2013 Subaru Forester Reliability ReportKeepScore 78/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2013 Subaru Forester
- Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2014 Subaru Forester earns a 82.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine oil consumption (major severity).
- Has 12 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator module.
2013 Subaru Forester: Buy or Avoid?
The 2013 Subaru Forester offers robust AWD capability and strong safety, making it a practical choice for many. However, potential owners must be vigilant about its known engine oil consumption issues and the long-term reliability of its CVT, as these can lead to significant repair costs. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is non-negotiable for a confident ownership experience.
The 2013 Subaru Forester is a capable and safe vehicle, but it's not without its specific reliability caveats. While its AWD system is a major draw, the potential for significant repair costs related to engine oil consumption and the CVT transmission requires any prospective buyer to be extremely diligent. With a th…
Best Model Years
2015-2018 (later models improved engine/CVT, still inspect thoroughly)
Years to Avoid
2011-2014 (peak years for FB25 oil consumption and early CVT issues)
Biggest Strengths
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system
- Excellent visibility and cargo space
- Strong crash test ratings and safety features
2013 Subaru Forester — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2013 Subaru Forester, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The 2.5L FB25 boxer engine is notorious for excessive oil consumption due to piston ring design flaws, often leading to low oil levels between changes if not frequently monitored. Subaru issued TSB 02-157-14R related to this.
While generally smooth, the Lineartronic CVT can develop shuddering, whining noises, or even complete failure, especially if maintenance (fluid changes) is neglected. Repairs are very expensive.
Front and rear wheel bearings are prone to premature failure, typically manifesting as a growling or humming noise that increases with speed. They are common wear items, but fail earlier than expected.
2013 Subaru Forester Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2013 Subaru Forester most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the vehicle should still be in excellent condition, primarily requiring routine maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and cabin air filter replacements. This is where you might start to see early signs of prematu…
Maintenance Zone
This mileage marks a more significant service interval. Expect spark plug replacement, brake service, and closer inspection of suspension components. The notorious oil consumption issue with the FB25 engine may start to become apparent i…
Elevated Risk Zone
Past 90,000 miles, the risk of higher-cost repairs increases. The CVT should have had at least one fluid change, and if not, its longevity is severely compromised. Suspension components, including struts and bushings, will likely show si…
High Risk Zone
Vehicles at this mileage enter a zone where major component failures become more likely, especially if prior maintenance was neglected. Engine rebuilds due to oil consumption or full CVT replacements are costly possibilities. Expect to r…
2013 Subaru Forester Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2013 Subaru Forester on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$500-700
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., wheel bearings, A/C compressor, oil consumption diagnosis)
How Long Does the 2013 Subaru Forester Last?
Prioritize vehicles with documented routine maintenance and a detailed service history, especially for oil changes and CVT fluid services. High mileage isn't necessarily a deal-breaker if the critical components have been proactively addressed, but low mileage examples might still develop issues.
What 2013 Subaru Forester Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exceptional Symmetrical AWD capability in all weather conditions.
- Outstanding outward visibility due to large windows and relatively thin pillars.
- Generous cargo space and practical, upright design for utility.
- High safety ratings providing peace of mind.
Common Frustrations
- Persistent anxiety over the engine's oil consumption, requiring frequent checks.
- The CVT can feel unrefined, noisy, and 'rubbery' compared to traditional automatics.
- Interior materials feel somewhat cheap and utilitarian, prone to minor rattles.
- Road and wind noise can be prominent at highway speeds.
Who Should Buy the 2013 Subaru Forester?
Best For
- Outdoor enthusiasts needing reliable AWD for adventures
- Drivers in snow-prone or rural areas
- Small families prioritizing safety and cargo room
Not Ideal For
- Those who dislike frequent engine oil checks
- Buyers seeking a luxury-level interior or quiet ride
How the 2013 Subaru Forester Compares to Rivals
The Forester stands out with its standard AWD, offering superior traction to most FWD-based competitors. However, its specific powertrain reliability concerns, particularly the 2.5L engine and CVT, mean it doesn't quite match the bulletproof reputation of a Honda CR-V or Toyot…
More Reliable Than
- Nissan Rogue (earlier models with CVT issues)
- Ford Escape (pre-2017 with specific EcoBoost problems)
- Jeep Compass/Patriot
Comparable To
- Mazda CX-5 (first gen)
- Hyundai Tucson / Kia Sportage (older generations)
Safety Recalls on the 2013 Subaru Forester
12 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Forester, 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, Legacy, and 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
What breaks on the 2013 Subaru Forester?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Subaru Forester — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Subaru Forester. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2013s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2013 Subaru Forester
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Frequently Asked Questions
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