Subaru Forester 2012 Problems

Subaru's EE20 diel engine is an interesting one as it was claimed to be the world's first turbo-diesel engine with Subaru's trademark boxer layout (where the cylinders run in pairs, opposed to each other (like an air-cooled Volkswagen).

The brand has switched from timing belts to timing chains and back at various points in its engineering history, but the EE20 in your car is from the point in history where timing chains were in vogue at Subaru. As such, the timing chain should last the life of the engine and not require periodic replacement as a timing belt does.

Unless you’re spending the winter months in alpine areas use 5W-30.

Remember the speed limit is the maximum allowed if the conditions are favourable. If you disregard the Subaru recommendation you are taking a risk, and you could find yourself in trouble with your insurer in the event of a crash.

First you should get their agreement that there is a rattle and that it needs to be fixed. Then you've got a starting point, from which you should be able to work out a plan of action. You need to impress on the dealer that you are unhappy with the car and with the service you have received, and make sure they understand that you will not go away until you are satisfied.

The oil consumption is a result of the engine design, being horizontally opposed, and it's not limited to Subaru. Oil accumulates in the rings when it's sitting and you'll sometimes see a puff of smoke from the tailpipe on start-up. It's not something to be concerned about if you check the oil on a regular basis, as you should do on all cars. Use the Subaru recommended oil when topping it up. You'll find that in the owner's manual.

The oil consumption is a result of the engine design, being horizontally-opposed, and it's not limited to Subaru. Oil accumulates in the rings when it's sitting and you'll sometimes see a puff of smoke from the tailpipe on start-up. It's not something to be concerned about if you check the oil on a regular basis, as you should do on all cars. Use the Subaru recommended oil when topping it up, you'll find that in the owner's manual.