How To Keep Subaru Forester In Good Condition

By Nick Marchenko, PhD

Updated: August 8, 2023

The Subaru Forester was not built solely for getting you from here to there. No, sir! This vehicle’s chock-full of features aimed at providing top-notch comfort whether you're cruising from point A to point B, hauling cargo, or taking on rugged terrain.

If you desire your Subaru Forester to perform like a champ for years to come, you gotta take care of this beauty by checking under the hood and keeping up with regular maintenance.

Inside this article, you’ll find the secrets to caring for your Subaru Forester and ensuring that every journey brings a grin to your face.

Engine Setup

The engine of a Forester? Why, it's the heart of the beast! Depend on it, you do, so popping the hood once in a while to make sure everything's humming as it should is vital, my friend.

Regularly Change Filters in Subaru Forester

Filters, you see, are essential for the smooth runnin' of that engine. They keep all the nasty stuff out of the motor, preventing unwanted particles from messing with perfection.

But hey, over time, they get clogged, and that's when you step in, and replace 'em according to your Subaru Forester maintenance schedule.

Here's some handy rules of thumb for you:

• Air filter - once a year or 12 thousand miles, whichever comes first;
• Oil filter - with each and every oil change;
• Fuel filter - once every 12-15 thousand miles, just to be safe.

Shop From Amazon

Spark Plugs? Oh, You Bet!

Those spark plugs in your Subaru Forester are the little heroes behind the fuel-air mixture magic in the engine cylinders. When they wear out, things start to sputter, and nobody wants that!

If things feel a bit off, check those spark plugs, and replace 'em if you see any grime. A general guideline? 80-100 thousand miles is your sweet spot.

Oh, and don’t forget those high-voltage wires with the spark plugs. They can cause a real ruckus if they start misbehaving.

Shop From Amazon

Keep a Close Watch on That Subaru Forester Engine

The engine’s like a symphony, my friend, with every part playing its role to perfection. Any hiccup can cause a world of trouble.

So keep those eyes and ears open and be on the lookout for:

• Odd noises like knocking, whistling, or howling;
• Cracks, oil leaks, or loose bolts - anything out of place needs attention stat;
• Smoke of any kind – whether it’s white or black, it’s a sign something's amiss;
• Unusual engine behavior, stuttering acceleration, or a lag in response.

Catch any of these signs? Time to get under that hood or take her to a pro. A stitch in time saves nine, as they say!

Pay extra attention to the timing system

 

The timing system of your Subaru Forester's engine can be crucial. Whether it's a belt or a chain, it's a key player in your vehicle's performance.

It's tasked with the opening and closing of the valves and getting that pump going. Time wears on it, and without regular checks, you might find yourself with a costly repair.

Watch for chain stretching and belt cracking, because when they break, those pistons and valves are in trouble. For your Subaru Forester, be aware of:

• Belt - good for 60-100 thousand miles;
• Chain - stays strong for 200-250 thousand miles.

Fluids

Fluids in the Subaru Forester are the unsung heroes, ensuring everything runs smooth and slick.

Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid, and fuel - they're the orchestra behind the beautiful drive of your Forester.

Regularly check your Subaru Forester's oil level

The oil in your Forester isn't just there for show; it's the lifeblood of the engine. That's why keeping tabs on it is crucial.

Here's how to get a good read on your Forester's engine oil:

And don't you forget, folks - keep that Subaru Forester engine oil fresh and up to specs. Grab the viscosity the manufacturer sings praises for.

Shop From Amazon

Check your Subaru Forester's coolant level

Don't overlook that antifreeze, it's what keeps your Forester cool under pressure. Let's see how you can make sure it's just right:

How to check the coolant level on your Subaru Forester:

Shop From Amazon

Always Check Your Subaru Forester's Brake Fluid Level

Brake fluid, my friends, is a mighty force behind road safety - it's what makes your brakes perform like a well-tuned orchestra! You bet, you'll want to keep an eye on this fluid's condition: it shouldn't look cloudy or dirty, and the quantity must be just right. 

The brake fluid is nestled in a special tank under that Forester's hood, near the master brake cylinder. Changing the brake fluid at least once every two years is a solid practice to maintain that superior brake feel.

Hey, Don't Forget to Check That Washer Fluid Level

Now, unlike other fluids, the washer fluid level in your Subaru Forester's tank isn't a matter of life and death, but let's not disregard comfort! No one wants to gaze through a grime-covered windshield, right?

