2003 – 2008 · 1 body style available
2nd Gen
The 2003-2008 Subaru Forester, the second generation, grew in size and refinement over its predecessor while retaining the brand's hallmark symmetrical…
Subaru Forester (2nd Gen) Buyer's Guide
The 2nd-gen Forester (SG, 2003-2008) was the first Forester to offer a turbo engine, creating a blueprint that Subaru would follow for years. The XT models with the legendary EJ255 turbo are genuine collector cars today. Powertrain: The 2.5L EJ251/EJ253
2009 – 2013 · 1 body style available
3rd Gen
The 2009-2013 Subaru Forester represents the third generation of the model, introduced as a larger, more practical five-door SUV. It moved away from the…
Subaru Forester (3rd Gen) Buyer's Guide
The 3rd-gen Forester (SH, 2009-2013) grew up — it became more SUV-like and less wagon, with more interior space, better safety, and a more refined ride. It dropped the turbo in 2010, then brought it back in 2011 as the XT. Powertrain: The 2.5L EJ253 naturally
2014 – 2018 · 1 body style available
4th Gen
The fourth-generation 2014-2018 Subaru Forester marked a shift toward a more upright, wagon-like profile that maximized interior space and outward visibility.…
Subaru Forester (4th Gen) Buyer's Guide
The 4th-gen Forester (2014-2018) was a significant improvement over the 3rd gen — better interior quality, improved CVT, and the introduction of the turbocharged 2.0XT model. It's a practical, capable, and reliable used compact SUV. Powertrain: The 2.5L FB25
2019 – 2024 · 1 body style available
5th Gen
The fifth-generation Subaru Forester, introduced for the 2019 model year and still in production, represents a significant shift toward refinement and…
Subaru Forester (5th Gen) Buyer's Guide
The 5th-gen Forester (2019+) dropped the turbo engine option entirely, focusing on efficiency, safety, and practicality. It's the best-selling Subaru in America thanks to excellent visibility, spacious interior, and standard AWD. Powertrain: The 2.5L FB25
2025 – present · 1 body style available
6th Gen
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Four severity levels
Every Squeezed guide sorts findings from Critical to OK, so you see the deal-breakers on the Forester before anything else.
Frequently asked questions
What generations of the Subaru Forester are there?
2nd Gen (2003 to 2008); 3rd Gen (2009 to 2013); 4th Gen (2014 to 2018); 5th Gen (2019 to 2024); 6th Gen (2025 to present).
What are the common problems with the Subaru Forester?
Documented problems include Head Gasket Failure (NA engines), EJ253 Head Gasket Failure (2.5L NA), Rear Strut Tower Rust (2003-2005). Which ones apply depends on the generation, so open the year you are considering for its recalls, complaints and a full breakdown.
Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a used Subaru Forester?
Yes. A Squeezed guide is the triage before the inspection: it shows what to check and what to ask the seller, so you know which listings are worth a mechanic's time.