Is the 2020 Subaru Forester reliable?

Overall reliability is generally considered good for a compact SUV, especially with consistent maintenance, but shoppers should be aware of recurring complaints like windshield cracking, battery issues, and occasional infotainment glitches.

What are the most common 2020 Subaru Forester problems?

Common issues reported include windshield chips/cracks, premature battery weakness or drain, infotainment freezing or Bluetooth problems, and occasional CVT hesitation or shudder-like behavior under light acceleration.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2020 Forester?

Maintenance costs are typically moderate for the segment. Routine items like oil changes, brakes, tires, and fluid services are comparable to rivals, but AWD-related tire replacement (keeping tire tread matched) and windshield replacement costs can be higher.

What are the best years of Subaru Forester to buy?

Many shoppers look for later years within a generation after early bugs are addressed; the 2019–2021 models share the same generation as 2020, and choosing one with documented service history and completed updates is often more important than the exact year.

What should I check before buying a used 2020 Subaru Forester?

Check for windshield cracks and proper EyeSight calibration after any glass work, test the battery and charging system, verify infotainment functions (Bluetooth, camera, screen response), confirm smooth CVT operation on a long test drive, and review maintenance records and tire condition (matching brand/model and similar tread depth). For deeper details, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim breakdowns, and the full maintenance schedule to keep your 2020 Subaru Forester running at its best.

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

2020 Subaru Forester Reliability ReportA- grade · low risk · system-by-system breakdown

88/ 100

KeepScore

LOW RISK

Grade: A-

A top-tier choice for safety and all-weather capability, provided you adhere to its specific maintenance schedule and address minor tech quirks.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2020 Subaru Forester

The system most likely to surface first: infotainment system (minor severity).
No active NHTSA safety recalls on record — a clean recall slate for the 2020 model year.
Outscores the 2018 Subaru Forester by 10 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.

Is the 2020 Subaru Forester Worth Buying?

The 2020 Subaru Forester is an exceptionally safe and capable compact SUV that delivers reliable service with proper maintenance. This model represents a strong evolution in Subaru's lineup, offering peace of mind through its robust AWD system and advanced safety features, making it one of the smartest used SUV purchases available today.

Biggest Strengths

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive capability
Standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
Robust 2.5L Boxer engine (FB25D)

What Tends to Fail First on the 2020 Subaru Forester

The systems that break first on the 2020 Subaru Forester. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Infotainment Systemminor

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)moderate

12V Battery / Electricalminor

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

2020 Subaru Forester Recall History

No active NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2020 Subaru Forester. Always verify with your VIN atnhtsa.gov.

What breaks on the 2020 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 →

2020 Subaru Forester Alternatives

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

2018 ChryslerPacifica

72/100

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Frequently Asked Questions

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