Used 2010 Subaru Forester Consumer Reviews
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Nice truck but my last Subaru
Bought my first subaru in 2001 and it was perfect, rock solid till the day I sold it last week. The new replacement a XT sure looks nice BUT... Rattles something fierce and all over. The headlights wont work sometimes (had to shut the truck off and restart to get it working) windows software maybe?? The drivetrain makes bad noises when turning and the turbo (maybe) made a bad squealing sound for miles you first start the truck. I figured its under warranty let it blow up. The rear window for some reason wants to open with no one pushing buttons. The heater works in reverse. Have a small book for repairs. Will I buy another Subaru - I think Not. Too bad I didn't keep my old model, my fault.
2.5x Forester Premium
My first Subaru after 2 years of deciding on the 'do it all' vehicle. The perfect vehicle for the commuting outdoorsman. Sport/Utility defines the Forester very well (why don't they officially classify it as such?). The Forester is a rolling swiss army knife (pardon the metaphor). It can do so much so well, and do it safely. Reliable, spirited, great handling, ultra safe, very roomy, best AWD on the market, just as good off as on road. Equipped excellently on the base model, step up a notch and add the all weather package (recommended). Huge sunroof/moonroof, practically makes it feel like a convertible.
- 2.5X Limited 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,80099 mi away
- 2.5XT Limited 4dr SUVMSRP: $7,25080 mi away
- 2.5X 4dr SUVMSRP: $7,1259 mi away
4th and final Subaru
I will never buy another Subaru. This Forester pings and knocks all of the time and they call it a characteristic of the engine. The tranny shudders when it shifts. Subaru is refusing to fix my car. NY State Lemon Law, here I come!
Never again
We bought the 2010 Forester and loved it! We did all of the maintenance required but the piston rings in the block stuck on the way home from vacation on the interstate burning all of the oil out of the engine!! The oil pressure light threshold must be set too low because it did NOT come on to warn us that there was a problem until the car began knocking and shuttering going down the interstate at 80 mph and by that time it was already too late!! Only 5 years old and 81000 miles!! We can replace the engine if we choose, but would be the same 2.5L motor which has the same issue that Subaru is aware of, NO THANK YOU! Will never buy a Subaru again!
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Wish I'd Bought Another Toyo Sienna
I researched and compared the Subaru Forester Premium with a Toyota Sienna, 2010 models. Because the Toyo was about $4,000 more I decided to go with the Subaru. Do I regret that decision! I've taken my Subaru to the dealer three times already since I purchased it in August. The car is very noisy upon start-up, but fine once I drive. Every start-up is noisy. The dealer keeps saying its part of Subaru's design, but I'm not buying it. Also, after about a month of driving, I continue to hear the rear seats rattle. If I could return this car I'd do so w/o hesitation. The ext/inter design is okay, but I certainly regret not buying the Toyota Sienna! Think twice before buying a Subaru.
Awesome Ride
Traded in my 2004 Impreza RS for a 2010 XT Limited. This thing handles like a dream. The ride is great, very smooth, great pick up. The stock turbo isn't too bad, would be nice to have WRX type power though. I like the interior and the cargo room, it's great for the kids aka dogs. It would be nice to have a better stock stereo, (like the Harmon Kardon in the Outback LTD) I did purchase a Limited edition after all. iPod interface would be nice as well as opposed to just AUX jack. I love the monster sized moon roof, the
Most annoying vehicle ever
after 6 months, I am wishing I had never bought this 'thing': 1 - very poor stereo 2 - dealer fixed interior rattles with duct tape and foam, I'm serious, ceiling still rattles 3 - very uncomfortable seats 4 - annoying blue interior lights 5 - poor manual gear box 6 - cheap interior, small controls 7 - no decent drink holder 8 - stupid noisy engine 9 - after turning off engine, it ticks for 10 mins when cooling, like a cheap bike, - normal apparently - maybe for subaru 10 - stupid chime when seat belt not engaged 11 - poor paint job that chips easily 12 - overall rough ride 13 - cannot open door with key if alarm activated without setting it off Buy something else
Go Forrester
best little SUV that I have ever owned.
