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Subaru · Compact SUV · 2009–2013

Subaru Forester SH

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Subaru Forester SH is available with 2 engine variants — from 165 to 230 hp.

2.5L NA · Benziner· 171 PS
2009 2013
Be Careful 2 weaknesses
Forester XT · Benziner· 230 PS
2009 2013
Be Careful 5 weaknesses

The Subaru 2.5L NA (Benziner, 171 PS) has the EJ253 (2.5L NA) — rated: "Be Careful", 2 known weaknesses.

The Subaru Forester XT (Benziner, 230 PS) has the EJ255 (2.5L Turbo) — rated: "Be Careful", 5 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!CVT Judder (First-Gen Lineartronic)

First-generation Lineartronic CVT in the Forester SH: valve body wear and insufficient fluid changes cause judder and shift problems. Subaru warranty extension available.

Symptoms: Juddering under acceleration, engine revving without corresponding speed increase, transmission warning light
from 90,000 km
Ad CVT Subaru Forester SH TR580Lineartronic fluid Forester SH
 High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
767 complaints · 2009–2013
Engine
174 ⚠ 9
Airbags
144 ⚠ 18
Brakes
98 ⚠ 17
Seats
98
Cruise Control
81 ⚠ 49

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Engine (174 complaints)
⚠ Airbags (144 complaints)
⚠ Brakes (98 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 11 weaknesses have been documented for the Subaru Forester SH (2009–2013) — 7 engine-related and 4 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Gearbox, Brakes, HVAC, Suspension.

Forester (EJ253, 2009–2013) — Be Careful: Head Gasket — External Oil/Coolant Leak, Slightly Elevated Oil Consumption. Power: 171 PS.

Forester (EJ255, 2009–2013) — Be Careful: Ringland Failure — Piston Breakage, Rod Bearing Failure, Oil Pickup Tube Crack. Power: 230 PS.

What to watch out for with the Subaru Forester? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Subaru Forester SH have? +
The Subaru Forester SH has 7 known engine weaknesses and 4 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Subaru Forester SH? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: EJ253 (2.5L NA), EJ255 (2.5L Turbo). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the EJ255 (2.5L Turbo).
Which Subaru Forester SH engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Subaru Forester SH — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} EJ255 turbo like the SG, but softer suspension and more comfort. TTAC: "Toyota-fication." Disappointing for hard drivers, a good compromise for families wanting turbo. Automatic version not recommended — only four gears, too few ratios.
Is the Subaru Forester SH worth buying used? +
The Subaru Forester SH requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Subaru Forester SH? +
The Subaru Forester SH is available with engine variants from 165 to 230 hp. Petrol: EJ253 (2.5L NA), EJ255 (2.5L Turbo).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee