Is the 2016 Subaru Forester reliable?

Overall reliability is solid when maintenance is consistent, especially with routine oil checks and attention to CVT behavior. A well-documented service history makes a big difference.

What are the most common 2016 Subaru Forester problems?

Common complaints include CVT shudder/hesitation, higher-than-expected oil consumption on some 2.5L models, wheel bearing noise, and occasional A/C performance issues as mileage climbs.

Are maintenance costs high on a 2016 Forester?

Costs are typically moderate for the compact SUV class, with standard wear items comparable to rivals. Bigger expenses tend to come from tires (AWD pairs best with matched tires), wheel bearings, and any CVT-related repairs.

What are the best years of Subaru Forester to buy?

Many shoppers like later years of a generation once early issues are sorted; within the 2014–2018 generation, a well-maintained example with records is often a better buy than focusing on a single year. Always compare service history, mileage, and inspection results.

What should I check before buying a used 2016 Subaru Forester?

Confirm maintenance records, check for oil level/consumption history, test the CVT for shudder or delayed response, listen for wheel bearing hum at highway speeds, and verify the A/C blows cold. Also ensure all four tires match in brand, model, and tread depth. For a deeper dive, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim details, and the recommended maintenance schedules for the 2016 Subaru Forester.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2016 Subaru Forester Reliability ReportB grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown

82/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: B

A practical and capable SUV, but requires careful vetting of its critical powertrain components.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2016 Subaru Forester

The system most likely to surface first: continuously variable transmission (cvt) (major severity).
Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the exterior lighting:brake lights:switch.
Outscores the 2018 Subaru Forester by 4 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.

Is the 2016 Subaru Forester Worth Buying?

The 2016 Subaru Forester is a highly practical and capable crossover, offering excellent all-wheel-drive performance and strong safety ratings. While generally robust, potential buyers must scrutinize its Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and monitor engine oil consumption to ensure a reliable long-term ownership experience. With diligent maintenance and a thorough pre-purchase inspection, it remains a solid choice for those seeking adventure and utility.

Biggest Strengths

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive capability
Excellent outward visibility and cargo space
Strong safety ratings and crash performance

What Tends to Fail First on the 2016 Subaru Forester

The systems that break first on the 2016 Subaru Forester. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)major

Engine Oil Consumptionmoderate

Electrical/Infotainment Systemminor

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

2016 Subaru Forester Recall History

3 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.

AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Forester vehicles equipped with heated seats. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may loosen.

What breaks on the 2016 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.

All Subaru Forester years ranked →Subaru Forester years to avoid →Subaru Forester common problems →

2016 Subaru Forester Alternatives

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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