REDLINE ALLEYSubaru Forester SH buying guide
2008 to 2012. An SH suits a buyer who wants a practical AWD wagon and confirms the timing belt and head gasket history.
Big jobs
- Head gaskets. Head gasket leaks are reported, more so at high km, and the repair is expensive.
- Timing belt on the EJ engines. Changing the timing belt every 5 years or 100,000 km is described as essential, along with the tensioners, guides and water pump.
- FB25 oil consumption (2011 onward non turbo). The FB25 engine fitted from 2011 in some markets can use oil between changes, and Subaru repaired some under warranty.
- XT turbo clutch and driveline. Owner abuse wears the clutch and driveline on the XT turbo.
Workshop jobs
- Underbody and front air dam damage. Off road use crushes the front air dam, floors and sills and shortens the life of driveshaft boots and the exhaust. Lifted cars may show rub marks in the inner guards.
- Exhaust heat shield and catalytic converter. A loose exhaust heat shield rattles at certain revs, and catalytic converters fail at higher km with a P0420 or P0421 code.
- Engine oil leaks. Oil leaks are reported, with a burnt oil smell under the bonnet.
Small jobs
- 6 speed manual recall. Some 6 speed manual gearboxes were recalled for lubrication flaws that could damage components.
Questions for the seller
- Is it the 2.0 or 2.5 non turbo, the XT turbo or the diesel, and manual or auto?
- When was the timing belt last done, and did it include the water pump?
- Has it had head gasket work?
- Has it been off road or lifted?
Sources
Researched 2026-11-04. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.