Buying A Used Subaru Forester?! Here's The Good And Bad Over The Last 20 Years!

[@marcrowland10]

04-08 forester xt is the best and there’s absolutely no debate

[@taelee347]

Agreed, but much preferably w/ 5 speed manual. I couldn't stand the 4EAT at all.

[@Michael-0000]

Sigh …. agree! I have the last of the SG9 series - 2008 FXT. Immaculate and relatively low mileage (130,000km). Have loved owing and driving it over the past 10 years and planned to keep it running as long as possible. It was damaged in an accident last week - front bumper, lights and other bits and pieces ripped off. Repairable but has been written off today by the insurance company as uneconomic to repair. I‘d buy the exact same model if it was ever released as a new model despite its age. What an amazing all rounder it was!

[@BaddaBigBoom]

@@taelee347 My Euro spec 2006 "Facelift" has the "Sportshift" option, do you know if that is any different to the 4EAT

[@TheKitMurkit]

Or even better - swapped 6 speed manual

[@harrygoodenough]

Auto or manual? Been looking at a automatic one with electronic shift

[@Snake.br549]

I used to do sometimes 2 Subaru head gasket jobs a week but I pulled the motor out and resealed the whole complete engine plus head gaskets really made the customers happy no more oil leaks

[@musicalgreasemonkey]

I love my 2018 Forester 2.5i with 6mt and factory fog lights. I worked hard and saved my money. Ordered mine the last week you could order an 18 forester. Followed a strict break in, it uses no oil during oil changes. I undercoat it every year with fluid film and it has no rust anywhere but the exhaust. In 67k miles its hand calculated lifetime mpg is 30.7. I LOVE this car and will maintain it and get every mile I can out of it.

[@WhyFacetattoos]

I just got a new used work vehicle it's a 17 Forester sport 2.5i with 70k miles I drive quite a bit for work I got it from the south so no rust I will undercoat it and try to get 400k out of it. I live in Nebraska Minnesota Iowa area so an AWD when driving 40 miles each way to work was a must. I had been driving a fusion during the summer and fall spring getting about 34mpg hwy and then a Sorento during winter months getting like 18 hwy now I can drive one vehicle all year and get 35.8 actual mpg on a 127 mile drive to Omaha at 55-70 mph. Having never driven a cvt vehicle it is different though. And Subaru telling me not to change the fluid when the shop I took it to said I have to do it every 25k is concerning

[@agirlwholovesgod1645]

Just bought my first car at 18. 2006 Subaru Forester. I pray it serves me well. I don’t care for luxury or flashy things. I mean it has a moonroof! Taking good care of it & regular maintenance, I hope it lasts me a very very long time.

[@ESeda-lo1dv]

I hope so too!

[@ItchyKneeSon]

How's it doing? If you're in a rust-prone area, make sure to keep an eye on the front lower control arms. They were recalled and can be replaced for free by Subaru if both, or either, have yet to be replaced. Also, keep an eye on the rear shock towers. I crushed my '06 a couple years ago due to a) the front lower control arm snapping as my wife pulled in the driveway before b) finding that the rear shock towers were holier than a hunk of Swiss cheese.

[@WhyFacetattoos]

Drive it like you care about it. Baby your vehicle change your oil with high milage full synthetic and a good filter and you should be good.

[@bv2010]

Love my 03 forester 2.5X. Bought it dirt cheap 2 years ago with a blown engine. Picked up a used engine, freshened it up then installed. I drive this thing daily and love it. Great video as always.

[@RandyX666]

Just bought another Subaru, a beautiful 05 Forster XT 5MT with 88k!!! First thing I did after purchase was check out your channel haha. Amazing video as usual, I’m grateful for your depth of knowledge and professionalism!

[@thomasketelaar3730]

I love my 2005 manual Forrester xs I’m keeping it forever

[@jimevard8283]

I have 2009 FXT that has been very good to me. My wife drove it gently for first 200k. I don't drive so nice, but at 255k it's still going strong. We've definitely put some money in it over the years, what saved it was finding a really good mechanic who specializes in subs. It burns oil but not too much. Never had to change head gasket. Personally I like the looks way better than any other gen. It has large hood scoop and sport grill. Looks great coming at you!😁

[@slapstick5000]

I have a 2005 Subaru Forester XT that I did a full JDM swap on. 6MT from a JDM Forester, Brembos, body kit, Engine Etc. I love the car, most fun to drive.

[@garrettdraper3609]

Great rundown on forester history, my gf owns a 2018 with only 33k miles and only issue we’ve had is a rear wheel bearing started making noise recently. I own a 2013 xv crosstrek with 108k miles and no major issues for the 40k miles I’ve owned it. Looking forward to keeping up with our services for miles to come with the help of your videos, appreciate all the help and info!

