Dude! I just test drove a bought a 2012 yesterday. There's like zero blind spots. And I love how all the back windows are a lot more tinted for privacy
My 2010 natural aspirated manual transmission has 230k miles on it. I have done all my own maintenance. The clutch was replaced at 100k miles. The front bearings went out at around 150k miles. The rear bearings went out at around 200k. The only issue I have now is a external head gasket leak. I lose a quart of oil in between oil changes. I love my forester.
the acceleration on regular forester 2012 is pretty nice actually, especially in the very beginning when you push the pedal, and in general if you are not buying it for off road specifically but as a family SUV - the regular model is totally fine and powerful, even on dirt.
I have a 2012 forester and just getting used to driving it, does this car shift on its own ? seems like when I accelerate on city roads it goes above 2000 rpm then back down to1000 - 1500 rpm , is something wrong with my Subaru or is this natural for this car?
@@luckylew4283 i mean, mine is automatic gear, so naturally it accelerates on ots own. But maybe I misunderstood. You also have the semi manual shift on them usually, if it is automatic), with the minus and plus so if you push it left and on minus it will switch gear to go faster.
@@eliyahfeld I have automatic , on city roads when going 0-30 it seems to go high rpm like 2000 and above and then shift down, is that natural/ should it be doing that ? I Always have drove mini vans and am not used to this
@@luckylew4283 look tell you the truth i am not big on technical things with cars. if i understand correctly you feel like you get more rpm without pushing the gas pedal (harder..)? maybe it's more sensitive or smth, I drive and just feel it, so not paying a lot of attention to how exactly i press the pedal, but normally if you press a little harder you get more rpm, no? but if it's not it so maybe stop by a garage to ask a mechanic. i usually feel the rpm when i press harder to go up hill, but don't necessarily look at the meter if i don't feel smth irregular
I have the 2012 basic model and one of my favorite features is the turn radius. I can make tighter turns than any car I've driven. I upgraded from a 1999 Honda CRV, and I never thought I'd find better maneuverability or AWD, but this Forester is amazing. I'm worried about the head gasket(s), but forewarned is forearmed. As a courier and uber driver in a very icy, snowy area, I was worried about finding a replacement for the Honda, but it has it all, including the all-around visibility. I feel very safe in this car.
Carl Jones I just bought a 2012 myself, 108,000 miles. What a fantastic automobile! Oh, and did I mention I’ve worked at a Ford dealership for over 30 years?
Hi, I'm about to buy a used suv. Hesitate between 2010 hyundai santa fe and forster. I like more the forster but worried about the head gasket problem. I heard about this known issue with this vehicle. Could you please give me some advice?
@@szervosz I don't know what to say, I was in a bad accident brought on by a medical issue. The Ubaru didn't live long enough for me to encounter the head gasket issue. Best I can say is shop around, ask your local mechanics how much they charge to do the head gaskets, and maybe put a few bucks away so that you're prepared. I know that when it came time for my insurance to pay out, it was the absolutely un-devaluable Subaru for the win. They simply don't lose equity, so I would still root for the Subaru.
@Alec I got one with the 4 Speed. It behaves the way you drive it. Around town, you can drive it slowly, easy, comfortable. If you want to have fun, switch to sport mode and it transforms into a boosted animal. Overall it's very good! A 5th gear is missing in some scenarios but overall it's a good performing, sturdy and reliable autobox.
2011 Forest diesel is an absolute lemon of a car... in spite of regular Subaru servicing (where not much was evidently done) and DPF cover ups, in spite of frequent highway driving, I have watched this car slowly fall to pieces. Having purchased the car 2nd hand (from Subaru dealership), I have just under 1 year of decent driving, followed by 3 years of nightmare mechanical issues- mainly to do with the DPF. Apparently Subaru are very aware of the problem and trying to wipe their hands of it. Lost all faith in Subaru servicing too...
Hi, I'm about to buy a used suv. Hesitate between 2010 hyundai santa fe and forster. I like more the forster but worried about the head gasket problem. I heard about this known issue with this vehicle. Could you please give me some advice?
Just remove the DPF. Thats the 1st thing you should do when buying any old diesel car. All car brands are forced to put those nasty DPF filters to make the car more ecological.
