2016–2018 Subaru Forester Mk4 (SJ)
Browse our directory of 2016–2018 Subaru Forester Mk4 (SJ) vehicles. Access instant MOT history reports, tax status, and reliability insights for any registration listed below.
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Common Problems & Reliability
The 2016–2018 Subaru Forester Mk4 (SJ) has 2 known issues. 1 of these are classified as serious faults that could be expensive to repair. 1 are moderate concerns worth inspecting before purchase.
Lineartronic CVT Valve Body Failure
SeriousThe 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
ModerateSJ 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
Buying Tips for the 2016–2018 Subaru Forester Mk4 (SJ)
- ✓If you want a low-risk car, a well-serviced petrol is far easier to recommend than a late diesel.
- ✓On CVT cars, look for fluid changes around every 50,000 miles even if a seller calls the oil "sealed for life".
- ✓Test the air conditioning from cold and after a long idle, as weak compressors are a known Forester SJ annoyance.
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