Case file · SUBARU-FORESTER-2009-2013 · Field document

Subaru Forester 2009–2013 · Pre-purchase checklist

Bring this to the inspection. Every check below is specific to this generation's documented failure modes — not generic used-car advice.

1. Check 01

   Run the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup — confirm the Takata passenger-airbag inflator and the 2014 brake-line corrosion recall (salt states) were both completed.

2. Check 02

   On 2011–2013 (FB25): check the dipstick cold and ask directly how much oil it uses between changes. More than about 1/3 quart per 1,200 miles was Subaru's own threshold for 'excessive.' Ask whether a short block was ever replaced under the settlement.

3. Check 03

   On 2009–2010 (EJ253): look along the bottom of the block where the heads meet it for oil weep or coolant crust — the classic external head-gasket seep. Check coolant level and condition.

4. Check 04

   On the 2.5XT: demand oil-change records. Ask if the turbo oil-supply banjo-bolt screens were ever cleaned or removed. Walk away from a turbo car with a patchy history.

5. Check 05

   Listen for a droning hum that rises with road speed on a test drive — wheel bearings are a routine wear item on these.

6. Check 06

   Watch for a check-engine light with P0420/P0171-family codes — catalytic converters and front air-fuel sensors are known failure points.

7. Check 07

   On cars from the rust belt, get it on a lift and inspect brake and fuel lines even if the recall was performed.

8. Check 08

   Confirm the timing belt was done on schedule (EJ engines, ~105k intervals). The FB25 uses a chain — no belt service, but chain noise at high mileage is worth a listen.