What are the most common problems with the 2013 Subaru Forester?

**Engine oil consumption** is the primary concern, potentially leading to costly internal engine damage and failure.

How many recalls does the 2013 Subaru Forester have?

The 2013 Subaru Forester currently has 12 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2013 Subaru Forester a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. **Engine oil consumption** is the primary concern, potentially leading to costly internal engine damage and failure. Numerous recalls, particularly for **airbags** and **brake lines**, necessitate verification of completed repairs. While safety ratings are strong, the overall reliability is rated as 'Below Average'. Fuel economy is respectable for an AWD vehicle, with a combined 21 MPG. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2013 Subaru Forester?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2013 Subaru Forester.

2013 Subaru Forester Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Ryan Davis9 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Engine oil consumption is the primary concern, potentially leading to costly internal engine damage and failure.
Numerous recalls, particularly for airbags and brake lines, necessitate verification of completed repairs.
While safety ratings are strong, the overall reliability is rated as 'Below Average'.
Fuel economy is respectable for an AWD vehicle, with a combined 21 MPG.

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Overview

2013 Subaru Forester

The 2013 Subaru Forester offers Subaru's signature all-wheel-drive capability and a practical, spacious interior. However, potential buyers should be aware of its below-average reliability rating. The vehicle has a history of engine oil consumption issues, which have been linked to more severe engine problems. Additionally, there have been numerous recalls, including critical ones for airbags and brake lines, indicating potential repair costs for owners. Despite these concerns, it boasts a strong safety record with 4-star ratings across the board in NHTSA crash tests.

Critical Failure Risk

Excessive oil consumption is a prevalent issue, potentially leading to severe engine damage like blown head gaskets or rod bearing failure. Subaru considers 1 quart per 1,000-1,200 miles acceptable, but owners report issues at higher rates. Regular monitoring and prompt attention are crucial.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns12

Service Bulletins182

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

Engine26

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing all-wheel-drive capability and cargo space.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Subaru Forester Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Premium
Transmission: Automatic (S4)
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 21

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 26 reports

2. Airbags

Usage: 12 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (Turbo), 0W-20 Synthetic Oil (Non-Turbo), Oil Filter)

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

3,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

12 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2013 Subaru Forester reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Subaru Forester is 6.9/10. Reliability score is 6.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 12. Owner complaints: 93.

How practical is the 2013 Subaru Forester for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Subaru Forester?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Subaru Forester is 6.3/10. Overall score is 6.3/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.2/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Subaru Forester?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (Turbo), 0W-20 Synthetic Oil (Non-Turbo), Oil Filter) at 3,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $800 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine Short Block Replacement (typical at 70,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,500 • Max: $5,000).

What engine is in the 2013 Subaru Forester?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2013 Subaru Forester use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Subaru Forester, transmission is Automatic (S4). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2013 Forester require Premium gas?

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Subaru Forester?

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Subaru Forester?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2013 Subaru Forester?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Subaru Forester, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Subaru Forester use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Subaru Forester, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S4).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 Subaru Forester?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 4/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2013 Subaru Forester good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2013 Subaru Forester, while a practical and capable SUV, offers limited potential for performance tuning, especially in its naturally as...

What are the most common engine problems on the 2013 Subaru Forester?

Top complaint category: engine (26 reports, 28% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Subaru Forester?

This model year has 12 official safety campaigns listed.