2014 Subaru Forester Reliability ReportB- grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2014 Subaru Forester
- The system most likely to surface first: cvt transmission (critical severity).
- Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the exterior lighting:brake lights:switch.
- Outscores the 2012 Subaru Forester by 4 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
Is the 2014 Subaru Forester Worth Buying?
The 2014 Subaru Forester offers an excellent blend of practicality, safety, and all-weather capability, making it a compelling choice for many used car buyers. However, potential owners must meticulously vet the vehicle's maintenance history, particularly concerning its Continuously Variable Transmission and engine oil consumption, as these areas represent the primary reliability risks that could lead to significant repair costs. With diligent pre-purchase inspection and proactive maintenance, this Forester can provide many years of dependable service.
The 2014 Subaru Forester is a highly functional and safe vehicle, but its specific powertrain vulnerabilities—namely the early Lineartronic CVT and potential excessive oil consumption in the 2.5L engine—mandate a cautious approach. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a specialist and a clear understanding of its m…
Best Model Years
2017-2018 (late 4th gen with CVT revisions), 2019+ (5th gen with further refinements and improved platform).
Years to Avoid
Earlier 4th generation models (2014-2016) with the original CVT unless meticulous, documented maintenance is verifiable and a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection is performed.
Biggest Strengths
- Superior Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system
- Outstanding crash safety ratings and structural integrity
- Exceptional cargo versatility and ground clearance
What Tends to Fail First on the 2014 Subaru Forester
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2014 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 Lineartronic CVT (especially the TR580) can develop shuddering, whining, or complete failure, often due to fluid degradation or internal wear. Repair or replacement is extremely costly.
The 2.5L FB25 engine (non-turbo) is prone to excessive oil consumption due to piston ring design flaws (TSB 02-132-12R), requiring frequent topping off and potentially an expensive short block replacement.
Front wheel bearings, in particular, are a common wear item, leading to humming or grinding noises. While not critical, it's a recurring moderate expense.
2014 Subaru Forester Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2014 Subaru Forester most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the Forester should still be under its original warranty for most components. Focus on routine maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and cabin/engine air filters. Look for any early signs of excessive oil consump…
Maintenance Zone
This is a critical service interval. The CVT fluid, despite Subaru's 'lifetime' claims, should be inspected and ideally changed. Spark plugs (especially for 2.0XT), brake service, and a comprehensive inspection for wheel bearing wear are…
Elevated Risk Zone
Expect common wear items to surface. Wheel bearings are a high probability, as are worn control arm bushings. Oil consumption issues may become more pronounced, and the CVT may start showing early signs of wear if not properly maintained.
High Risk Zone
Beyond this point, the risk of major powertrain failures significantly increases. A CVT failure is a distinct possibility, and the engine's oil consumption may require serious intervention. Other components like exhaust, fuel lines, and…
2014 Subaru Forester Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2014 Subaru Forester on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$500-750
Moderate Repairs
$600-2,000 occasionally (e.g., wheel bearings, brake overhaul, control arms)
How Long Does the 2014 Subaru Forester Last?
The 2014 Forester can reliably reach 150,000+ miles with diligent maintenance, but expect higher repair frequency and costs past 100,000 miles, especially if the CVT hasn't been serviced proactively.
What 2014 Subaru Forester Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Excellent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides confidence in all weather.
- Spacious interior and class-leading cargo capacity for a compact SUV.
- Outstanding visibility from the driver's seat thanks to large windows.
- High ground clearance makes it capable for light off-roading or rough roads.
Common Frustrations
- Lingering concerns over CVT longevity and potential for costly failure.
- Requires diligent monitoring of engine oil levels due to consumption issues in the 2.5L.
- Interior materials feel basic and are prone to showing wear over time.
- Road and wind noise can be quite noticeable at highway speeds.
Who Should Buy the 2014 Subaru Forester?
Best For
- Drivers in snowy, icy, or challenging weather climates who need superior traction.
- Families needing a safe, spacious, and practical compact SUV with ample cargo space.
- Outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate ground clearance and competent AWD capabilities.
Not Ideal For
- Buyers seeking absolute bulletproof long-term reliability without proactive maintenance.
- Those who prefer a plush, quiet, and refined interior experience with modern tech.
How the 2014 Subaru Forester Compares to Rivals
The Forester stands out with its robust AWD system and segment-leading ground clearance, making it ideal for adverse conditions. However, its early CVT technology and specific engine oil consumption issues place it behind top-tier rivals like the Toyota RAV4 in terms of outrig…
More Reliable Than
- Ford Escape (pre-2017 models)
- Nissan Rogue (early CVT generations)
Comparable To
- Honda CR-V (similar practicality, but Forester has superior AWD)
- Mazda CX-5 (similar driving dynamics, but Forester has more cargo)
2014 Subaru Forester Recall History
2 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and also preventing keyless ignition vehicles from starting and CVT/automatic transmissions from being able to be shifted out of Park.
EQUIPMENT
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2014 Forester vehicles manufactured from January 2013 through March 2013. The backing for the carpeted floor mats was not manufactured to specification. As a result, the floor mats may curl when exposed to heat.
What breaks on the 2014 Subaru Forester?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Other Subaru Forester Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Subaru Forester. Click any year for its full report.
2014 Subaru Forester Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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