Is the 2017 Subaru Forester reliable?

It’s generally considered a solid used compact SUV when maintained, with many examples reaching high mileage, but it’s important to watch for oil consumption, CVT drivability issues, and wear items like wheel bearings.

What are the most common 2017 Subaru Forester problems?

The most reported concerns include higher-than-normal oil consumption on some 2.5i engines, CVT hesitation or shudder, wheel bearing noise, and occasional A/C cooling or compressor issues.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2017 Forester?

Costs are typically moderate for the class, but AWD tire requirements (matching tread depth) and potential CVT-related service can add expense compared with some front-wheel-drive competitors.

What are the best years of Subaru Forester to buy?

Many shoppers look at later years within the 2014–2018 generation for updated features and availability, and it’s best to focus on vehicles with documented maintenance history and clean inspection results rather than choosing by year alone.

What should I check before buying a used 2017 Subaru Forester?

Review service records, verify oil level and look for signs of frequent top-offs, test drive for CVT smoothness (including low-speed acceleration), listen for wheel-bearing hum, confirm the A/C blows cold, and ensure all tires match brand/model and have similar tread depth. For a deeper dive, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim details, and the recommended maintenance schedules for the 2017 Subaru Forester.

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

2017 Subaru Forester Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

83/ 100

KeepScore

LOW RISK

Grade: B

A safe and capable compact SUV, but the CVT demands careful consideration and service history verification.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2017 Subaru Forester

Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the air bags:sensor:occupant classification.
Scores 5 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2019 Subaru Forester earns a 88.
The system most likely to surface first: continuously variable transmission (cvt) (major severity).

Should You Buy the 2017 Subaru Forester?

The 2017 Subaru Forester is an excellent choice for a used compact SUV, offering strong all-weather capability and a reputation for safety. While the CVT requires vigilant maintenance and attention, proactive ownership can ensure many years of dependable service. Don't let a few known quirks deter you from a solid, family-friendly vehicle.

Biggest Strengths

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Excellent crash test ratings and safety features
Practicality and cargo space

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2017 Subaru Forester. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)major

Wheel Bearingsmoderate

Oil Consumption (FB25 Engine)minor

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

NHTSA Recalls

1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

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 2017 Subaru Forester?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Subaru Forester by Year

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 →

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Frequently Asked Questions

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