[@DeSoccerRefMan]

If your gf wants to get rid of her 2018 id like to get one, especially of it has the ^MT. Thanks

[@garrettdraper3609]

@@DeSoccerRefMan it has the CVT, it also just needed new head gaskets and re-seal of cam carriers at 46K miles. Thankfully still covered under warranty, I still need to check if the PCV valve is functioning as mentioned in other MrSubaru videos. Looking to trade it in for the new Tacoma at some point though

[@benjaminbarclay2766]

I wrecked my first 14' FXT and was devastated because it was such a fun but comfortable car to drive. I waited months to go look at new cars and looked on the website and they had the same exact car almost so I bought it.

[@homermago100]

Just bought a 2017 premium trim because of this video. No eye sight, 2.5 cvt. Like it so far.

[@declansdad]

I've owned 4 Subarus so far: 2000 Forester S; 2005 Forester XT Premium (manual transmission); 2012 Outback Limited 2.5 and 2021 Ascent Touring. I will say, I'm enjoying my wife's Acent, but my FXT was hands down the best vehicle I've ever owned. Throughout my years, I modified the FXT to be a sleeper "F-STi," swapping out the TD04 turbo for the VF39, tiny intercooler for the STi, F-STi springs from Japan, etc., etc. To say this car was bullet proof was an understatement. I never had any mechanical issues with the vehicle, even with all of the extensive mods during my ownership. This vehicle shined on the beaches of Assateague Island, winter storms in the mid Atlantic (even the 36" snow storm in 2010) and was my daily driver. Can you tell I still miss my FXT?

[@Zachariasinc]

LOVE my 05 FXT! were the upgrades you mentioned expensive? looking to do the same to mine. Did you get custom tuned or have an accessport, thanks

[@wildcard9624]

I'm on my second Forester, First was an 04 XS 5 speed and this one is an 05 Xt with the shitty 4eat. I'm about to road trip it across country leaving this week! I miss the 5 speed for sure but this was a low mileage XT clean as a whistle couldnt pass er Up!

[@Zachariasinc]

@@wildcard9624 Thats awesome you've had multiple, love my 05 FXT. The "shitty" 4eat is more reliable than the 5 speed but definitely not as fun. Although I have seen people with a tune make the auto extremely quick or even buy the upgraded torque converter or tranny valve body which make shifts night and day better. Congrats on the purchase!

[@ДенисКалинкин-в8э]

You can easily do 4eat much more pleasent to drive: install oil cooler with the thermostat to stabilize temperature, install the valve body. And the most important part: remap your pedal-to-throttle response map, this one is rarely modified but it brings HUGE difference, and don't frget to remove the lag for the throttle-pedal action. You'll not recognize you car I promise.

[@wildcard9624]

@@ДенисКалинкин-в8э Damn Ill have to look into these changes! Thank you!

[@noway_josue28]

My 03 forester is amazing! I'm from Chicago Illinois and I've driven it to Yellowstone National Park, Colorado, New York, New Jersey and Boston.

[@brianmacadam4793]

had a 03 forester, bullittproof, great traction, not the best mileage

[@rocheuro]

2003 xt Here. in manual. what a great car it is. never selling it.

[@chrisboyd4433]

Our 2001 "extra car" Forester is at 189,000. My wife's 2007 is at 185,000. Our son's 2012 is now closing in on 150,000. Other than timing belt and head gasket changes on the older two at 100k, no major issues with any of them.

[@rangerdoc1029]

That's an awfully expensive "other than".

[@chrisboyd4433]

@@rangerdoc1029 Routine maintenance for those years, not failures. About $850 in parts and a weekend in the garage, goof for another 100k or more.

[@rallysauruswrex]

love both of my foresters, 2001 and 2020

[@williamwagner8017]

The 2004 STi had the same banjo bolts with filter screens in the lines going to the turbo and valve control system. Same possible point of failure. Good videos...Thank you.

[@matthubble8245]

Just picked up a 2012 Forester and couldn’t be happier with it. Only had it a couple of weeks but I’m loving it. Glad to be a part of the Subaru community! Edit- it burns so much oil at highway speed I can’t refill it fast enough. Had a 2 hour drive the other day and it started knocking and smoking. Pulled safely off the road to fine there was ZERO oil in the motor. I’d checked and refilled 3 days before and only driven a few miles before my road trip. Boxer engines are garbage.

[@jf7393]

Was this a joke or did you just accidentally and yet perfectly describe the “Subaru community”?

[@althunder4269]

I have a 2015 Forester with CVT (built march 2014) with 75,000 KM the only issue is the remote door locks sometimes don't work on the front doors (mostly on the driver's side) but no oil burning or any other problems. We really like the 360 degree visibility and easy access which was the main reasons we bought it.

