What To Know
- The Subaru Forester is renowned for its excellent safety features, earning a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- The Subaru Forester offers decent fuel economy for an SUV, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway for the base model.
- The Ford Escape has slightly better fuel economy than the Forester, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway for the base model.
When it comes to choosing a reliable and versatile SUV, the Subaru Forester and the Ford Escape consistently rank among the top contenders. Both vehicles offer a combination of practicality, performance, and safety features. But which one reigns supreme in terms of reliability? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Subaru Forester vs. Ford Escape reliability to help you make an informed decision.
Reliability Ratings
Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester boasts an impressive reliability record, consistently earning high ratings from reputable organizations. J.D. Power awarded the Forester with a 4 out of 5 rating for predicted reliability, while Consumer Reports gave it an above-average score of 86/100.
Ford Escape
The Ford Escape has also performed well in reliability ratings. J.D. Power gave it a 3 out of 5 rating for predicted reliability, and Consumer Reports awarded it an average score of 78/100. While the Escape’s reliability is generally good, it falls slightly short of the Forester’s stellar record.
Common Problems
Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester has been known to experience some minor issues, such as:
- Oil leaks from the head gaskets
- Transmission shuddering
- Brake wear
Ford Escape
The Ford Escape has also had its share of reported problems, including:
- Transmission problems, particularly with the 6F35 transmission
- Engine stalling
- Electrical issues
Warranty Coverage
Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester comes with a generous warranty package that includes:
- 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper warranty
- 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain warranty
- 5 years/unlimited miles roadside assistance
Ford Escape
The Ford Escape offers a competitive warranty coverage that includes:
- 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper warranty
- 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain warranty
- 5 years/60,000 miles roadside assistance
Maintenance Costs
Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester has relatively low maintenance costs compared to other SUVs in its class. Scheduled maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, typically costs around $150-$250 per year. However, major repairs can be expensive, especially if the head gaskets need to be replaced.
Ford Escape
The Ford Escape has slightly higher maintenance costs than the Forester. Scheduled maintenance costs around $200-$300 per year, and major repairs can also be costly, particularly if the transmission needs to be replaced.
Safety Features
Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is renowned for its excellent safety features, earning a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Ford Escape
The Ford Escape also performs well in safety tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS. However, the Forester’s advanced safety systems, such as EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, give it a slight edge in this category.
Fuel Economy
Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester offers decent fuel economy for an SUV, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway for the base model.
Ford Escape
The Ford Escape has slightly better fuel economy than the Forester, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway for the base model.
Resale Value
Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester holds its value well, due to its reputation for reliability and durability. It typically retains around 50-60% of its original value after 5 years.
Ford Escape
The Ford Escape has a slightly lower resale value than the Forester, typically retaining around 45-55% of its original value after 5 years.
Final Verdict: Subaru Forester vs. Ford Escape Reliability
Based on the reliability ratings, common problems, warranty coverage, maintenance costs, safety features, fuel economy, and resale value, the Subaru Forester emerges as the winner in terms of overall reliability. Its stellar reliability record, extensive warranty coverage, and advanced safety systems make it an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize peace of mind and long-term ownership.
The Bottom Line: Making an Informed Choice
The Subaru Forester and Ford Escape are both solid choices for SUV buyers. However, if reliability is your primary concern, the Subaru Forester is the clear winner. Its exceptional reliability ratings, generous warranty coverage, and low maintenance costs make it an ideal choice for drivers seeking a vehicle they can count on for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which SUV has a better overall reliability rating?
A: The Subaru Forester has a better overall reliability rating than the Ford Escape, according to J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.
Q: What are some common problems with the Subaru Forester?
A: Common problems with the Subaru Forester include oil leaks, transmission shuddering, and brake wear.
Q: What are some common problems with the Ford Escape?
A: Common problems with the Ford Escape include transmission issues, engine stalling, and electrical issues.
Q: Which SUV has the best warranty coverage?
A: The Subaru Forester and Ford Escape offer comparable warranty coverage, with both providing 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper and 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain warranties.
Q: Which SUV has lower maintenance costs?
A: The Subaru Forester typically has lower maintenance costs than the Ford Escape.
Q: Which SUV is safer?
A: Both the Subaru Forester and Ford Escape have excellent safety ratings, but the Forester has a slight edge with its advanced safety systems.
Q: Which SUV has better fuel economy?
A: The Ford Escape has slightly better fuel economy than the Subaru Forester.
Q: Which SUV has a higher resale value?
A: The Subaru Forester typically retains a higher resale value than the Ford Escape.