Parts for your 2014 Subaru Forester

2014 Subaru Forester: Practical, capable, and easy to look after

The 2014 Subaru Forester is a no‑fuss all‑rounder, equally happy carting the whānau around town or heading bush for a weekend. With a roomy cabin, big boot, and Subaru’s symmetrical AWD, it’s built for real‑world Aussie and Kiwi conditions—gravel, rain, and long kilometres on the motorway.

Under the bonnet, most models run the durable FB‑series petrol engine paired to either a manual or the smooth CVT. There’s no timing belt to stress about (it uses a timing chain), so regular oil changes are the hero move that keeps everything sweet. Around the car, simple service parts—filters, plugs, fluids, and tyres—are the key to keeping it feeling tight and responsive without any dramas.

• Engine and filters: Use quality full‑synthetic oil and replace the oil and air filters on time, don’t forget the cabin filter for fresh airflow.
• Transmission and driveline: Inspect CVT fluid per the Subaru schedule, and keep front/rear diff oils fresh if towing or driving dusty roads.
• Cooling and braking: Renew coolant and brake fluid at the recommended intervals to protect components and pedal feel.
• Ignition and belts: Replace spark plugs at the specified kilometre mark and check auxiliary belts for wear.
• Tyres and alignment: Rotate tyres regularly, matched tyre sizes are vital for AWD health, and a proper alignment keeps it tracking straight.
• Body and underbody: After beach trips, rinse the underbody to minimise salt corrosion, listen for suspension knocks over rough stuff.

Look after these bits and the Forester stays economical, comfy, and ready for the next roadie—easy as.

What engine oil should be used in a 2014 Subaru Forester in Australia or New Zealand?

Check the owner’s handbook for the exact spec. Most 2.5i petrol models call for a quality full‑synthetic 0W‑20 meeting API SN (or newer). In hotter climates, some workshops are comfortable with 5W‑30. Use a good filter and stick to sensible change intervals.

Does the 2014 Subaru Forester have a timing belt or chain?

It uses a timing chain, so there’s no scheduled belt replacement. Keeping fresh oil in it is the best way to look after the chain and variable valve timing gear.

When should the CVT fluid be changed?

Follow Subaru’s service schedule for inspection. Many techs suggest changing CVT fluid between about 60,000–100,000 km depending on use (towing, heat, or lots of stop‑start). Always use the correct Subaru‑spec CVT fluid.