Make it a habit to check the washer fluid in that tank under the hood. It's marked with a windshield washer icon, so you can't miss it. Just have a visual look-see, and if it's low, add some more. But remember, don't use plain water - a freeze-up could really mess up those pipes and nozzles.

Shop From Amazon

Fuel Up with What Subaru Recommends

Fuel octane matters, my friends! You don't want to treat your Forester to less than what Subaru recommends. It's a fast track to detonation and destruction of the engine's precious components.

Stick to the recommended fuel in your user manual. And guess what? They've usually put that info right on the gas tank cap! That way, you'll keep your Forester running smooth without burning extra fuel or causing any needless damage.

Shop From Amazon

That Exterior Care for Your Subaru Forester

Oh, the exterior of your Forester - it's not just about looking pretty. It's vital for your car's well-being, too. Follow these tips, and you'll not only keep it in top shape but also add years to its life.

Headlights: The Eyes of Your Subaru Forester

Keep those Forester headlights bright and clear. They're what guide you through the dark and make sure you can see all that lies ahead. If they seem dim, don't fret - you've got solutions!

Shop From Amazon

If it's fogging, polishing those headlights might be the trick; if the bulbs are simply worn out, replace 'em in time!

Shop From Amazon

Replace Those Subaru Forester Windshield Wipers

Your Subaru Forester wipers - vital for clear vision in all sorts of weather. And let's face it, you never know when you'll hit a storm!

Shop From Amazon

Watch out for deteriorating rubber blades, as they can reduce your ability to see through your windshield. Time and weather can wear 'em down, so replace as needed.

Beware the Rust: Protect Your Subaru Forester's Body

Metal's old enemy: corrosion. Even the sturdy Forester's body isn't immune to rust. Small spots can grow into big problems if you don't catch 'em early.

Inspect your Subaru Forester regularly for signs of rust. Catch it, treat it, paint it, and stop that corrosion in its tracks. Living in a wet or snowy climate? Be extra vigilant! Your Forester deserves it, and it'll pay you back with years of faithful service.

Suspension Setup

The Subaru Forester's suspension was designed to master those rugged trails and smooth city streets, giving the driver and passengers comfort all the way.

Keep an eye on the condition of your suspension - it should work like a symphony, overcoming every obstacle. You shouldn't hear any clunking, grinding, or other noises - the suspension should do its job silently. 

Your Forester shouldn't bounce around on rough roads; it should glide straight, without feeling like it's being tossed about. It's all about that smooth ride, my friend.

If you detect any of these symptoms, don't dilly-dally; get to a mechanic or tackle the problem yourself - suspension issues can be hazardous, especially when you're out and about at high speeds.

Brakes

Good brakes provide the stopping power you need in a pinch. When you're out conquering roads in your Subaru Forester, you want to be sure you can bring it to a halt just as easily. Always watch for the condition of your brake system - it should be top-notch.

Brake pads

Don't skimp on your Forester's brake pads; your safety rides on them. Keep tabs on the pads' surface - they wear down over time and need replacement.

After swapping those pads, give your Forester a 60-mile spin. They'll wear in, but after that, they should run smooth - no biting, no sticking. If there's an issue, roll up those sleeves and get back in there!

Shop From Amazon

Brake rotors

Brake rotors, like everything else, wear out. Keep them in check, my friends. Your Subaru Forester's brake rotors should be smooth, even, without chips, cracks, or signs of overheating.

Shop From Amazon

Wheels & Tires

Tires and wheels, the very foundation of your Forester's ride. Their condition impacts safety, comfort, and driving joy. Check 'em periodically to make sure they're up to snuff.

Here's what to keep an eye on:

• Tire pressure. The right pressure ensures a smooth ride. Check your Forester's manual, fuel tank lid, or driver's side door jamb for the specifics (PSI or Bar);
• Tread condition. Tread gives you grip and control. If it wears thin, your Forester may feel less stable. Time for new tires if that tread's worn down;
• Rim rolling. Keep those rims in shape; dents or bent rims can cause vibrations at speed;
• Seasonal tire changes. When winter rolls around, switch to your winter tire set for better traction on those icy and snowy surfaces.

To Sum Everything Up

Keeping your Subaru Forester in tip-top shape is the key to prolonging its life and enjoying every mile.

A little effort goes a long way, ensuring that every part of your Forester performs beautifully, giving you comfort and pleasure on every journey. Safe driving!