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Don't get the 170hp model
Sure, the car's fun to drive and looks good. With the 170 hp engine, I have to constantly redline the engine to merge with traffic. When it finally gets up to speed, it's very responsive. Opening and closing the doors and you realize how cheaply made the body is. Like a coffee can on wheels. Driver seat must have been made for short legged people. Cheap radio has SAT button but you need to buy the extra satellite option. MPG drops because of the weak 4 cylinder 170 hp engine. My Dodge Caravan with a 6 cylinder had much better acceleration but had almost as good gas mileage because the engine didn't have to strain as much. Only good thing is that it's a company car that I'll have2 years
They are right!
Consumers Report is correct in giving this vehicle high praise. I don't think this car can be beat for the money. Our other vehicle is a 2003 Honda CR-V, and this car rides much better, and it is also much quieter on the road. I checked the mileage on my first tank and received 27.5 which I consider quite good for an all wheel drive vehicle. The car is comfortable, and well thought out. Frankly I don't understand some of the negative remarks I've read about this car on this site, but if you notice most of them are on the base models. For me this thing is great.
Great Car
Nothing beats a Subaru! Reliability, Safety, Capability
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Great Small SUV but Far From Perfect
This is my second Forester in the last 2 years. I traded in my first one after a year and a half because the X model (4 cylinder) did not have enough power for me. I upgraded to an XT turbo which is more my speed. If you are looking for any performance this is the way to go. I stayed with Subaru because they gave me a great trade in price. The XT in black suits my lifestyle, sporty & practical. The forester is great for active individuals & small families. It is an easy commuter, great visibility, easy to drive & park but it does need some improvements. The engine & transmission seem well built but the interior plastics are cheap, not the perceived Subaru ruggedness I was looking for.
Great Crossover
Have only had my Subaru for a short period of time put have greatly enjoyed the ride. Trade in my 07 truck for the 2.5 Premium and have not regretted it at all. The gas mileage is great and the inside and outside style gives it a great feel and look. The handle of this vehicle is great and does very well in all weather conditions. I was looking for a new car and never thought about looking at a Forester until I went to a dealer to look at a used car and was sold. The space is great inside and as a tall person thought I would miss my truck but not once has that crossed my mind. Have the black interior and premium cloth which is great quality. Great power too for a four cylinder.
Suburu's are LEMONS
Quite frankly, we're returning to Ford ASAP. We purchased a 2010 and it started leaking gas while on vacation in Colorado. It was towed to a dealership where the gas valve, gauge and tank have been replaced. It still leaks (1 1/2 weeks later) and they don't know how to fix it. Buyer Beware!!!
Somewhere between like and love
Writing this review after about 800 miles, and there are some awesome things about this car. One of my favorite things is the turbo engine. Offers PLENTY of passing power, merging onto highway, accelerating out of toll booths, etc. Some people mention they'd like to see a 5th gear, but I have had no problems at all. Much better engine than the CRV (sluggish and underpowered) and comparable in power to the 6cyl RAV4. Plenty of space inside and cabin makes sense as laid out. Panoramic moon roof is giant. Great feature. Handles wonderfully, and better than other, even higher-end SUVs I've driven. I didn't get the nav, so my stereo/accouterments are basic at best. No iPod interface is lame.
Awsome Bad Weather Commuter
My 3rd Subaru, 1st Forester. Did the research..again.. and still cant find a reasonably priced vehicle that can beat Subaru for quality and AWD. Considered CR-V, RAV4, Element & Rogue, none compare to Subaru AWD system. Purchased for 140 mi round trip commuting from far northern burbs to NYC. Drove in the recent 2010 storm known as the "snowicane" on some stretches of 10" unplowed snow highway and back roads and it almost felt like I was on a dry track. Put many 4wd trucks that were in ditches to shame. Even climbed an unplowed steep hill that a Nissan Rogue had to retreat from. Currently have 5500 miles. 28 MPG hwy @ 70 - 80 MPH, 25 MPG overall in mixed town/hwy.