Used to own a 14 FXT. I actually like this gen styling better. Want one just like this, but probably the non turbo. I drive a ton and feel like the NA is more reliable.
@@Drywall-Troupers heck yes it's like driving a modern V8 . I sold the XT a year ago. Bought a Mazda 3. Not as fast, still fun and quick handling, but twice or more MPG!
aesthetics are ad hominem critiques, ppl looking for that styling will like it, those who don’t, won’t (i.e. they don’t matter). subarus underneath are historically considered trucks, the ride is very good for truck roots.
I want to ask a question. I bought a used 2012 Forester recently. I noticed it making a squealing sound when backing up. What causes this and is it something to be worried about? If anyone can help that would be great. Thanks.
Found a 2010 XT with super low miles...grabbing it next week! I own a 2008 with 50k miles...the wind noise from a 2008 (2007 styling) is terrible...looking forward to a framed door. Also, someone mentioned the XT models have reinforced HGs?
Don’t know if you still reply. But I have a question. I have the opportunity to purchase a 2010 for $1000. Does have front bumper, hood and fender damage. No frame damage. No airbags were set off. All cosmetic damage. But only has 30,000 miles. I currently have a 5 speed 1999 Subaru Legacy outback with 160,000 miles. Has almost no issues. Guess my question is, should I sell my legacy to purchase the 2010 Forester for $1000? I also have another vehicle to use in the meantime I’m fixing the Forester.
I'd have to see the extent of the damage but assuming its cosmetic or easily repairable then $1K with 30K miles seems really good... perhaps suspiciously so.
@@DrivenCompanion thanks for replying so fast. It’s a coworkers neighbor (he’s a mechanic so has some knowledge). They are in their 70s and hit a rock on their own property. I only have pictures at this moment until I can go look at it this weekend. It does look like the damage is a little worse than I thought. Still no frame damage. Mechanically the only damage that was found was the driver lower control arm from landing on the rock. Driver headlight is broken. No damage to the condenser or radiator.
Not keen on forester sh ,just started getting a tapping noise from engine that can only be heard inside the car ,so far to many repairs I have to get done in my xt
I have a 2012 forester automatic trans and just getting used to driving it, does this car shift on its own ? seems like when I accelerate on city roads it goes above 2000 rpm then back down to1000 - 1500 rpm , is something wrong with my Subaru or is this natural for this car?
I have a 2003 with an auto that does the same thing. If I go 25 mph it wants to not shift and sit at like 2500 rpm. I should’ve just bought a manual but everyone in my life talked me out of it
I know this thread is old, but I'll add for future readers. It depends how you drive. From my experience, this usually happens when you're going uphill and you're holding the throttle in a weird dead-zone type position, where you're giving just enough throttle for it to not shift but also not enough throttle for it to shift. If you don't want to go faster, just back off the throttle a little and it'll shift. If you want to go faster, step on the throttle just a little and it will shift. When you get it out of this "dead zone", it'll shift just fine. This is normal and when you get used to it, you'll stay out of that dead zone without thinking about it. Every car has its similar quirks/characteristics.
Hi.. That's how they work . It's a CVT.. Constant variable transmission... It's revs to pick side then take engine back to lowest possible rpm.... So you get the best fuel economy.. It's normal.
@@ayoo1023 it depends on maintenance. The turbo needs fancy fluids more often. Most people won't go that far and then say it's unreliable. Also more complex systems tend to be more unreliable as well. I'd never had a Subaru failed on me, but I keep them stock, drive it like a decent person, and maintain them like a baby
I have a 2010 Forester 2.5 auto. Never had a mechanical problem. Had to change airconditioner condenser and tires. The turbos are expensive to service.
HAAAA many things Outback and Forester can do the Ford Edge can't. Subaru owners aren't lazy asses and can open their own tailgate. Think hard how people use Subarus...and think how pointless this commercial is? There's a reason 96% of them in the last 12 yrs are still on the road. Fords aren't notorious for going as high of mileage. Maybe a few exceptions.
96% still on the road and zero engines in the junk yard lol. Seriously though ive had 8 subarus a few wrx, a few foresters and now a 2016 wrx cvt and everyone has had a major failure weather it be head gaskets, ring lands, cracked piston, and even my 16 i had to have the cvt replaced under warranty because of a bad tq converter bearing. I love the cars but you get so much more for your money elsewhere besides the amazing awd. Sadly i still feel like subarus are worth it to me because i live in a snow ridden shitzone and with the constant bad weather 8 months out of the year having the piece of mind of having subaru awd is worth it alone. Far as fords go LOL that shit hasent been relevant since the 90s when the late fox body mustangs reined supreme.
I don't know if you're *this level of 'car guy'* but what model years of Forester should be avoided (due to design and very common major issues)? I'm considering a 2010 with just over 200,000Kms. I've owned several subaru's, one being an '04 or '06 Forester (I don't remember right now). Thanks.
I'm not that educated on years to avoid but i do know that Subaru 4 cylinder naturally aspirated engines have a better track record than the 6 cylinders and turbos.
2008 is a 2nd gen, isn't it? I'm planning into buying a 2010 forester as my first car. It's quite more expensive than other cars I can get, however it's insurance is pretty affordable considering I'm a 20 years old man, also I live in Canada, so I think this car would be a lot more reliable than a sedan (or a 2x4 SUV) on winter.
Hi, I'm about to buy a used suv. Hesitate between 2010 hyundai santa fe and forster. I like more the forster but worried about the head gasket problem. I heard about this known issue with this vehicle. Could you please give me some advice?
The visibility on this car is unbelievable. It's like sitting on a balcony.
Dude! I just test drove a bought a 2012 yesterday. There's like zero blind spots. And I love how all the back windows are a lot more tinted for privacy
Just test drove one, that was the kicker to make a deal. Almost a full 360 view and you barley have to move your head
What's your height. I need to confirm something.
The forester I had also was spectacular on sand dunes and dessert, she saved my life twice ! Very thankful of that really!!
My 2010 natural aspirated manual transmission has 230k miles on it. I have done all my own maintenance. The clutch was replaced at 100k miles. The front bearings went out at around 150k miles. The rear bearings went out at around 200k. The only issue I have now is a external head gasket leak. I lose a quart of oil in between oil changes. I love my forester.
How much did all that cost ?
@@RichieRich-ug2wrprobably around $2K or more
the acceleration on regular forester 2012 is pretty nice actually, especially in the very beginning when you push the pedal, and in general if you are not buying it for off road specifically but as a family SUV - the regular model is totally fine and powerful, even on dirt.
Yeah, my 2009 accelerates quite well even with sport mode off. I don't think anyone would be disapointed.
I have a 2012 forester and just getting used to driving it, does this car shift on its own ? seems like when I accelerate on city roads it goes above 2000 rpm then back down to1000 - 1500 rpm , is something wrong with my Subaru or is this natural for this car?
@@luckylew4283 i mean, mine is automatic gear, so naturally it accelerates on ots own. But maybe I misunderstood. You also have the semi manual shift on them usually, if it is automatic), with the minus and plus so if you push it left and on minus it will switch gear to go faster.
@@eliyahfeld I have automatic , on city roads when going 0-30 it seems to go high rpm like 2000 and above and then shift down, is that natural/ should it be doing that ? I Always have drove mini vans and am not used to this
@@luckylew4283 look tell you the truth i am not big on technical things with cars. if i understand correctly you feel like you get more rpm without pushing the gas pedal (harder..)? maybe it's more sensitive or smth, I drive and just feel it, so not paying a lot of attention to how exactly i press the pedal, but normally if you press a little harder you get more rpm, no? but if it's not it so maybe stop by a garage to ask a mechanic. i usually feel the rpm when i press harder to go up hill, but don't necessarily look at the meter if i don't feel smth irregular
I have the 2012 basic model and one of my favorite features is the turn radius. I can make tighter turns than any car I've driven. I upgraded from a 1999 Honda CRV, and I never thought I'd find better maneuverability or AWD, but this Forester is amazing. I'm worried about the head gasket(s), but forewarned is forearmed. As a courier and uber driver in a very icy, snowy area, I was worried about finding a replacement for the Honda, but it has it all, including the all-around visibility. I feel very safe in this car.
Carl Jones I just bought a 2012 myself, 108,000 miles. What a fantastic automobile! Oh, and did I mention I’ve worked at a Ford dealership for over 30 years?
Joe Papa do those heasgaskets
Hi, I'm about to buy a used suv. Hesitate between 2010 hyundai santa fe and forster. I like more the forster but worried about the head gasket problem. I heard about this known issue with this vehicle. Could you please give me some advice?
@@szervosz I don't know what to say, I was in a bad accident brought on by a medical issue. The Ubaru didn't live long enough for me to encounter the head gasket issue. Best I can say is shop around, ask your local mechanics how much they charge to do the head gaskets, and maybe put a few bucks away so that you're prepared. I know that when it came time for my insurance to pay out, it was the absolutely un-devaluable Subaru for the win. They simply don't lose equity, so I would still root for the Subaru.
@@joep6023 How's the car doing so far, I'm looking at a 2010 with 100k miles on it, anything I should look out for?
Subarus are awesome for winter sports, i take it out skiing all the time.
1st and 2nd gen were the best lol lowered sti you can’t beat it
I really like my 2009 Forester XT. It has almost 148,00 miles. No CVT!
@Alec I got one with the 4 Speed. It behaves the way you drive it. Around town, you can drive it slowly, easy, comfortable. If you want to have fun, switch to sport mode and it transforms into a boosted animal. Overall it's very good! A 5th gear is missing in some scenarios but overall it's a good performing, sturdy and reliable autobox.
@@andali555 How reliable are they, I'm looking at a 2010 with 100k miles, anything in particular I should look out for?
@@ayoo1023 as long as you do a compression test go for it! Service records won't hurt
My childhood car
I’ve got one of these premium bad boys 🙏🙏
Me too! I love it.
OGDread74 does it need premium fuel
I mean.... compared to 2nd gen Foresters without seals around the windows I'd say wind noise is much improved.
So much better
But the design got worse
@@TheKitMurkit not quite
I still love the 1 and 2nd gen Box Wagon Look. But this is cool too.
I have a 2009 diesel XC love it, especially with Michelin Latitude Cross tyres
In Australia there as some S3 Foresters which are 2008 models. Great car, love my 2009 XT premium.
IS YOURS LIGHT TUNED.. IM LOOKING AT ONE A 2010 XT PREMIUM 5SPD MANUAL ITS DOING 17PSI and its a safe tune apparently but still kinda iffy buying it!
@@arvinsanolin3110 mine was stock when i bought it. Was owned by an older couple, not flogged. Much better getting one without mods
@@Suroyfamilia thank you!!... it wont be easy finding an unmodified XT these days but I know ill find a stock one!!
It goes to 2013. My poor 2013 Forester always being forgotten
2011 Forest diesel is an absolute lemon of a car... in spite of regular Subaru servicing (where not much was evidently done) and DPF cover ups, in spite of frequent highway driving, I have watched this car slowly fall to pieces. Having purchased the car 2nd hand (from Subaru dealership), I have just under 1 year of decent driving, followed by 3 years of nightmare mechanical issues- mainly to do with the DPF. Apparently Subaru are very aware of the problem and trying to wipe their hands of it. Lost all faith in Subaru servicing too...
Hi, I'm about to buy a used suv. Hesitate between 2010 hyundai santa fe and forster. I like more the forster but worried about the head gasket problem. I heard about this known issue with this vehicle. Could you please give me some advice?
@@szervosz yup. See 'chris fixit' .. orr the 'car guy' is great too. The one who says, "start ur engines!" usually every video he uploads
Just remove the DPF. Thats the 1st thing you should do when buying any old diesel car. All car brands are forced to put those nasty DPF filters to make the car more ecological.
Hey! of coarse its going to make noise, it has 8.9" of ground clearance
Used to own a 14 FXT. I actually like this gen styling better. Want one just like this, but probably the non turbo. I drive a ton and feel like the NA is more reliable.
I've had both
09 Forester 2.0 NA AT
09 Forester 2.5 turbo XT
Get the turbo, so much fun!
@@andali555 what about gas consumption, do the turbo burn more gas?
@@Drywall-Troupers heck yes it's like driving a modern V8 . I sold the XT a year ago. Bought a Mazda 3. Not as fast, still fun and quick handling, but twice or more MPG!
aesthetics are ad hominem critiques, ppl looking for that styling will like it, those who don’t, won’t (i.e. they don’t matter). subarus underneath are historically considered trucks, the ride is very good for truck roots.
Historically. But this is a unibody crossover/SUV and has no relation to truck underpinnings. In fact it's based on the Impreza sedan of the time.
I want to ask a question. I bought a used 2012 Forester recently. I noticed it making a squealing sound when backing up. What causes this and is it something to be worried about? If anyone can help that would be great. Thanks.
Twas the poor racoon you backed over☠
Probably power steering belt needs to be tightened
Found a 2010 XT with super low miles...grabbing it next week! I own a 2008 with 50k miles...the wind noise from a 2008 (2007 styling) is terrible...looking forward to a framed door. Also, someone mentioned the XT models have reinforced HGs?
I got one with 180k mile im not sure should i buy it or not.
I love mine
Don’t know if you still reply. But I have a question. I have the opportunity to purchase a 2010 for $1000. Does have front bumper, hood and fender damage. No frame damage. No airbags were set off. All cosmetic damage. But only has 30,000 miles. I currently have a 5 speed 1999 Subaru Legacy outback with 160,000 miles. Has almost no issues. Guess my question is, should I sell my legacy to purchase the 2010 Forester for $1000? I also have another vehicle to use in the meantime I’m fixing the Forester.
I'd have to see the extent of the damage but assuming its cosmetic or easily repairable then $1K with 30K miles seems really good... perhaps suspiciously so.
@@DrivenCompanion thanks for replying so fast. It’s a coworkers neighbor (he’s a mechanic so has some knowledge). They are in their 70s and hit a rock on their own property. I only have pictures at this moment until I can go look at it this weekend. It does look like the damage is a little worse than I thought. Still no frame damage. Mechanically the only damage that was found was the driver lower control arm from landing on the rock. Driver headlight is broken. No damage to the condenser or radiator.
Kind of looks like my Escape.
Don't care for the stainless pedals. Seems like you foot would slip on them.
Does it have aux?
Yes, IT does
Not keen on forester sh ,just started getting a tapping noise from engine that can only be heard inside the car ,so far to many repairs I have to get done in my xt
How much wind noise do you get on this Forester? I thought the wind noise no longer existed after the addition of window-framed doors.
Depends on what you're comparing it to but in my opinion there's a fair amount compared with other brands.
I dont notice a lot of noise and I can compare it to a Cadillac srx
I have a 2012 forester automatic trans and just getting used to driving it, does this car shift on its own ? seems like when I accelerate on city roads it goes above 2000 rpm then back down to1000 - 1500 rpm , is something wrong with my Subaru or is this natural for this car?
I have a 2003 with an auto that does the same thing. If I go 25 mph it wants to not shift and sit at like 2500 rpm. I should’ve just bought a manual but everyone in my life talked me out of it
Yes it's normal for at trans. Do research it like 2021 at cars
I know this thread is old, but I'll add for future readers. It depends how you drive. From my experience, this usually happens when you're going uphill and you're holding the throttle in a weird dead-zone type position, where you're giving just enough throttle for it to not shift but also not enough throttle for it to shift.
If you don't want to go faster, just back off the throttle a little and it'll shift. If you want to go faster, step on the throttle just a little and it will shift. When you get it out of this "dead zone", it'll shift just fine.
This is normal and when you get used to it, you'll stay out of that dead zone without thinking about it. Every car has its similar quirks/characteristics.
Sounds to me like what I experience while driving in SPORT MODE.
Hi.. That's how they work
. It's a CVT.. Constant variable transmission... It's revs to pick side then take engine back to lowest possible rpm.... So you get the best fuel economy.. It's normal.
we get that you dont like the armrests. talk about the exploding head gaskets and leaking cam carrier seals.
No HG issues on the 2.5 turbo. Know your facts
@@andali555 Would you say a the turbo is more reliable than non turbo?
