Used Subaru Forester 5th Gen (2019-2024): Buyer's Guide

The 2019 Subaru Forester has 828 NHTSA complaints. The 2023 has 64. Same generation. Same engine. Same basic body. That spread isn't random noise. It reflects a generation that launched with three documented flaws, each with a class action lawsuit or settlement behind it, then worked them out by 2022.

This guide is for anyone considering a used SK-platform Forester. It covers what broke, which years the fixes arrived, and what to check before you hand over money.

This Generation at a Glance

The 5th generation Forester (SK platform) debuted for 2019 on Subaru's new Global Platform (SGP). This was a full architectural overhaul from the SJ generation it replaced. The SGP brought a stiffer body, a lower center of gravity, and revised Symmetrical AWD tuning. It was the first complete rethink of the Forester's underpinnings in years, which is why the first-year production issues were so consequential.

The SK generation runs through 2024. There was one significant mid-cycle refresh in 2022: new front fascia, fourth-generation EyeSight with expanded field of view and autonomous emergency steering, retuned suspension, and the addition of the Wilderness trim.

The engine is the same across every trim and every year: a 2.5-liter FB25D naturally aspirated flat-four paired to a Lineartronic CVT.

The Wilderness uses the same engine but different suspension geometry and all-terrain tires, which changes the fuel economy and capability profile meaningfully enough to treat it as a distinct variant.

See year-specific market data: 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024

Powertrain and Trim Breakdown

2.5L FB25D: Standard Trims (All Years)

What owners love: The FB25D is not an exciting engine, but it is a proven one. Owners consistently report easy 200,000-mile longevity with regular maintenance. The Lineartronic CVT delivers smooth, uninterrupted acceleration in everyday driving. Combined fuel economy of 29 MPG is genuinely strong for a vehicle with full-time AWD. The Symmetrical AWD system does exactly what you pay for in snow, mud, and rain. Most owners who stay on top of routine service report no major failures before 100,000 miles.

Thermo Control Valve (TCV) failure: This is the generation-defining mechanical problem for 2019-2021 models. The thermo control valve, which regulates engine coolant temperature, is constructed of plastic. Repeated heat cycling to approximately 220 degrees Fahrenheit causes the plastic to crack. When it fails, coolant leaks into the valve electronics and shorts them.

The failure chain is sudden and alarming. The check engine light activates, and EyeSight, Lane Keep Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert all go dark simultaneously. You lose forward collision protection at the same moment you lose cabin heat. Error codes P26A3 and P26A5 confirm the diagnosis.

Average repair cost: approximately $1,670 at 63,800 miles. Subaru issued TSB 09-80-21R addressing the defect. The 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty typically covers it if the vehicle is within mileage. A class action lawsuit covering 2019-2021 Forester, Crosstrek, Legacy, and Outback models is underway. If you're buying a 2019, 2020, or 2021, ask for documentation that the TCV was replaced. If none exists, verify the warranty status and budget for the repair.

CVT shudder and maintenance: Owners on subaruforester.org have a multi-page merged thread dedicated to CVT shuddering going back to the 2019 launch year. The most common complaint: shuddering or hesitation during light acceleration from a stop, especially in cold weather. Subaru issued a Transmission Control Module (TCM) reprogramming TSB that resolves many cases. Subaru also issued a CVT warranty extension for 2014-2020 Forester models, covering internal failures for 10 years or 100,000 miles from the in-service date.

The single most important maintenance item on a used Forester: CVT fluid change history. Subaru's official schedule calls for 30,000-mile CVT fluid inspections, but underemphasizes replacement, and many owners skip the service entirely. Neglected CVT fluid is the primary path to premature transmission failure. A neglected CVT replacement costs $7,500 to $8,600. A routine fluid change costs $150 to $250. When looking at a used Forester, ask for service records. If they don't show CVT fluid changes, assume it hasn't been done and factor an immediate change into your budget.

