Just purchased a 2015 Forester Premium for $19k, with 60k miles on it. Traded in my old 2010 Forester with over 150,000 miles, which also kept having brake issues (due to the car not being driven much prior to my owning it). I really love the 2015 model. So nice & classy, roomy, and much improved from the 2010.
Wow. Absolutely thorough with natural speaking voice. I have been absorbing everything I could find Forrester and Outback related for homework for a possible buy late next year. Again, Thank You .
Well that's a shame. I was on the front page for a little bit when I first made this video. Guess TH-cam figures some random person doing a one time car review does not need to be on the front page.
2018 Subaru Forester Base 6MT owner. Never noticed the "stadium seating", but then, both rear seats have child seats in them. MPG, lowest has been 25.5 during the Ohio winter, 32 during summer. Pulled 1k trailer with loaded car, no problem. As you stated, easy to work in the engine bay. Spacious interior with unparalleled visibility. Loving mine so far.
I am in the process of buying a 2016 2.5i premium to replace my piece of junk 2010 buick enclave. Always wanted a Subaru, test drove a 2010 Forester and then a 2016 and fell in love with the 2016 so much more leg room than the 2010 and it was a little bit more but i still got an amazing deal on it around $11,000 out the door from $15,000 so i went for it. I am literally so excited to have a dream vehicle of mine especially for up in the hills of north Western Pennsylvania
The best part is it does not even have to be super deep snow to take advantage of the all wheel drive. These cars a just sure footed in any weather conditions. I am sure you will be happy with it.
Yeah I kind of wondered about that… My daughter has a 1997 Subaru legacy that she got when she turned 18 about 11 years ago. It’s had some repairs on it, which is not surprising, but it’s still going great and it just turned over 300,000 miles. It has good old Subaru four-wheel-drive and they have replaced single tires before no problem. I just don’t really think you have to buy all the tires if you get a flat.
From what I've been told it depends really on the where and how much there is if you've got four tires that have been on the car for 3 years and one needs to be replaced that should throw off the all wheel drive system from what I've Been Told.
Great review! I'm having to buy a new car this week and have been considering a Forester. Your video covered everything I could have possibly wanted to know - so helpful!
good review. I went with the 2015 Mazda CX5 2.5L GT with AWD over the 2015 Forester XT. I am very happy with the CX5 and no complaints after 1 year. The Subie has a good awd system but I did not want to take a risk with potential oil burning issue, the seats did not have good lateral support, the CVT had too much drone on hard acceleration and is very expensive to replace after warranty. I also noticed considerable leaning when cornering and I will not like the green house effect although it gives great visibility. I am sure you will enjoy your new Subie.. Keep an eye on your oil level after 2000 miles to be safe.
Enjoyed the video and in depth detailed review of options and features. We just bought our own, got the Limited mainly for the Eyesight and Navigation package but very similar to yours, same color too. Great looking vehicle!
HVAC system is weak compared to other cars however it was not a deal breaker for me. Also the driver's seat is not as comfortable as other cars in it's range but for me, not a deal breaker either. The OEM tires matched with this car make this unbeatable in the snow and heavy rain. I love it in bad weather. It just eats it up.
Hi. I too have the same SUV however mine also has eyesight and a mirror with north south etc. I learned much about my car from your video and thank you for it. I used to consider myself to be a car guy but I realized that I have never opened the hood on this car. I have lost that moniker. The one thing that I was glad to find was that the hesitation between reverse and drive was not my imagination, because I wondered about it. I really like the heated seats. Thank you. John
I am sure you can still keep the moniker of car guy even if you have not checked under the hood. One would hope that means everything has been going fine with the car. I am just one of those people that wants to see everything and when I was looking I did not see many that looked there. You get used to the hesitation but it still feels a little odd. Especially if I drive my wife's car for a while then go back to my Forester.
Oh wow, it’s 2022 and I just bought this exact car, color and everything. 75,000 miles on it. I’m loving it so far but it’s having an issue now and then interacting with my modern iPhone. Sometimes the Bluetooth drops out and it has to collect itself before it works again. Otherwise everything is pretty darn awesome I think.
Still have mine as my daily driver. I to have had the phone issue. Guess that's what I get for holding on to a car as long as I have. Phones Bluetooth specs have gotten better.
Excellent review! Especially appreciated the info about having to replace all 4 tires at once, and the demo of the headrests. I'm finding many vehicles' headrests pushing uncomfortably too far forward.
One might think the same of this car's headrests however these headrests if tilted too far forward will return to a more comfortable upright position by moving the top fully forward then releasing it to go back all the way.
The Bluetooth did end up giving me some issues a few years in. Rather than taking it in after the warranty I just got a Bluetooth transmitter to use: th-cam.com/video/sirfAOt4zbg/w-d-xo.html, th-cam.com/video/gH3oN1nPaw8/w-d-xo.html.
This is really a very good video. I just purchased this exact model and color today. It only has 39,000 miles on it. If it passes the third-party pre-purchase check, i’ll be driving it home this week. Oh, Random sidenote… From an old baby boomer...not that it’s important, but those orange totes you showed in the back of the car…? Yeah, sorry, those are not Tupperware containers. I’m always surprised when people call any old plastic containers they have, “Tupperware“. I’m from the REAL Tupperware generation, man… My mother was even Tupperware sales person… LOL! Stop calling random plastic containers “Tupperware,” that’s not what they are! 😆😆😉
Lol I think most people of my generation do it and refer to them as such very much like Kleenex. Not all tissues are Kleenex but most people just call them Kleenex. But I get the sentiment.
Well enjoy burning 1 1/2 qts of oil between changes, consistently toasting the rear brakes, decent mpg that immediately decreases after 30k, squishy CVT transmission, and anti lock brakes that reduce your braking potential to about zero while on snow or soft dirt.