Enjoy the Ride
Overall I'm happy with it. Decent MPG for an all wheel drive SUV without sacrificing to much in the power department. Grips the road (dirt and pavement) well! I can't wait to test her out in the snow this winter.
Was Not Looking For an SUV
For the last couple of years we had been looking at sedans. We even rented an altima for a trip to Florida. We then changed our minds. Reading reviews, listening to current owners (two in the family) started us looking at the Nissan rogue and the Subaru Forester. We gave up the nice soft and quiet ride of our Camry, for the safety and all wheel drive. We love the leather heated seats, however, the controls are located in an awkward spot on the console, under my elbow. We wish the hatchback had a "pop open" feature on the remote. Little too much road noise and the gas mileage could be a little better with the 4 cyl. Other than that, we love the car.
2010 forester
Transmission had to be replaced at 83000 miles. Works great now 201p fully koi added.
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I am so happy with my Forester!!
I have only had my Subie for 1 week and I just love it! This is my first Subaru. I took advantage of Cash 4 clunkers. I test drove the Rav, and the Rogue and really didn't consider the Forester because I never liked the older styles of them. Well they completely remade the body style and I just love it! There is so much room inside this car. I am 5'10 and have plenty of room. Totally love the iPod accessory. Stereo is decent, but I am sure some of the younger kids would think its lame, but I am not a kid anymore! Love all the safety features. It will tell you when your tires are low in pressure! Airbags all over! Compass in rear view mirror, love it. Automatic dimming adjustment of rearview mirror.
Fourth Subaru in a row
Two Legacies-- a 1990 and a 1997 (still great at 140K miles) and this is my second Forester. Bigger than the 2004 Forester (especially rear seating) and the styling is much nicer. Looked at all the rest of the bunch but loved the four wheel drive and the Premium comes with the gigantic moonroof, heated seats and a bunch of other nice things for not all that much more than the Base model. Very happy overall with Subaru's (my first replaced a Camry that was ready for the junk heap at 95K miles).
New to Subaru
I've had two Accords and wanted something different. Amazed to find it at the Subaru store. The Forester was like at first sight, love at first drive. It is roomy, comfortable, smooth driving and has the best of all features- clean looks, hidden spare, panoramic viewing. The moon roof is heaven- crack the back windows to exit turbulence and you get lots of air without wind buffeting or road noise! I would never order an auto dimming rearview mirror, however when all the headlights behind me muted to a soft green I simply went Aaaah! True, the interior is basic rather than elegant, however the content is more than enough to make a lover of simple pleasures happy. Can't wait to heat up my seat!
Rattle solution
Immediately after purchase, my Forrester performed wonderfully at all speeds on an 1800 mile road trip and with better than advertised mileage. On a dirt road, I got carried away and came face to face with another vehicle on a sharp turn in sand with no way to stop in time. Took a very high bobsled bank on the right in sand and swooned down before my wife's heart had a chance to skip a beat. 2 weeks later a sudden rattle occurred on my way to work. In had put the plates on the night before. The rear one came with only 2 screws. Put 2 more in the bottom holes and presto, no rattle.
So Far, So Good
I've owned this car for about 6 1/2 months now. I drove both the Tribeca and the Forester. The Tribeca drove smooth, but I felt more in control of the Forester. The gas milleage is good. I range from about 24-28mpg and do about half high highway/half city driving. The biggest complaint is that the interior is cheap. I have a small tear in my interior, the back door and side doors rattle, and parts of the dash scratch easily. Biggest Pro: We got about a foot of snow last month and I didn't have any problems. Traction control only kicked in once. I helped my husband change the oil for the first time and it went quick and smooth. Overall happy, just need to fix the rattles!
Definitely Love my Subaru
Bought my subaru in May 2010 - put 22,000 miles on it over the past 6 months -- 2500 where I was towing at the maximum capacity. I could not be happier with the performance. The seats could be more comfy, and yes - the cup holders absolutely suck (I was told by a guy in the service department to use a strip of foam-works pretty well). It's a great car at a great price - just wish they offered the leather interior w/the 5-speed!