[@coolcarz-nf5tj]

I have the same problem with my 2014, I was told to replace the door lock actuators.

[@althunder4269]

@@coolcarz-nf5tj oddly enough, ours have been working fine for the last almost year now.

[@billbradley2480]

I bought a new Forester Base model in 2015. No problems at all yet but it only has 30k miles on it.

[@cayankeelord3730]

Still driving my 1998 Forester S. w/ 240,000 mi+. Dealt with the HG's with 6-star replacements, rear wheel bearings (Koyo Japan), manual shift linkage, a knock sensor, full on Aisin timing belt kit (x-2), clutch & pressure plate (throw-out & pilot bearings), a brake job and a battery. Haven't had to do much more than that over the last 20 years except regular oil and filter changes and the occasional coolant, brake fluid changes. Still runs great, good compression, super to drive in bad weather. A great car, I think I'll keep it a while.

[@Volvosemitruckmechanic4926]

The 14 to 18 engines are so reliable you can buy them used with less then 30k for less than $1000 shipped. I've changed subaru engines since the 1.6 ones from the late 70s and subaru hit a home run with the 2014 base model forester no direct injection, no infotainment system no climate control , no power seats, and gets over 30mpg. The cvt with 30k fluid changes lasted 320k in my 2015 forester and the engine still ran like new. Installed a used cvt and engine with 30k and I'm going to take this car to over 500k.

[@vintagetintrader1062]

Have to disagree on the SH Forester. I picked up a cheap 2010 model in Australia, 3000km from home to tow a caravan back. Just a basic X model with the 4EAT. Just gave it a oil change and fitted 4 new tyres/tires. I bolted a 17” Euro caravan to the back and towed this van home without issue including on some of Australians shocking roads. This forester had a hard few years, damaged rear bumper, front guard crushed so you could not open the passenger door, full of dirt in all lower panels, was going to just sell it but have been fixing things and is about to be our main family car, has 280,000km. Drives great

[@JoshuaGoudreau]

I just got a 2019 and so far I love it. It's a really comfortable daily driver for road trips and such with a nice stiff body but it also crawls over anything I want and the addition of skidplates and rock sliders keep it in good shape when I go off road, which I do regularly

[@gsabella4]

Appreciate your video, I'm considering a 2008 subaru forester, owner says recently had head gaskets done, water pump, and full reseal

[@wiskatesnow]

No more manual and no more turbo, just excessive tech not needed in the wilderness where a skilled and competent driver should be present. Took my 2001 with the full size spare up plenty of BLM canyon roads and had to use that spare a couple times. Hope the wilderness least comes with a full size spare.

[@ganbatganbold6165]

I love my JDM 2011 NA Forester with FB20 and 4EAT. Drove it for 3 years in Mongolia with no issues. I do the regular maintenance myself. Personally, I like the design and everything.

[@owen261]

Inherited a 2003 manual forester with 24k miles on it in 2019. Got so lucky with this car, never want to get rid of it.

[@gabrielayala3371]

The wife and I have a pair of 01 SF Foresters. Hers is blue with a 4EAT. Mine is gray with 5MT

[@drewzown6626]

Working on a 2006 forester right now, saving her from the grave yard. Welding rocker panels and new quarter panel. Transmission ran low on fluid and now won’t engage, easy enough, I hope they are as bulletproof as you say!

[@elongatedmuskrat8445]

It's worth mentioning how similar the 04-05 xt engine is to the STI engine. Lots of people put the sti turbo intercooler and a tune on their xt for an extra 70-90 horsepower

[@csechrist1]

In fact, the long block is identical! The only difference is the smaller turbo, intercooler as you mentioned, and some ECU tuning.

[@caodesignworks2407]

@@csechrist1 I recall the bore on them being smaller than on the Impreza as well as the exhaust and air filter not being on par. You don't have to update those things, but your engine will suffer without doing so.

[@gregscott344]

Bought a ‘17 XT Touring w/o Eyesight in 2019 with 21,000 miles. Came off a lease. Wife loves it. Her previous car was an ‘05 Toyota Sienna. She wanted something smaller, but with the good visibility. Has 50,000 miles on it now. Doesn’t burn oil, CVT is fine. I did put an AOS on it. I change oil every 3k miles. One odd thing, I just had to replace the control arm bushings on the front suspension. The front bushings were really bad and the compliance bushings were starting to crack. I replaced the ball joints too since I had the front end apart and the left one was a little loose. Other than that, it’s been trouble free. Oh, I didn’t tell my wife about the S & I modes for the first year. 😉 After I showed her S Mode, she said “wow!, it’s easy to merge on the freeway now” which progressed to “well I beat a Ferrari across the intersection, but then he disappeared.” 😆

[@AmirPomen]

And yeah.. clunky eps rack

[@mmiller1188]

I had a 2018 forester 6MT. Loved the car. AC went out 6 times under warranty! Then failed a 7th time out of warranty and Subaru wasn't willing to fix it. That's when I decided to sell it. I really enjoyed it, though. Got great mileage. The close ratio 6 speed was great combined with the 4.44 final drive. Never burnt a drop of oil.

