IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2013 Subaru Forester Mk3 (SH)

Final year of the SH Forester. The newest examples are now over 10 years old, so expect age-related wear on rubber components and suspension bushes. Well-cached examples with full service history are increasingly sought after.

What changed for 2013

  • •Final production year before SJ replacement
  • •All models now equipped with ESP as standard

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Structural corrosion on chassis rails
  • !Worn radius arm bushes causing vague steering
  • !CVT transmission issues on automatic models
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Boxer Diesel Crankshaft Failure

SeriousEngine

The EE20 diesel in SH Foresters is notorious for snapped crankshafts or spun main bearings, often turning the car into an uneconomic repair.

Est. Repair Cost: £3,000–£6,000
Warning Signs:

Deep metallic knocking, Sudden loss of power, Metal flakes in the oil

What to Inspect:
  • Demand specialist-grade service history
  • Listen carefully from cold and hot
  • Be especially cautious with high-mileage 2.0D cars
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Rear Self-Levelling Suspension Failure

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

Factory self-levelling rear dampers lose pressure and leak, leaving the back of the car sagging when unladen and especially when towing or carrying weight.

Est. Repair Cost: £500–£1,200
Warning Signs:

Rear sits low, Bouncy rear axle, Fluid misting on rear dampers

What to Inspect:
  • Compare both rear arch gaps
  • Look for oil staining on the shocks
  • Ask whether a standard spring-and-strut conversion has already been fitted
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Rear Subframe and Mount Corrosion

ModerateBodywork & Rust

UK road salt can attack the rear subframe, suspension mounts and brake pipe area long before the body panels look especially rusty.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£1,500
Warning Signs:

Heavy rust scaling underneath, Advisories for corrosion near mounts, Seized suspension bolts

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the rear cradle on a ramp if possible
  • Read past MOT corrosion advisories closely
  • Check for fresh underseal hiding flaky metal
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2013 Subaru Forester Mk3 (SH)

  • ✓Look for a full service history from specialist Subaru garages
  • ✓Check the chassis for any signs of welding or repair
  • ✓Test the CVT transmission for smooth operation
2012
Check a 2013 Subaru Forester Mk3 (SH) by Registration