Used 2007 Subaru Forester Consumer Reviews
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2nd Forester
Gail, 05/14/2007
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 X L.L.Bean Edition 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is my 2nd Forester and 3rd Subaru. I really love the control and ease of these cars. Deep snow doesn't bother them at all. I like that I don't have to push a button to use all wheel drive. My LL Bean is similar to my previous 2003 XS except it now has power seats. The new dual valve system has taught me to drive with a light foot, otherwise the mileage suffers. I also don't use my brakes as much because the engine slows the car down when you let up on the gas.
It makes you equal to the big SUVs
2008 Subaru Forester, 07/28/2007
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 X L.L.Bean Edition 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I loved this car immediately for the feeling of being equal and "up there" with the big SUVs. It has the small car handling with the bigger car space. The gas mileage is adequate. I feel good in this car.
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Super Compromise
BrettRobi, 09/08/2007
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 XT Limited 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The Forester XT is a great compromise between practical and fun to drive. It has all the practicality of a Subaru with AWD, lots of room to haul stuff and the Subaru reputation, plus with the turbocharged engine it is a blast to drive. The Forester is a bit outdated in terms of electronic features, no navigation or trip computer, the windows and moonroof require the key to be on and other little niceties are missing. But a super car overall.
Great SUV, best in class
Mark, 10/24/2007
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 XT Limited 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
After looking around for awhile, I'm glad I finally settled on the Subaru Forester, an absolute great SUV. Any one out there thinking about getting one, stop thinking and go get one. You'll love it, it's powerful, refined, luxurious and it has AWD!!
Fun to Drive
Joe, 10/30/2007
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 XT Limited 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is my first Subaru. While I am generally very pleased, I have had the car back in shop 4 times in six months to correct defective center blower vents. That problem aside, it has been a great car.
Great Car for the Price
HLC, 11/01/2007
2007 Subaru Forester Sports 2.5 X 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is a great car for the price (under $20K). It is fun to drive and it handles corners very well. The storage capacity is very reasonable for its small size. I love the AWD, but it does take getting used to if you've never had it before. Fuel economy is just ok (about 22-25 mpg), but it runs on regular gas which is a huge plus. I spent slightly more on my last new car (1995 Infiniti G20) and this one has nearly as many features. I looked at a lot of cars (Hondas, Toyotas, and luxury preowned) and the Forester is by far the best car for the price.
Mixed Feelings
RPR, 03/22/2008
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 X 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
My first Subaru and a pretty decent car overall, but some shortcomings. Brakes had to be adjusted for shuddering after purchase & now squeal at 12000 mi. Engine makes a variety of strange noises I have never heard in another vehicle. "Normal" says the dealer. A/T is sometimes rough; the dealer has advised me of a service bulletin which will hopefully cure the problem. Road noise is pronounced.
Worst car I've ever owned
Lee62, 06/13/2020
updated 06/15/2022
2007 Subaru Forester Sports 2.5 X 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
To this day, every time I drink lemonade I am reminded of this car. I had two major problems with our 2007 Subaru Forester. First, we got caught by the now well-known Subraru head-gasket problem. Google "Subaru head gasket" and you will immediately find lots of information about this problem that plagued certain Subaru models for a decade or more. Because Subaru uses the "boxer" engine, there are two head-gaskets that have to be replaced (despite being only a four-cylinder). It's a pretty expensive repair. Second, after having the head-gaskets replaced, it wasn't long until the car started using oil. This problem got worse and worse over time. Oil usage is another known problem with certain Subarus, mostly newer models, but I learned it is also a potential problem on some 2003-2008 Foresters (https://www.motorbiscuit.com/subaru-oil-consumption-problem/). One other thing: Subarus are all-wheel drive. If one tire gets a nail or screw in a place where the tire can't be repaired on many modern full-time all-wheel drive vehicles (not just Subrarus), you will likely need to replace all four tires. If the four tires are not evenly worn, the system thinks one or more wheels are slipping and attempts to compensate by sending power to that wheel or wheels. This can wear out the transmission prematurely.