Windshield cracking: Subaru thinned the windshield glass on 2019-2022 Foresters to ensure compatibility with the EyeSight stereo cameras. Over 360 owner complaints at carcomplaints.com for the 2019 model year alone document a clear pattern: cracks originate from the defroster vent, from pebbles that wouldn't crack a standard windshield, and in some cases spontaneously overnight. The 2019 Forester logged 346 NHTSA complaints specifically in the visibility/wiper category.

Windshield replacement on an EyeSight-equipped Forester requires recalibration of the stereo cameras. Total out-of-pocket cost without insurance: $1,100 to $1,500. A class action settlement covering 2019-2022 Forester and Ascent received preliminary court approval in October 2024. The settlement provides reimbursement of 100 to 200 percent of documented windshield expenses and includes one free future windshield replacement with EyeSight recalibration. If you're buying a 2019-2022, ask whether the original owner filed a settlement claim. Details are at subaruwindshieldsettlement.com.

EyeSight phantom braking: A separate class action lawsuit covering 2013-2021 Subaru models with EyeSight targets a specific defect: the system applies emergency braking when no obstacle is present, and in some cases fails to engage when an obstacle is directly ahead. The 2019 and 2020 Forester generate the most complaints in NHTSA's database for this behavior. Software updates from dealers resolve some cases but not all.

On any test drive of a 2019-2021 Forester, find a quiet parking lot and make a slow approach toward a stationary object. EyeSight should begin audible warning and apply the brakes before contact. If the system doesn't respond, it has a calibration or hardware problem that needs dealer attention.

Battery drain (2019-2020): The auto stop/start system on 2019-2020 Foresters cycles the engine more frequently than the factory EFB (enhanced flooded battery) can sustain. Subaru sent battery coverage notices to affected owners, and many OEM batteries failed before 40,000 miles. Owners who replace the EFB with an AGM battery report the problem stops completely. If you're evaluating a 2019 or 2020, ask whether the original battery is still installed. If it is, with high mileage, budget $200 to $350 for an AGM replacement.

Rear wheel bearings: Forum threads on subaruforester.org document rear wheel bearing failures on 5th gen models before 60,000 miles. One reported case: failure at 41,000 miles. Dealer replacement cost for both rear bearings: $1,300 to $2,400. Independent shop: $650 to $1,200. Listen for a low-frequency hum or growl that changes pitch with vehicle speed during the test drive. At 50 to 70 MPH, slightly swerving the wheel left and right will shift load between bearings and change the pitch of the noise if one is failing.

2.5L FB25D: Wilderness Trim (2022-2024)

What it adds: The Wilderness trim rides on a lengthened and overhauled suspension that raises ground clearance from 8.7 inches to 9.2 inches. Standard equipment includes all-terrain tires on 17-inch black wheels, dual-function X-MODE with Deep Snow and Mud settings, a reshaped front bumper for improved approach angle, Hill Descent Control, and a towing capacity of 3,000 pounds versus 1,500 pounds on standard trims. The roof rail system supports 800 pounds static load, which is enough for a rooftop tent.

What owners report: Owner reviews on subaruforester.org are generally positive about real off-road capability. The trade-off is 26 MPG combined versus 29 MPG for standard trims, and AT tire replacement costs more than standard all-season tires.

Known issues specific to Wilderness: Some 2024 Wilderness owners have reported AC compressor seal failures leading to multiple refrigerant leaks. The 2024 model also carries one NHTSA recall (Campaign 23V723000) for engine water pipe bolts that can loosen and allow coolant to drip onto hot engine components, creating a fire risk. If you're buying a 2024, confirm this recall was completed at a Subaru dealer before purchase. Check with a VIN recall lookup.

Trim-Specific Notes

Base (2019-2021): The 2019 Base is the only SK-generation Forester sold in the US without EyeSight standard. This creates an unusual situation: you avoid all EyeSight-related costs and failures, but you also lose the main safety differentiation buyers pay a premium for. Starting in 2020, EyeSight was standard on all Forester trims. If you're considering a 2019 Base specifically as a way to sidestep the phantom braking and windshield recalibration issues, it's a valid strategy, but verify it's actually the Base trim and not a higher trim with EyeSight disabled.