Subie Newbie - Part 1 (At 2,500 miles)
Before buying the 2010 Subaru Forester I considered the V6 RAV4 (also own CRV). The boxer engine and AWD won. The turbo engine was impressive, but lost out to non-turbo (requires premium fuel and loses 1-2 mpg in fuel economy). This vehicle is very spartan even in top Limited trim so don't expect a luxurious interior (the CRV has a much better interior). Be aware of the following: the PZEV engine is very rough during morning starts (but this is normal) and lots of interior plastic that rattles/buzzes. Otherwise it's been a good car. If you expect a good reliable car that can drive in any weather you shouldn't be disappointed. If you expect luxury you will be disappointed. Part 2 soon...
1st Subaru!
I've had the car a little over two months. Love the SUV-ish design. Car handles well. Very good mileage. The 5-speed manual is the way to go until they upgrade to what the Outback has for an automatic. Only negative is an overhead rattle. Being a pick-up driver for 25+ years, I was ready for some rattling, but this one IS ANNOYING. I'm currently working with the dealership to solve it. Waiting to see what Subaru will pay for. A local body shop can fix it no problem.
Best all around value!
Buy it if: You demand safety for your family, desire a legendary AWD system, want a fail-proof reliable engine that delivers steady power, and want to stretch your $ further Forget if if: You demand a 1st class interior with all the trimmings, can't stand plastic, desire a sophisticated luxury Crossover Utility Vehicle. BL: Subaru prides itself in designing reliable, safe vehicles and the 2009/2010 Forester lives up to that reputation; drive it and you just might fall in love with it!
Sounds like a Diesel
I go out in the morning start my Forester and it sounds like a diesel! After a minute or so of warming up it quiets down to a normal sounding gas engine. It seems that over night the oil must run off the major parts and in the morning when I first start it up it sounds like a diesel! I would have to say the engine is starving for oil, possibly or the oil is not heavy enough. Took it to the dealer they say they hear nothing out of the ordinary. Also, there is a loud whine from the rear end when applying the gas. And again the dealership could not hear this either.
Rattles
Rather "tinny". Presently have an 09 Impreza and 07 Legacy in household in addition to the 2010 Forester. The Forester is by far the poorest quality of the 3. Legacy is just a tank. Real nice to drive. Very tight! Great car! So is Impreza. It appears to us that the quality in workmanship exhibited in the Legacy is absent in the Forester. The rattles (door and ceiling in our case) are truly annoying. The dealer seems to be at a lost when trying to pinpoint the cause and is unaware of these complaints that appear to be quite common with this model and documented on numerous internet sites. When paying in the 30- 35 K range these are things that must not occur. Plan to trade in the next year
Truly A Practical SUV
I'm 6'5" and fit rather nicely with the seat lowered fully. Pre-2009 models were not as roomy. I actually fit in the back seat fairly well. More comfortable than my 07 Accord. Visibility is great. Averaging 22 mpg the first week. The interior is very functional. The AC is definitely NOT weak. I drive in a rather hilly region and the Forester handles the roads with ease. Turbo would have been real overkill (as well as a higher insurance premium).
Who really needs 4WD? Honestly.
Had a 4WD Jeep, never really had to use it and at 16 mpg, killed me at the pumps. Subaru AWD always ready, always working. The interior room of the Forester reminds me of a Checker Cab in NYC. Back seat leg room is massive. The interior finish is 10X better than most USA cars (cheap). Working with our salesman was a pleasure-worked with us-no high pressure. Plenty of power, great pickup speed on highway and uphill. Good visibility. Stylish- looks good taking the kids to practice and taking the wife out to dinner or a show.
Awesome ride
I am quite new to the Subaru experience although family members have owned them. I love the body style of the Forester and the smooth ride it gives me. Instrument panel is simple and easy to access. All-wheel-drive was a must for me and Subaru has perfected that engineering.I love it and now understand why Subaru advertising includes "Love" in their commercials! It says it all!
