2003-2008 Subaru Forester: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2008 Subaru Forester
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2003-2008 Subaru Forester ▼
- Price Range: $7,000 - $20,200
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Visibility
- Maneuverability
- Cargo room
Cons
- Rear-seat room
- Automatic-transmission operation
Vehicle Highlights
Redesigned as an early 2003 model, Subaru's Forester got new styling and more leg room than its 1998-2002 predecessor, but it stayed within the compact sport-utility vehicle class. As before, the Forester was essentially a tall wagon that shared its powertrain and many underskin components with Subaru's Impreza subcompact cars. Wheelbase was unchanged, while front and rear leg room increased fractionally and head room shrunk slightly. Foresters came in base 2.5 X and uplevel 2.5 XS trim. Unchanged for 2003 was their horizontally-opposed 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Foresters came with either a manual or automatic transmission, plus all-wheel drive that lacked low-range gearing. Manual-shift models resurrected Subaru's Hill Holder feature, designed to prevent rolling backward on inclines with the clutch pedal depressed. Antilock brakes, again standard, were joined for 2003 by standard head-and-chest-protecting front side airbags. Both models rode on 16-inch tires. Air conditioning, power windows/locks/mirrors, tilt steering, a CD player, and remote keyless entry were standard. Leather upholstery was available only on automatic-transmission XS models, fitted with the optional Premium Package--which included a sunroof and substituted monotone lower-body trim for gray cladding. Forester competitors included the Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, and Honda CR-V.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Forester XS w/leather, auto.) Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 7 | |
| Value within Class | 7 | |
| Total Score: | 54 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester.
Year to Year Changes
2004 Subaru Forester:
Arrival of a turbo Forester highlighted changes for 2004. Foresters now came in base 2.5 X, uplevel 2.5 XS, and new 2.5 XT form with a 210-horsepower turbocharged engine. Other models had a 165-hp engine. An in-dash CD changer was now standard in XS and XT models. Leather upholstery was offered on those two versions.
2005 Subaru Forester:
An L.L. Bean edition of the Forester debuted for 2005. An automatic transmission was standard in the new 2.5 XS L.L. Bean Edition, which featured beige leather upholstery and a self-leveling rear suspension. New eight-spoke wheels were mounted on the 2.5 XS, while the L.L. Bean had 10-spoke wheels. All models got a new three-spoke steering wheel, and all but the 2.5 X added a power driver's seat. Unlike other models, which had contrasting-color body cladding, the 2.5 XS brandished a monotone appearance.
2006 Subaru Forester:
More power and freshened looks marked 2006 for Subaru's compact SUV. For '06, the turbocharged XT added 20 hp for 230 total. The other models gained 8 hp, for 173.
2007 Subaru Forester:
The XT got 17-inch wheels vs. the other Foresters' 16s for 2007. All got a port for digital audio players as standard.
2008 Subaru Forester:
The 2008 Subaru Forester lineup got equipment shuffling and trim-name changes as this compact SUV awaited a 2009 redesign.
Our road test for the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2003-2008 Subaru Forester is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Non-turbo Foresters are slow off the line, but build power adequately thereafter. Turbocharged XTs are quicker from a standstill, with satisfying passing power. Automatic transmissions tend to upshift prematurely and hesitate in downshifting. Overall, the Forester gets better fuel economy than more-traditional compact SUVs. Non-turbo models with automatic have averaged 19.4 to 24.2 mpg. Expect slightly more with manual shift. A test XT with automatic averaged 18.5 mpg in mostly highway driving. The XT's turbocharged engine requires premium fuel; others use regular. Forester is clearly the most carlike compact SUV, promising the stability and absorbency of a tautly-suspended small car. Still, rough roads at highway speed can turn the ride jittery. Forester is also the most agile compact SUV, with slightly elevated ground clearance but a low, carlike center of gravity. So, body lean in fast turns is evident but not excessive, and the Forester never feels tippy. AWD aids grip in all conditions. Steering feels light but responsive. Quiet around town, the Forester suffer wind and road noise that rise markedly with speed, compromising long highway trips. The engine throbs during rapid acceleration, but is unobtrusive otherwise. The clear, simple dashboard layout has adequately-sized controls. Interior decor isn't opulent, but materials and workmanship match the Forester's price level. Front head room is ample for six-footers. Expect good seat comfort, though the passenger seat lacks lumbar adjustment. A relatively tall cabin makes for easy entry/exit. The high driving position, large windows, and thin pillars yield great outward visibility. The backseat is tall and supportive. Rear leg room is sufficient, with front seats moved less than halfway back. But it's tight otherwise. Cargo space totals a useful 32 cubic feet with rear seatbacks up, and 64 cubic feet with the split backrest folded--competitive with many larger SUVs. A large tailgate opening and low liftover translate to easy load/unloading, but there's no separate-opening liftglass. Plenty of cabin compartments are available, but none with substantial capacity.
