IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2018 Subaru Forester Mk5 (SK)

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2018 Subaru Forester Mk5 (SK). None are considered critical, but they're worth knowing about before you buy.

4
Known Issues
0
Serious
4
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Lineartronic CVT Hesitation or Judder

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

Later CVTs are generally better, but neglected fluid changes can still lead to shuddering, hesitation and expensive transmission diagnostics.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£1,800
Warning Signs:

Shudder under light throttle, Delayed response pulling away, Transmission warning messages

What to Inspect:
  • Drive at low speed in traffic-like conditions
  • Check for smooth response on inclines
  • Look for documented CVT servicing rather than verbal assurances
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Starlink Infotainment Screen Faults

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The Starlink touchscreen fitted from around 2013 onwards can freeze, go blank or fail to reboot, with owners quoting roughly £1,500 for a dealer replacement unit. It is an annoyance rather than a safety fault, but electrical and dashboard-message faults are a common MOT area on the Forester.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£1,500
Warning Signs:

Frozen or blank touchscreen, Delayed response to inputs, Reverse camera or sat-nav not loading

What to Inspect:
  • Test navigation, media and phone pairing
  • Watch for delayed reverse camera loading
  • Ask whether the head unit has been updated or replaced
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Suspension Knocking and Worn Bushes

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

Owners report creaks and knocks from the front end and rear subframe over speed bumps and potholes, usually traced to worn control arm bushes, strut top mounts or sway bar links. Suspension is the standout MOT failure category for the Forester, and Subaru recalled Foresters built April 2017 to May 2019 because rear stabiliser-bracket bolts could work loose.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£600
Warning Signs:

Knocks or creaks over speed bumps and potholes, Clunking from the front or rear suspension, Uneven tyre wear

What to Inspect:
  • Drive over speed bumps at low speed listening for knocks
  • Check for play in suspension joints and links
  • Ask whether the rear stabiliser-bracket recall was carried out
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Exhaust System Corrosion and Leaks

ModerateExhaust & Emissions

The SK's exhaust system can rust under UK winter salt, producing loud blowing or hissing noises and a potential MOT failure on exhaust noise, emissions or leaks. Noise, emissions and leaks is a recorded failure area on the Forester, more visible as the car builds mileage.

Est. Repair Cost: £250–£700
Warning Signs:

Loud exhaust roar or hissing, Rattling from underneath the car, Failed MOT on exhaust noise or emissions

What to Inspect:
  • Listen for an exhaust blow with the engine cold
  • Inspect the silencer and pipes for rust holes
  • Check MOT history for repeated exhaust advisories
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2018 Subaru Forester Mk5 (SK)

  • Check Eyesight warnings clear immediately and ask about any windscreen replacement, as calibration is expensive if done badly.
  • e-Boxer cars should feel smooth in stop-start traffic; any hybrid or charging warning deserves investigation.
  • A quiet CVT and evidence of fluid changes matter more than a glossy dealer stamp book alone.
2019
Check a 2018 Subaru Forester Mk5 (SK) by Registration