Models · Subaru
Subaru Forester SJ buying guide
The fourth-generation Forester, launched in the UK in May 2013 with 2.0 boxer petrol, turbo petrol and diesel engines and permanent four-wheel drive. Very little goes wrong with it, and the checks centre on recall work and how the car has been used.
The versions
- 2.0 boxer petrol: 150PS (148bhp), six-speed manual or Lineartronic CVT
- 2.0 boxer turbo petrol (XT): 240PS (237bhp), Lineartronic CVT with X-Mode
- 2.0 boxer diesel: 150PS (145bhp), six-speed manual, with a Lineartronic option from April 2015
- Permanent four-wheel drive; no cambelt on any engine
- Updated in 2016; EyeSight safety systems from autumn 2017
What to check on a SJ Forester
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
The cooling system
What to look for: Check the coolant level and colour in the expansion tank, look for coolant leaks or crusty deposits around the hoses and radiator, and watch the temperature gauge on the drive. Check the history for a coolant change by 100,000 miles.
Why it matters: Some owners have raised concerns about cooling system failures leading to premature engine wear. Coolant is due for renewal every 100,000 miles, and there is no cambelt on any engine, so a well-maintained cooling system is the main sign of a car that's been looked after.
Signs of hard off-road use
What to look for: Look along the sides for hedge scrapes, at the wheels for damage, and underneath for dented exhaust boxes. On the drive, check the car runs straight with the steering wheel centred.
Why it matters: The Forester is a capable off-roader, and some have been used that way. Dented exhausts and pulling to one side can mean misaligned suspension. A lightly used car that has been serviced on time is the one to look for.
Dashboard creaks and the electrics
What to look for: On the drive, listen for creaks and rattles from the dashboard, especially over rough roads. Try every switch, the stereo and phone connection, the powered tailgate where fitted, and any EyeSight warnings on later cars.
Why it matters: The dashboard mouldings can creak and rattle, and most of the faults owners mention centre on non-engine electrics rather than the mechanical parts.
Also in the full guide
- Recall work
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the SJ Forester
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Subaru.