Subaru Forester III (SH) (2007–2013) (2007 – 2013)

Reliability score : 6.5/10

The third-generation Subaru Forester, known by the chassis code SH, marks a significant evolution from its predecessors. Launched in 2007, it abandoned the raised wagon look to adopt a silhouette closer to a traditional compact SUV, thus meeting global market expectations. Larger, more spacious, and offering generous ground clearance, it nevertheless retained the brand's fundamentals: symmetrical all-wheel drive (Symmetrical AWD) and Boxer (flat) engines, ensuring a low center of gravity and excellent road holding. This generation was praised for its off-road capabilities, general reliability (for gasoline engines), and interior space. However, the introduction of Subaru's first Boxer Diesel engine brought its share of reliability challenges, particularly in the early years of production.

✅ Strengths

Highly effective and safe Symmetrical AWD all-wheel drive
Boxer engines offering a low center of gravity and good weight distribution
Excellent off-road capabilities for its category (ground clearance, approach/departure angles)
Generous interior space and trunk volume
Proven reliability of naturally aspirated gasoline engines (with maintenance)
Suspension comfort on degraded roads

⚠️ Weaknesses

High fuel consumption for gasoline engines (especially turbo)
Problematic reliability of early versions of the Boxer Diesel engine (EE20)
Imperfect sound insulation at high speeds
Interior plastic quality perceived as inferior to some competitors
Cost of parts and maintenance at Subaru (Boxer/AWD specificity)

🎯 Verdict

The Subaru Forester III (SH) is an endearing vehicle, renowned for its adventurous qualities and unparalleled all-wheel drive in its category. For a worry-free purchase, very clearly favor naturally aspirated gasoline engines (2.0i or 2.5i). They are generally robust, provided they receive regular maintenance, especially concerning the timing belt and monitoring of cylinder head gaskets at high mileage. The 2.5i offers superior driving pleasure for a moderate increase in consumption. Turbo versions (XT) are powerful but require meticulous maintenance and respectful driving to avoid costly problems. They are reserved for connoisseurs or those with larger maintenance budgets. Regarding the Boxer Diesel engine (EE20), caution is advised. Models produced before mid-2010 are to be AVOIDED absolutely due to crankshaft problems. If you opt for a post-2010 diesel, ensure an impeccable service history and predominantly road use to preserve the DPF. The risk of costly breakdowns remains higher than with gasoline versions. In summary, the gasoline Forester SH is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable, spacious, and capable SUV for all-road use. The diesel is a lottery, even if

Common issues

Fuites de joint de culasse (moteurs EJ25) High

🔧 150 000 – 250 000 km

💶 1 200 – 2 500 €

Vérifier l'historique d'entretien; surveiller niveaux d'huile et liquide de refroidissement.

Consommation d'huile excessive Medium

🔧 100 000 km et plus

💶 300 – 1 500 € (selon cause)

Vérifier le niveau d'huile régulièrement; rechercher fuites ou fumée bleue à l'échappement.

Roulements de roue usés Medium

🔧 100 000 – 200 000 km

💶 250 – 500 € par roue

Écouter les bruits de roulement (bourdonnement); faire vérifier le jeu des roues.

Défaillance des capteurs d'oxygène (sondes lambda) Low

🔧 120 000 – 200 000 km

💶 150 – 400 €

Un voyant moteur peut l'indiquer; utiliser des pièces de rechange de qualité.

Défaillance du compresseur de climatisation Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 600 – 1 200 €

Tester la climatisation avant l'achat; écouter les bruits anormaux lors de son fonctionnement.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing belt	£650 – 1 300
Clutch	£800 – 1 400
Complete brakes	£300 – 600
Estimated annual budget	£600 – 1 200

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.