Good so far
I've had my Forester for a few weeks and it's been a pleasant experience thus far. Looks nice, rides well and has enough power for my use. The premium trim with the all weather package gives me all the options I need for the Michigan winters I drive in. I can't wait to see how it handles in the snow. Gas mileage is decent for this type of vehicle. I'm averaging 24-25 mpg combined. My only complaint is that there is an annoying rattle in the passenger side front door panel. Not a huge deal, but I thought a $25k Japanese vehicle wouldn't have such an issue.
RattleTrap II in Eugene, OR
After all of the excitement we are very disappointed with this vehicle. Rattle/buzz from day 3. Moonroof rattle, both front doors buzz, cargo door rattle. Then to top it off, not just a drift but a continental shift to the right when one releases the steering wheel. We took video to document, Left lane of freeway to right lane without really wanting to change lanes. To say the least we are frustrated with this car. I drive for a living so I know all about rattles and buzzes, never suspected a brand new car . My 1988 BMW with 297K drives better and no rattles. The car has been in the shop 3 times since we got it 12/26/2009. Thank god it is a lease!
Rattletrap
From day one this vehicle has had a bad, bad rattle in the rear that, so far, dealer has been unable to correct. Rattles worse than a 20 year old Jeep pickup I used to own.
I want out!
Bought this car yesterday, has now 127 miles on it and it started rattling & vibrating already! The ceiling vibrates quite excessively at just 40 mph. The hatch rattles, along with the plastic back panels. Did not do it on the test drive, before purchase. I took it to the dealership today, they said might be the license plate cover- NOT! It keeps getting louder. I take it in again tomorrow. My Malibu with 120,600 miles on it was better, and I want it back! I want out of this deal, worst mistake I ever made. I wish I never would've bought it. Major buyers remorse.
Improvement over Honda CR-V
Bought this car two months ago and really like it. Excellent highway car with 25-28 MPG and 19 around town. The four speed transmission is below par and really needs a 5 speed. The radio sounds tinny but I hardly ever use it. I have no problems with rattles except noise from the back when I go over road bumps. I think this may be tied to the cheap cargo cover under the rear floor. I love the design of the vehicle and the interior. Way better than the cheap plastic used in many cars today.
Sure is Pretty
I have owned my Forester for 1 week now. This is my 4th Subaru and my 2nd Forester (1998). It might be too soon to pass judgment but so far I really enjoy my new car. The fact that I could mix and match all the accessories was a nice plus. Reading your comments for the 2009 Forester prior to purchase was very helpful.
Love My Subaru!
After test driving the CR-V, Saturn Vue, VW, Rav-4... the Subaru stands alone. It's quiet. A smooth ride and spacious interior. It's interior has a more harmonious feel than the rest. I have all the high end features without paying a high end price.
Great Car until Aug 2015 - 6 yrs. 51,000 miles
This month, August 2015, with 51,000 miles on the 2010 Forester, I learned that the engine has a problem in Cylinder #3 and needs a Short Block replacement and the AC Compressor needs to be replaced as well. The repair cost is $6,0000. All the research done before purchased pointed to a a good decision buy. I noticed the AC problem in May 2015. Subaru dealer added Freon with some dye to see if a leak could be detected. Earlier this month, it was clearly not blowing cold air. I scheduled service for the AC and asked Service to also check a noise I was hearing at acceleration. Car has been serviced exclusively by Subaru dealer service dept. and all service has been done on schedule. There are 2 possibilities for the Engine issue, both point to DEFECTS. The engine was either developing a problem over time = defect, or experienced the failure of an engine component very quickly also - from a defect. If it was developing over time – for how long, how could it have been missed during the at last 3 service appointments in the last year? The situation I find myself in is unacceptable by any standard or measure. The engine of my 2010 Forester obviously had a defect. The AC Compressors in decent cars don’t need replacing at between 50 and 51,000 miles. By the way, I live in Connecticut, not exactly known for brutal long summers and certainly not for year round use of AC. We'll see how this plays out - cause Subaru isn't getting off the hook on this. I promised myself! Meanwhile my 1998 BMW Z3 - Trucks on beautifully!