I have the '16, just a couple of days ago, only nitpick I really have is the USB seems to take forever to connect, in my Jeep Cherokee (aftermarket, tho) the USB connected instantly, but the only gripe I have so far. Also can't seem to find the EQ yet, either. Also weird that I couldn't find Auto headlights, but now finally knowing that it doesn't, but at least they shut off completely. My Jeep would beep at me if they went off Auto, for some reason to remind me.
One of the things that I really don't like is the gas cap on the passenger side. I am spoiled with it being on the driver side with my Honda civic. Is there some logical reason to put it on the passenger side?
+Johnny Striple I don't mind it. My Chevy Malibu was the same way. Some times it makes if faster getting gas when the line for driver side is crazy long, I just get to pull right in and fill up.
+Johnny Striple It is for safety reasons....If you run out of fuel on the interstate it places you out of the traffic side allowing you to refuel out of traffic.
Just picked my Forester up Thursday. Loving it. Wish it had arm rests on in the center though like the CRV. The speedo only is marked ever 20 mph also. So you have to guess were 30 and 50 is. Minor things but I really miss having an arm rest.
Thank you for posting this video. My wife and I are looking to buy a 2015 Forester in this same trim level but with the manual transmission. We test drove one today and I liked everything about the car. My wife commented that she felt the engine was under powered. What has been your impression in regards to that issue? I'll be swapping out a 2009 Honda Fit with a manual transmission, so the Subaru would be a definite upgrade all the way around. Thanks for any insight you can provide towards the engine performance.
It’s 2018 now but I just bought this year and model gently used. Could you please tell me how to utilize the heated side mirrors and heated wipers... how to turn on those features? Love the car tour, it explained and revealed a lot to me about my “new” 2015 Subaru Forester,
Thanks for this great walk-through. I just purchased a used 2015 Forester, that looks exactly like yours. You managed to answer a few of my initial questions on the vehicle. I do like the snappy power of the power train and don't really feel the rubber-band affect, but maybe once I drive it in different road scenarios I will feel it. How are you liking your Forester in 2019 - any issues? Thanks again!
Still have it still drive it still love it. Only have been doing routine maintenance on it and still drives like day one. Just has one recall for electrical wiring for a brake light. That's it.
I have passed subarus in my civic coupe because I ride General Altimax Arctic snow tires. They outperform awd with all seasons, period. Do yourself a favor and get dedicated snow tires
@sonofnothing, @Wander001. Great video!! I felt like I was there!! Let me tell you a story. Ten years ago, I took my first Subaru (Forester) out into its first N.E. Ohio icy winter storm. There was at least 6-7" on the road and more was coming down fast. Heavy wet snow, deep furrows of snow completely covering the road and lanes. No snow plows yet in sight. Traffic was carefully crawling. When driving in this type of weather, you are always warily watching the other cars hoping they don't slide into you (or you, into them)! In this mess, I was the first in a line of vehicles that came to a stop at a 4-way intersection with a red light. When the light changed, I slowly stepped on the gas as I normally would in heavy snow conditions. After 25 years of driving "northern" winters, I kind of knew what to expect. But, guess what? Something entirely new and fabulous then happened! My Forester proceeded forward as if it was on clear. dry. ground. Yes. ... clear. dry. ground. Unfortunately, the cars facing me on the other side of the green light were struggling to move forward, spinning their wheels, fishtailing, and getting nowhere fast in the deep snow. When I glanced around and at my rear-view mirror, I saw that the vehicles behind and next to me were having those same difficulties. All of these vehicles, every single one was struggling! And me, I just drove off confidently and serenely in my Subaru leaving them all behind. This was so unexpected that I laughed out loud in delight. The memory and overall feeling of that "wow" moment will never leave me! As you can tell by my positive attitude in telling this story, I believe that Subaru manufactures some of the best AWD vehicles available. I understand that you may not like the tires that come with the car, but you can always replace them with something you like better (as we did when the original tires wore out). But, that does not take away from Subarus being such great vehicles. Before our Subarus, my husband and I had owned and driven 11 different vehicles between us. All sorts. And on some we had to use snow tires. Our life experience has been that there is nothing like AWD for driving in extremely inclement road conditions and our Subarus do so, outstandingly, every single loooong winter. (And, no, I'm not affiliated with Subaru. I just happen to love my Subaru, and my husband loves his, because they do the job! ) Anecdote: We have a good friend who lives in Colorado. He refuses to own anything other than a Subaru. It is not a mistake that Subarus are the best selling vehicles in Colorado! OK, I'm done now. (smile)
Cvts suck I wish they had normal 4eat that didnt fail under heavy use. Great review I'm looking at the forester 2.5i with a manual and gonna just add aftermarket stuff to bring it up to premium level. Maybe look in to a turbo one day. Does anybody know if these can be turbocharged?
Thank you this video. I have no car as of 09/28/2020 I do have my old Volvo 2000 with 138 thousand miles the car is hardly a drivable the engine is gone. I did rented a car went on a Subaru forester limited edition shopping. after agreeing on a price the sales guy came back with additional price of 2000 more I said no. If any ideas please reply thank you.
I'm thinking on buying a 2016 with 175k miles on it. But I'd like to know how good this Subir has been to you in terms of reliability and maintaining it.
Still my daily driver, it has been to FL 2x from NY and all other running around. It has been a great car. No major issues with it. I have just been following the recommended Maintenance schedule nothing more.
I seem to continue to learn more each time I visit these videos about the Forester. Could you tell me what the push knobs are for on the dashboard? The left one is to reset the trip Odometer but what is the right one for?
How effective is the air conditioner system. Does it do a good job cooling down the cabin on the hottest summer days? I am looking to buy a new Forester 2.5 Premium in the next few weeks, so I won't be able to test out the A/C system in 100 degree summer days that we get in my area. Thank you for the great video.
