The Subaru Forester is a beloved compact SUV with a loyal following — praised for its standard all-wheel drive, roomy interior, and excellent visibility. But the Forester has two notable vulnerability patterns depending on its generation: head gasket issues on older EJ-engine models and CVT wear on newer FB-engine variants.
Quick Answer
The Subaru Forester is a practical and capable compact SUV — but head gasket failure costs $2,000–$4,500, CVT replacement runs $4,000–$6,500, and A/C compressor failure hits $900–$1,700. Athena Auto Protection covers all of these with a flat $100 deductible.
Key Takeaways
- 1Head gasket failure on EJ25-powered Foresters (2001–2009) costs $2,000–$4,500.
- 2CVT replacement on 2014+ Foresters costs $4,000–$6,500 and is a growing failure point.
- 3A/C compressor failures are common across Forester generations and cost $900–$1,700.
- 4The Forester's factory powertrain warranty runs 5 years/60,000 miles.
- 5Athena covers Foresters under all four plan tiers with a $100 deductible.
- 6All repairs can be done at any licensed shop — including Subaru dealerships.
Common Subaru Forester Failure Points
Head Gasket (EJ25 Engine — 2001–2009)
The EJ25 2.5L engine used in 3rd and early 4th generation Foresters has a well-documented external head gasket leak issue. While often manageable initially, failing to address it leads to coolant loss, overheating, and potential engine damage. Head gasket replacement costs $2,000 to $4,500 depending on additional components replaced during the repair.
Subaru issued an extended warranty for head gasket repairs on affected EJ25 models, but most of those extensions have expired. The repair remains one of the most commonly cited ownership costs for early-generation Forester owners and is a primary reason extended warranty coverage is valuable.
CVT Transmission (2014+ Models)
Subaru's Lineartronic CVT, introduced on the 4th generation Forester (2014+), can develop shuddering, hunting, and wear symptoms after 80,000–120,000 miles. Full CVT replacement costs $4,000 to $6,500 — among the most expensive repairs on newer Foresters.
A/C Compressor
Athena Auto Protection
Cap Your Repair Risk at $100
- $100 flat deductible — every repair, every time
- Claims paid directly to the shop within 48 hours
- Coverage available in 48 states
A/C compressor failure is a recurring issue across Forester generations, typically manifesting between 80,000–130,000 miles. Replacement costs $900 to $1,700 depending on model year.
Cooling System and Wheel Bearings
Water pump failure and wheel bearing issues are periodic concerns on older Foresters. Wheel bearing replacement costs $350–$700 per wheel and water pump replacement runs $500–$900.
What Athena's Coverage Pays For
- Powertrain Plus: Engine internals, CVT/transmission, drive axle
- Enhanced Powertrain: Adds A/C, electrical, and fuel delivery
- Deluxe Coverage: All major systems — recommended for Forester owners
- New Car Coverage: Near-complete mechanical and electrical coverage
You pay just $100 per visit. Athena pays the shop directly.
Sources & Methodology
Last Updated: March 2026
RepairPal: Subaru Forester repair cost estimates and reliability data (2024–2025)
Consumer Reports: Subaru Forester reliability ratings and owner satisfaction (2023–2025)
Subaru: Forester factory warranty terms and extended head gasket coverage details
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- $100 flat deductible — every repair, every time
- Claims paid directly to the shop within 48 hours
- Coverage available in 48 states