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Overall STILL Almost Great Car
bobinyelm, 02/16/2022
updated 02/24/2025
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 X Premium Package 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I am 76 and have owned over 150 cars in my life, mostly bought used, and of almost every brand, including esoteric marques like Morgan and TVR, and even a Shelby Cobra (always wanted one, but after 78 miles I sold it-simply miserable, but scary fast). I bought my first Subaru 40 years ago when living in Alaska, a 1980 2d hatchback AWD (not all Subis back then were AWD), and then added an '81 wagon, and then an '85 sedan for my kids All had over 200k when I sold them, and absolutely no significant problems. After moving to the Pacific Northwest (whee Subarus are VERY popular) in 2016 I bought a Gen1 CRV (great cars), then a '03 Forester XS. Loved the XS's winter package (heated seats, mirrors, and windshield + limited slip rear diff). Subaru has a GREAT AWD system for snow/ice. Note the base 2.5X w/o winter package doesn't have heated stuff or LSD in the rear. It had new design head gaskets installed at 113k miles before I bought it (relatively short head gasket life is not atypical in the 2.5 with the early pre-2013 design head gaskets-the newer MLS gaskets CAN be put into older engines and the head gasket "problem" disappears). Sold it at 205k when I fell into a deal on a '08 CR-V, nice car but engine service access not ideal despite 28-31mpg, then another 99 Gen1 CR-V (love 'em; the car now has 275k on it w/ no expensive repairs ever), but Subaru is EASY to service (all the accessories, including starter are DIY from the top) and timing belts are easy to do (plenty of room for access). Head gaskets are a pain, but the engine comes out in 30 minutes flat. The '03 gaskets failed at 113k, and my latest '07 failed at 156k-I bought #2 Forester after the gasket repair with the new MLS gaskets. The 4EAT transmissions typically go 300k if not abused, as do the engines before a major engine job (new main and con rod bearings, rings and a cylinder hone). Stab bar links usually need replacement at 100k (cheap and easy), but ball joints and tie rods can last 250k+ depending on road surfaces. Rear wheel bearings are AWFUL to change if you live in high corrosion salt areas, but can last 250-300k+ in non-salty winter areas. The handling is good bordering on outstandingly good, and very neutral, and the Forester easy to get in and out of (not true of even larger SUVs). Fuel economy is slightly disappointing. My 03 Forester did 25 local and 30 highway. The '07 with more horsepower only does 23.5 local and 29.5 highway, but given how reliable and easy to work on these cars are (you can swap an alternator, power steering pump, AC compressor, or starter in 20 minutes or so without jacking the car). I give a LOT of weight to serviceability, and if you find a shop that works actual-time labor (if you don't DIY), gas even at $4.50 is STILL cheaper than service on more hard to work on vehicles that get better fuel economy. Comfort and noise are good (high wind noise from the side mirror area is typical, but easily fixed FREE if you have one that howls there) .Bottom line, having owned 5 Subarus, is that they are one of the best compact SUVs on the market. Other good bets (I've owned all of them) are CR-Vs, Lexus RX Series, and of course Toyota RAV4 and Highlander , but in snow and off road it's hard to beat the Forester for their superior AWD design and toughness. Update: My '07 Forester has continued to please, and is now approaching 169,000 miles. All systems are still working perfectly and it's outstanding AC system is much appreciated following our move to Phoenix, AZ. I have been using the car more and more "off-road" on primitive dirt roads in the AZ desert to explore old mine sites and ghost towns, and the ability of the car continues to amaze with its AWD system being superior to all other AWD vehicles I've owned. Pretty good ground clearance, though I may be adding a set of suspension spacers to gain an additional inch of ground clearance as it is a popular mod for Subarus used on difficult unimproved roads here, though a limitation is there no low range in 4WD, but then NO cross-overs have 2 speed transfer cases. Note: New Subarus are equipped with CVT transmissions (continuously variable transmission) that seem to be reliable, but compromise the off-road capability as they won't put the power to the road as well as the old 4EAT, though the CVT allows newer Foresters to get 30 around town and 35 highway.. I am happy with the 4EAT and happily give up a few mpg for it. Bottom line, I STILL love this car, and I can afford to buy virtually any one I wanted, but it all goes back to WHY? Vehicle now has 175,000mi Zero repairs needed in the last 20,000mi. No Check Engine Lights, no problems. I praised the AC recently, but notice in Summer temps above 112 (We get 118deg here) the AC needs to be on MAX to keep the car cool. Less than 1/4 qt oil use every 5000mi still (I use 10W30 Syn Oil in HOT Weather). Still loving the car!