So a hot day for me is around 95-ish. I can say the AC does handle that well enough. My only complaint would be that it cycles the compresses on and off more then I would like. What I mean by that is in other cars you can feel cool air blowing all the time. With the Forester there will be brief periods when you feel it blowing but not cool air. It only does this for a short amount of time, but it is noticeable. The other thing I may suggest is you will want to tint the driver and passenger side windows to help cut down on the heat that is generated by them.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews I just type it on every video cause many people dont change the CVT fluid and then blame the CVT for being faulty. Personally I find Subaru's CVT as one of the best and most refined ones. Are you happy with your Forester?
looking at buying a used 2015. Thanks so much for this indepth review. Having owned it for some time now, DO you still enjoy it? I've heard cons are the bluetooth connect and the torque.
I still do enjoy it very much. I would agree with the cons you have heard. Torque you can get used to depending the the type of driving you do. The Bluetooth can be dealt with one of two ways. Replace the head unit, which is why I got the 2015 over the 2016, or get your self something like this: th-cam.com/video/gH3oN1nPaw8/w-d-xo.html. This is the option I went with $20 and you don't have to worry about the Bluetooth it will also let the volume get much louder then what the Forester could do.
Hey hey - love the video. I was hoping for an update. I test drove a used 2015 forester today with 45,000 and liked it. Any issues with your ride? Have you been happy with it? Any updates would be awesome!! Thanks Matt
Still have it with about the mileage of the one you looked at still runs great. Haven't done anything to it except regular maintenance. It does exactly what I got to do go on long trips go through the snow with no problem and it's just a great A to B car. CVT took a little getting used to but once I did no big deal and it helps with the gas mileage.
I just got this exact 2015 model a few days ago (early June 2020). Like new condition. Thanks for all the detail. Really helps me get to know all the features.
Thank you!! I bought this model about 6 months ago in 2020 and have struggled through some of the settings and features. Your information is much more useful than the operating manual which I found confusing because it covers features on ALL the Forester versions for that year. Often not marked or identified clearly. Anyway, I do really like the vehicle. One more thing. . .Is there any way to get the backs of the second row seats to fold flat, level with the main cargo area?? Has anyone a solution for that?
For me they never do actually full down perfectly flush like you see in some other car models where they actually kind of recede into the floor a little bit. But for me that's slight incline isn't terrible.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews I think if I took the back seat cushion out, that would allow me to level the surface but seems kind of a drastic measure. I need a flat surface so I can put two medium large dog crates in the cargo area. I’ve always had minivans for that purpose, and still have one but I wish the Forester would allow for that too. However I loved the Forester so much, I bought it anyway 😀
What's wrong with a touch screen radio. I used it in my relatives car and I liked it. Is there something wrong with having a touch screen radio in cars or why you don't want to have a touch screen radio?
Just bought the same make and model used. Seems like a nice car so far. Do you still have yours and if so hows it working out for you? Thank you for the great review! It was very helpful.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews Glad to hear it! We are looking forward to enjoying hours for years to come. Do you maintain the vehicle yourself? Seems like a good vehicle for that. Thanks again and have a great day 🌞
@@HWK4LFE76 Honestly I just take it to the shop to have them do it. Where I lived when I first got this I could not do the upkeep there. Now it is just more out of habit that I keep going back to the shop.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews Have you had to have the CV joints replaced at all? Head gaskets and valve cover gaskets all okay? No oil leaks? Sounds like the transmission has worked well for you?
Thanks much for such a detailed review. Awesome job. I just bought a used 2015 Premium. learned a lot watching this video about my new car. What is the stick in the gauge cluster designated SELECT on the right of speedometer? its opposite of trip meter stick. again thanks
I just bought a used, same year, make and model. I am wondering, is there a way to program the doors to auto lock when put in drive or reach a certain speed and auto unlock when car is turned off? My last vehicle had this and I didn't realize how much I loved it until this car doesn't do that!
I have not been able to find a way to do that. When I talk to my friend who's mr. Car Guy mr. Subaru he says it's a safety feature supposedly and it can't be changed. I miss that option also.
Hello i am shopping around for my next car and i am looking at the forester but something you said now has me a bit worried now did you say the the if you get a flat tire that you need to replace all 4 if i get a forester it would be my first AWD so i am only used to a 2 wheel drive cars it is something new to me i am also looking at the 2.0ltr turbo diesel with the 6 speed manual as i have heard so much bad reviews on the CVT auto's
It depends on the wear of the tire. If the where is two different on one of the tires then it would throw off the all wheel drive system. Which is why they recommend if the wear differences over a certain percentage that you will need to change all four tires instead of just one.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews ok i think i understand what you are trying to say so is it more to do with the tire size being even on the same axel or is there a wear limit when they say to change all 4 at once and not just say two at a time on a 2 wheel drive sorry i just really new to AWD so it new to me .
@@matthewburniston2822 I think this my explain it a little better then I am trying to: www.adventuresubaru.com/blog/2014/october/22/Replacing-Tires-on-a-Subaru.htm
@@Wanderer001_Reviews Thank you that has given me a lot of food for thought and not just with subaru's it is a fact that i never factored in while looking around so other like the xtrail and cx 5 would be in the same boat then sorry im just very budget conscious and when the old mans estate comes through i was looking in to upgrading so i glad im getting all that facts before spending trouble is i don't weather or i should be looking at a all wheel drive or just stick a 2wd so that would include 4x4 not just all wheel drive sounds like every time you get a flat it is 5 or $600 exercise .
What does the "select" button to the right of the speedometer do? I've pushed it many times and I do not see it affecting anything. The owner's manual tells me nothing.
Do you still have this car? Did it have the oil issue that so many buyers encountered? what are some of the issues you encountered with this car...if any?
