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Subaru Forester Mk3 (SH) Problems by Year

The square-edged SH is a proper rural workhorse, but this is the Forester generation most exposed to boxer diesel failures, sagging self-levelling suspension and hidden rust underneath.

Select a year below to see the specific problems affecting that model year, with estimated repair costs and severity ratings.

1
Year Periods
3
Known Issues
1
Serious Faults
2
Moderate Issues

Select a Year Period

2008–20133 issues

Browse Subaru Forester Mk3 (SH) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for the Subaru Subaru Forester Mk3 (SH).

View Subaru Forester Mk3 (SH) Directory

Buying Tips for the Subaru Forester Mk3 (SH)

  • ✓A diesel needs impeccable servicing and should sound smooth at idle; any deep knock is a walk-away warning.
  • ✓Check the rear ride height on level ground, as failed self-levelling dampers leave the car sitting noticeably low.
  • ✓Inspect the rear subframe, spring seats and inner arches carefully rather than relying on a clean MOT pass.
Check a Subaru Forester Mk3 (SH) by Registration