Subaru Forester (4th Gen) Buyer's Guide: Common Problems and Reliability (2014–2018)
Subaru · Forester · 4th gen · 2014–2018
The 4th generation Subaru Forester is a capable and popular SUV, but it has some issues buyers should know about. Our complete guide covers common problems, pricing, maintenance costs, and what to check before buying.
Mirko7 min read
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The 4th generation Subaru Forester (2014-2018) is one of the most popular used compact SUVs on the road. It offers excellent visibility, standard all-wheel drive, and a practical interior. But like any vehicle, it has a few well-documented issues that buyers should be aware of before making a purchase.
Generation Overview
The 4th gen Forester debuted for the 2014 model year with a cleaner, more upright design and improved interior space. Engine options include the 2.5L FB25 flat-4 (naturally aspirated) and the 2.0L FA20DIT turbocharged flat-4 in the XT trim. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) was standard across all trims. The 2015 model year added EyeSight driver assistance as an option, and the 2017 model year received a mid-cycle refresh with updated styling and improved noise insulation.
Pricing Guide
Here is what you can expect to pay for a 4th gen Forester in 2026: 2014-2015: $8,000-$12,000 (80,000-120,000 miles) 2016-2017: $12,000-$16,000 (60,000-90,000 miles) 2018: $16,000-$20,000 (40,000-70,000 miles)
XT turbo models command a $2,000-3,000 premium. Cars with EyeSight (2015+) are generally worth $500-1,000 more. A documented service history that includes CVT fluid changes is worth paying extra for — it's the best indicator of a well-cared-for Forester.
Known Issues
Excessive Oil Consumption (2.5L FB25)
The 2.5L FB25 engine in 2014-2015 models is known for excessive oil consumption, sometimes burning 1 quart every 1,000 to 1,500 miles. This was significant enough that Subaru extended warranties on affected engines and issued service bulletins. If left unchecked, low oil can cause severe engine damage. Severity: High. What to watch for: Check the oil level during a test drive and ask the owner how frequently they add oil between changes. If the oil is low on the dipstick, suspect consumption.
CVT Transmission Concerns
Subaru's CVT in this generation has a mixed reliability record. Some owners report shuddering, hesitation, or jerky behavior, especially at low speeds. Fluid changes are critical — Subaru initially marketed the CVT as "lifetime fill," but later revised maintenance schedules to recommend fluid changes every 25,000-40,000 miles for severe service. Severity: Medium. What to watch for: Test drive at low speeds and feel for hesitation or shudder during acceleration from a stop. A CVT that has never had its fluid changed is a ticking clock.
Windshield Cracking
A very common complaint among Forester owners is that the windshield cracks easily, often from small impacts that wouldn't damage most cars. The steep rake angle and thin glass are the likely culprits. Replacement is more expensive than average due to EyeSight camera recalibration. Severity: Medium. What to watch for: Look for cracks or chips in the windshield, and budget $800-$1,200 for a replacement with recalibration if needed.
AC Compressor Failure
The AC compressor on some 2014-2016 Foresters can fail prematurely, resulting in reduced or no cooling. This is more common in warmer climates. Severity: Medium. What to watch for: Test the AC thoroughly — let it run for several minutes and ensure it blows cold consistently. If the air is warm, budget $800-1,200 for compressor replacement.
Battery Drain
Some 4th gen Foresters, particularly those with the upgraded audio system and navigation, have reported parasitic battery drain that can leave the car dead after sitting for 3-5 days. This is often related to the telematics or audio unit not fully shutting down. Severity: Low-Medium. What to watch for: If the car has been sitting, check that it starts without hesitation. A battery that sounds weak on startup may indicate the drain has been affecting battery health.
Sub-Variant Issues
If you're looking at the XT trim with the 2.0L FA20DIT turbo engine, you gain 250 horsepower and a much more engaging driving experience, but you also gain additional concerns. The direct-injection turbo engine is prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves (common to all direct-injection engines), and some owners report oil consumption at higher mileage. The XT also requires premium fuel. If you're looking at an XT, budget for walnut blasting the intake valves around 60,000-80,000 miles ($500-800).