[@nowiecoche]

Whenever I read about someone owning a newer manual Forester, I am always surprised and just feel dang happy that they are on the road.

[@OutsideTheTargetDemographic]

I have a 2018 Forester Base, 6MT. Just tanked up at 26.6mpg in the Cleveland winter today, 31.3mpg in the summer, used it to pull a 1k pound teardrop trailer, space for four adults and a black lab, plenty of pull, AWD tears through snow. Very pleased with it.

[@mmiller1188]

@@nowiecoche I bought it just as they were stopping the 2018! If I waited another month I would have had to get the CVT. I don't mind CVTs. The one thing that scared me away from a SK forester was the electronic parking brake. That's a hard no from me.

[@Raevenswood]

I love how your presentation style is akin to a 1980's episode of motor week. 😄👍

[@MrSubaru1387]

Glad you like it!

[@magsteel9891]

I picked up a used 2011 a few years ago for my daughter, it's been a very good car for her.

[@alanmohn4146]

I agree with your assessment of the start/stop feature on my 2020 Forester. It is irritating. I usually remember to turn it off, but I wish I shut it off permanently. The only issue with the Eyesight system was some dust from road mantainance. The brakes locked up as if there was an obsticle in my path. Fortunately, the car behind me was able to avoid a collision. Overall, I like the car. It is comfortable and has got me to some amazing destinations.

[@alsheremeta]

The "only" issue with eyesight.... Luckily it wasn't a semi truck behind you, you could be dead or permanently injured. If that happened to me, I'd be looking into permanently disabling the system.

[@HH-bi8dt]

@@alsheremeta Agreed, any system that can cause your brakes to lock up randomly even in rare circumstances is totally unacceptable imo.

[@limitlessinitiatives]

I purchased the S-edition (193kw) SH forester new in 2012 and it has 365,000 kms now. It has been flawless since new. All I've done since then is new shocks and springs and normal servicing

[@lonwillis783]

Mr Subaru after owning a 2019 Forester I love the Eyesight system especially in heavy traffic. Bad wiper blades will cause many Eyesight issues.

[@noelwarner1235]

Love your videos thanks for the information and clearing up the confusion my mom has a 98 legacy's that she bought brand new that has 146,000 on it she is 88 years old and still drives it. My daughter has a 2012 Forester that she bought from my aunt and now I am looking for a car for my son. I appreciate your easy-to-understand information especially about the head gasket issue

[@KeepRowing247]

I’ve got 220k on my 2011 just got serviced and running well. No issues or big bills for repair ever oil doesn’t get overly consumed either been lucky

[@bobmcl2406]

Great overview of the generations. I would like to have heard a little more about the variations within the 2014-2018 generation, such as GDI vs port injection, and how the new transmissions stack up (both 6MT and the CVT). Thanks, and cheers from snowy, rusty Canada.

[@anthonybarnes8500]

Just what I was looking for and I own a 2001 Forester. Looking to upgrade.

[@ecopennylife]

I have a 2013 turbo diesel 6 speed manual, great performance & fuel economy. Clutch replaced at 7 yr old (wear & year). 3 sets of lower control bushes replaced (2nd & 3rd whole arm unit & bushes done in one go). Door checks hopeless, replaced at 6-7 yrs old, refurbished recently with after market plastic inserts (video out soon). Clock spring gone recently (no horn). Overall still very happy.

[@ShawDAMAN]

I have a Crosstrek sport with the auto stop start and I agree it's harsh and a terrible idea probably just to help them boost epa ratings. I've gotten used to pressing the disable button every time I drive and it doesn't bother me that much but it's stupid the system won't retain the setting. Otherwise love the car! This was a great breakdown

[@loganreynolds263]

The majority of these issues are hugely blown out of proportion. I still don't believe the pickups crack at the braze. Maybe one batch during one year was affected, but it's mostly a BS issue. N/A Subarus from 06+ use the same pickup as the turbo models, but supposedly the N/A models never have that issue.. The SH chassis is based on the 08 impreza platform which is based on the fourth gen Legacy platform, which is my favorite and is what every modern Subaru chassis is based on. Bolt in hubs alone make these much better than the previous version imo. These are probably the best bang for buck Forester imo.

