2005 Subaru Forester Reliability

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2005 Subaru Forester owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

Body Integrity

Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, loose or cracked seals and/or weather-stripping, air and water leaks.

What Owners Say

Air or water leaks

"Wind noise when driving on freeway"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"No water leaks. Just air leaks and wind noise"

Joe H., MO (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Radiator leak - rusted out but was a slow leak when it was discovered"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Water level kept dropping in flow-over tank but nothing on the ground. Replaced radiator (small cracks). Problem continued - turned out to be leaking water pump."

Anonymous, PA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Seals and/or weather-stripping

"The sun roof leaks when it rains. This has been occurring for years. Despite several attempts to fix it, none have been successful."

Anonymous, VA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"car has had weather stripping air leaks for years around windows. Makes car extremely loud on the highway. New window seals are very expensive"

Gary H., NM (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"The seals/weather stripping cause the wind noise in the previous answer"

Bryan E., CO (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Seal around driver side door/window is poor. Resulting noise is annoying. Condition has existed for 2 years. No leaks of water"

Anonymous, NY (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The windows do not go into a door frame. They go up and into rubber seals. The fit is no longer tight. They do not leak water, just air. It was a poor design. Our Impreza has a full door frame"

Anonymous, MI (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"door air leaks at highway speed is excessive"

Anonymous, NB (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Water leaks around the sunroof during heavy rain"

Anonymous, ON (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Weather stripping on windows. Let’s in air will driving, causing a whistling noise"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

Squeaks or rattles

"It is 12 years old and this reflexes it age"

Anonymous, MA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"There is a worsening sound emitted from the front passenger side of the engine compartment that I have been able to hear for at least two years. I have complained about it to both the dealer and independent garage. Until a month ago, neither would make any comment about it. At that time the Ind. Mech. Said that it was the differential that controls the all wheel drive grinding, but that it was not dangerous. I hate that sound! When I have some money to burn, I will probably have it fixed"

Stephen H., CA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"It is hard to determine the source may be in the suspension system"

Anonymous, IN (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"muffler has a buzz, rattle"

Anonymous, UT (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"shield plates under car break loose and rattle"

Anonymous, NH (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Under the hood, the exhaust pipe made noise. The holding bolt was welded initially>>then required rewelding in a year again. Then the bolt was removed and was told to leave the exahust pipe alone or replace a new one. I have left it alone and it make"

Anonymous, VA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Pretty much just old age rattles. Has always had extreme road noise, now with added wind and rattle, squeaking"

Anonymous, OR (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Sounds like something is loose in the exhaust suspension system. Subaru dealer failed to find and fix it assuming it was something else that he had fixed"

Anonymous, NC (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"general noises and rattles. doesn't feel particularly safe. my husband drives it, I won't. Steering is stiff"

Anonymous, MA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"there is a constant rattling from the underside of the vehicle - it is loudest when applying the foot break in idle and can be reduced slightly in volume when placing the car in Park with engine idling."

Anonymous, NY (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Rattle is under r/r area"

Anonymous, CO (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Wind noise

"My car is noisy every time I drive and is worse at higher speeds, like highway driving. It sounds like I have my windows open even though they're tightly shut."

Anonymous, CT (2005 Subaru Forester Unsure 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Driver's side door has a noisy air leak above 40 MPH. Very distracting on a long trip. Told the dealer about it after the first month of ownership, was told it couldn't be fixed,"

Anonymous, CO (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Poor seal around front windows. Used weatherstripping to improve seal"

Anonymous, NJ (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"I've owned 2 Subaru's and my mother owned one. ALL of them made lots of wind noise at highway speeds. The front windows do not seal at the front edge"

Louis M., PA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"There is a rushing wind noise when I reach speeds of over 50 mph. The service tech told me it is most likely a matter of adjusting the door hinge. This is an old car in very good condition so I will have this done this spring"

Jackie K., CT (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Hearing increased air/wind noise. including some from the ventilating system"

Kenneth W., VA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"We shouldn't have problems with catalytic converters. A previously owned 2007 had to have the catalytic converter at great expense. There is wind noise between the outside mirror and rest of body of car. Probably turbalence which was engineered out of the previously owned Subaru 2017"

Anonymous, IN (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Front of Drivers and passengers windows have wind noise at speed"

Scott O., CA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The wind noise is due to a below standard windshield replacement in Ukiah, CA"

Diana B., CA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Driver side door has wind noise above 35 MPH"

Bryan E., CO (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Experience a lot of wind noise near door mirrors"

Anonymous, PA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Wind noise from leaky gusset seals at front windows"

Kenneth C., AL (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Noise around the left driver window, maybe caused by the side mirror"

Anonymous, NH (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Seals around driver's door noisy at high speeds"

Ben W., AZ (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"wind leak noise coming from front windshield and both front windows"

Anonymous, OR (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Noise from side view mirror"

Anonymous, NJ (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"I just changing both head gaskets,timing belt.water pump and timing belt idlers"

Mike S., AB (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"As the windows on the doors do not have frames there is a lot of wind noise"

Anonymous, ON (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Air comes in to the car because the doors and windows seal poorly and this creates excessive wind noise"

Joe H., MO (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"All subarus seem to have wind noise on the driver and passenger windows. It's annoying"

Anonymous, IL (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Car is noisy when on the highway at speed. Noise is focused mostly around the windows. Noise persists even when windows are obviously closed and doors are shut tight"

Anonymous, NC (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The window gussets in my forester are not designed properly and cause excessive wind noise because they don't seal close enough to the door frame"

Edwin M., PA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"in general, it is a loud operating system"

Anonymous, NY (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"This is an elderly car. I have driven many elderly friends who used the doors to assist themselves to get in and out of my car. Both doors now need to have their hinges adjusted. I am told that will stop the wind noise I get at highway speeds."

Jacqueline K., CT (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"driver door near mirror"

Anonymous, CO (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Annoying wind noise from driver's side window when driving freeway speed."

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"you can hear the wind"

Cathy C., TX (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"At speeds of 50 mph or more wind the sound of wind seems to be coming in around the door seals."

Anonymous, NE (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Loud wind noise on both driver and passenger winds. Rubber appears to have shrunken over the years."

Anonymous, AL (2005 Subaru Forester)

"During the initial drive home from the dealer, we noticed wind noise from the driver's door. We returned to the dealer and were told there was nothing they could do. It is a very annoying noise over about 40 MPH, so long trips are horrible."

Anonymous, CO (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The windows do not have molding/framework around them. Therefore, the wind noise is great."

Anonymous, (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Sound of air or wind at drivers door or windshield. 3 different repair shops ccould hear it, but couldn't figure out what was causing it. Suggestion was to replace entire windshield. Not my choice.; it had no cracks or othervisible damage. Decided to live with it."

Dale H., OR (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Engine Major

Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbo or supercharger, timing chain or timing belt.

What Owners Say

Cylinder head

"Replaced cylinder head gasket (a common need with older Subarus), oil cooler seal, & timing belt idler bearing; resurfaced cylinder heads"

Donald D., CO (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"This model and year Subaru has had a historical problem with overheating and blown head gaskets. Subaru denies it, but it you look on the Subaru chat sites you will finds hundreds of people like me if suffered through this. Years of small cracks an"

Anonymous, IL (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Cylinder heads were machined and cleaned during head gasket repairs"

Anonymous, AB (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"timing belt went"

Main B., NY (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Burnt valve required replacement"

Anonymous, BC (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Source of oil leak"

Phillip G., CA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"valve job at 111,000 miles. not unexpected with this model. , subaru dealer was great. had to bring it back for smaller issue and they covered it under the warrantee on the work they had just done. looked at new cars, decided I liked this one better. glad i did .should go another 100-150,000 miles. repair cost hurt, but no car payment. new appreciation for how well designed my car is."

L M., (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

Engine rebuild or replacement

"car still runs fine, but check engine light permanently on for cylinder 4 misfire. Thus won't pass Bernallilo county emissions test. Independent Subaru shop indicated that engine must be pulled to fix cylinder 4 (can't say for certain until taking engine apart but believe is cracked piston ring land, could also be head/valve problem). Cost of engine rebuild is close to value of vehicle thus did not get work done. Car had a head rebuild while still under warranty for similar cylinder 4 issue,"

Gary H., NM (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"The engine suddenly quit and needed to be replaced with a rebuilt one. Replacement cost: $5000. When I took the car in for its fiirst oil change afterward, my dealership mechanic (who has provided routine maintenance since I bought the car, and who wants to buy it if I ever want a new one--I don't) discovered the rebuilt engine was leaking fluid and would not allow me to drive the car until it was replaced. The engine was 3 days past warranty, and the manufacturer would not give leeway on the wa"

Barbara C., MI (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Bad cylinder shortly after purchase. Shop replaced the engine with one that had 25000km on it free of charge. Great shop"

Anonymous, NB (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Engine blew, had to have a new one put in. Great car, but it's always hard to know when their time's up."

Anonymous, NY (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"block casting leaked and couldn't be fixed"

Tom T., WA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Head gasket

"The head gasket blew at around 120,000 miles while I was driving down the freeway, which caused the overheating. Had to have it replaced, very expensive."

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The mid 2000's Subaru 2.5 engine has head gasket failures. They are expensive to repair."

Anonymous, (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"leaking antifreeze at rear of engine"

Kenneth W., VA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"head gasket failed, causes antifreeze slow leak, changed spark plugs, water pump since head had to be removed"

Anonymous, UT (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The head gasket required replacement which proved expensive because the engine had to be removed from the car to do the repair"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Leaky head gasket, as well as bent valve guides"

Anonymous, OR (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Head gasket failed at about 90,000 and again at 140,000"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"head gasket blew"

Anonymous, NC (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"started leaking oil slowly"

Anonymous, WA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Although I followed all instructions, I didn't have any problems until after 100,000 miles"

Anonymous, MD (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Engine began making a tapping noise. Dealer service said head gasket needed replacement - $4500 major engine work at 65000 miles. Local independent garage found no problems"

Brian H., CO (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Head gasket leaked oil into engine. Head gaskets needed to be replaced. It made sense to have other engine work done at the same time like timing belt, water pump, wires, plugs, tuneup etc. So ended up being an expensive job"

Anonymous, NY (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The head gasket was bad and had to have the engine removed for it to be replaced. This is apparently a well known problem at subaru that Subaru refused to cover. The replacement totaled $3500. "Feel The Love""

Karen L., MD (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Significant oil drip and smell through poorly designed multi-metal head gasket. Cost $2000 to fix. Subaru should have covered expense"

Nicole F., WA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"It just needed to be replaced because it was worn out"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Both head gaskets leaked led to high engine oil consumption"

Anonymous, AB (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Previous service identified minor head gasket leak, 60,000-mile service dealer suggested replacing half the head gasket, and timing belt = big bill"

Julie C., WA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Dealer, independent mechanics tell me that this is a consistent problem with Subaru horizontal "boxer" engines"

Anonymous, VA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"This was supposed to be the model year that the head gasket problems were solved but ours went after relatively low mileage"

Anonymous, ON (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Head gasket has been leaking oil for months now. This is not a problem I anticipated having to fix ever. I'm very upset with Subaru for having such a grave and consistent problem with their cars"

Patrick C., CO (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"I had to head gaskets replaced and Engine heads milled because they were warped and that the engine was leaking oil. I had this work done buy Subaru dealership and they did not perform the service properly. I am now having it redone a second time cos"

Edwin M., PA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Head Gasket had to be replaced. oil was leaking"

Richard M., NJ (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Just started with head gasket leaking oil/antifreeze. This can turn into a major problem. Worth fixing at this age? Estimates run from $1500-$3000. Car is only worth $2000 on a trade in."

Anonymous, NJ (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"During routine maintenance, dealer informed us the head gasket was leaking oil."

Anonymous, PA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Head gasket, rear seal and another seal all went. I had them fixed at my cost, over $4,000, and they went again within a year. Very highly recommended repair shop. They fixed again with no charge. Seals were so bad that the engine wouldn't hold oil."

Loren K., AK (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"My second Subaru Forester. My second issue with expensive head gasket problem."

Anonymous, NH (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Blown head gasket. Top side over haul. $4000 at dealer."

Joseph H., MO (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Nearly all subaru engines from this generation need their head gasket replaced eventually. I had mine done at 150k miles, and it cost $2200"

Anonymous, CO (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"I did the work myself. It's actually fairly inexpensive (head milling, gaskets cost about $400)."

Anonymous, NH (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"$3,500 repair, head gasket leaking oil."

Anonymous, NM (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Scheduled timing belt replacement

"No problem. Just an inconvenient expense"

Nicole F., WA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Timing belt or chain

"Timing belt was OK but a ball bearing had dropped out of one of the cams. Difficult to diagnose and expensive"

Anonymous, MO (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"This was replaced with the head gasket problem"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"a pulley broke which caused the timing belt to scratch, which in turn caused the cylinder to bust"

Main B., NY (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Timing belt replaced by dealer. Fairly expensive."

Joseph H., MO (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"After this many miles, something had to wear out. No complaints against mfgr. My favorite car of all time was just getting old. Cost of repairs woulde equal BlueBook prie. Not financially my choice."

Dale H., OR (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Turbo or supercharger

"Engine would not propel car"

J C., ON (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Turbo failed due to bearings. It still had the factory filter installed in the oil supply line"

John M., CO (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"All problems were actually due to a 5-star Subaru Dealer/Repair shop. I had Timing belt, Water Pump, accessory belts, and spark plugs replaced. after ~$1600 in preventative maintenance the dealer: 1) stripped the bolts on the rock shield and zip tied it back on 2) broke the radiator mount and zip tied it back on 3) charged me for an AC belt that was not installed. 4) didn't change the (very small) oil filter About a month later I threw a check engine light. My ODBII indicated two issues, they o"

Anonymous, NY (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Had to replace the turbocharger for the second time. They seem to be a problem for this model; they keep them in stock at the local dealership!"

Anonymous, OR (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"I have gone through three Turbos. I realize now that the problem may be that my son (his first car) didn't change the oil every 3000 miles (which is what my mechanic said is necessary) but no expensive part should be THAT easy to break"

Anonymous, CT (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"2 bent fins in turbo requiring total replacement"

Anonymous, MO (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"turbo went out because small oil filters were clogged"

John M., UT (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

Exhaust

Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, leaks.

What Owners Say

Catalytic converter

"Fixing catalytic converter or replacing it does not fix the check engine light going on and off. Oxygen sensor replacement helped for a little while."

Anonymous, NH (2005 Subaru Forester Unsure 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Not resolved. Caused check engine light to come on"

Anonymous, OH (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"started hearing noises, maechanic looked,converter and exhaust were eroding"

Anonymous, IL (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"needed to replace entire exhaust system including catalytic converter"

Marsha F., NY (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"had to replace"

Anonymous, KY (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Failed and had to be replaced. Very costly"

Jimmy B., OH (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"failed. had to be replaced to pass state inspection"

Anonymous, NH (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"car running real bad and needed a new catalytic converter"

Michael P., NY (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Check engine code indicates the converter is operating "inefficient". This could be one or more O2 sensors, the converter or both. Will likely need all those things replaced, not repaired yet"

Alan C., MA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"replaced sensors more than once"

Anonymous, VA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Inlet pipe of the rear catalytic converter rusted out. CAT had to be replaced"

Anonymous, OH (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"I had the catalytic converter replaced twice with after market products. Both of these failed. The third time I took it back to the dealership and had it replaced with original Subaru parts and so far the repair is holding up"

Anonymous, CO (2005 Subaru Forester)

Exhaust leaks

"Had to have intermediate pipe between catalytic converter and muffler replaced, due to leak"

Anonymous, CT (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"hole in pipe by hanger"

Anonymous, WI (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"We're hearing an elevated level or noise. Not loud, but indicative of a lead in the exhaust system"

Anonymous, NY (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"exhaust system broke and fell off about 65000 miles"

Anonymous, VA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Crack near weld at inlet pipe of rearmost CAT was causing a bad leak in the exhaust system"

Anonymous, OH (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Horrible rusting of the entire undercarriage. Needing a entire exhaust replacement."

Ronald D., MD (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Exhaust manifold

"Exhaust need replacement"

Rex E., NB (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Multiple parts replaced to track down the problem. Engine light would continually go off, an exhaust part replaced, then within weeks something else would fail. Most of system finally replaced"

Anonymous, ON (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Loose/rattling heat shield

"easily repaired"

Anonymous, NH (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"noisy, was re-welded before it required replacement"

Judith F., ME (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Muffler

"Failed emissions test"

Judy S., VA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"I have had to have the muffler, exhaust pipe, and resonators replaced twice within a four year time period"

Anonymous, MD (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"I had to replace the muffler(s) and a few related pipes. However, this is the 1st time I have had to do this since I have owned this vehicle (and I have had the Forester for 10 years) so I don't view it as problematic or unusual"

Anonymous, MD (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Replaced by Monro Muffler and failed after 2 years It was replaced by Monro under their warranty"

Anonymous, NY (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"replacement needed"

Kpatrick L., MN (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Repeatedly rusted out - have replaced three times now"

Elizabeth M., ON (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The muffler was fine, but the flange was so corroded (original) that the entire muffler had to be replaced. I didn't want to spend the ridiculous $$ for a vehicle I'd be replacing in a year, so I put on a cheap aftermarket one. That said, kudos that the original muffler lasted 14 years."

Anonymous, NH (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"had to replace muffler and connecting pipes"

Edward E., CT (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Pipes

"rusted out"

Anonymous, MA (2005 Subaru Forester Unsure 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Exhaust pipe rusted through. Had to replace pipe and muffler"

Anonymous, NJ (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Deteriorating; were re-welded"

Anonymous, PA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"mechanic tried to cement leaks, but cement didn't hold. Had to install new pipes"

Anonymous, MA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"EXHAUST SYSTEM, INCLUDING MUFFLER WERE REPLACED. MOSTLY DUE TO RUST. ROADS ARE WELL SALTED IN BAD WEATHER!"

Anonymous, PA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"vehicle rattled particularly on acceleration when steering the vehicle; diagnosis was an aging problem; dealer recommended and had the part replaced"

Anonymous, NY (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Brakes

Antilock system (ABS), parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pulsation or vibration, squeaking, brake failure or wear.

What Owners Say

Antilock system (ABS)

"ABS warning light comes on frequently. All wheel sensors have been checked and cleaned. There seems to be no way an owner of this year Forester can read out the error codes. Going to the dealer is expected to be very expensive"

Larry A., MI (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"As described above I replaced the calipers to get hte brake warning to go off. Afterward the ABS light came on for no apparent reason. It went off after a few driving cycles"

Anonymous, MI (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"ABS warning light comes on randomly. Wheel sensors have been cleaned/replaced. ABS trouble codes can not be read by commonly available readers."

Anonymous, MI (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Calipers

"had to replace the calipers becouse they were sezed and had the rotars turned"

J P., BC (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"This may have been more a problem with the replacement part than the vehicle itself. After only approximately 12,000 miles of having the front brakes done, a front caliper started sticking intermittently"

Anonymous, MD (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Calipers were rusted/frozen from exposure to road salt, etc. during our years in Alaska"

Nicholas L., CA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"One caliper was sticking. It caused the "brake" warning to come on and eventually the ABS warning. I replaced both front calipers and eventually the warnings went away"

Anonymous, MI (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"replaced at 70,000 miles"

Herbert G., MI (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Adjust"

J C., ON (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Calipers froze... needed to be replaced along with rotors & pads"

Anonymous, NY (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Leak in the rear cylinders"

Anonymous, AB (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Right brake caliper fell apart causing the brake to be engaged at all times."

Anonymous, PA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Front brake calipers locked up during drive homeI was driving home from work in rush hour traffic (Chicago). Fortunately, I was just able to get off the road before they seized up completely. Had to get towed. No previous problems"

Jacqueline C., IL (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Normal routine brake wear

"The title says it all: I needed new brake pads"

Anonymous, IL (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Front brakes had to be replaced due to age and mileage on car. Parking brake out of adjustment. Squeaking and grabbing"

Anonymous, NM (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"car needed new brake pads - normal for the mileage it had"

Anonymous, ME (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"brake shoes stick"

Anonymous, ME (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"replaced brake pads and resurfaced rotors at 90,000. this was the first pad replacement on this vehicle"

Anonymous, PA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"New front brake pads, new rotors, resurface rotors"

Anonymous, TX (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The brake fluid was leaking"

E C., NB (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"rear brake cylinders were leaking"

George W., NY (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Needed new breaks from normal driving, replacement parts."

