Credov's researched list of the 5 faults the Subaru Subaru Forester is known for (2005–2008), 5 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
What to look for: With a torch, check each front lower control arm and the crossmember for flaking or layered rust.
Why it matters: A control arm that fails while driving causes a sudden loss of steering control, which is a safety risk as well as a repair bill; a Japanese import that spent years in a snow region is at higher risk and is worth checking carefully underneath.
What to look for: With a torch, check the lower edge of both cylinder heads for wet oil or crusty dried coolant.
Why it matters: This is one of the best-known faults on this generation; a slow external seep today is the early stage of a leak that becomes coolant loss and a warped head, and the fix is a significant engine-out job.
What to look for: Listen at the front of the engine for a whine from a dry idler, and ask for a timing-belt invoice.
Why it matters: A snapped belt on this interference engine bends the valves and usually means a cylinder-head rebuild or a replacement engine, so an overdue or unproven belt is a real cost to price into the car.
What to look for: Crawl in traffic and pull away gently from a stop several times, feeling for shudder or surging.
Why it matters: Persistent CVT judder or surging on this generation is often an early sign of a transmission that will need a valve body, torque converter or a full replacement, a repair that can run to several thousand dollars.
What to look for: Watch the temperature gauge rise steadily after start-up, and check for an engine or EyeSight warning.
Why it matters: A failed thermo valve can disable the driver-assist systems and, if it sticks closed, let the engine overheat, so checking the temperature behaves normally and the warning lights are clear matters more on this model than most.
Got a question about a Subaru Subaru Forester? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.