[@lewisstratton]

Ive had a 2011 Forester from new. Has done 235,000 kilometres. 2 X CV joints and 1 head gasket. No other repairs other than routine servicing.

[@chevyv20]

I think I'm going to hold on to my 2005 outback wagon 2.5i, as long as it's still reliable!

[@SqkTap]

My 2003 Gump has 253k same engine same manual transmission Runs great thru mud and snow It’s a beast!

[@yyzsupra8338]

Great delivery on this vid. I like your voice inflection (classic Motorweek tribute)....thank you.

[@rafaelj.benero4880]

Had a 2008 Forester...man, I loved that car! Had to choose between my 2000 Impreza RS or my Forester when I move to the Mainland... the RS won!!!...

[@hermanthegermancctv5988]

I run a 2006 XT and have now done 210,000 miles. Only repairs have been head gaskets, a radiator change and rear shocks. This car has been serviced regularly and only the best oils and filters have been used. Oh yes and the brake linings were replaced at the last service.This car is till absolutely rattle free and runs like a new one.I fully agree with declansdad that this is by far the best vehicle i have ever owned..bar none.

[@Ravzie]

Ej251 and 3 - 165hp. Mainly head gasket issues - Failure prone 120-150,000 miles leak. Replaced once or twice - better type replacements. Timing service. Things to look at on the 2003 Forester. 4EAT transmission low problems, no turbo. Wheel bearing issues. Rust in wheel wells. One of the best Foresters.

[@24runts]

Would you put the name of each vehicle on the screen as you talk about them? I was getting them mixed up. I appreciate the video! Thanks!

[@Maggieismydog]

Fantastic vids mate, really appriciate your time, knowledge and information. Just pruchased a 2014 Forester XT Premium with 180,000 kilometers for $21k AU. This is my 5th Subie, what fantastic machines. We purchased the 2021 Outback Touring for my wife last year (traded in her 2019 Impreza) and I don't think she will be giving that up for many, many years.

[@insightmeditate6486]

How it’s going now after 2 years? Do you have any cvt issues?

[@insightmeditate6486]

I’m planning to buy a 2014 forester with 197,000 kilometres and I have heard a lot of bad reviews about cvt transmission issues

[@Maggieismydog]

@ got rid of all our Subaru’s and won’t touch them again. Had major issues with the Forester and the new outback. Ended up getting my money back on the outback as Subaru couldn’t identify the issues in the engine. Can’t stand the company and their cars are NOT like they used to be. Steer clear my friend!

[@robertlucas8104]

I own a 2015 forester. It’s a hell of a car. 166k miles and the only major work done on it was replacing the rear wheel bearings. I’ve taken it on heavy snow, sand, mud and it’s gotten me home safely in torrential downpour. I’m glad I picked it over the RAV4 despite it having 20hp less. I’ve gotten used to the CVT, which seems to be demonized. My only complaint would be oil consumption that was noticeable after 140k miles. Simple solution was to change the oil more frequently at 2.5-3k mile intervals. I’ll drive it till her last hurrah.

[@derikmonson1941]

I've been looking at a new forester for my wife! But I've been iffy about the engine reliability. Currently own an 06 sti but that's been built just about 600whp. Would you recommend a new forester from your experience?

[@shawnkushmer]

Have 125k on ours. Same, just bearings on rear. Great car.

[@robertlucas8104]

@@derikmonson1941 the engine is pretty good I’ve done almost always highway miles and conservative driving. I do try to get a nice amount of 80mph driving from time to time to really clean the injectors. I’m a daily driver as well of the forester. I do know the older generations of foresters had bad head gaskets that would leak and there would be early problems with leaks in multiple areas of the engine. They seem to have fixed that with the newer generations. It’s a fun car to work on as well with many of the maintenance features east to access. The wilderness looks pretty neat but the other trims look just as promising. I’m not a fan of turbocharged engines though.

[@derikmonson1941]

@@robertlucas8104 I appreciate it! I agree with the turbocharged versions and they just don't seem as reliable. We'll probably test drive one soon and see how it goes. I know for sure she'll probably want it fully loaded! 😆 🤣

[@robertlucas8104]

@@derikmonson1941 the forester touring sounds like her type of car! Good luck! 😁 they’re loaded with awesome features for a stylish and comfy ride!

[@GamerNxUSN]

Just reached 100k on my 16 FXT. Thankfully the CVT valve body decided to go out last week right before I hit 100k so had it replaced under warranty. I've owned the vehicle since 2018 at 42k miles, have had very little problems, it has gotten me in and out of a an extremely muddy hunting area and of course is amazing in the snow. My only complaint with the head unit is the delay in BT audio, makes for watching KZbin in the car on my lunch break impossible through BT because it's like watching a dubbed video.

[@hanglooserecluse]

I go an 07 Forester X non turbo. Have had it since 2015, I just gotta do the valve seal covers now as it’s leaking oil but in 9 years of owning it, it’s been reliable. I’m just gonna keep it til it isn’t worth fixing. For now, it’s still going strong

[@rodneydecormier1504]

The ‘04 xt 0-60 5.4 sec😳. I had one and messed with sports cars on the way to work and trail riding on the weekends with keepers. Just awesome.

[@georgehaeh4856]

My '06 is over 400,000 km, third owner. The dealer did the clutch, head gaskets and timing belt before selling it to owner #2. Needs 1-2 litres oil between changes. Oil is cheaper than another engine. Worst thing was a front axle replacement. The SG is sized just right. I'm waiting for an Impreza with the same interior volume. The Levorg would be just right.

[@kevinnorwood7355]

I have a 2011 and it uses a lot of oil but it doesn't leak oil. And Mines a manual so I feel lucky I got that.

[@ghw7192]

I had an '01 2.5 XTI with a 5 speed and it was the best car I have ever owned. The only engine problem I ever had was the fuel pump going out. Never had a head gasket fail like I have on Datsun/Nissan. Lost it in an accident, but would love to have another one!

[@cmhirsch825]

Your videos have been super helpful as we consider adding a 2010 Forester to our family for a teen driver. I know now to ask if the head gasket work was performed. Tha ks so much

[@jtowers6722]

I’m thinking of buying a 2010 with 108k miles

[@blaww89]

One thing to keep an eye out for on 2012-2018ish Subarus with factory navigation is whether or not they include the SD card (full size SD card visible at 15:13 but I think they eventually switched to micro SD). It's implied that they simply store map data for navigation, but they're also required to initialize the radio in the event your battery dies or you disconnect the terminals to service the car. Without it you can't use any function of your radio. They're encrypted, so you can't just copy someone else's files to a regular SD card, and they go for $100-250 used on eBay or $600+ from the dealership

[@debbieomalley3451]

I have the 2021 Forester Touring (previously had the 2014 Forester Touring) I nodded when you got to the auto start/stop feature. I always turn this off when I start my car. When I fail to do so it really hacks me off. The eyesight can also be quite the pain the the a--. Other than that I find myself loving the car - many major improvements over my 2014 Touring. Great video and thank you!!

[@DoubleKhoceSammich]

240k Miles on my '07 Forester Definitely the best loooking generation.

[@StoopidSubaru]

SG is the best. I think I agree with every word that came out of your mouth. I have a 20 Ascent and the eyesight isn't wanted.

[@lowlifeangler]

My 2018 Outback without Eyesight, love it. I rode in a Ford with start/stop.....very annoying

[@cylonred8902]

Just picked up the lower end 2014 Forester for my son to drive as he is 6' 3" is not a bit more. Got 174,200 miles on it and back in the Subaru family again (my parents had several that I eventually got - from a '79 DL sedan to an '85 GL. My mom just got another Subaru recently after years of not owning Subaru. Local dealer in Fairborn. Ohio is fantastic...

[@insightmeditate6486]

How it’s going after 2 years? Do you have any cvt transmission issues?

[@cylonred8902]

@@insightmeditate6486 Well - he hit a deer with it on his way to work. So he picked up a 2019 Outback with 124K miles. Subaru did have the first CVTs in the US. Generally regarded as good transmissions. My brother has a Ford with a CVT and they never had any issues with it. It does drive differently and takes a bit of getting used to.

[@joemacdonald3822]

I Really Like MrSubaru1387. Very Good Mechanic, Expert on Subarus. Very Good Presentation, Information and Honest. Thanks!

[@HydraliskX]

2020 Forester owner here. Eyesight providing adaptive cruise will trump any issues I have with it. I sort of disagree about auto stop/start. There's a simple mod to disable it permanently if it bothers you that much. I don't hate it anymore after living with it. You can also just not press the brake pedal so hard. It will only activate in specific circumstances. There are a lot of buttons, but I'd rather have this than have everything buried in the touchscreen.

[@DanMaul-ip1is]

Anything that adds technology will decrease reliability and raise ownership costs. I wish car companies would make vehicles basic with just upgraded engines and fuel economy.

[@subierescue]

I have two stock, 04 FXTs. They are an absolute blast to drive. We love them and treat them well. OE parts only. If allowed, I'd buy another.

[@williamlock2984]

Im at 380,000, and I'll drive right up the mountain with no problem. The fan under the dash needs replaced no heat or AC. But I'll go places

[@sezwo5774]

All Foresters were progressing to be bigger and bigger and more bloated and less fun to drive. The 2009-2013 models were the most balanced, imho. In terms of size, looks and performance they represented a great mix. Smaller and nimbler with nice smooth looks, none of that excessively folded, bended, jagged, sheet metal nonsense.