I did not have the oil consumption problem. It appears to have affected cars manufactured slightly before mine. The only real issue I can think of is the Bluetooth pairing stopped working in the radio. In the grand scheme of things I'll deal with that.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews Thats great. Can you please tell me the exact year and month your car was manufactured. Also the engine number if you can. I am currently looking to purchase a Subaru Forester exactly like yours :-)
+Wanderer001 I meant the start buttontoyota.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/7724/~/my-vehicle-has-a-smart-key-and-the-engine-wont-start-when-i-press-the-start
I mean start button. Google Image Result thumb7.shutterstock.com/display_pic_with_logo/1583522/188902385/stock-photo-detail-on-the-start-button-in-a-car-188902385.jpg
+Wanderer001 thank you. i won't be buying a vehicle in a year or two, but i wanted to see how the subaru's cvt. since we hear so many reliability issues with nissan's and honda's. or i can just get the manual. lol
Hey, i am seriously looking to buy one soon. Like this summer. Can you tell me how much you paid for this 2015? So i have an idea when i bargain?! TNANKS SO MUCH!
The car itself was cheaper. There are a few extra taxes involved getting it in NJ as apposed to NY. The main reason I did was that my local Subaru dealer is kinda shady, and I had people warn me about going to them. But that's closer to Wet point then east meadow. For me going to NJ was a little closer then having to go up into Orange county.
Pretty much cover it in the video the only thing that I found long-term is the paint is a little more delicate than I thought. Apparently it's very much like Toyotas and Honda so kind of thin. Also to cut back on the weight of the vehicle in places the metal seems then like the hood so don't park your car under nut trees.
+sonofnothing I still do, still love it. All issue I had with it was some issues with the head unit connecting to Bluetooth from the phone. Other then that o issues.
Just bought a '15 myself. Noticed my music app automatically turns on when I connect the iPhone Bluetooth. Have to dig into the manual to figure out if it's simply a setting with the unit or Carplay, or if it's a bug.
Not a super audio file myself but for me it does just fine I got the one with the bass stereo so if I ever wanted to I can change it out for something better.
+Morne Norris It did end up being much longer then I had thought it would be. However, I was trying to cover as much info as I could. I got tired of seeing people just cover the same few bits of info when I was looking. So I was trying for much much more.
Buying this car in 2020, 44k miles for 5 years old, runs beautifully and is in amazing condition. Awesome video 👍🏼
I. Also thinking about buying a 2015
How much? One I’m looking at has 86k, cost being about 15-6k.
Would one with 107k miles for 12k be a good deal? I feel like it is.
I found one, 1 owner- 22k Miles, dealership is asking $18k... Seems like a good deal.
That sounds like a crazy deal.
Just purchased a 2015 Forester Premium for $19k, with 60k miles on it. Traded in my old 2010 Forester with over 150,000 miles, which also kept having brake issues (due to the car not being driven much prior to my owning it). I really love the 2015 model. So nice & classy, roomy, and much improved from the 2010.
Still driving my 1998 Forester Manual still runs very well no issues.
Thanks for making this video; it was integral in my decision to buy my Forester.
+Frank Litto Happy I could help you make an informed decision.
Wow. Absolutely thorough with natural speaking voice. I have been absorbing everything I could find Forrester and Outback related for homework for a possible buy late next year.
Again, Thank You .
Happy I could help. Good luck with your homework.
Wanderer001 Thank you. Going to have to explore you video library too. Just wish this particular video wasn't buried so deep.
Well that's a shame. I was on the front page for a little bit when I first made this video. Guess TH-cam figures some random person doing a one time car review does not need to be on the front page.
2018 Subaru Forester Base 6MT owner.
Never noticed the "stadium seating", but then, both rear seats have child seats in them.
MPG, lowest has been 25.5 during the Ohio winter, 32 during summer. Pulled 1k trailer with loaded car, no problem.
As you stated, easy to work in the engine bay. Spacious interior with unparalleled visibility. Loving mine so far.
I am in the process of buying a 2016 2.5i premium to replace my piece of junk 2010 buick enclave. Always wanted a Subaru, test drove a 2010 Forester and then a 2016 and fell in love with the 2016 so much more leg room than the 2010 and it was a little bit more but i still got an amazing deal on it around $11,000 out the door from $15,000 so i went for it. I am literally so excited to have a dream vehicle of mine especially for up in the hills of north Western Pennsylvania
The best part is it does not even have to be super deep snow to take advantage of the all wheel drive. These cars a just sure footed in any weather conditions. I am sure you will be happy with it.
I have 19000 miles on my tires . picked up a piece of metal in side wall . Got one new tire of the same brand . No problem with all wheel drive .
Yeah I kind of wondered about that… My daughter has a 1997 Subaru legacy that she got when she turned 18 about 11 years ago. It’s had some repairs on it, which is not surprising, but it’s still going great and it just turned over 300,000 miles. It has good old Subaru four-wheel-drive and they have replaced single tires before no problem. I just don’t really think you have to buy all the tires if you get a flat.
From what I've been told it depends really on the where and how much there is if you've got four tires that have been on the car for 3 years and one needs to be replaced that should throw off the all wheel drive system from what I've Been Told.
Great review! I'm having to buy a new car this week and have been considering a Forester. Your video covered everything I could have possibly wanted to know - so helpful!
+Katina Arvidson Happy to have helped.
Katina Arvidson Did you end up buying a Forester? If so , how do you like it? I just bought a 2015 model a couple days ago.
good review. I went with the 2015 Mazda CX5 2.5L GT with AWD over the 2015 Forester XT. I am very happy with the CX5 and no complaints after 1 year. The Subie has a good awd system but I did not want to take a risk with potential oil burning issue, the seats did not have good lateral support, the CVT had too much drone on hard acceleration and is very expensive to replace after warranty. I also noticed considerable leaning when cornering and I will not like the green house effect although it gives great visibility. I am sure you will enjoy your new Subie.. Keep an eye on your oil level after 2000 miles to be safe.
Thank you for taking the time to do a well done thorough review. This is the vehicle on the top of my list when VW buys back my TDI.
Enjoyed the video and in depth detailed review of options and features. We just bought our own, got the Limited mainly for the Eyesight and Navigation package but very similar to yours, same color too. Great looking vehicle!
HVAC system is weak compared to other cars however it was not a deal breaker for me. Also the driver's seat is not as comfortable as other cars in it's range but for me, not a deal breaker either. The OEM tires matched with this car make this unbeatable in the snow and heavy rain. I love it in bad weather. It just eats it up.
PLEASE do a 5 year follow-up if you still own the car. Super helpful.
I still do I will add it to my list of videos to make.
Ditto to this comment, a 5 years update would be cool 👍
Still on my to do list little harder to do after everything went into lockdown.
Has follow up been done yet?
It has not 2020 has been hard to get out a d do one.
Hi. I too have the same SUV however
mine also has eyesight and a mirror with north south etc. I learned much about my car from your video and thank you for it. I used to consider myself to be a car guy but I realized that I have never opened the hood on this car. I have lost that moniker.
The one thing that I was glad to find was that the hesitation between reverse and drive was not my imagination, because I wondered about it.
I really like the heated seats.
Thank you. John
I am sure you can still keep the moniker of car guy even if you have not checked under the hood. One would hope that means everything has been going fine with the car. I am just one of those people that wants to see everything and when I was looking I did not see many that looked there.
You get used to the hesitation but it still feels a little odd. Especially if I drive my wife's car for a while then go back to my Forester.
What an amazing video man!! Thank you so much
Happy to see it still get views after so long.
Oh wow, it’s 2022 and I just bought this exact car, color and everything. 75,000 miles on it. I’m loving it so far but it’s having an issue now and then interacting with my modern iPhone. Sometimes the Bluetooth drops out and it has to collect itself before it works again. Otherwise everything is pretty darn awesome I think.
Still have mine as my daily driver. I to have had the phone issue. Guess that's what I get for holding on to a car as long as I have. Phones Bluetooth specs have gotten better.
Nice review and very thorough. You have a very relaxed style which works well with this kind of review. Great job!
Excellent review! Especially appreciated the info about having to replace all 4 tires at once, and the demo of the headrests. I'm finding many vehicles' headrests pushing uncomfortably too far forward.
One might think the same of this car's headrests however these headrests if tilted too far forward will return to a more comfortable upright position by moving the top fully forward then releasing it to go back all the way.
Just bought a 2016 touring edition. Didn't know about the "lantern" holder and that the rear center seat-belt could be removed. Thanks for the review!
Just got one of these! This tutorial sure helped alot of attention to detail! I am having issues with bluetooth atm
The Bluetooth did end up giving me some issues a few years in. Rather than taking it in after the warranty I just got a Bluetooth transmitter to use: th-cam.com/video/sirfAOt4zbg/w-d-xo.html, th-cam.com/video/gH3oN1nPaw8/w-d-xo.html.
Thank you for being so thorough!
+Lenore Rivera Happy to help.
This is really a very good video. I just purchased this exact model and color today. It only has 39,000 miles on it. If it passes the third-party pre-purchase check, i’ll be driving it home this week.
Oh, Random sidenote… From an old baby boomer...not that it’s important, but those orange totes you showed in the back of the car…? Yeah, sorry, those are not Tupperware containers. I’m always surprised when people call any old plastic containers they have, “Tupperware“. I’m from the REAL Tupperware generation, man… My mother was even Tupperware sales person… LOL! Stop calling random plastic containers “Tupperware,” that’s not what they are! 😆😆😉
Lol I think most people of my generation do it and refer to them as such very much like Kleenex. Not all tissues are Kleenex but most people just call them Kleenex. But I get the sentiment.
Well enjoy burning 1 1/2 qts of oil between changes, consistently toasting the rear brakes, decent mpg that immediately decreases after 30k, squishy CVT transmission, and anti lock brakes that reduce your braking potential to about zero while on snow or soft dirt.
Next to the steering wheel it would be the automatic liftgate And traction control off
The review i was looking for! thanks for making it.. I wonder what was the price out the door????
+Omar Lopez Sticker was about 26k almost 27k. I got it for 23k out the door in NJ.
+Dave S Tax title and license was extra.
This review is AWESOME. Thank you.
Excellent presentation, but would like to know how to manage the radio as well.
In what way?
Thanks for the awesome video, going to buy one soon.
But subie speed Forester mirrors the entire glass swaps out and it extends the blind spot view check them out
killer review...just bought a '16 premium with 8k miles. Has the Subie been good to you since your review? thanks.
+drspong Very much so. Still love it.
I'm really liking these a lot!
I have the '16, just a couple of days ago, only nitpick I really have is the USB seems to take forever to connect, in my Jeep Cherokee (aftermarket, tho) the USB connected instantly, but the only gripe I have so far. Also can't seem to find the EQ yet, either.
Also weird that I couldn't find Auto headlights, but now finally knowing that it doesn't, but at least they shut off completely. My Jeep would beep at me if they went off Auto, for some reason to remind me.
One of the things that I really don't like is the gas cap on the passenger side. I am spoiled with it being on the driver side with my Honda civic. Is there some logical reason to put it on the passenger side?
+Johnny Striple I don't mind it. My Chevy Malibu was the same way. Some times it makes if faster getting gas when the line for driver side is crazy long, I just get to pull right in and fill up.
+Johnny Striple It is for safety reasons....If you run out of fuel on the interstate it places you out of the traffic side allowing you to refuel out of traffic.
Just picked my Forester up Thursday. Loving it. Wish it had arm rests on in the center though like the CRV. The speedo only is marked ever 20 mph also. So you have to guess were 30 and 50 is. Minor things but I really miss having an arm rest.
Excellent and very detailed review....out of the many many I have read. sub-ed
Thank you.
Thank you for posting this video. My wife and I are looking to buy a 2015 Forester in this same trim level but with the manual transmission. We test drove one today and I liked everything about the car. My wife commented that she felt the engine was under powered. What has been your impression in regards to that issue? I'll be swapping out a 2009 Honda Fit with a manual transmission, so the Subaru would be a definite upgrade all the way around. Thanks for any insight you can provide towards the engine performance.
The only time I feel the power lacking is merging on highways or up hills. If you can live with that it is a great car. I have no complaints about it.