Anonymous, VA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"dealer/service provider recommended replacement of brake pads, and I accepted recommendation"

Anonymous, NY (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Parking brake

"Not sure why the parking brake got so out of adjustment. It required being pulled up to its limit and then sometimes even then it would not catch"

Anonymous, NM (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Premature brake wear

"The car has had above average repair costs and this was just another case of needed repair much quicker then my Honda"

Anonymous, ME (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Replaced front brakes and rotors four (4) times in 80,000 miles"

Herbert G., MI (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"even after repair brakes 'grab' when I come apply brakes at higher speeds"

Steven L., AK (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Regular brake failure

"Normal brake wear and repair"

Anonymous, WA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Rotors

"had to be replaced"

Anonymous, MA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"could hear rubbing when applying the brakes"

Anonymous, CT (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"All rotors needed replacement due to warping - probably caused by impact gun use at tire shop"

Anonymous, CT (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"had to redo rotors twice due to poor quality job done by the used car dealer. my new mechanic did a quality job the second time."

Edward E., CT (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Squeaking

"even when dry brakes were squeaking upon putting my foot on the brakes"

Anonymous, CT (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Suspension

Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

What Owners Say

Ball joints

"Replaced right front ball joint at 90,000 mile checkup"

Anonymous, PA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Replaced twice. Original ball joints failed after 7 years.second set failed after 3 years"

Anonymous, NJ (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Bushings

"wore out... associated repair was pricy ~$500"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Power steering leaks

"Power steering fluid started leaking and ended with a failure of the pump"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Had to have steering rack replaced"

Anonymous, NE (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The car was leaking a fluid, but resolved once the power steering pump was replaced. I think"

Anonymous, MN (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Power steering pumps and hoses

"The car was difficult to steer"

Anonymous, MN (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The power steering pump make a loud and diturbing noise and appears to be related to the time belt change"

Richard M., NJ (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Shocks or struts

"Struts have reached the end of their lifespan and required replacement. The new struts greatly improved the handling of the vehicle"

Anonymous, MN (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Rear self-leveling strut leaking...Replace both sides"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"LL Bean version has very expensive struts ($400 apiece) & dealer said they were leaking"

Robert C., ME (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"rough ridding over bumps"

Anonymous, PA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Had tom replace shocks and struts"

J C., ON (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Self leveling struts failed - no aftermarket parts available - repair estimated > $1500"

Anonymous, CT (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Normal wear"

Anonymous, CO (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Steering linkage (includes rack and pinion)

"It's an old car. Our mechanic said there no apparent problem, possibly sway links, or ball joints, but they appear to be within tolerance - and vehicle appears safe to drive. But there is intermittent instability that is causing problems. Don't know the exact cause, neither does mechanic."

Anonymous, MB (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Rack and pinion leaked"

Anonymous, NE (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The car was making a clanking noise, so I went to my mechanic who replaced "links." It no longer clanks, so I guess that was the problem. I'm not sure if they were steering links. I'd had no problems with steering"

Anonymous, CT (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Don't recall the exact diagnosis, but whenever the steering wheel was turned sharply, the car would make loud, groaning noises. Took the mechanic quite a while, but he fixed the problem. Cost about $400"

Anonymous, FL (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"steering rack replaced by independent shop. AAA shop found leak in same area -replaced rack"

H R., CA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Steering "block" leaked and then the pump caveated during trip to dealer"

Anonymous, MA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Front stabilizer links broken and need replacement"

Anonymous, MB (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"needed replacement"

Anonymous, AZ (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Steering wheel vibration

"Transmission needs to be overhauled"

William S., NY (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Complained about having very strong vibration when turning the steering wheel. Took to dealership numerous times and was told nothing was wrong. Finally went to an independent dealer and it was diagnosed as a belt problem and they fixed for free (p"

Anonymous, VA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Wheel bearings

"Loud noise; took it in; they replaced the right front wheel bearing. Pretty simple"

Anonymous, AZ (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Right rear bearing needed replacement. We were warned of the problem several years earlier due to noise heard by mechanic. We couldn't hear the noise so continued to drive it for maybe 1.5 years and then had it fixed once we heard the noise"

Anonymous, IA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"both rear bearings failed at about 60000 miles poor design on bearings have never had this type of failure on any other car"

Anonymous, VA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Noticed a roaring noise that increased over time. Mechanic determined it was wheel bearings."

Anonymous, AR (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Climate System

Blower (fan) motor, A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate control, refrigerant leakage, electrical failure.

What Owners Say

A/C compressor

"Started in 2016. A/C would stop cooling after an hour. Slowly got worse and quit cooling in 2018"

Anonymous, PA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The compressor clutch stopped working. It was only a few bucks more to replace the whole compressor."

Anonymous, (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"A/C compressor replaced"

Frank L., NJ (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Quit working. Replaced"

Anonymous, KS (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"On hot days, the A/C would intermittently cease to function"

Anonymous, ON (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"clutch failure after 12 years"

Anonymous, NC (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Design of compressor is such that it does not engage, especially in hot weather, and needs to be replaced"

Anonymous, CT (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"I've owned many cars for over 100K miles and this is the first compressor I've replaced. Yet another example of higher then average repairs and therefore repair cost. in the last 4 years I've spent $6100 in repairs. $1525 per year -- high to me"

Anonymous, ME (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Replaced due to age, and to use by previous owner. Purchased this 2005 model in 2014 with a replacement engine and harness"

Anonymous, NJ (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Had to have it looked at and worked on three times. The first time in an independent shop and the last two at the dealership. They replaced the compressor"

Anonymous, FL (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The AC compressor stopped working. Recharging did not help. Our mechanic says it needs to be replaced. Total cost would be $1,500. We are trying to decide if we want to spend that much"

Barb K., MI (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"It stopped working. It made noises and then gave out"

Christian S., CA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Works intermittently when turned on; seems to stop working and blow hot air if car is stopped in traffic; once car is moving again, in a few minutes resumes working"

Anonymous, CT (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"On very hot days, the AC does not work well at all. It pushes hot air and cannot make it cold"

Anonymous, IL (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"A/C compressor was diagnosed as having to be replaced - found a quick fix online that just called for removing shims which has fixed the problem for now"

Anonymous, ME (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The coolant leaks and was fixed once, but did not last. I need to take it in again for a more thorough investigation of the leak"

Anonymous, CO (2005 Subaru Forester)

"Compressor failed, I think due to the leaks."

James B., IL (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"This was the second time since purchasing the vehicle that I have had the air conditioning replaced."

Anonymous, FL (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Automatic climate control

"A small circuit board failed within the fan/ac electronic control pod. Naturally, we had to pay about 800 dollars to replace the electronic control pod. I miss my 64 ford"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Blower (fan) motor

"Makes weird chirping noise, intermittently"

Anonymous, CT (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Intermittently chirps loudly whenever fan is on"

Anonymous, CT (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"I spent over 250 to have something repaired or replaced in the front dashboard. I believed that would fix the problem of no air from the 2 middle/central vents. Only the lateral/outer vents blow air. After the repair, I discovered there is still no air flow from the 2 central vents."

Anonymous, (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Condenser

"Small leak. Waiting to repair it"

R G., FL (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Heater system

"Ambient Air Temp sensor went bad. This was in winter time. This caused heating system, set to fully manual control, to go haywire.I had either HOT air, or COLD air. Nothing in between until I had the sensor replaced. Weird!"

Anonymous, NC (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Refrigerant leaks

"Replaced the AC compressor ~2 years ago and each spring there seems to be no refrigerant left; my mechanic noticed the refrigerant appears to get vented due to something getting triggered in the AC system. As the work is still under warranty we're continuing to track it down. The original compressor was in "really bad shape" by the time my mechanic replaced it"

Anonymous, MN (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Antifreeze would be depleted after/during trip. Finally added leak stop to radiator and has held thus far"

Diana B., CA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Plastic radiator and fuel pump housing cracked"

Brian H., CO (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"A/C went out"

Anonymous, KY (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

Engine Minor

Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, oil leaks.

What Owners Say

Accessory belts or pulleys

"Timing belt replaced at 105000 miles according to service recommendations"

Anonymous, PA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Replaced A/C drive belt idler & belt after loud chronic screech from that part of engine. Occurred on long road trip where sudden failure would have been disastrous"

Donald D., CO (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Camshaft pulley (harmonic balancer) separated at rubber"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Engine knock or ping

"Since about 4000 miles on the odometer, there is frequent engine 'rattling' - not sure if it is ping or not. Also seems to happen at particular speeds (around 35-40 and 60-70)"

Anonymous, NC (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"car was not running smoothly"

Anonymous, WA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

Oil leaks

"Seal went bad"

Anonymous, AZ (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Oil pan failure"

J C., ON (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"The head gasket needed replacing. I replaced other gaskets and belts at the same time because they had to pull apart the engine to do this and the car was over 12 years old at the time"

Jackie K., CT (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Normal oil leak in old car"

William S., NY (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"head gasket was leaking"

J P., BC (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Head gasket has a small crack. Would be $2500 to fix so I am just living with it"

Elizabeth P., CT (2005 Subaru Forester X)

"Leaks from the oil pan and needed replacement in catalytic converter twice in past three years"

Anonymous, NH (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"have minor oil leak that requires adding about 2 quarts between oil changes. Due to age of the car, planning on getting a new car instead of repairing"

Anonymous, TX (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Had a big oil leak when I went for most recent repair. Needed to replace some engine parts, which costs me around 400 $"

Anonymous, VA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Ongoing oil leaks require top-off between oil changes, even after replacing the head gasket which was expected to be the biggest source"

Anonymous, ME (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"continuous oil leaks for many years"

Anonymous, MA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"oil leaks around spark plugs and off bottom of engine , good car, happy with it but did not expect as much leaks at 100K mi, also a rattle everything rattles on under carriaige even after fixing sway bars would buy another though for best AWD perf"

Anonymous, OH (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"gasket failure"

Anonymous, LA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Car loses about 1 quart of oil per 1,000 miles. Leak is probably from head gasket."

K M., MT (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Head gasket started leaking and cost $3000 to replace."

Paul R., AK (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Subaru has used the same engine, EJ25, for many years and have claimed to have repaired the leaking cylinder head problems many times. The repair is $2000 and should be paid by Subaru. Our car has leaked for 70000 miles and was leaking when taken to the dealer for the timing belt and the dealers service advisor said oh, yeah ...they all do that. Still they wanted $2000 on top of the $1000 charged for the timing belt replacement to repair their leak."