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2011 Forester are not representative of the Subaru name
I have had 3 Subarus. The plain old vanilla Legacy sedan was by far the best of the bunch (2008). The Outback Limited (2007) was pretty close behind. The Forester was one of the poorest vehicles I have drive. You can not sit in these seats for more than 2 hours. This problen goes back at least 10 years. My first encounter with a Forester (2000) was in the same quality seats. If you wan't to shuttle around the city than this can be overlooked but for any distance driving look elsewhere.
Very Nice
Drove the CR-V, Santa Fe, Equinox, Rav 4 and Forester. Subaru did a great job getting enough head room for tall people. Very nice cabin room and little to no blind spots like many of the others. Just a nice, solid vehicle. We got 27 mpg on the way home which took us through the city and highway. We are still smiling a week later. Probably will replace the tires with something a little higher rated down the road.
sun roof
wondering if anyone out there is having issues with the sunroof on 2010 Forester? mine has been in the shop 6 times for leaks while raining. Dealer even replaced the sun roof last time around and still leaks. really getting tired of this and concerned about possible problems-rust, mildew, mold-down the road. Subaru offered me extended warranty but that just isn't enough anymore. Either fix the problem or give me new car. did alot of research/test drives/talks with car owners before purchasing first subaru. Likely to be my last if this isn't resolved to my satisfaction and soon.
Love it so far
Had the car for about two months already and love driving it. Turning radius is awesome and it handles very well. I have two large dogs and love how Subaru has a gate to keep them in the back. The overall appearance inside and out are great. Power for a 4 banger is good. Overall am very pleased with this purchase.
My First Subaru
i've been driving my forester for 6 months now. Drives great-love the handling-it really grips the road. Good gas mileage-avg. 27 mpg. Back seat is great for kids-very roomy,they love the reclining seats and center console with cup holders. I do wish their was more room in front center console for purse- I removed partition, but it eliminates one cup holder when doing so. Drivers seat is comfy but wish it had memory for when my husband and I switch. Passenger seat should have 10 way power as well because it is very low and at only 5' 2" I have a hard time seeing. Overall I have been extremely satisfied with my purchase and can't wait to try my AWD this winter.
We're so happy
With our new White satin Pearl Forester ltd. Have had one month now and very pleased. Ride is "tight". Car seems solid. No rattles ( I was a little concerned about this after reading reviews before we purchased-but so far so good). 4 speed trans is better than expected as "sport shift" mode makes for crisp shifting and even in normal "drive " position the spacing between the gears is such that the final rpm at highway speed is not too much higher than a 5 speed might be.
Love my Subaru
I really haven’t any complaints except having to change the gas caps a few times ? For some reason my. Engine cruise & the sliding car appears Just bought a new cap yesterday I don’t understand why they get loose in the first place. Not like I’m driving on bumpy roads or not putting it on to loose other than a recall on air bags I just received. & the cap. That’s it. Love my Subaru
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Interior design needs improvement
Driver's Seat Too Low! Test drove a manual front seat car but bought a power adjust seat. The seat does NOT go up high enough to see over the hood. In my area you need to look down at the pavement to spot potholes. I sit on a cushion to improve my view. Speedometer Stupid! The speedometer goes up to 150 mph. What are these designers idiots. The distance between 60 and 80 mph is one and a half inches. Which is the difference between getting a speeding ticket or not. Bad Spot For Tripometer. To set the tripometer you have to reach inside the steering wheel to press the reset button. When following Mapquest directions (ex. go 1.5 miles) this gets to be a problem.
Excellent all around
This is a lot of car for the money. You will be pleased with the performance of the engine, the handling and tight turn circle, heated seats, enormous sunroof, creature comforts, automatic climate control, visibility and other features. The car is fun to drive. No rattles after 3500 miles. CR rated very high (top) in small SUV category. I definitely agree.