2022 Subaru Forester Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
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Quick Facts · 2022 Subaru Forester
- Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the power train:automatic transmission:park/neutral start interlock switch.
- Scores roughly in line with adjacent Subaru Forester years — consistency that often signals a stable platform generation.
- The system most likely to surface first: continuously variable transmission (cvt) (major severity).
The 2022 Subaru Forester at a glance
- Is the 2022 Subaru Forester reliable?
- Autojunket rates the 2022 Subaru Forester 87/100 (grade B+), categorized as low risk. A top-tier choice for reliability, safety, and all-weather capability, provided the CVT is properly maintained.
- Should I buy a used 2022 Subaru Forester?
- Autojunket recommends reading the full reliability report before buying a 2022 Subaru Forester. The 2022 Subaru Forester is an incredibly solid and smart purchase for anyone seeking a safe, versatile, and reliable compact SUV. Its strengths in safety, AWD performance, and fuel economy far outweigh its minor quirks, making it a highly recommended vehicle, especially if you prioritize adventurous capability and…
- Which Subaru Forester years are the most reliable?
- Best model years to buy: 2020-2024 (SK generation). Years to avoid: None within this generation. Generally, the 2022 model is a well-refined example..
- What are the most common problems with the 2022 Subaru Forester?
- The top failure points on the 2022 Subaru Forester are Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) (typically around 60,000-120,000 miles), Electrical / Infotainment System (typically around 5,000-40,000 miles), Air Conditioning (AC) System (typically around 30,000-70,000 miles). Autojunket's full report includes repair-cost ranges and inspection checklists for each.
- At what mileage do problems start on the 2022 Subaru Forester?
- The first major mileage danger zone for the 2022 Subaru Forester is around 30,000. Low Risk Zone — At this mileage, the Forester is still relatively new. Focus on routine oil changes, tire rotations, and addressing any infotainment glitches or minor electrical gremlins that might emerge early in ownership. Keep an eye on brake wear.
Every answer is generated from real repair, recall, and ownership data — full breakdown in the report.
Read the full free reportShould You Buy the 2022 Subaru Forester?
The 2022 Subaru Forester is an exceptionally safe and reliable compact SUV, making it an outstanding choice for families and adventurers alike. While its Boxer engine and Symmetrical AWD provide a robust foundation, potential owners should be mindful of the continuously variable transmission's long-term health and minor electrical system quirks to ensure worry-free ownership.
The 2022 Subaru Forester is an incredibly solid and smart purchase for anyone seeking a safe, versatile, and reliable compact SUV. Its strengths in safety, AWD performance, and fuel economy far outweigh its minor quirks, making it a highly recommended vehicle, especially if you prioritize adventurous capability and…
Best Model Years
2020-2024 (SK generation)
Years to Avoid
None within this generation. Generally, the 2022 model is a well-refined example.
Biggest Strengths
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system
- Exceptional crash safety ratings
- Reliable and efficient Boxer engine
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2022 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.
While generally smooth, Subaru's Lineartronic CVT can experience issues like shuddering, noise, or even premature failure if fluid changes are neglected. Sensors within the CVT can also fail, leading to erratic behavior or limp mode.
Owners frequently report issues with the Starlink infotainment system, including freezing screens, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto glitches. Less commonly, parasitic battery drain or sensor-related warning…
Some owners have reported premature failure of the AC compressor or condenser, leading to loss of cooling. This can sometimes be attributed to manufacturing defects or road debris impact on the condenser.
2022 Subaru Forester Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2022 Subaru Forester most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the Forester is still relatively new. Focus on routine oil changes, tire rotations, and addressing any infotainment glitches or minor electrical gremlins that might emerge early in ownership. Keep an eye on brake wear.
Maintenance Zone
This is a critical service interval. Beyond regular maintenance, consider a preventative CVT fluid drain and fill, especially if you're in severe conditions or plan to keep the vehicle long-term. Inspect suspension components for wear an…
Elevated Risk Zone
Components are entering their heavier wear phase. The CVT becomes a more significant concern; any hesitation or shudder should be investigated immediately. Drive belts, hoses, and major suspension components will likely need attention. E…
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, major component failures become more likely. The engine may show increased oil consumption, and a CVT replacement is a distinct possibility if not meticulously maintained. Budget for significant preventative mainten…
2022 Subaru Forester Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2022 Subaru Forester on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally
How Long Does the 2022 Subaru Forester Last?
Consistent preventative maintenance, especially for the CVT, is paramount to ensuring the Forester easily surpasses 150,000 miles without major incident. Do not skip scheduled services.
What 2022 Subaru Forester Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exceptional all-weather traction and light off-road capability with standard AWD.
- High safety scores and numerous active safety features (EyeSight) provide peace of mind.
- Spacious and practical cargo area, easy to load and unload.
- Comfortable ride quality that soaks up bumps effectively.
Common Frustrations
- Engine can feel underpowered, especially for highway merging or passing.
- Infotainment system can be clunky, slow, or prone to freezing.
- Noticeable road noise at highway speeds compared to some rivals.
- Interior materials, while durable, can feel a bit utilitarian.
Who Should Buy the 2022 Subaru Forester?
Best For
- Families prioritizing safety and all-weather capability
- Outdoor enthusiasts and active lifestyle individuals
- Commuters in snowy or rainy climates
Not Ideal For
- Performance-oriented drivers looking for quick acceleration
- Drivers who dislike the CVT driving experience
How the 2022 Subaru Forester Compares to Rivals
The Forester stands out with its standard Symmetrical AWD and superior safety ratings, often matching or exceeding the reliability of its closest Japanese rivals in most categories, though its CVT is a slightly more common concern than traditional automatics in some competitors.
More Reliable Than
- Ford Escape (pre-2020 models for reliability)
- Jeep Cherokee (especially with older 9-speed automatic)
- Nissan Rogue (older CVT generations)
Comparable To
- Honda CR-V
- Toyota RAV4
NHTSA Recalls
1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
What breaks on the 2022 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 2022 Subaru Forester
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Where the 2022 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 2022 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
Recommended Reading for the Subaru Forester
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