IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2016–2018 Subaru Forester Mk4 (SJ)

We've identified 2 known issues that can affect the 2016–2018 Subaru Forester Mk4 (SJ). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

2
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Lineartronic CVT Valve Body Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

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

Est. Repair Cost: £800–£1,800
Warning Signs:

"AT Oil Temp" warning, Jerky pull-away, Hesitation when coming to a stop

What to Inspect:
  • Ensure all dash warnings extinguish cleanly
  • Drive the car from cold and fully warm
  • Ask for evidence of CVT fluid servicing
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Air-Conditioning Compressor Failure

ModerateCooling System

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

Est. Repair Cost: £450–£900
Warning Signs:

AC blows warm at idle, Compressor chatter, Cooling fades in traffic

What to Inspect:
  • Run the climate control on a hot test drive
  • Listen for compressor noise when AC engages
  • Check for recent regas receipts that failed to fix the issue
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 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.
2014–2015
Check a 2016–2018 Subaru Forester Mk4 (SJ) by Registration