Maintenance Costs
The 4th gen Forester is moderately priced to maintain: - Oil changes: $50-70 (synthetic required) - CVT fluid change: $200-350 (recommended every 25,000-40,000 miles) - Spark plugs: $300-500 (60,000-mile interval on FB25, difficult access) - Brake pads and rotors: $350-600 per axle - Windshield replacement with EyeSight recalibration: $800-1,200
Annual maintenance averages $600-1,000, with the CVT fluid change being the most commonly neglected service. Budget $200-350 for CVT fluid every 2-3 years if the service hasn't been documented.
Competitor Comparison
Subaru Forester vs Honda CR-V (2014-2018): The CR-V is more reliable (no oil consumption issues), has a roomier interior, and costs less to maintain. The Forester offers superior standard AWD, better visibility, and a more outdoorsy character. The CR-V is the smarter choice for most buyers; the Forester is better for those who need AWD capability regularly.
Subaru Forester vs Mazda CX-5 (2014-2018): The CX-5 is more reliable, more fun to drive, and cheaper to maintain. The Forester has better visibility and more cargo space. The CX-5 is the better all-around choice for most buyers.
Subaru Forester vs Toyota RAV4 (2014-2018): The RAV4 is more reliable and holds its value better. The Forester offers standard AWD and better fuel economy. Both are good choices, but the RAV4 requires less maintenance attention.
Which Model Year to Buy
The 2016-2018 models are the sweet spot. Subaru addressed the worst of the oil consumption issues by the 2016 model year, and the 2017 refresh brought improved noise insulation and updated styling. If budget is tight, a 2015 with documented oil consumption monitoring and CVT fluid changes can work — just budget for potential oil consumption and CVT issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Subaru Forester expensive to maintain?
Not compared to other compact SUVs. Annual maintenance averages $600-1,000. The most commonly neglected and most important service is the CVT fluid change ($200-350). The windshield is the most common unexpected expense ($800-1,200 with EyeSight recalibration).
Does the Forester XT have reliability issues?
The XT's turbo engine adds complexity and requires premium fuel, but it's not inherently unreliable. Carbon buildup on intake valves is the main issue for direct-injection engines. If the previous owner stayed on top of oil changes (critical for turbo engines), the XT can be reliable. The non-turbo 2.5L has fewer long-term concerns.
Should I buy a Forester with high mileage?
Be cautious with a high-mileage Forester that hasn't had its CVT fluid changed. A Forester with 120,000+ miles and no documented CVT service is a significant risk. If the CVT has been serviced regularly and the oil consumption is manageable, a high-mileage Forester can still be a good value at the right price.
What is the best year for the 4th gen Forester?
2016-2017 models offer the best balance of price, reliability, and features. The 2018 model is the most refined but commands a significant price premium. Avoid 2014-2015 models unless you're comfortable with potential oil consumption issues and can verify the CVT fluid has been changed.
This page covers what's documented about the 4th generation Forester generally. The car you're looking at has its own history — its own mileage, service gaps, and previous owners. A Squeezed report pulls the exact risk profile for your specific year, trim, and spec. Run a report.
FAQ
What are the most common problems with the Subaru Forester (4th Gen) (2014-2018)?
Excessive oil consumption on the 2.5L FB25 engine is the most serious and most reported issue, concentrated in 2014-2015 production. CVT transmission concerns, windshield cracking, and A/C compressor failure are the other known problems.
Is the Subaru Forester (4th Gen) (2014-2018) reliable?
It's reliable overall, but the early oil consumption issue is significant enough to check specifically — ask for records showing oil level checks between changes, since Subaru extended warranty coverage for the problem on affected models.
Are there Subaru Forester (4th Gen) years to avoid?
2014-2015 models are most associated with oil consumption complaints. Later 2016-2018 cars carry less of that specific risk, though CVT fluid service history matters across the full range.