It’s 2018 now but I just bought this year and model gently used. Could you please tell me how to utilize the heated side mirrors and heated wipers... how to turn on those features? Love the car tour, it explained and revealed a lot to me about my “new” 2015 Subaru Forester,
You don't have to turn them on. Once it is below freezing out they turn on automatically to melt the ice away. It is great.
Wanderer001. OOOOOOOOOOOH, How cool! I never had those features before. Thank you for answering so quickly!
Same it's great.
Very useful info, i appreciate ur efforts
+gakii1216 Thank you.
Thanks for this great walk-through. I just purchased a used 2015 Forester, that looks exactly like yours. You managed to answer a few of my initial questions on the vehicle. I do like the snappy power of the power train and don't really feel the rubber-band affect, but maybe once I drive it in different road scenarios I will feel it. How are you liking your Forester in 2019 - any issues? Thanks again!
Still have it still drive it still love it. Only have been doing routine maintenance on it and still drives like day one. Just has one recall for electrical wiring for a brake light. That's it.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews very nice to hear. I was lucky enough to find one with only 26K miles - one owner. So far loving it!
Wow that's awesome only 3k less then mine.
I have passed subarus in my civic coupe because I ride General Altimax Arctic snow tires. They outperform awd with all seasons, period. Do yourself a favor and get dedicated snow tires
+sonofnothing That's the idea. I have worn down the all weather ones that came with the car already. Was it really happy how fast that happened.
@sonofnothing, @Wander001. Great video!! I felt like I was there!!
Let me tell you a story. Ten years ago, I took my first Subaru (Forester) out into its first N.E. Ohio icy winter storm. There was at least 6-7" on the road and more was coming down fast. Heavy wet snow, deep furrows of snow completely covering the road and lanes. No snow plows yet in sight. Traffic was carefully crawling. When driving in this type of weather, you are always warily watching the other cars hoping they don't slide into you (or you, into them)! In this mess, I was the first in a line of vehicles that came to a stop at a 4-way intersection with a red light. When the light changed, I slowly stepped on the gas as I normally would in heavy snow conditions. After 25 years of driving "northern" winters, I kind of knew what to expect.
But, guess what? Something entirely new and fabulous then happened! My Forester proceeded forward as if it was on clear. dry. ground. Yes. ... clear. dry. ground. Unfortunately, the cars facing me on the other side of the green light were struggling to move forward, spinning their wheels, fishtailing, and getting nowhere fast in the deep snow. When I glanced around and at my rear-view mirror, I saw that the vehicles behind and next to me were having those same difficulties. All of these vehicles, every single one was struggling! And me, I just drove off confidently and serenely in my Subaru leaving them all behind. This was so unexpected that I laughed out loud in delight. The memory and overall feeling of that "wow" moment will never leave me!
As you can tell by my positive attitude in telling this story, I believe that Subaru manufactures some of the best AWD vehicles available. I understand that you may not like the tires that come with the car, but you can always replace them with something you like better (as we did when the original tires wore out). But, that does not take away from Subarus being such great vehicles. Before our Subarus, my husband and I had owned and driven 11 different vehicles between us. All sorts. And on some we had to use snow tires. Our life experience has been that there is nothing like AWD for driving in extremely inclement road conditions and our Subarus do so, outstandingly, every single loooong winter. (And, no, I'm not affiliated with Subaru. I just happen to love my Subaru, and my husband loves his, because they do the job! )
Anecdote: We have a good friend who lives in Colorado. He refuses to own anything other than a Subaru. It is not a mistake that Subarus are the best selling vehicles in Colorado! OK, I'm done now. (smile)
Cvts suck I wish they had normal 4eat that didnt fail under heavy use. Great review I'm looking at the forester 2.5i with a manual and gonna just add aftermarket stuff to bring it up to premium level. Maybe look in to a turbo one day. Does anybody know if these can be turbocharged?
Thank you this video. I have no car as of 09/28/2020 I do have my old Volvo 2000 with 138 thousand miles the car is hardly a drivable the engine is gone. I did rented a car went on a Subaru forester limited edition shopping. after agreeing on a price the sales guy came back with additional price of 2000 more I said no. If any ideas please reply thank you.
Very thorough. Thank you!
I'm thinking on buying a 2016 with 175k miles on it. But I'd like to know how good this Subir has been to you in terms of reliability and maintaining it.
Still my daily driver, it has been to FL 2x from NY and all other running around. It has been a great car. No major issues with it. I have just been following the recommended Maintenance schedule nothing more.
I seem to continue to learn more each time I visit these videos about the Forester. Could you tell me what the push knobs are for on the dashboard? The left one is to reset the trip Odometer but what is the right one for?
On my car it doesn't do anything.
How effective is the air conditioner system. Does it do a good job cooling down the cabin on the hottest summer days?
I am looking to buy a new Forester 2.5 Premium in the next few weeks, so I won't be able to test out the A/C system in 100 degree summer days that we get in my area. Thank you for the great video.
So a hot day for me is around 95-ish. I can say the AC does handle that well enough. My only complaint would be that it cycles the compresses on and off more then I would like. What I mean by that is in other cars you can feel cool air blowing all the time. With the Forester there will be brief periods when you feel it blowing but not cool air. It only does this for a short amount of time, but it is noticeable.
The other thing I may suggest is you will want to tint the driver and passenger side windows to help cut down on the heat that is generated by them.
Dont forget to change your CVT fluid!
That's part of routine maintenance and is also part of the first 30000 mile service.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews I just type it on every video cause many people dont change the CVT fluid and then blame the CVT for being faulty. Personally I find Subaru's CVT as one of the best and most refined ones.
Are you happy with your Forester?
@@moonsapling Still have it still love it.
looking at buying a used 2015. Thanks so much for this indepth review. Having owned it for some time now, DO you still enjoy it? I've heard cons are the bluetooth connect and the torque.