Premium: The most commonly sold trim in the used market. Adds power driver's seat, rear-view camera, roof rails, and power rear gate. Solid value on the used market. No trim-specific reliability concerns beyond the generation-wide issues.

Sport: Orange interior accents, stainless-steel sport pedals, unique exterior trim, and a torque vectoring function integrated into the AWD system. Same mechanicals as Premium. No additional reliability concerns.

Limited: Leather upholstery, heated rear seats, navigation, and a panoramic moonroof. The moonroof on 2019-2021 models has generated scattered owner complaints about rattling at highway speeds. Test at 60 to 75 MPH on the highway before buying. Otherwise the Limited adds interior comfort without meaningful additional mechanical risk.

Touring (2019-2021): Top trim before the 2022 refresh. Power rear tailgate, 8-inch infotainment, and premium audio. Infotainment responsiveness on 2019-2021 Tourings draws consistent criticism. Apple CarPlay connectivity dropouts appear across owner reviews on multiple platforms. Plan for infotainment frustration as a known variable.

Wilderness (2022-2024): Worth the premium if you genuinely need off-road capability or plan to tow up to 3,000 pounds. Not worth it for primarily on-road driving. You give up 3 MPG combined, pay more for AT tire replacements, and carry the 2024-specific AC and water pipe concerns. The standard Limited or Sport delivers 90 percent of the daily-driving experience at better running costs.

Which Model Years to Target

The 2019 is the year requiring the most caution. Three active recalls, 11 documented fires in NHTSA's database, 828 complaints. The windshield cracking, TCV failure, and battery drain all affect it fully. A well-researched 2019 purchase at the right price, with documented TCV replacement, is workable. The risk surface is just wider than any other year in this generation.

The 2021 is the value entry point in the first half of this generation. Complaints fell by more than two-thirds versus 2020. TSB 09-80-21R was issued. Most TCV repairs on 2021 models fall within warranty coverage. The windshield settlement applies.

The 2022 is the natural dividing line. Fourth-generation EyeSight is more reliable. The new front suspension tuning smoothed out early handling complaints. Wilderness trim opens up a capable off-road variant. Complaints dropped to 91 with zero recalls.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

For all 2019-2021 Foresters:

• Ask for the repair order showing TCV replacement. No paperwork? Verify warranty status by VIN with a Subaru dealer. Budget approximately $1,670 for the repair if it hasn't been done. Error codes P26A3 and P26A5 will appear at the next check engine light if the TCV is failing.
• Inspect the windshield carefully before the test drive. Look for any cracks originating near the top-center where the EyeSight cameras sit, or along the defroster vent at the lower edge. A crack in either location means $1,100 to $1,500 in repairs. Check subaruwindshieldsettlement.com to see if a settlement claim can be filed.
• Ask whether the original EFB battery is still installed on a 2019 or 2020. If yes, budget $200 to $350 for an AGM upgrade.

CVT fluid (all years):

• Request service records showing CVT fluid changes. The target interval is 30,000 miles. If no records exist, assume it hasn't been changed and budget for an immediate service. On the test drive, apply light throttle from a dead stop at various temperatures. Any hesitation, shuddering, or surging indicates CVT wear that a fluid change may or may not resolve.

EyeSight (2019-2021 especially):

• In a parking lot, approach a stationary parked car at 5 to 10 MPH. EyeSight should activate audible warning and apply the brakes. No response means the system has a calibration or hardware fault.
• Check the twin cameras behind the rearview mirror for fogging, moisture, or visible damage. Camera replacement requires full EyeSight recalibration.

Wheel bearings (all years):

• At highway speed, listen for a low-frequency hum that changes with slight steering input. This is a failing bearing. At 60 to 70 MPH, gently swerve left and right to shift load across the axles. A pitch change in the hum identifies which side is failing.

