2010 Subaru Forester Review: Unreliable Wagon With Engine Failures

K rock on September 16, 2024

This is a follow up review, I did have to change the head gaskets out on my 2010 forester. I've seen this is common, once again, the work is able to be done by a DIY mechanic. Since 2020 Ive had to change the ignition coil, spark plug wires, head gaskets in February of 2024, and also the crankshaft position sensor. The car had 165,000 miles when the head gaskets needed changed. So far it has 173,000 miles and still runs well. Also changed were the clutch and throwout beairng, and another timing belt change. It still runs very well, the exhaust is getting rusty and have had to fix that, overall its been a good car. I've owned it for 12 years and the ability to work on it yourself is what I really like about it, it isn't fast, but its quite utilitarian and my dog loves it as well. So if you don't mind working on your own stuff its one of the easiest cars to work on with the way the engine is oriented in the longitudinal position. I've always changed the oil every 4-5000 miles since I've had it, the heads and valves were completely clean. I'd say if one keeps up the servicing on these they are good vehicles to own. Not looking forward to when it blows, they don't make plain cars like this now adays.

Thomas on May 25, 2024

Very reliable for the 2010 2.5 limited I bought used in 2023 with 196k miles. very sporty feel and look, quick response and the automatic was quiet even when pushed, acceleration on the base engine was awesome and driving was lots of fun. the leather seats are incredible although the lack of dual zone as an option was disappointing. The brakes were somewhat uninspiring but got the job done, and the steering feel and moonroof were awesome. Gas mileage is decent even in 2024 but was somewhat low in comparison to the 2010 outback at 22 city and 27 highway, at 17 city and 21 highwayI for the forester 2010 . I got in a high speed accident and cabin intrusion was non existent and all occupants got out uninjured. Best car I've ever had, would buy over any other Subaru new or used.

Luis R Acevedo on September 14, 2023

check engine lights that won't go away,what a headache!!! will never buy again!!! no,this is NOT a great review!!! I will go back to toyota RAV 4

VladR on September 23, 2020

Original owner, drive for 10 years and 160k miles. With timely maintenance and regular oil changes every 5k miles had no issues with the car what so ever with very few minor anoences. 1. The car will trigger check Engine light if the gas cap is not sealed correctly. Had to check after every fill-up but the first several times was scarry. AC is week. In a heat wave you will sweat a little. Non turbo models fell slightly underpowerd. Not a big issue but you can feel it at times. Other than that I love the car. Spacious and roomy. Good visibility and AWD system you can not beat.

K rock on July 29, 2020

I left a review several years ago and still am impressed with the forester, I've done most of the maintenance on it myself and it is do able, you can actually service the car which is amazing considering most cars in comparison. It does and has always used some oil, you must add a quart every 2000-2500 miles which is I hear inherent to the boxer design. It has been a good car and I plan on driving it till it drops which may be a while. I changed the struts in the front, along with wheel bearings and front discs for the brakes, ball joints, etc. The struts were beginning to rattle at 122,000 miles. You need to change the timing belt before 100,000 miles on these also of which I had someone else do, I've changed the spark plugs twice on the car and its not too hard to do, not issues other than a new battery and routine maintenance besides that. It drives just as it did when I first got it with 37,000 miles on it 6 or so years ago.

SWMBO on July 9, 2020

A safe reliable vehicle that will be around long enough hand down. I can take me just about anywhere I want to go and to dinner too!

Cowgirl2020 on February 7, 2020

I love me Subaru- she is durable yet beautiful! I love the moon roof and the light interior. I wish this model had bluetooth, but there's an aux chord option and multiple charging outlets.

Mark on January 28, 2020

We needed to purchase a all wheel drive SUV. Very spacious and comfortable, my first Subaru but who'll not be my last. Enjoying the vehicle.

garyschule on November 22, 2019

Hands down best car fro the money ! Awd , reliable and great handling ! bought mine with 160K miles currently at 178 and it runs like a champ

kaz on November 10, 2019

This has been the family car and it is very reliable. The cargo room is great. Runs smoothly and is very easy to drive. The child safety locks have saved us.