Dealer visit checklist
2024 Subaru Forester checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2024 Subaru Forester problems to check
- Oil consumption issues have been reported on the 2.5L FB25 engine — check oil level every 1,000-2,000 miles especially in the first two years
- CVT transmission can feel sluggish under hard acceleration and may require fluid changes more frequently than the 60,000-mile interval Subaru suggests — consider changing around 30,000-40,000 miles
- Head gasket concerns are less prevalent on the 2024 generation than older Subarus, but cooling system maintenance should not be deferred
- Infotainment system (11.6-inch portrait screen) has received mixed reliability reviews with occasional software glitches requiring resets or dealer updates
- Windshield replacement costs are elevated due to EyeSight camera recalibration required after glass replacement, adding $200-$400 on top of glass cost
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING: Subaru of America, Inc.
- POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT: Subaru of America, Inc.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $27,500 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away