2024 Wilderness:

• Confirm recall 23V723000 (water pipe coolant leak) was completed. Run the VIN through recall lookup to check open recalls before the test drive.

Running Costs

Major one-time costs to plan for:

• TCV replacement (2019-2021, if not yet done): ~$1,670
• CVT fluid change if service history is missing: $150-$250
• CVT replacement if fluid was neglected for 80,000+ miles: $7,500-$8,600
• Windshield with EyeSight recalibration: $1,100-$1,500 (settlement reimbursement available for 2019-2022)
• Both rear wheel bearings: $650-$2,400 depending on independent shop versus dealer
• EFB to AGM battery upgrade (2019-2020 if original battery): $200-$350

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Subaru Forester 5th gen (2019-2024) reliable? The 5th gen Forester becomes reliable once past its first-year issues. The 2019-2020 models carry serious complaint histories around the thermo control valve, windshield cracking, and EyeSight calibration failures. Models from 2022 onward show dramatically lower complaint rates. With proper maintenance including CVT fluid changes every 30,000 miles, the FB25D engine regularly exceeds 200,000 miles.

What year Subaru Forester 5th gen should I avoid? The 2019 model year has 828 NHTSA complaints and 11 documented fires. It carries the full burden of first-year production issues: thermo control valve failures, windshield cracking, EFB battery drain, and EyeSight phantom braking. The 2020 is better but still has 588 complaints. The 2021 is where the reliability curve turns sharply upward.

What is the thermo control valve problem on the Subaru Forester? The thermo control valve (TCV) on 2019-2021 Foresters is a plastic part that regulates engine coolant temperature. Repeated heat cycling to approximately 220 degrees Fahrenheit cracks the plastic, causing coolant to leak and short the electronics. When it fails, the check engine light activates and EyeSight, Lane Keep Assist, and Adaptive Cruise all go offline simultaneously. Repair costs approximately $1,670. Error codes P26A3 and P26A5 confirm the diagnosis. Subaru issued TSB 09-80-21R. Repairs within the 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty are typically covered at no cost.

Is the Subaru Forester CVT reliable long term? The Lineartronic CVT is reliable with consistent fluid changes. The critical maintenance item is a 30,000-mile fluid replacement interval. Subaru's factory schedule underemphasizes this service, and many used Foresters have skipped it entirely. Neglected CVTs commonly fail between 80,000 and 120,000 miles. Replacement costs $7,500 to $8,600. Subaru extended the CVT warranty on 2014-2020 models to 10 years or 100,000 miles from the in-service date. Always ask for CVT service records before buying.

Is the Subaru Forester Wilderness worth buying used? The Wilderness is worth its premium for buyers who genuinely need off-road capability or plan to tow up to 3,000 pounds. The 9.2-inch ground clearance, dual-function X-MODE, and all-terrain tires make it a legitimate light off-roader. For daily commuting or mostly paved driving, the trade-offs are not worth it: 26 MPG combined instead of 29, higher AT tire replacement costs, and the 2024-specific AC compressor and water pipe concerns. A standard Limited or Sport handles 90 percent of real-world use cases at better running costs.

Bottom Line

Skip the 2019. Approach the 2020 carefully with documented TCV replacement. The 2021 is the value entry point. The 2022 is the cleanest option in the first half of this generation. The 2023-2024 carries the least ownership risk.

Run every VIN through a recall check before you go see the car. The 2024 water pipe recall and the 2019 PCV and power steering recalls are quick dealer fixes, but they need to be confirmed as completed. CarScout members can track price drops on specific Forester trims and model years at usecarscout.com.

Data sourced from NHTSA recalls database, EPA fuel economy data, and real owner experiences from subaruforester.org, thesubaruforums.com, subaruoutback.org, subaruxvforum.com, and carcomplaints.com. See the full Subaru Forester market data for pricing and inventory.