Phillip G., CA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Took car in for a routine oil change but asked the mechanic to check for leaks because I noticed a spot under the car where I park it at work. Unfortunately, it turned out to be my car that was leaking and a major engine repair would be required. Sought an evaluation from a second mechanic and the result was the same. Either repair for $1700 to $2600 or due to the age and mileage, just invest in a new car. Decided a new car was a more economical option because there was projected more repairs would be required within the year and ongoing. Still driving. Plan to watch the oil more closely. And shop for a replacement. The car is 14 years old and still runs well. Great investment. Unfortunately, the car was a little noisy. Seemed to be the window/door seals."

Frances S., MD (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Fuel System

Check engine light, sensors (includes O2 or oxygen sensor), emission control devices (includes EGR), engine computer, engine computer, fuel cap, fuel gauge/sender, fuel injection system, fuel pump, fuel leaks, stalling or hesitation.

What Owners Say

Emission control devices (includes EGR)

"Car would stall."

Anonymous, VA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"check engine light is always on, so is the cruise control light. Can't be adjusted. Apparently I need to get 3 catalytic converters installed before my next required inspection"

Judith S., NY (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Fuel cap

"Small hole in the fuel line near the fuel cap caused check engine light to come on and disengage cruise control"

Anonymous, ON (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Fuel injection system

"Warning light on and MPG worse"

Russ C., OR (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Fuel pump

"Fuel pump failure needing replaced. Fuel lines would often clog if the car sat for more then a month with bugs causing the care not able to be fueled."

Ronald D., MD (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Sensors (includes O2 or oxygen sensor)

"The problem is not resolved despite multiple attempts and cash to do so. The check engine light goes on solid, stays on long while then goes out on it's own. Then does same over and over. Been driving it for over 5 mths like this. Prior put a lot of time/ money into looking for the problem. Having shop diagnose/ turn off fixes nothing."

Anonymous, NH (2005 Subaru Forester Unsure 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"O2 sensor went bad and had to be replaced, which resolved the problem"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"check engine light came on several times due to catalytic converter"

Anonymous, NJ (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Have had to replace four O2 sensors (3 front, 1 back?), once when the catalytic converter needed replacing"

Anonymous, NC (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"For a number of years, I'd be in cruise control and it would stop working and flash, as would the engine light. I would have someone look at it and they said it was an emissions problem. It was finally fixed this past year"

Anonymous, NM (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"additional problem with fuel system"

Russ C., OR (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Gas intake sensor and filter"

Anonymous, NY (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The check engine light kept coming on. Had it reset several times and it kept coming on. Finally had to replace a sensor"

Ellen W., MD (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Had to replace the fuel pressure sensor at a cost of $402.83"

Anonymous, IL (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"o2 sensors - rusty fuel system - computer - catalytic converter - $3,000 later"

Anonymous, CT (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"converter"

Anonymous, KY (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"CAM sensor replaced"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Car "bucked" check engine light came on, quickly fixed low coast"

Daniel O., MA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"have been replaced 4 times"

Anonymous, AB (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Catalytic converter and oxygen sensor failed and were replaced"

Lynda P., GA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Upstream and downstream O2 sensors both failed within the past 12 months. Relatively inexpensive to fix and didn't appear to be related to the catalytic converter"

Jason T., NC (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"REPLACED SENSOR"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Drive System

Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, 4WD/AWD components, driveline vibration, traction control, electronic stability control (ESC), electrical failure.

What Owners Say

4WD/AWD components

"rear fluid coupling locks up on sharp turns"

C L., ME (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Significant vibration/shuttering in tight turns and reverse"

Richard S., WA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"All wheel drive failed and needed to be repaired"

Jimmy B., OH (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Transfer clutches in AWD system needed to be replaced"

Anonymous, NY (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"4 wheel drive transmission components failed. Expensive to fix si disconnected 4 wheel drive"

Anonymous, FL (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

CV joint

"BOTH PROBLEMS WERE INTER-RELATED AND WERE REPAIRED TOGETHER"

Anonymous, NJ (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Differential

"It seemed premature to have this problem with a car that had so few miles"

Anonymous, WA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"grinding noise when turning"

Cathy C., TX (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"It makes a noise and grinds. This car has so few miles it should last longer"

Cathy C., TX (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

Driveline vibration

"Driveline bearing failure"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

Driveshaft or axle

"Bearings failed on drive shaft. As it rotated it pounded against the floor making a terrible racket"

Louis M., PA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Driveshaft U-Joint failed. Driveshaft is one piece and does not allow replacement of u-joints only, resulting in expensive replacement of entire unit"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Drive shaft/front u-joint partially seized and coming apart. Replaced the propeller shaft"

Anonymous, UT (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The driveshaft needed replacing"

Anonymous, ON (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Components on right back axel where tire rotates had to be replaced as worn out and would eventually freeze up."

Anonymous, VA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Electrical failure

"There were 2 problems: 1) Whenever it rained, the car would shake and then the engine would die. Turns out the coil was bad and needed to be replaced. 2)The air conditioning wouldn't get cold. Turns out an electrical part needed to be swapped out ("

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Traction control

"Clutches. in rear end Chudder badly when turning. Feels like bad cv joints back there. Have disconnected rather than repair. = 2 wheel drive"

Fred R., GA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Electric System

Alternator, starter, hybrid battery and related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, distributor or rotor failure, spark plugs and wires failure.

