What To Know
- The Forester has a long history of earning top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- According to RepairPal, the average annual repair cost for a Forester is around $487, which is below the average for all SUVs.
- Its excellent reliability ratings, top safety features, and low maintenance costs make it a solid choice for those seeking a dependable vehicle.
The Subaru Forester has consistently ranked among the most reliable SUVs on the market. Known for its ruggedness, versatility, and safety features, it’s a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. But is the Subaru Forester reliable? Let’s delve into the data and owner experiences to find out.
Durability and Reliability Ratings
According to J.D. Power’s 2023 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), the Subaru Forester received a score of 84 out of 100, ranking it above average in terms of reliability. The VDS measures the number of problems experienced by owners per 100 vehicles during the past 12 months.
Consumer Reports, another reputable source for reliability ratings, gives the Forester a “Very Good” rating for predicted reliability. This rating is based on surveys of owners and data collected from repair shops.
Safety Features and Ratings
The Forester has a long history of earning top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The 2023 model year Forester has received the following safety ratings:
- NHTSA: 5-Star Overall Safety Rating
- IIHS: Top Safety Pick+
These ratings are based on crash tests, safety features, and accident avoidance technologies. The Forester’s standard safety features include:
- EyeSight Driver Assist Technology (adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, pre-collision braking)
- Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Owner Reviews and Experiences
Reviews from owners on platforms like Edmunds and Car and Driver indicate that the Forester is generally reliable. Many owners report few or no problems with their vehicles, even after several years of ownership.
However, it’s important to note that some owners have experienced issues with the Forester’s infotainment system, transmission, and fuel economy. It’s always a good idea to research specific model years and trims before making a purchase.
Maintenance Costs and Resale Value
The Subaru Forester is known for its relatively low maintenance costs compared to other SUVs. According to RepairPal, the average annual repair cost for a Forester is around $487, which is below the average for all SUVs.
The Forester also holds its value well over time. According to Kelley Blue Book, the Forester has a 5-year resale value of 55%, which is higher than the average for all SUVs.
Pros and Cons of the Subaru Forester
Pros:
- Excellent reliability ratings
- Top safety ratings
- Versatile and spacious interior
- Symmetrical AWD system for all-weather capability
- Strong resale value
Cons:
- Some owners report issues with infotainment system and transmission
- Fuel economy could be better
- Limited cargo space compared to some competitors
Factors to Consider When Assessing Reliability
When assessing the reliability of a vehicle, it’s important to consider the following factors:
- Model Year: Different model years may have different reliability records.
- Trim Level: Higher trim levels may have more features and technologies that can potentially lead to more problems.
- Driving Habits: Aggressive driving or heavy towing can put more stress on a vehicle and reduce its reliability.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial for maintaining reliability.
Final Verdict
Based on the available data and owner experiences, the Subaru Forester is a highly reliable SUV. Its excellent reliability ratings, top safety features, and low maintenance costs make it a solid choice for those seeking a dependable vehicle.
While some owners have reported minor issues, these are not widespread and do not significantly impact the overall reliability of the Forester. With proper maintenance and care, the Forester is likely to provide years of reliable service.
Information You Need to Know
Q: How many miles can a Subaru Forester last?
A: With proper maintenance, a Subaru Forester can last for over 200,000 miles or more.
Q: What are the most common problems with the Subaru Forester?
A: Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, transmission, and fuel economy. However, these problems are not widespread and do not significantly impact the overall reliability of the Forester.
Q: How often should I service my Subaru Forester?
A: The Subaru Forester requires regular maintenance every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.