I still do enjoy it very much. I would agree with the cons you have heard. Torque you can get used to depending the the type of driving you do. The Bluetooth can be dealt with one of two ways. Replace the head unit, which is why I got the 2015 over the 2016, or get your self something like this: th-cam.com/video/gH3oN1nPaw8/w-d-xo.html. This is the option I went with $20 and you don't have to worry about the Bluetooth it will also let the volume get much louder then what the Forester could do.
I’m wondering, did you get the 2015? I’m looking at a 2015 now. Wondering about the long term
Still need recommendation for blind spot mirror? 😜 I got a set I love.
Always looking for options. Still have mine going strong.
Hey hey - love the video. I was hoping for an update. I test drove a used 2015 forester today with 45,000 and liked it. Any issues with your ride? Have you been happy with it? Any updates would be awesome!! Thanks Matt
Still have it with about the mileage of the one you looked at still runs great. Haven't done anything to it except regular maintenance. It does exactly what I got to do go on long trips go through the snow with no problem and it's just a great A to B car. CVT took a little getting used to but once I did no big deal and it helps with the gas mileage.
I just got this exact 2015 model a few days ago (early June 2020). Like new condition. Thanks for all the detail. Really helps me get to know all the features.
Thank you!! I bought this model about 6 months ago in 2020 and have struggled through some of the settings and features. Your information is much more useful than the operating manual which I found confusing because it covers features on ALL the Forester versions for that year. Often not marked or identified clearly. Anyway, I do really like the vehicle.
One more thing. . .Is there any way to get the backs of the second row seats to fold flat, level with the main cargo area?? Has anyone a solution for that?
For me they never do actually full down perfectly flush like you see in some other car models where they actually kind of recede into the floor a little bit. But for me that's slight incline isn't terrible.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews I think if I took the back seat cushion out, that would allow me to level the surface but seems kind of a drastic measure. I need a flat surface so I can put two medium large dog crates in the cargo area. I’ve always had minivans for that purpose, and still have one but I wish the Forester would allow for that too. However I loved the Forester so much, I bought it anyway 😀
What's wrong with a touch screen radio. I used it in my relatives car and I liked it. Is there something wrong with having a touch screen radio in cars or why you don't want to have a touch screen radio?
Just a personal preference I prefer the Tactile feel In a car .
looks like a good buy, enjoy it
Thanks man.
Just bought the same make and model used. Seems like a nice car so far. Do you still have yours and if so hows it working out for you? Thank you for the great review! It was very helpful.
Happy to help. Yes I still have this car runs great. Just doing regular maintenance and it still runs like day 1.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews Glad to hear it! We are looking forward to enjoying hours for years to come. Do you maintain the vehicle yourself? Seems like a good vehicle for that. Thanks again and have a great day 🌞
@@HWK4LFE76 Honestly I just take it to the shop to have them do it. Where I lived when I first got this I could not do the upkeep there. Now it is just more out of habit that I keep going back to the shop.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews Have you had to have the CV joints replaced at all? Head gaskets and valve cover gaskets all okay? No oil leaks? Sounds like the transmission has worked well for you?
@@Wanderer001_Reviews If you don't mind me asking what's your mileage at right now? Did you purchase it brand new?
Awesome car. Please show us how to pair Bluetooth and show depth of your radio and the camera (reverse). Thank you Wanderer001
What about the videos?
+Wanderer001 What about the videos?
LOL you can see where he was gonna cut clips out but didn't
You get lazy with a video this long. After awhile you are just like that's good enough.
Hi there. It's now 2022. Do you still have your 2015 Forester? If so, how is it running still? I'm considering getting one, 56k miles on it.
Still my daily dirver. It has been up and down the east coast several times. Only have done the scheduled maintenance to it.
Thanks much for such a detailed review. Awesome job. I just bought a used 2015 Premium. learned a lot watching this video about my new car. What is the stick in the gauge cluster designated SELECT on the right of speedometer? its opposite of trip meter stick. again thanks
+Javdan Jay Jabbari In this model it does not do anything.
Thanks really enjoyed the video and learned a lot.
Are you sure you don't"sell" cars?
Yup, just did reviews of the cars my wife and I got.
How is the fuel consumption in these?
Its not bad for a car this size. I have been tracking real time mpg if you are interested: www.fuelly.com/car/subaru/forester/2015/wanderer001/380562
Nicely Done.....
I just bought a used, same year, make and model. I am wondering, is there a way to program the doors to auto lock when put in drive or reach a certain speed and auto unlock when car is turned off? My last vehicle had this and I didn't realize how much I loved it until this car doesn't do that!
I have not been able to find a way to do that. When I talk to my friend who's mr. Car Guy mr. Subaru he says it's a safety feature supposedly and it can't be changed. I miss that option also.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews That stinks. Guess I better start learning a new habit! Thank you 😊
If I was able able get one with 107k miles for 12k do you think that would still be a good deal now in 2021?
It does not sound bad, but I will still KBB that car.
Hello i am shopping around for my next car and i am looking at the forester but something you said now has me a bit worried now did you say the the if you get a flat tire that you need to replace all 4 if i get a forester it would be my first AWD so i am only used to a 2 wheel drive cars it is something new to me i am also looking at the 2.0ltr turbo diesel with the 6 speed manual as i have heard so much bad reviews on the CVT auto's
It depends on the wear of the tire. If the where is two different on one of the tires then it would throw off the all wheel drive system. Which is why they recommend if the wear differences over a certain percentage that you will need to change all four tires instead of just one.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews ok i think i understand what you are trying to say so is it more to do with the tire size being even on the same axel or is there a wear limit when they say to change
all 4 at once and not just say two at a time on a 2 wheel drive sorry i just really new to AWD so it new to me .
@@matthewburniston2822 I think this my explain it a little better then I am trying to: www.adventuresubaru.com/blog/2014/october/22/Replacing-Tires-on-a-Subaru.htm
@@Wanderer001_Reviews Thank you that has given me a lot of food for thought and not just with subaru's it is a fact that i never factored in while looking around so other like the xtrail and cx 5
would be in the same boat then sorry im just very budget conscious and when the old mans estate comes through i was looking in to upgrading so i glad im getting all that facts before spending trouble is i don't weather or i should be looking at a all wheel drive or just stick a 2wd so that would include 4x4 not just all wheel drive sounds like every time you
get a flat it is 5 or $600 exercise .
