Subaru Forester SK
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
Generations
Engine Overview
The Subaru Forester SK is available with one engine variant at 167 hp.
Subaru's volume boxer: 2.5L NA in Legacy, Outback, Forester. Oil consumption class action for 2011-2014 models — piston rings didn't seat properly. Cam carrier seal leaks from ~60k miles (labor-intensive). Thermo control valve on 2019-2022 models: plastic housing fails under heat — Subaru extended warranty to 15 years. Improved from 2023.
- !! Oil Consumption — Piston Rings (2011-2014) from 40,000 km
Class action for 2011-2014 Forester, Legacy, Outback. Piston rings didn't seat due to variable bore roughness. Worst cases: 1 quart per 800 miles.
Symptoms: Extreme oil consumption, frequent top-ups needed, blue smoke possible - !! Cam Carrier Seal Leak from 100,000 km
Known FB engine problem: seal between cam carrier and cylinder head fails. Labor-intensive due to poor access. Service bulletins published.
Symptoms: Oil stain under engine, oil smell while driving, visible oil seepage at cylinder head - !! Thermo Control Valve Failure (2019-2022) from 60,000 km
Electronic TCV plastic housing fails above 200°F. All warning lights simultaneously (EyeSight, front collision). Warranty extended to 15 years/150k miles. Mechanical thermostat replaces TCV from 2023.
Symptoms: All warning lights at once, no heater, fault codes P2682/P26A3/P26A5
+ 1 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Windshield Cracks Too Easily Same issue as Impreza GK: class action over windshields cracking too easily. EyeSight recalibration after replacement is expensive. Symptoms: Chips spread unusually fast from 30,000 km | Medium |
Top Reported Issues
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 12 weaknesses have been documented for the Subaru Forester SK (2019–2024) — 4 engine-related and 8 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Body, Electronics, Cooling, Other.
Forester (FB25, 2019–2024) — Be Careful: Oil Consumption — Piston Rings (2011-2014), Cam Carrier Seal Leak, Thermo Control Valve Failure (2019-2022). Power: 182 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 SK have? +
What should I look for when buying a used Subaru Forester SK? +
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Which Subaru Forester SK engine is the most fun? +
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee