Subaru Forester Mk4 (SJ)
The SJ is roomier and more family-friendly than the SH. Petrol cars are generally the safer used buy; diesel examples and neglected CVTs are where the big bills sit.
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Common Faults & Reliability
These are the most common documented problems for the Subaru Forester Mk4 (SJ), sorted by their typical impact and frequency.
Boxer Diesel Crankshaft and Bearing Failure
high severityEarly SJ diesels still carry the same core EE20 weakness as the SH, with bearing wear or crankshaft failure capable of ending the engine without much warning.
Lineartronic CVT Valve Body Failure
high severityThe SJ’s Lineartronic automatic can suffer failed solenoids in the valve body, bringing on warning lights, jerky take-up and expensive dealer quotes.
Air-Conditioning Compressor Failure
medium severitySJ Foresters can lose cooling because the compressor or clutch assembly wears out, a fault many owners only notice when summer arrives.
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Example Subaru Forester Mk4 (SJ) Vehicles
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