@@ayoo1023 it depends on maintenance. The turbo needs fancy fluids more often. Most people won't go that far and then say it's unreliable. Also more complex systems tend to be more unreliable as well. I'd never had a Subaru failed on me, but I keep them stock, drive it like a decent person, and maintain them like a baby
I have a 2010 Forester 2.5 auto. Never had a mechanical problem. Had to change airconditioner condenser and tires.
The turbos are expensive to service.
Hi im going to see one on Saturday. How was ur car , thks
How’s that 4 speed auto? 😳
Is the transmission a CVT?
Not a CVT on this forrester. It was added for the next generation I believe
mixflip 4EAT transmission with tip tronic
CVT sucks. Its ridiculous, do your research bro
@@angarganbaatar8670 well this gearbox ain't much better since it only has 4 gears in this model
@@angarganbaatar8670 HAHAHAHAH you crack me up. well said.
HAAAA many things Outback and Forester can do the Ford Edge can't. Subaru owners aren't lazy asses and can open their own tailgate. Think hard how people use Subarus...and think how pointless this commercial is? There's a reason 96% of them in the last 12 yrs are still on the road. Fords aren't notorious for going as high of mileage. Maybe a few exceptions.
96% still on the road and zero engines in the junk yard lol. Seriously though ive had 8 subarus a few wrx, a few foresters and now a 2016 wrx cvt and everyone has had a major failure weather it be head gaskets, ring lands, cracked piston, and even my 16 i had to have the cvt replaced under warranty because of a bad tq converter bearing. I love the cars but you get so much more for your money elsewhere besides the amazing awd. Sadly i still feel like subarus are worth it to me because i live in a snow ridden shitzone and with the constant bad weather 8 months out of the year having the piece of mind of having subaru awd is worth it alone. Far as fords go LOL that shit hasent been relevant since the 90s when the late fox body mustangs reined supreme.
Bro stop giving your opinion on the styling. If u were a real car guy your would know how loved the 1st and second foresters
Wouldn't be much of a review without any opinions
😍
I don't know if you're *this level of 'car guy'* but what model years of Forester should be avoided (due to design and very common major issues)? I'm considering a 2010 with just over 200,000Kms. I've owned several subaru's, one being an '04 or '06 Forester (I don't remember right now).
Thanks.
I'm not that educated on years to avoid but i do know that Subaru 4 cylinder naturally aspirated engines have a better track record than the 6 cylinders and turbos.
The 3rd gen was produced from 2009-2013 Not 2012
read the title or they changed? "Subaru Forester Review | 2009-2012 | 3rd Generation"
2008
Do you have to use premium gas?
Only for the XT (turbocharged) models. The rest run on regular.
how about the head gasket issue Sir?????????🥵
Dude that hasn't been an issue for a whole decade now
No way second gen was the best
Styling is like on thre Chinese cars, lost its character compared to 2 gen
I like it from inside. So much view
Nowadays the more stylish the car, the more it sucks. Audi Volvo looks great but you know they are China made quality
Turbos always have issues.
Head gasket issues
Were a problem on the previous two generations. Third gen like this one onward have none...
Lame review want a bad ride try anything Jeep. I would buy but the Turbo though.
I’m actually being serious but it is actually 2009 to 2013
2.0 boxer diesel engine are not reliable
Why it’s noisy as fuck!
I think you mean a "2L Turbo" and not a "2.5L turbo"...
No, he means 2.5L turbo.
the car is my car but my car is 2008 i love this car 11-12L 100km
2008 is a 2nd gen, isn't it? I'm planning into buying a 2010 forester as my first car. It's quite more expensive than other cars I can get, however it's insurance is pretty affordable considering I'm a 20 years old man, also I live in Canada, so I think this car would be a lot more reliable than a sedan (or a 2x4 SUV) on winter.
Hi, I'm about to buy a used suv. Hesitate between 2010 hyundai santa fe and forster. I like more the forster but worried about the head gasket problem. I heard about this known issue with this vehicle. Could you please give me some advice?
@@szervosz HG issues don't affect turbo models.
Looks very plasticky
No way, 3rd gen is exactly when they went ugly AF... tail lights that wrap around way too much.. cmon