[@teh60]

Love my 3 Foresters SF, SH, SK Great video.

[@ScottSillis]

Another excellent video! I'm a Subaru owner and some of my family are also, but as you pointed out they have many pros and cons depending on the year of manufacture and the specific model. I've just replaced my 4EAT transmission and now running like it should however I'm sure I need to replace the Coolant temperature sensor as the engine is running rich all the time, 02 and MAP sensor replaced also. Excellent vehicles , reliable and very capable of treated well and serviced regularly. Thanks for another excellent informative video 👍😀🇦🇺🇺🇸

[@henrycollins2478]

My family had a gen 2, we sold it a few months ago. Very sad. I did keep the lid talked about at 8:33 because I didn’t want to see it go

[@mcbeezee2120]

Still have my '04 XT, 5-speed. No mods. 160k and still running like "new". Get a lot of offers, but wouldn't trade it for anything.

[@jaedonhaskins9917]

my first was an 04' 2.5x she had over 250k miles on her when we sold her. wish i still had the car. currently have a 2011 forester xt. 121k miles. did the timing set and waterpump yesterday with the aisin kit you recommended.

[@williamcooke6056]

Next time we don't wait so long. 100K max

[@mikeforester3963]

I'm currently labouring under my SG 2.0 X, paying lots of rust-repairing dues from lazier days in order to hold on to my "big guy" for as long as possible. The 2004/2005 SG was the sweet spot: Manual transmission + manual low gear, no blip-blop bollocks, no distracting screens and you can operate any button and dial wearing mittens at -15°C. And it has an ash tray, and yes, I will burn my own CDs to listen to XD

[@richardharker2775]

So much info to absorb for a used Subie. I'm no mechanic but looking for a Crosstrek. For peace of mind I may just go new (if/when I can get one) and let the dealer take care of the servicing. I have worried about issues you mentioned but dispelling the real problems gives me good reason to go ahead and for that, thank you.

[@incinerate4505]

Thanks for the great info! It's reassuring to hear the 4EAT is very reliable. I've got a beautiful silver JDM 2008 SG5 (10th Anniversary special edition, basically an X with nicer paint job, wheels, and steering wheel) with a 2.0L N/A EJ20 engine making about 140 hp. Yeah, it's less than the US version, but it's totally enough for here in Japan (very slow road speeds), and there are much fewer problems with head gaskets. Then again, I only have about 70,000 miles on it, so I guess I just need to wait and see. I'm going to try to keep this baby as long as possible!

[@eugenegutierrez5106]

Totally I agreed with you about the start/stop engine. It’s annoying.

[@Willohbee]

I own an 06 STi and just bought an 04 XT… wish I would have watched this before buying haha everything turned out okay. So far..

[@jaymhlurbaloyi7813]

Unpopular opinion but I love the 3rd forester (2009 -2013)look more than any other…

[@DENNISHARDY1]

have a 2005, running great, thinking of getting a new one soon...

[@CoolKillkennyCat]

As someone that has worked on Subaru's for the last 20 years, I have to say as much as the head gaskets may have been better after the initial faults with early ej25s, all EJ Subarus are at risk of head gasket failures in my opinion. People run them slightly hot, they fail, people use the wrong coolant, they fail and the worst part is there's two on every engine to fail and it's an engine out job. Now a well maintained car thats never driven hard in high ambient temperature you can easily get 1mil kilometres out of, but a inline 4 with a single bank and better designed head, something like the sr20de or the qr25de can take a lot more punishment and is a lot easier to repair. Also not having to worry about timing belts is a nice touch.

[@jadizzle]

Fantastic video as always. Been on the hunt for an ‘06-‘08 FXT for quite some time, but since I’ve started my search, the used car price surge and the PNW Subie tax has been ridiculous. So the hunt goes on…

[@alilruthlessify]

Take a drive to California. They are everywhere. And no rust issues

[@rockbay79]

My Wife and I bought a new 2018 Forester in November 2017. Presently, it has 16, 820 miles on it. Granted, it gets limited use because we are both retired. It has been one of the best cars we have ever owned. During this time, it did incur three "Recalls". However, Subaru completed all the Recalls very fast with each requiring only one visit to the Dealership. All my maintenance it performed at my local Subaru Dealership, because I can no longer perform it and I trust them, they do good work. I would highly recommend the 2014-2018 model, just like Mr. Subaru stated, "This is a really good Model". Thanks for sharing.

