2010 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2010 Subaru Forester has 2 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is EJ25 Head Gasket Failure (External Leak) ($1,800-$3,500 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $300 to $3,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 1998-2010 Subaru Forester EJ25, the EJ25 2.5L horizontally-opposed engine in 1998-2010 Foresters is notorious for external head gasket failure. Unlike typical blown head gaskets that cause overheating, the Subaru EJ25 gaskets fail externally, leaking coolant and oil down the sides of the engine. The failure is caused by the gasket material (composite) breaking down over time, combined with the horizontal orientation placing uneven stress on the gaskets. This is widely considered the most common and well-documented Subaru defect.
Replace both head gaskets with the updated MLS (multi-layer steel) gaskets. Resurface both cylinder heads to ensure flatness within spec (0.002" max). Replace thermostat, water pump, timing belt, and all idler/tensioner pulleys while the engine is apart — these are all accessible during the job. Use genuine Subaru coolant (SOA868V9210). Budget 10-14 hours labor for a boxer engine head gasket job.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2009-2018 Subaru Forester, foresters from 2009-2018 develop a persistent clunking or knocking noise from the rear suspension when going over bumps, rough roads, or speed bumps. The cause is worn rear lateral link bushings and rear stabilizer bar end links. The rubber bushings dry out and crack, allowing metal-on-metal contact. The noise is often misdiagnosed as strut or shock failure.
Replace rear lateral link bushings (both inner and outer on each side). Replace rear stabilizer bar end links. Whiteline polyurethane bushings are a popular upgrade that lasts significantly longer than OEM rubber. If noise persists, check rear subframe mounting bushings. Torque all bolts to spec with the suspension loaded (wheels on ground or suspension compressed to ride height).
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Forester vehicles equipped with heated seats. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may loosen.
TIRES
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Subaru Forester vehicles. The Certification Label may indicate the incorrect wheel size, tire size, and air pressure. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and also preventing keyless ignition vehicles from starting and CVT/automatic transmissions from being able to be shifted out of Park.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 WRX vehicles manufactured April 10, 2015, to October 21, 2015, and Forester 2.0XT vehicles manufactured April 10, 2015, to October 20, 2015. The turbocharger air intake duct may crack and possibly result in an engine stall.
+ 1 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov
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According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2010-2010 Subaru Forester has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: EJ25 Head Gasket Failure (External Leak), Rear Suspension Bushing Clunk Over Bumps. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
The 2010-2010 Subaru Forester has 2 known issues documented across 0+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: EJ25 Head Gasket Failure (External Leak). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
Repair costs for known Subaru Forester issues range from $300 to $3,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, EJ25 Head Gasket Failure (External Leak), typically costs $1,800-$3,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
The EJ25 2.5L horizontally-opposed engine in 1998-2010 Foresters is notorious for external head gasket failure. Unlike typical blown head gaskets that cause overheating, the Subaru EJ25 gaskets fail externally, leaking coolant and oil down the sides of the engine. The failure is… Repairs typically run $1,800-$3,500. Severity: high.
Foresters from 2009-2018 develop a persistent clunking or knocking noise from the rear suspension when going over bumps, rough roads, or speed bumps. The cause is worn rear lateral link bushings and rear stabilizer bar end links. The rubber bushings dry out and crack, allowing me… Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: low.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