What does the "select" button to the right of the speedometer do? I've pushed it many times and I do not see it affecting anything. The owner's manual tells me nothing.
That is because it does nothing. It might do something on a different model.
Do you still have this car? Did it have the oil issue that so many buyers encountered? what are some of the issues you encountered with this car...if any?
I did not have the oil consumption problem. It appears to have affected cars manufactured slightly before mine. The only real issue I can think of is the Bluetooth pairing stopped working in the radio. In the grand scheme of things I'll deal with that.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews Thats great. Can you please tell me the exact year and month your car was manufactured. Also the engine number if you can. I am currently looking to purchase a Subaru Forester exactly like yours :-)
I just saw the vehicle details in the description. Thanks
Why don't you both get a start button for your car Sonata and forester
I did put a remote starter in my car: th-cam.com/video/4HxPGM-ct70/w-d-xo.html. My wife did not want one.
+Wanderer001 I meant the start buttontoyota.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/7724/~/my-vehicle-has-a-smart-key-and-the-engine-wont-start-when-i-press-the-start
Was on a higher trim level.
+Wanderer001 What is the meaning of higher trim level?
I mean start button.
Google Image Result
thumb7.shutterstock.com/display_pic_with_logo/1583522/188902385/stock-photo-detail-on-the-start-button-in-a-car-188902385.jpg
So it doesn’t have a Hot/Cold gauge?
There is only an icon that is blue while it is cold then goes away when warm. You can not tell how warm.
hi there, is there a way we can open the sunroof at the back end only, little open up for air flow?
There is not. It has two options open and fully open.
how's the reliability so far? any issues with the cvt?
It has been great. No issues at all. Just got back from a 1k road trip too.
+Wanderer001 thank you. i won't be buying a vehicle in a year or two, but i wanted to see how the subaru's cvt. since we hear so many reliability issues with nissan's and honda's. or i can just get the manual. lol
Hey, i am seriously looking to buy one soon. Like this summer. Can you tell me how much you paid for this 2015? So i have an idea when i bargain?! TNANKS SO MUCH!
Sticker was about 26k almost 27k. I got it for 23k out the door in NJ.
+Wanderer001 23k total with tax?? thanks for responding so fast. I'm gonna buy one cash like next week.
Well, not including tax, title, licensing, ect.
+Wanderer001 tyty!!! why NJ? was it cheaper? I live in east meadow, ny...
The car itself was cheaper. There are a few extra taxes involved getting it in NJ as apposed to NY. The main reason I did was that my local Subaru dealer is kinda shady, and I had people warn me about going to them. But that's closer to Wet point then east meadow. For me going to NJ was a little closer then having to go up into Orange county.
8:25 Don’t ever expect a car salesman to tell you the truth. Their mouths have 2 settings: Lie and bigger lie.
Why did you cover your car number plate?
+Chandramohana Babu I just don't want to put personal information on the internet.
Chandramohana Babu I don't blame him a bit. You have to be very careful nowadays and keep your information private.
I was thinking of getting a used 2017 model, but the cvt is a deal breaker for me. Anyone's transmission have problems so far? I drive pretty hard.
Still have it and no issues on my end.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews Thanks, anything useful I should know before I commit to a 2017 model?
Pretty much cover it in the video the only thing that I found long-term is the paint is a little more delicate than I thought. Apparently it's very much like Toyotas and Honda so kind of thin. Also to cut back on the weight of the vehicle in places the metal seems then like the hood so don't park your car under nut trees.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews Cool, thanks.
howdy neighbor. I grew up in Highland Falls. Do you still have this Forester, and any updates or grievances?
+sonofnothing I still do, still love it. All issue I had with it was some issues with the head unit connecting to Bluetooth from the phone. Other then that o issues.
Just bought a '15 myself. Noticed my music app automatically turns on when I connect the iPhone Bluetooth. Have to dig into the manual to figure out if it's simply a setting with the unit or Carplay, or if it's a bug.
Do you still own the Forrester?
Yup, and still love it.
Wanderer001 I was thinking of buying a used one, are there any years to avoid because of problems in the past?
When I was looking it was avoiding pre 2015 models. Had oil consumption issues.
I will say that's bullshit ab the oil , mine burns it, my 2014 burned it. Everyone I've known with a forester burns oil. It's life with these babies.
At the time of filming I had not noticed any excessive oil burning compared with other cars that I have had in the past.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews I'm not saying you're lying, just warning you hahaha
No I totally get that I just wanted to make sure I clarified where my comment was coming from.
How's the audio system in it?
Not a super audio file myself but for me it does just fine I got the one with the bass stereo so if I ever wanted to I can change it out for something better.
@@Wanderer001_Reviews would you be able to do an audio demo (I know TH-cam copyright is a thing)?
@@Wanderer001_Reviews also do you have issues with wind/road noise? Does it interfere much with the inside?
I will see what I can do.
It's a little more pronounced than I've had in other cars but I still don't find it too bad.
Does it have sports mode and does it have automatic mirror closing (when you lock the car does it the mirrors automatically close?)
This trim level does not come with a sport mode. At no level do the mirrors close when you turn the car off.
+Wanderer001 In my husband's car which is a Nissan Micra automatically closes it's mirror.
when it is locked
Reply please
You reveiw is way to long
+Morne Norris It did end up being much longer then I had thought it would be. However, I was trying to cover as much info as I could. I got tired of seeing people just cover the same few bits of info when I was looking. So I was trying for much much more.
Wanderer001 yeh you did put alot of info in it was good but long ah thx 🖒
Morne norris , your response is too short. See how subjective time is?
I prefer it being long if it covers a lot more information than listening to a 10 mins video woth the same explanation from everyone
tuperware. classic... lol