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Forester Sport XT - Manual
Gordon S, 02/16/2009
2007 Subaru Forester Sports 2.5 XT 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Looking for a small wagon with a ton-of-fun factor, then this is for you! Mine has a short-throw shifter, turbo gauge (visual toy) and heated leather seats (to warm ones hide on those chilly Minnesota Winters mornings). Our car delivered us to Colorado skiing, pheasant hunting in SD and canoeing in the BWCA, while allowing us to enjoy the scenery through the panoramic moon roof. The Forester Sport handles all tasks with ease, and the AWD triumphs over any treacherous weather condition encountered. It readily tows (2.4K lbs) with the trailer pkg, allowing us to haul our gear to the cabin and back with a minimum of fuss/muss. I can't say enough good about this car, it does what I need it to do
Our second scooby
tscascade1, 01/07/2010
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 X Premium Package 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
For those looking for a purely utilitarian vehicle, this is it. It eats up anything wet, snowy, or off pavement. Great for outdoorsy families. The unfortunate drawbacks are the ride quality and the noise. When driving this car I sometimes feel like the thing is on a Jell-o mold. The body roll,the acceleration squat, and the brake dive is annoying. It is also grossly underpowered for a 3200 pound cube. If you can bring yourself to do it, settle for the 4-speed automatic. The M/T feels like a broomstick connected to a pillow. Fortunately, it comes in turbo trim and may be worth the premium fuel cost to get the motor & suspension upgrades. In the end, at it's price point, nothing comes close!
Don't buy one!
rusty, 03/20/2008
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 X Premium Package 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
This Forester has been in the shop more than my garage. The Climate control took 4 return visits before it was repaired. The seat fabric frayed at the edges right away. The seat covers were replaced. The brakes started failing around 14K miles. My wife was afraid to drive the car. The dealership replaced the master brake cylinder. The seats are not comfortable at all. They are very hard. My legs go numb driving and as a passenger in this car. We bought this without a trade in and thought we were getting a car that would last. I don't think so. There are many switches on the dash and they are confusing. I will never buy a Subaru again. This is my first and last
Wouldn't Buy Another One!
Arpy , 12/22/2008
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 X 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 6 people found this review helpful
PROS: AWD, handling, simple controls, gas mileage. Getting 25 mpg, city/hwy. CONS: Lousy brakes, engine noises, road noise, ride quality, cheap interior materials, depreciation. Brakes have squealed and shuddered since new, despite 4 dealer visits (no, I don't ride the brakes). Motor exhibits a variety of rattles and clanks, dealer says "normal." Road noise is so pronounced on hwy, have to blast radio to hear it. Ride is rough at any speed. Seat fabric, carpet, headliner all cheap; driver seat began wearing immediately after purchase. Lastly, Subaru unkindly introduced '09 Forester in the middle of the '08 model year which trounced the value of mine. Going back to Toyota.
Weak Windshields
emily, 08/04/2010
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 X 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 8 people found this review helpful
Yes, windshield(s). In 2009, after owning the car for two years, driving the car on the highway, there is a crack in the windshield. Replaced the windshield and a year later in August 2010, driving car on the highway and there is a crack again. Had a Toyota Corolla from 1994-2006 and the car hood flew up into the windshield on the highway and there were ZERO cracks on the windshield. What is wrong with Subaru's windshields or window frame? It shouldn't crack so easily against rocks flying around on the highway. It's the highway, there is always going to be loose rocks. Perplexed.
Great
Della Cranks, 04/01/2017
2007 Subaru Forester Sports 2.5 X 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
The car has served me well. Outside of the normal maintenance I have not had any problems. The car is dependable.
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Forester after One Year
FrannyForester, 12/21/2007
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 X 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had my Forester for more than one year now. This is my first AT after 40 years on the road. It has been very dependable and is fun to drive. I have an aging mother who needs a walker, and the Forester accommodates it easily. Also, it is easier for her to enter than my previous car. I have had to drive in some severe weather, and the AT has proved easier to handle than I expected.
Get more than you pay for plus fun drive
Nightshade Bob, 07/03/2007
2007 Subaru Forester Sports 2.5 XT 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
A sports car in disguise, a classic sleeper. Performance is similar to the WRX, and it doubles as a midsized family SUV and ski/soccer/beach hauling vehicle. Mom or Dad can drive their fun car, have decent gas mileage, and cart around all the family stuff in any weather or road conditions. It's a budget, sport, family SUV. So, for all it's plusses expect some cheapness, avg mileage, and the style and fit of a crossover off-road/family wagon. Still, above avg value, fun and practicality for the money, with good safety. Needs padded side columns, side curtain airbags, design that prevents water/snow drips on floor and seats, and a decent paint job to be a true 10.