Value for the Money
If you can live with modest acceleration, limited towing capacity, and constrained rear-seat space, non-turbo Foresters are rational alternatives to any number of bulkier, less-efficient SUVs. Forster XTs offer a useful dose of extra power. All Foresters combine AWD security with plenty of cargo space, a stable ride, and respectable fuel economy in a pleasantly carlike package.
If you can live with modest acceleration, limited towing capacity, and constrained rear-seat space, non-turbo Foresters are rational alternatives to any number of bulkier, less-efficient SUVs. Forster XTs offer a useful dose of extra power. All Foresters combine AWD security with plenty of cargo space, a stable ride, and respectable fuel economy in a pleasantly carlike package.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Forester XS w/leather, auto.) Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 7 | |
| Value within Class | 7 | |
| Total Score: | 54 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Subaru Forester includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Subaru Forester .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Airbags:
If SRS (supplemental restraint system or airbags) throw codes 41 and 42, the connector under the seat may be corroded for which there is a repair kit. (2004)
Clutch:
The clutch pedal may stick or not come all the way back up, or it may feel spongy requiring replacement of the slave cylinder and hydraulic hose. (1998-03)
Clutch:
If the clutch chatters during cold temperatures, but improves as the vehicle is driven, the clutch plate, pressure plate and flywheel need to be replaced. (2003)
Engine mounts:
Due to the multitude of configurations (bolt holes, accessory attachment points, etc.), cylinder heads for 2.5L engines are extremely difficult to interchange, often making the simplest solution replacement of the engine. (2003-2005)
Keyless entry:
The remote keyless entry (RKE) transmitter buttons may be activated inadvertently and an improved RKE case has been made available. (2005-06)
Windshield washer:
The washers for the windshield and/or rear window may not work properly unless a revised check valves have been installed in the hoses. (2006)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $605 |
| Alternator | $450 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $3,205 |
| Brakes | $420 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $680 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $2,350 |
| Exhaust System | $740 |
| Radiator | $600 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $2,495 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $195 |
Our price chart for this generation Subaru Forester details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
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| 2008 | |||
| Forester X | $16,000-18,000 | $14,600-16,400 | $10,200-11,500 |
| L.L. Bean, XT, Limited | $20,000-22,000 | $18,400-20,200 | $13,000-14,300 |
| 2007 | |||
| Forester L.L. Bean, XT | $17,000-18,500 | $15,600-17,000 | $10,900-11,800 |
| Forester X | $13,800-15,800 | $12,600-14,400 | $8,300-9,500 |
| 2006 | |||
| Forester L.L. Bean, XT | $15,000-16,500 | $13,700-15,000 | $9,500-10,400 |
| Forester X | $12,000-13,500 | $10,800-12,200 | $6,700-7,600 |
| 2005 | |||
| Forester X | $10,500-12,000 | $9,500-10,800 | $5,600-6,400 |
| Forester XS, XT | $12,200-13,700 | $11,000-12,300 | $6,800-7,700 |
| 2004 | |||
| Forester X | $9,000-10,300 | $8,100-9,300 | $4,700-5,400 |
| Forester XS, XT | $10,500-12,000 | $9,500-10,800 | $5,600-6,400 |
| 2003 | |||
| Forester X | $7,800-9,000 | $7,000-8,100 | $4,000-4,600 |
| Forester XS | $9,300-10,500 | $8,400-9,500 | $4,800-5,500 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Subaru Forester include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door wagon | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 99.4 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 175.2 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 68.1 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 62.6 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3090 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 64.1 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 15.9 | |
| Seating Capacity | 39.8 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 43.6 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 33.7 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.8 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | -- | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Subaru's 2.5-liter, horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engine came in regular or turbocharged form. In X and XS models, it produced 165 horsepower, whereas the turbocharged dual-overhead-cam version in the 2.5 XT model developed 210 horsepower. Both engines could drive either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. For '06, the turbocharged XT adds 20 hp for 230 total. The other models gain 8 hp, for 173.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohc H4 | 2.5 / 150 | 165-173 | 166 | 5-speed manual: 21/27 | 5-speed manual: -- |
| Turbocharged dohc H4 | 2.5 / 150 | 210-230 | 235 | 5-speed manual: 19/24 4-speed automatic: 19/25 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
|
EPA ratings for non-turbo 2005 Foresters rose to 23/30 mpg with manual shift and 22/29 mpg with automatic. Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: Japan
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/all-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Subaru Forester include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2003 Forester |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2004:
Cover bolts for engine oil control valve may not be sufficiently tightened, allowing oil to leak around cover gasket.
2006:
The wiring harness for the air bag occupant detection system in the front passenger seat may have been pinched during production, resulting in a possible electrical short. Dealers will inspect to see if the wiring had been incorrectly routed under the seat bracket.
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