[@biggieBoy84]

I have a 2008 forester xt sports 5mt. By far my favorite car. Sadly the canadian winters are beginning to take a toll on it. 😔

[@somethingmustwork2]

Thank you for this video. Can’t wait to find a rust free manual. Taking Some time to accomplish that

[@onesadtech]

Great video, but I do have to respectfully disagree on the 4EATs not being a good option for the turbo models, my FXT has been running about 300 whp/tq for years on the 4EAT with no issues, and there are some folks running over 400hp/tq with high stall torque converter and possibly upgraded valves. The 5 speed manuals on the other hand tend to have trouble, with any amount of power, and most folks with turbo 5 speeds end up 6 speed swapping very early if they start getting into power mods. I also do honestly believe the 4EAT models often have healthier engines, because the transmission won't let you beat on it as much, which tends to be the fate of most turbo Subarus. Anyway, I don't mean to detract from the fantastic video, just my thoughts/experience with the 4EAT. 😁 Would really enjoy seeing more videos of this style! Edited to say, you NEED to upgrade the cooling for the 4EAT to keep it healthy, especially with more power, or when towing. You can get kits to add a separate small rad to cool the ATF for under 60 bucks Canadian, online. 🙌

[@themadmallard]

Double on the AT cooler addition. just being stuck in traffic after april, the road temperatures are hot and I can't imagine what temps the AT would be soaking while sitting still without the cooler I added at 30k. still going at 270k

[@bradd4664]

The SG9 4eat are more stout than the 5mt 4.44 counter part for sure. They are pretty reliable up to 400ish whp. The 5mt start breaking synchro around 350 if you drop the clutch hard. Still the 5mt SG9 FXT command almost double the money because of the driving experience. Either way, most people who look to mod their foz for high whp will eventually 6 speed swap it with a USDM or JDM 6 speed

[@bradd4664]

Also the 2004 FXT 4eat is specific to 04. It is non VTD/VCD and the VB and solenoids are specific to the 04. It is probably the worse 4eat out of the FXT bunch. But the 04 doesn't have an immobilizer built into the key or TCU/ECU so it makes the 04 the easiest to swap transmissions

[@onesadtech]

@@bradd4664 Ah, great info, thanks! I've been offered a cheap 6 speed swap a couple times now but I honestly just prefer the 4EAT for daily and especially winter driving. In the future I would love to get a proper built 4EAT to put in it, will definitely have to be the SG9 version in that case.

[@wvusmc]

I have a 08 XT with the 4EAT and never had any issues and I sort of drive it like a manual, always switching through the gears to keep RPMs up when I want to drive aggressively.

[@beanlam6223]

sg9 is the best driver’s car ever. you will fell connected on driving feel and sound of mechanical engagement. especially 5 speed turbo models

[@alexmessina3383]

Great review. thanks! A valiant effort to help Subaru over the hump of it's EJ series engines and the head gasket. I think Subarus are great cars ... but I have to say when a manufacturer has a major issues like a demonstrable and consistent H gasket failure for 15 years of models, something serious has gone wrong at the corporate decision making end re fixing the problem! The reputation blow back on other models is undeserved, by and large, but the fault for the reputation lies with Subaru corporate for dragging the chain for over a decade. But you have great insights on the models and very useful stuff.

[@bradpool127]

Watch Mr. Subaru's video just on the head gasket issue of the EJ series engines. Explains and shows exactly what the issue is.

[@cbijames7]

I got a auto stop start eliminator on both of my 21 Crosstrek and Forester it automatically turns off the auto stops/start. Very easy to install plug and Play works very well and it's factory plugs no jury rigging.

[@rpf691]

Where did you buy it and how does it work?

[@twisted2291]

I have an 03 XS. Got it from a customer of mine with the good old piston slap issue. It has 211,000 miles on it, and I have had it for a year now. Just been running the snot out of that thing. Waiting till the engine to die before doing any major work to it. But the slap isn't getting louder and no loss of power.

[@andrewjohnson7960]

My 2001 Subaru Forester S Turbo SF5 Manual was amazing too drive just watch out for rust rare af the subframe rotted so bad it fell off half of it needed alot of welding i had too sell it rear turrets were rotten took 4.5 KG of sheet metal and a new GC8 Wrx subframe

[@cat_ladynellie2470]

Thanks for sharing this helped me out a lot in my purchase

[@Jmanmadness23]

I currently have a 14 Forrester touring which I absolutely love! When it’s time to upgrade, I’d like to get an 18 XT touring. This is by far my favorite version!

[@ZeroCool2013]

Got 2002 Forester S model last year at 145k miles on it. Putting new Timing Belt Kit in it this week before i get into fixing a few suspension issues.

[@MrTebo79]

I have a 2006 Forester and is the best car i have ever driven, but you must give it constant maintenance to keep it in optimal and safe conditions.