SUV for Nor Cal
German Silva Jr, 11/12/2007
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 X Premium Package 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My first Subie - love it. Every morning I can't wait to get behind the wheel and slam the RPMs near red line. By the way mine is non-turbo. Took it off-roading today in the Marine Headlands and handled perfect in mud, wet grass, gravel, and pouring rain. I'm planning on putting winter Blizzacks for winter driving to Tahoe to fully appreciate the AWD. Added a bra, cargo box liner, Weathertech floor mats (a MUST), synthetic oil after 1K. This will not be my last Subie. Bring the Forester STI to the States!!
Have $3k ready to replace head gaskets
Jeff, 08/10/2020
2007 Subaru Forester Sports 2.5 X 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This could be such a great car, but this is one model affected by the flawed head gaskets design/composition. I had to shell out $3k at around the 70000 miles mark to replace them. I complained mightily to Subaru of America and they gave me $1500 for the trouble. Still. I've known two others with one of these late 00's early teens 2.5L (non turbo) Subarus who've had the EXACT same problem. If it's that pervasive Subaru ought to be sued.
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Not good gas mileage
Delree todd, 10/24/2008
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 X L.L.Bean Edition 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought this car in July of 2007 and the combined city/road gas mileage was 24 mph. As of about 8000 miles, when it was supposed to be broken in and getting better gas mileage, it dropped to 17mph. I have had it checked and talked to the guys at the dealer only to be given a ton of excuses and suggestions. Like, use Premium gas, only use top of the line stations, mix the regular/premium gas and they couldn't come up with anything wrong with the car after checking the engine. Not only that, make sure you know the dealer service and don't let them over fill the oil. Mine was way over the fill line. Not happy with the SUB. Terrible carpeting and they won't replace it.
A Fine Small SUV
KJN, 09/30/2009
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 X Premium Package 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
My first new car in 25 years. It has exceeded just about all my expectations. It's great fun to drive and very responsive. It towed my pontoon boat with no problems. I've abused it with weekend excursions along the back roads of the Eglin AFB reservation -- sandy, soft roads often with deep mudholes. Came close, but haven't been able to get it stuck yet! And I've pulled out a few other drivers along the way. Don't get it into water too deep, though -- you'll ruin your charcoal canister, and they're expensive! My overall average fuel economy since new is 25.63 mpg -- that's with complete records through 62,000 miles. I enjoy this car thoroughly and would buy another in a heartbeat!
This for a 2007 Subaru Forester. A 2007!
Bob, 10/18/2006
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 X L.L.Bean Edition 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 27 people found this review helpful
Generally pleased with purchase. Tiny engine has great pickup and can climb hills. Car rides hard as though it needs shocks. Has all the characteristics of the old poorly made Japanese models of years ago. Car has "tinny" sound. Road noise is very objectionable. Can't hold conversation. It is only satisfactory as will be used for local trips only. Rate it 6 out of 10. Not worth cost.
Best Subaru!
Galen Smyth, 02/08/2021
updated 08/17/2021
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 X Premium Package 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My mother has had this car for a year. She's the third owner of the car. It's in perfect running condition. It still works after she had a car accident in which a deer was hit. We suggest that the car radio that came with the car be made better. It didn't sound too good so we changed the radio. The car is great, and we still love it and are using it! Just had the AC repaired, and are getting LED headlamps on the car. Mom says she is never getting rid of it.
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OMG run!!!!
Ruth, 10/30/2022
2007 Subaru Forester Sports 2.5 X 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This has been the worst vehicle I have ever owned in my life! I get about one week of driving followed by 3 weeks of it in the shop and averaging 500 dollars each time. This time, I paid 1100 dollars and on the way home from the mechanics the abs sensor failed, which is another 150 dollars... I am so far in debt with this car I could never get what I put into it by selling it. I will gage to take a loss. DO NOT BUY A SUBARU... RUN AWAY!!!!! WORST CAR EVER. Engine, suspension, door windows, temperature and radio all fall... Horrible!!!!
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My 2007 qualifies for the Forester Hall of fame!
SQ Easton CT , 07/24/2024
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 X 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased near the end of 2007, w 20k milage. The best decision ever! Having had luxury autos in the past, I quickly realized this rather simple car was perfect for my travel and retirement needs. Gosh.. I have had this car 17 years, and nary a problem! It has aged better than ~ well, you can fill in the blank! I don't have the "X" version, but my white Subaru looks like the picture above, without the black addition on the hood. Thank you Subaru for my car.
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2007 f a licking and keeps on ticking
tom, 09/25/2024
2007 Subaru Forester 2.5 X L.L.Bean Edition 4dr Wagon AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
wow. 207 bought new, keeps on running
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