2017 Subaru Forester Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
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Quick Facts · 2017 Subaru Forester
- Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the air bags:sensor:occupant classification.
- Scores 5 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2019 Subaru Forester earns a 88.
- The system most likely to surface first: continuously variable transmission (cvt) (major severity).
The 2017 Subaru Forester at a glance
- Is the 2017 Subaru Forester reliable?
- Autojunket rates the 2017 Subaru Forester 83/100 (grade B), categorized as low risk. A safe and capable compact SUV, but the CVT demands careful consideration and service history verification.
- Should I buy a used 2017 Subaru Forester?
- Autojunket recommends reading the full reliability report before buying a 2017 Subaru Forester. While the 2017 Forester offers compelling value in safety and utility, the known CVT vulnerabilities mean you must proceed with caution. A thorough pre-purchase inspection and a commitment to proactive transmission maintenance are non-negotiable for long-term satisfaction. With due diligence, it can be a fantastic,…
- Which Subaru Forester years are the most reliable?
- Best model years to buy: 2018 (minor improvements), 2016-2017 (later years of this generation). Years to avoid: 2014-2015 (higher incidence of oil consumption, earlier CVT revisions).
- What are the most common problems with the 2017 Subaru Forester?
- The top failure points on the 2017 Subaru Forester are Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) (typically around 60,000-120,000 miles), Wheel Bearings (typically around 50,000-90,000 miles), Oil Consumption (FB25 Engine) (typically around 80,000+ miles). Autojunket's full report includes repair-cost ranges and inspection checklists for each.
- At what mileage do problems start on the 2017 Subaru Forester?
- The first major mileage danger zone for the 2017 Subaru Forester is around 30,000. Low Risk Zone — At this mileage, the vehicle should still be under its original factory warranty (or just beyond). Focus on verifying basic maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations were performed.
Every answer is generated from real repair, recall, and ownership data — full breakdown in the report.
Read the full free reportShould You Buy the 2017 Subaru Forester?
The 2017 Subaru Forester is an excellent choice for a used compact SUV, offering strong all-weather capability and a reputation for safety. While the CVT requires vigilant maintenance and attention, proactive ownership can ensure many years of dependable service. Don't let a few known quirks deter you from a solid, family-friendly vehicle.
While the 2017 Forester offers compelling value in safety and utility, the known CVT vulnerabilities mean you must proceed with caution. A thorough pre-purchase inspection and a commitment to proactive transmission maintenance are non-negotiable for long-term satisfaction. With due diligence, it can be a fantastic,…
Best Model Years
2018 (minor improvements), 2016-2017 (later years of this generation)
Years to Avoid
2014-2015 (higher incidence of oil consumption, earlier CVT revisions)
Biggest Strengths
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
- Excellent crash test ratings and safety features
- Practicality and cargo space
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2017 Subaru Forester, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The TR580 CVT can develop internal issues, leading to shuddering, slipping, or complete failure. This is often linked to fluid degradation and valve body issues, especially if proper fluid changes are neglected. Torque converter shudder…
Front and sometimes rear wheel bearings can fail prematurely, exhibiting a droning or grinding noise that worsens with speed. This is a common Subaru issue across several models and generations, likely due to seal design or bearing quality.
While significantly improved over earlier years, some 2.5L FB25 Boxer engines may still exhibit higher-than-average oil consumption between oil changes, necessitating regular monitoring and topping off. This isn't a catastrophic failure…
2017 Subaru Forester Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2017 Subaru Forester most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the vehicle should still be under its original factory warranty (or just beyond). Focus on verifying basic maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations were performed.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage often coincides with major service intervals, including spark plugs and potentially CVT fluid. It's a critical point to check for developing wheel bearing noise and assess CVT health.
Elevated Risk Zone
Expect potential for P0420 CEL (catalytic converter/O2 sensor), increased chance of wheel bearing failure, and the CVT showing signs of wear if not meticulously maintained. Budget for these possibilities.
High Risk Zone
Vehicles at this mileage will require more significant preventative maintenance and component replacement. The CVT becomes a major concern; a well-documented service history is paramount here. Oil consumption may become more noticeable.
2017 Subaru Forester Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2017 Subaru Forester on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-650
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,800 occasionally (e.g., wheel bearings, O2 sensor, brake job)
How Long Does the 2017 Subaru Forester Last?
Focus on well-maintained examples under 80,000 miles. If considering a higher mileage vehicle, an impeccable CVT service history is absolutely crucial.
What 2017 Subaru Forester Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exceptional all-weather capability due to Symmetrical AWD
- Outstanding visibility from large windows and upright driving position
- Spacious cargo area and easy roof rack integration for gear
- Strong safety ratings and available EyeSight driver assistance
Common Frustrations
- Noisy CVT under hard acceleration; 'rubber band' effect
- Interior materials can feel dated and less premium than competitors
- Infotainment system can be slow and clunky
- Engine can feel underpowered in the 2.5L variant, especially with full cargo
Who Should Buy the 2017 Subaru Forester?
Best For
- Drivers in snowy or rainy climates needing reliable AWD
- Families seeking a safe, practical, and spacious compact SUV
- Outdoor enthusiasts who need cargo space for gear
Not Ideal For
- Buyers seeking a sporty or performance-oriented driving experience
- Those who prefer a more refined or luxurious interior
How the 2017 Subaru Forester Compares to Rivals
The Forester holds its own against many rivals with its standard AWD and utility, but its CVT reliability is a common point of concern where some competitors, particularly Toyota, often shine.
More Reliable Than
- Nissan Rogue (earlier generations, especially with CVT)
- Ford Escape (some EcoBoost engine generations)
- Jeep Cherokee (early KL generation)
Comparable To
- Honda CR-V (older models, pre-CVT)
- Mazda CX-5 (first-gen)
NHTSA Recalls
1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Forester vehicles equipped with heated seats. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may loosen.
What breaks on the 2017 Subaru Forester?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
Autojunket OSC · OSC Transfer
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Subaru Forester by Year
Compare AutoScores across nearby years of the Subaru Forester. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by AutoScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2017 Subaru Forester
Parts and accessories matched to your 2017 Subaru Forester
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Where the 2017 Subaru Forester report beats Carfax + CR
Carfax tells you if it crashed. Consumer Reports rates the whole nameplate. Autojunket tells you what will actually break on this specific year — and how to negotiate it.
Year-specific reliability score
Common problems + repair costs
Mileage danger zone map
AI negotiation script + walk-away price
Single report price
Frequently Asked Questions
Sell your 2017 Subaru Forester for what it's actually worth.
Log every service on your Subaru Forester. When it's time to sell, hand the buyer a signed PDF — every receipt, mileage-verified, close the deal at your price.
- OSC Transfer PDF — every receipt
- Snap-a-receipt AI log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Shareable buyer view link
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