2013 Subaru Forester Mk4 (SJ)

Browse our directory of 2013 Subaru Forester Mk4 (SJ) vehicles. Access instant MOT history reports, tax status, and reliability insights for any registration listed below.

Registration Directory

Common Problems & Reliability

2
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2013 Subaru Forester Mk4 (SJ) has 3 known issues. 2 of these are classified as serious faults that could be expensive to repair. 1 are moderate concerns worth inspecting before purchase.

Boxer Diesel Crankshaft and Bearing Failure

Serious

Early 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.

Symptoms: Knocking from the lower engine, Oil contamination with metallic debris...

Est. repair cost: £3,000–£6,000

Lineartronic CVT Valve Body Failure

Serious

The SJ’s Lineartronic automatic can suffer failed solenoids in the valve body, bringing on warning lights, jerky take-up and expensive dealer quotes.

Symptoms: "AT Oil Temp" warning, Jerky pull-away...

Est. repair cost: £800–£1,800

Air-Conditioning Compressor Failure

Moderate

SJ Foresters can lose cooling because the compressor or clutch assembly wears out, a fault many owners only notice when summer arrives.

Symptoms: AC blows warm at idle, Compressor chatter...

Est. repair cost: £450–£900

View detailed Subaru Forester Mk4 (SJ) fault guide

Buying Tips for the 2013 Subaru Forester Mk4 (SJ)

  • Be extra cautious with early 2013 2.0D cars unless the history is unusually strong.

Check Any Vehicle

Don't see your specific car listed? Enter any UK registration number for an instant vehicle history check — including MOT history, tax status, finance check, and write-off data.

Free Vehicle Check