By Josh RosenbergWhile historically high new and used car prices have forced buyers to look for "older" vehicles that may have aged well as a way of saving money, the issues of reliability and dependability have become even more crucial.
And in terms of the 2012 Subaru Forester, it generally has earned a good reputation for reliability. Subaru as a brand is known for producing vehicles that hold up well over time, and the Forester is often cited as a dependable choice in its class.
That said, some owners have reported mechanical problems. All cars have some reported mechanical issues, including some that may be more specific to a particular model, even those with above-average reliability reputations. That's just a natural part of car ownership.
So here, ...
- We'll take a look at the overall pros and cons of buying a 2012 Forester all these years later.
- Next, we'll review its features as it was originally released in 2012.
- Then we'll list areas of possible mechanical problems that some owners have experienced that should be checked before buying.
- And finally, we'll suggest ways of buying one today at the lowest price.
But first, two very important tips:
1. Things To Do When Considering An "Older" Forester:
Locate Lower Mileage Vehicles: They are certainly out there to be found with careful and patient shopping. Be willing to drive a distance if you have to.
Vehicle History and Maintenance: Ask for the vehicle history report (CarFax or AutoCheck) as well as documented maintenance and repair records. If not provided by the dealer or private seller, it's best to move on.
Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have the vehicle independently inspected before making a final decision. This usually will cost in the $150-$200 range but is well worth it given the potentially thousands in savings over the long term.
2. And Know How To Get The Lowest Price:
Get Dealers To Compete For your Business: When you are searching vehicles to possibly purchase, the following is the absolute best way to get the lowest price, and it is extremely easy and stress-free.
Just go to a national car listing site, (I happen to prefer CarsDirect.com for their massive dealer participation and ease of use, although others will get the job done as well) and find several listed vehicles that you may be interested in.
Then write something like the following in the "Check Availability" box or "Contact Dealer" box or whatever the site you are using uses.
"Hello, I've contacted several dealers about cars I am interested in and am looking for the best value. I am also a serious buyer planning to make a decision soon. Please send me your best out-the-door price. Thank you.
After receiving the offers, follow up by explaining that based on the price, you're leaning in another direction but still really like their car and would certainly consider another offer. When dealers drop out, you'll know you're at the best price.
Using the internet to get dealers to compete for your business is extremely effective. More details on this and how to intereact with the dealers can be found here at Best Used Car Buying Techniques.
2012 Subaru Forester Pros
Cost Savings: An older Forester obviously comes with substantial savings upfront. However, this has to be weighed against the increased risk for higher maintenance and repair costs going forward.
Depreciation: Older vehicles have already undergone the steepest part of their depreciation curve. You won't experience the rapid depreciation that occurs in the initial years of a new car's life.
Reliability Expectations: Despite potential issues, the 2012 Forester, when well-maintained and without major existing problems, can still offer good reliability.
Lower Insurance Costs: Generally, insurance premiums for older cars tend to be lower compared to newer models, contributing to overall cost savings.
All-Wheel Drive: The Forester comes with standard all-wheel drive, providing better traction and stability in various road conditions, especially in inclement weather or off-road situations.
Safety Features: It has a strong reputation for safety, with good crash test ratings and available safety features like traction control, stability control, and optional advanced driver-assistance systems.
Spacious Interior: The Forester offers a roomy cabin with ample cargo space, making it suitable for hauling gear or accommodating passengers comfortably.
Good Ground Clearance: It has a decent ground clearance, making it suitable for light off-road driving and dealing with rough terrain.
2012 Subaru Forester Cons
Higher Maintenance and Repair Costs: As cars age, they typically require more frequent maintenance and are more prone to mechanical issues. Repair costs could start accumulating, especially if the vehicle hasn't been well-maintained or if it has existing issues.
Outdated Technology: Older vehicles often lack the latest tech features and safety advancements found in newer models. This can be a drawback if you value up-to-date technology in your vehicle.
Fuel Efficiency: Its fuel efficiency might not be as impressive as some other vehicles in its class, especially for city driving. Also, as an older vehicle, it might not be as fuel-efficient as newer models due to advancements in engine technology and efficiency.
Engine Performance: Some drivers find the engine underwhelming in terms of power and acceleration, especially when compared to other vehicles in its class.
Interior Quality: While spacious, the interior might not feel as upscale or luxurious as some competitors, with some plastics and materials feeling a bit cheap.
Road Noise: The Forester can be a bit noisy on the highway, as it might let in more road and wind noise compared to its rivals.
2012 Subaru Forester Review
When it comes to the small crossover SUV segment, the 2012 Forester ranked with the leaders thanks to its comfortable ride, spacious interior, ample cargo capacity, long list of standard features and strong available turbocharged versions.
In addition, it comes with standard all-wheel drive and impressive ground clearance, making for an extra benefit of providing solid off-road capabilities.
At the same time, its ability to get off the beaten path doesn't come at the sacrifice of ride quality as it's equally adept at providing a pleasant and comfortable driving experience around town and on the highway. And for those who want some extra get-up-and-go, the turbocharged version will be happy to oblige.
As much as this Forester may have going for it, it's always a good idea to check out other worthy competitors before making a final buying decision, including the Chevy Equinox, the Honda CR-V, the Kia Sorento and the Toyota RAV4, each with their own unique advantages.
Trims, Standard Features And Options:
The 2012 Subaru Forester is offered in six trims: 2.5X, 2.5X Premium, 2.5X Limited, 2.5XT Premium, 2.5X Touring and 2.5XT Touring.
