • Solution: Subaru has issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to oil consumption. The first step is often an oil consumption test performed by a dealership. If consumption is excessive, potential fixes may include replacing piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (depending on the extent of the repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Lineartronic CVT

• Hesitation/Jerking During Acceleration
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience hesitation or jerking, particularly during low-speed acceleration or when transitioning between different driving modes.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve this issue. In some cases, a CVT fluid change may be recommended. In more severe cases, the CVT may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) to $5,000+ (CVT replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Lagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system, responsible for navigation, audio, and climate controls, may freeze, lag, or become unresponsive. This can occur randomly or when using certain features.
  • Solution: A software update for the infotainment system may resolve the issue. If the problem persists, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) to $500 - $1,500 (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dead Battery
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery failure, requiring jump starts or battery replacement sooner than expected. This can be caused by parasitic draw from electrical components.
  • Solution: Replacing the battery with an upgraded AGM battery and diagnosing any potential parasitic draws in the electrical system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported windshields cracking more easily than expected from small impacts or temperature changes.
  • Solution: Windshield replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling/Buzzing Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of rattling or buzzing noises emanating from various areas within the cabin, such as the dashboard, door panels, or rear cargo area.
  • Solution: Locating and securing the source of the noise. This may involve tightening loose fasteners, adding padding to contact points, or replacing damaged trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ (depending on the complexity of the repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2024 Subaru Forester, while generally reliable, does have some common issues. The infotainment system can be glitchy and slow. Some owners have reported issues with excessive oil consumption and CVT transmission issues. While most issues are minor and addressed with software updates or minor repairs, some, like potential CVT or engine repairs, can be more costly. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and consider them when making a purchase decision.