What Owners Say

Body control module

"Front driver side window failed. $450 quote to fix - it remains broken"

Jason T., NC (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Cruise control

"Cruise light flickered, tho the cruise control mechanism was not working; i could not engage the cruise control"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Exterior lights (other than headlights)

"Fog lamp quit working"

Anonymous, OH (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"cannot access the bulb to replace"

Anonymous, NH (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Fog lights have burned out more than once"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Daytime driving light burned out. Usually no problem, but on the Forester the front body parts have to be removed to access the lamp. The parts are held with plastic clips that broke on removal. I stopped and didn't replace the lamp."

Anonymous, CO (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Gauges

"speedometer and gas gauge lights have quite working. this is frustrating at night because I can not monitor my speed and fuel supply. Only part of the gauge lights are not working. So far, I have tolerated the problem because the dashboard would have to be removed in an expensive attempt to correct the problem. This is an old car (2005) and dashboard lighting is poor. I'm sure Subaru has improved this on newer models."

Anonymous, WA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"At night, none of the gauges, including but not limited to the speedometer & gas gauges"

Anonymous, ON (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Gauges stopped working but gave no indication they were not working."

Robert C., MA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Speedometer and other main consul gages do not light-up at night."

Anonymous, WA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

Warning lights

"Check engine light is always on. Cruise control light is always blinking"

Richard A., ME (2005 Subaru Forester)

Power Equipment

Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, remote engine start, alarm or security system

What Owners Say

Alternator

"It will not charge the battery. It is the least reliable car I have ever had"

Anonymous, (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"alternator quit, but I had enough battery to make it to the repair shop. Alternator was replaced."

Anonymous, AK (2005 Subaru Forester Unsure 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Needed to be replaced"

Anonymous, PA (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Battery (not hybrid or electric)

"Replaced the original battery 2 years ago. The replacement started to fail a couple months ago. Dealer replaced the faulty battery at no charge."

Anonymous, MN (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Battery cables

"Cables had to be replaced, as they were causing the battery to discharge while the car was not being driven"

Anonymous, MO (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Coil

"coil not sparking properly"

Anonymous, WA (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

Electronic ignition

"Unstable engine rpm"

Anonymous, NY (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Spark plugs or wires failure

"Based on diagnostics after check engine light came on, was told two spark plugs became "displaced" and cylinder head needed replaced. We took to 2nd dealer and they replaced plugs and wires and used a top cylinder cleaner. Car works fine now"

Anonymous, SC (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Engine hesitation"

Anonymous, WA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Bad wire causing cylinder misfire in damp weather. Expected at this mileage"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Once the spark plugs was replaced along with the fuel injectors the problem was fixed"

Anonymous, ID (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

Engine Cooling

Radiator, cooling fan, antifreeze leaks, water pump, thermostat, overheating.

What Owners Say

Antifreeze leaks

"a LOT of leaks -- water, antifreeze and brake fluid"

Steven L., AK (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"There is loss of coolant particularly with long highway driving. There are seeps at head gaskets, but not major loss with normal driving. Tests for head gaskets negative, and hard to diagnose after fix of other leaks and sporadic nature. Mechanics"

Anonymous, CA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"a large hose was replaced and didn't fit quite right apparently. eventually had very small intermittent leak. was hard to find because it was intermittent. ultimately subaru dealer identified the problem correctly. many old hoses replaced during valve job. 111,000 miles"

L M., (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

Overheating

"Engine runs hot on the Hwy when ambient temp is 20C or higher"

Anonymous, MB (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Radiator

"the rubber mount for the fan and the radiator both had to be replaced"

Anonymous, KY (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Radiator developed a leak through a weld at the top, front"

Lynd B., AL (2005 Subaru Forester XT 2.5-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Car overheats going up a grade. Time for a flush"

Anonymous, UT (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Thermostat

"The thermostat was not properly working correctly. We had it replaced and all has been fine since then"

David M., FL (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The coolant line for the oil broke"

Anonymous, PA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Transmission Major

Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, clutch replacement.

What Owners Say

Clutch replacement

"It became nearly impossible to start the engine or shift gears. The clutch pedal required excessive pressure and was fully extended to the floor"

Anonymous, WA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"I had a hard time finding a mechanic to tackle the problem. The hydraulics associated with the 'hill holder' seized and the tires would lock up. I had it towed 3 times before I found a mechanic that would repair it. The first time it was to a Subaru dealer and they would not touch it because the tires would unlock when the tow truck picked it up, and they basically told me that it was my imagination. I have never been back to that dealership. Then next time it happened, on the way home from"

Stephen H., CA (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"no problem with the replacement; just needed replacement"

Anonymous, CO (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Clutch needed replaced as it was slipping"

Anonymous, ME (2005 Subaru Forester XS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Clutch stopped working on freeway, had to be replaced. 3rd one since new"

Anonymous, NM (2005 Subaru Forester 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The throw-out bearing stated making a lot of noise so I took it to the shop for replacement. Since it was only one hour more of labor to replace the clutch I had it replaced more as a preventive measure. The clutch itself was working fine."

Anonymous, FL (2005 Subaru Forester X 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

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