Standard features on the already well-equipped base model 2.5X include power mirrors, power door locks, power windows, air-conditioning, cruise control, keyless entry, automatic headlights, halogen headlights, a trip computer, a power liftgate, a tire pressure monitor, vehicle anti-theft and engine immobilizer, 16-inch steel wheels, dual exhaust pipes, a tilt steering wheel, a height-adjustable driver seat, a full array of safety features (see below), and a 4-speaker audio system with a CD player, MP3 player, and an auxiliary audio jack.
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Moving up to the 2.5X Premium adds an 8-way power driver seat, a panoramic sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, reclining rear seatbacks, Bluetooth, USB/iPod integration and roof rails.
The 2.5X Limited goes on to add leather upholstery, automatic climate control, foglights and the All-Weather package which includes heated front seats, heated mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer, while the 2.5XT Premium adds all of the above plus the turbocharged engine, a rear roof spoiler and a hood scoop.
The 2.5X Touring has everything from the 2.5X Limited plus dual-zone automatic climate control, a rearview camera, electroluminescent instruments, bi-xenon headlights, a subwoofer and a one-touch folding rear seatback, while the 2.5XT Touring combines everything from the 2.5X Touring and 2.5XT Premium.
In terms of options, a portable Tom Tom Navigation system can be found on some 2.5X Premium models, as is the All-weather package. Some Limited and Touring models can also be found with a dash-mounted navigation system that includes voice controls, a rearview camera, text messaging, a 6-speaker sound system and an auxiliary audio/video input jack. Stand-alone options include satellite radio and a number of different exterior trim accents.
Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:
All Subaru Foresters are all-wheel drive. Under the hood of 2.5X models is a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed (flat) four-cylinder engine that produces 170 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque, while powering the XT models is a turbocharged version of the same engine that's good for a lively 224 horsepower and 226 pound-feet.
2.5X and 2.5X Premium models come standard with a 5-speed manual transmission, while a 4-speed automatic is optional. The 2.5X Limited, 2.5XT Premium, 2.5X Touring and 2.5XT Touring all come standard with the 4-speed automatic.
Gas mileage for the 2.5X, whether standard or automatic, is EPA-estimated at 21 mpg city and 27 mpg on the highway, about average for the segment. Fuel economy for the XT turbocharged models drops to 19 mpg city and 24 highway. However, its 0 to 60 mph time comes in at a very quick 6.8 seconds (automatic 2.5X models make the same sprint in an adequate but uninspiring 10.1 seconds).
Safety:
Standard safety features across all 2012 Subaru Foresters include stability control, traction control, antilock brakes (ABS) with brake assist, front-seat side airbags and front and rear side curtain airbags.
In government crash tests, the Forester received an overall rating of four stars (out of five), consisting of four stars for overall frontal-impact occupant protection and three stars for side-impact occupant protection.
Interior:
The 2012 Forester's cabin is attractive, comfortable, versatile and user-friendly. The Forester is also right up there as one of the roomiest in its class (like the CR-V and RAV4, it also straddles the compact/midsize SUV line).
The seating is comfortable and supportive both front and rear. Cargo capacity is also ample with 33.5 cubic feet with the 60/40-split rear seatback raised, expandable to 68.3 cubic feet by folding it down.
Slight downsides to the interior would be a bit too much use of hard plastics and a fairly tight middle rear seat when at the 5-passenger capacity.
Drive:
The drive of the 2012 Forester is both confident and comfortable. Both engines compare favorably in terms of power and fuel economy, while the steering is precise and maneuverability is enhanced by a tight turning circle. That said, its 4-speed automatic transmission, while smooth and competent, is lagging the more efficient 5-speeds of most competitors of the time.
Even so, the 2012 Forester puts in a capable road performance, especially the 2.5XT versions. In addition, its off-road abilities don't come at the sacrifice of overall ride quality, as the driving experience remains comfortable and smooth in normal driving. Road and wind noise is also not an issue, coming in about on par with other SUVs in the segment.
2012 Subaru Forester Mechanical Problem Watchlist:
The 2012 Forester has been generally reliable, but like any vehicle, it has had some reported issues and mechanical problems. It's important to note that these problems may not affect all cars, and previous owner maintenance regularity and driving habits can have a significant impact of a vehicle's reliability.
Some reported issues which should be included in an inspection before buying include:
Engine Problems: Some drivers reported issues with excessive oil consumption. This problem could lead to engine performance issues and potentially engine failure if not addressed.
Head Gasket Concerns: Subaru had a history of head gasket problems in some of their models. While this was less prevalent in the 2012 model, it's worth keeping an eye on as improper maintenance or overheating can sometimes lead to head gasket issues.
Transmission Problems: Although not widespread, a few owners reported issues with transmission reliability, such as jerky shifting or premature transmission failure.
Suspension and Steering Components: Some drivers experienced issues with suspension components, particularly with front struts and steering. This could result in noise, clunking, or instability in the steering.
Electrical System: There have been occasional reports of electrical system glitches, including problems with the dashboard lights, sensors, or electrical accessories.
Again, it's essential to keep in mind that the prevalence and severity of these issues can vary significantly between individual vehicles. Regular maintenance and addressing any issues promptly may have helped mitigate potential problems in many of these Foresters.
Also, Always Know The Value Of Your Trade-In
Whether you are trading or selling on your own, it's just a good idea ... even whether you are in the market or not at the moment. You can then use this important information for a number of purposes ... to negotiate with a dealer, or to know how to price your car in the retail market, or simply to know the value of one of your assets, which is always a good idea.
Getting trade-in values online tend to vary a lot from site to site. But I've found the one at Edmunds Trade-In Quotes is particularly comprehensive and accurate.
It's free and just takes a couple of minutes. I think what helps its accuracy is the inputs will include either your plate# or VIN# followed by many simple, but specific, yes/no questions. It really focuses in on the detail of the specific vehicle.