Subaru Forester Common Problems and Solutions
Whistling From Muffler
Problem:
You can hear a whistling sound coming from the exhaust when you hit a certain speed.
Solution:
There's a chance that your muffler is corroding from the inside, which is creating some unusual acoustics. Check the muffler and replace it if the corrosion is bad. However, if your muffler is fine, then the problem is a dying turbocharger bearing. This is an easier fix than you might think, and we always have bearings for the turbo in stock for rapid delivery.
Difficulty level
Power Window Not Working
Problem:
The power windows have stopped working and are stuck in one position.
Solution:
This is a simple power window motor fault. Removing the door panels of the Forester is hard work but once you get that bit out of the way, then replacing the motor is a 5-second job. You'll find window motors available in the BreakerYard store at all times.
Difficulty level
Window Motor
Car Accelerating On Its Own
Problem:
You're holding a steady speed, but the car suddenly starts to accelerate without you applying the accelerator pedal.
Solution:
This is most likely going to be an issue with one of the many, many sensors on the Forester. You should start by checking the throttle position sensor, which is one of those most likely to develop a fault. If you're lucky, that will be the precise problem, and you can order a new sensor directly from BreakerYard and install it easily. If it's not that, check as many sensors as possible, looking for faults. In most cases, it's probably best to take the Forester to a garage that can run a full diagnostic check.
Difficulty level
Throttle Position Sensor
Lack of Brake Lights
Problem:
The brake lights fail to turn on when you apply the brakes.
Solution:
This is a well-known brake light switch defect that affects a lot of Foresters. Subaru hasn't really addressed the issue and has blamed different cleaning products for the fault. However, if it affects you, then you're going to have to order a new brake light switch from our parts page for the Forester and install it yourself.
Difficulty level
Brake Light Switch
Poor engine idling
Problem:
If your car has poor engine idling, it is just a case of cleaning out several parts, which have become blocked up with carbon. Parts such as the throttle body, MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor and IAC (Idle Air-Control) valve are most prone. Is the video below anything like your problem?
Solution:
You will need to remove these parts and use some cleaner, such as: carb cleaner, MAF sensor cleaner and throttle body cleaner, with a small toothbrush to remove the carbon. Once re-fitted, this should fix the issue.
Difficulty level
Broken interior parts
Problem:
The Forester has a lot of smaller components in the interior, which are prone to breaking. This seems to be more of a concern for the first generation version. Such parts as the cup holders and stereo fascia are particularly known for breaking.
Solution:
You will need to replace the broken interior part, in order to sort the problem. If you have any broken interior parts, we want to help you to find a replacement one, at a price that will make you smile.
Difficulty level
Engine management warning light
Problem:
Has the engine management warning light appeared on the dashboard? If so, the most likely cause of this is a faulty oxygen sensor. Other symptoms of this problem are a loss of power and/or heavier than usual fuel consumption.
Solution:
You may want to run a diagnostic check, to correctly identify if it is the oxygen sensor causing the fault. If it is, fitting a replacement oxygen sensor will resolve the issue. We can help you to find a replacement oxygen sensor, at a very low price.
Difficulty level
Oxygen Sensor
Oil leaks
Problem:
When you open the bonnet, have you noticed that there is oil leaking around the front of the engine. If so, this is most likely caused by a fault with the hydraulic belt tensioners for the alternator/power steering belt. This is a common failure on the Forester.
Solution:
You will need to replace the hydraulic belt tensioners, in order to stop the leak and fix the problem.
Difficulty level
Spongy Clutch Pedal
Problem:
The clutch pedal feels spongy when pressed. It may stay stuck to the floor once pressed and may chatter or rattle.
Solution:
This is nothing more than standard wear on your clutch system and will tend to happen every 60,000 miles. Order a new clutch system from our online store and use a video guide that you can find online to walk you through the installation process.
Difficulty level
Clutch Kit
Harsh Vehicle Bounce
Problem:
The ride is very bumpy, and the Forester sags when parked.
Solution:
This is a very common report from Forester owners, and it's being caused by broken coil springs. You'll need to replace the spring, but you should never simply install one new coil spring at a time, or you'll end up with an uneven vehicle. You can find coil spring packs available at all times on our parts page, and they are quite easy to fit into place.
Difficulty level
Coil Pack