EngineMedium
FB25 oil consumption on some engines.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check oil level and top-up history.
2014–2019 Subaru Forester · common problems & known faults
The Forester is a practical AWD SUV with great visibility, but oil consumption and the CVT are the main checks.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2014–2019 Subaru Forester are Oil weeping onto the exhaust manifold causing a burning smell, stemming from the cam carrier seals due to RTV sealant failure, FB25 oil consumption on some engines and CVT behavior — durable with service, but history matters. 1 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Subaru Forester.
5.7/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 1
- Medium
- 5
- Low
- 2
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
TransmissionMedium
CVT behavior — durable with service, but history matters.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test-drive for smooth power; confirm fluid service.
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Build the inspection planElectricalLow
Infotainment/Starlink glitches and battery drain.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test the head unit and ask about battery issues.
BodyLow
Windshield cracking sensitivity.
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Inspect the windshield for chips/cracks.
EngineHigh
Oil weeping onto the exhaust manifold causing a burning smell, stemming from the cam carrier seals due to RTV sealant failure.
- Typically appears
- 70,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Shine a torch down the sides of the engine block near the exhaust manifold heat shields. Look for fresh oil weeping or smell for burning oil after a brief run.
Climate ControlMedium
Air conditioning blows warm due to a leaking A/C condenser or failing O-rings.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-60,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine and set the A/C to maximum cold. Check for a noticeable temperature drop within 60 seconds. Visually inspect the lower corners of the front condenser through the grille for dark, oily residue.
SuspensionMedium
Clunking noises over bumps and vague steering caused by torn front lower control arm rear bushes.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Apply the handbrake, leave the vehicle in Park or gear, and firmly kick the front tyres front-to-back. Look for excessive fore/aft wheel movement, or inspect the rear bush of the front wishbone with a torch for deep rubber tears.
DrivetrainMedium
Humming or droning noise from the rear end that increases with road speed, caused by premature rear wheel bearing failure.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Grab the top of the rear tyres and push/pull vigorously to check for lateral play or clicking. During a brief forecourt manoeuvre, listen closely with the windows down for a low-pitch metallic drone from the rear hubs.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Do Subaru Foresters burn oil?
Some FB25 engines consume oil — check the level and history before buying.
Is the Forester CVT reliable?
Generally yes with regular fluid service; test-drive for smooth operation.
Is the Forester a good used SUV?
Yes — safe and practical, with oil use and the CVT the key checks.
Does the petrol engine use a timing belt or a timing chain?
Both the 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre petrol engines fitted to this generation of Forester utilise a timing chain rather than a rubber belt. This chain is designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle and does not require routine replacement, provided the engine receives regular oil and filter changes.
Do I need to replace all four tyres simultaneously on the Forester?
Yes, Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is highly sensitive to variations in rolling circumference. Fitting mismatched tyres or mixing new tyres with worn ones can cause the centre differential to overheat and fail. Always ensure all four tyres are the same brand, tread pattern, and within two millimetres of tread depth.
What should I look out for on the UK-market 2.0D diesel models?
The EE20 boxer diesel engine is prone to diesel particulate filter blockages if the vehicle is primarily used for short, urban journeys. Furthermore, glow plug failures are common and can be labour-intensive to replace due to their awkward positioning. Ensure the DPF warning light extinguishes promptly after starting the engine.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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