Subaru Forester Generation 2 (2004–2010)

Subaru Forester Generation 2 (2004–2010) — production years, market prices by model year, NHTSA recalls and owner complaints, and live listings for sale on VehiSales.

Subaru Forester — body generations

Generation Produced Facelift
Generation 2 2004–2010 —
Generation 3 2011–2013 —
Generation 4 2014–2018 —
Generation 5 2019–2025 —
Generation 6 2026–present —

Vehicles within one generation share the same platform and body style.

Engines used in the Forester

Engine families this model shipped with, by NHTSA VIN build data — each links to every model that shares it.

Engine Years in this model Also used in VIN builds ⓘ
Subaru 2.5L Boxer (FB25/EJ25) 2011–2026 8 models 226
Subaru 2.0L 4-cylinder 2015–2023 6 models 17

Subaru Forester fuel economy: every year & engine (EPA) →

Used Subaru Forester prices by year → · Jeep Wrangler vs Subaru Forester · Ford Explorer vs Subaru Forester · Honda CR-V vs Subaru Forester

About this generation

The second generation was introduced as a 2003 model at the 2002 Chicago Auto Show, based on the new Impreza platform, featuring several fine-tune improvements over the past model. The 2003 Forester features weight-saving refinements such as an aluminum hood, perforated rails, and a hydro-formed front sub-frame. The most noticeable change was the offering of 2.5 L versions (normally aspirated and turbocharged) and in the U.S.

the introduction of the turbocharged 2.5-liter model. In the United States, the naturally aspirated X (previously L) and XS (previously S) were released in 2003. In 2004, the turbocharged XT trim was released in the USA. However, a turbocharged version was available since the late 1990s elsewhere in the world. The X and XS models feature a 2.5 L SOHC EJ253 engine, while the XT model features a 2.5 L turbocharged DOHC engine.

Both engines have timing belt (camshaft). The XT model uses the same Mitsubishi Motors TD04 turbocharger used in the Subaru Impreza WRX. All Forester 2.5 L engines are of the interference engine type. The flat engine can be mounted lower in the car and gives the Forester a lower center of gravity than other 4x4s or soft roaders. The two-liter gasoline boxer-four engined version is reported to do of fuel in town.

Starting with the 2004 XT, the turbocharged version had Active valve control system cylinder heads. The i-AVLS (active valve lift system) became standard on the naturally aspirated version of the Forester in 2006. This increased horsepower and torque figures to 173 HP and 166 ft-lbs. The 2006 XT received a higher compression ratio to 8.4:1 from 8.2:1. This increased the XT's power to 230 HP and 235 ft-lbs.

For the 2006 model year, Subaru gave the SG Forester a facelift, using redesigned headlights, tail lights, hood, grille, front bumper, and side mouldings. MY03-04 Models has a 4-Star ANCAP safety rating. MY05 Forester Model had a mid-life update, which increased its ANCAP safety rating to 5 Stars. In 2006, the turbocharged engine (powering the Forester XT) was awarded International Engine of the Year. This engine is also used in the Subaru Impreza WRX, as well as the re-badged Saab 9-2X Aero.

All of the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engines for this generation have a timing belt made of rubber and cord. A belt must be replaced. These engines are interference engines, meaning that if the timing belt breaks or stretches, the pistons will hit the valves, requiring an engine teardown, and a likely rebuild. Also, if this belt is replaced around 105,000 miles, it is a good idea to change the water pump, thermostat, belt tensioner and all the idler pulleys for this belt.

The water pump and thermostat are behind this belt. In Australia for the Series II (MY06) cars, Subaru changed the recommended service interval for the timing belt replacement from 100,000 kilometers to 125,000 kilometers. The 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine in the first-generation Foresters featured head gaskets which were prone to premature failure. For 2003 and later, this problem was addressed with a revised, higher performing design, but it remained a problem.

For the U.S. market, the car was offered with either the 2.5 SOHC naturally aspirated engine, or the 2.5 DOHC turbocharged version added in 2004. In 2005, the L.L. Bean edition was added. In 2006, the styling was updated, Active valve lift system was added to non-turbo engines to improve power and efficiency, the XS model was deleted, and the Premium model was added. In 2007, a bottle holder was added to front door panels, the 'Sports' trim level was added, which changed some interior and exterior features and added the VDT/VDC transmission to the XT Sports turbo Automatic model.

In 2008, TPMS was added, the L.L. Bean model deleted rear load-leveling suspension but gained a radio upgrade, and the XT Turbo Limited models got the VDT/VDC Auto transmission.

Source: Wikipedia — Subaru Forester — Second generation (SG; 2002), CC BY-SA.

Recalls & complaints by year (NHTSA)

Year Recalls Complaints Most reported
2004 2 219 Fuel/Propulsion System, Fuel System, Gasoline
2005 1 93 Suspension, Vehicle Speed Control, Fuel/Propulsion System
2006 2 88 Vehicle Speed Control, Suspension, Engine
2007 1 72 Suspension, Power Train, Engine
2008 1 50 Suspension, Engine, Vehicle Speed Control
2009 18 178 Air Bags, Engine, Electrical System
2010 17 262 Seats, Air Bags, Service Brakes

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.

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