2.0 Boxer petrol (EJ20 / FB20)
2008–2013 · petrol · 1994cc · 150hp
Engine codes: EJ20, FB20
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Subaru Impreza / Forester 2.0 Boxer petrol (EJ20 / FB20). Check this before you buy used.
The FB20 boxer is the newer-generation 2.0 petrol — chain-driven and a clear step up from the old EJ on head-gasket reliability. It's adequate rather than quick in a heavy AWD car, and the FB family's known trait is oil consumption from low-tension piston rings on some examples (usually after higher mileage). With standard AWD/CVT servicing it's a dependable, low-drama engine; check oil level and consumption history.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (EJ20) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
Known Issues
EJ20 is belt-driven (change on schedule); FB20 (newer) is chain. Regular oil changes are key to boxer longevity.
Fix / Workaround: Belt + water pump on schedule (EJ20); frequent oil changes.
Repair cost: €300–€600
Typically appears after: 100,000 km
Thirsty due to permanent AWD — not a fault.
Fix / Workaround: Budget for fuel.
0Two different generations, two known traits: early FB20s (2011–2014) are documented for ring-related oil consumption (Subaru extended warranties over it); high-mileage EJ20s weep externally at the head gaskets. Neither is usually sudden.
Fix / Workaround: FB20: oil consumption test before buying. EJ20: look for external weeps at the head-block joints — budget gaskets if damp.
Repair cost: €200–€1500
Typically appears after: 130,000 km
FB-family low-tension rings can let some engines burn oil, usually past ~130k km.
Fix / Workaround: Monitor oil level; investigate if topping up; some need ring/piston work.
Repair cost: €100–€1500
Typically appears after: 130,000 km
Symmetrical AWD + CVT need correct fluids on schedule.
Fix / Workaround: Service CVT + diffs per schedule; matched tyres.
Repair cost: €150–€600
Year Cutoffs
Mileage Thresholds
After 250,000 km: Dependable with oil/belt discipline.
After 150,000 km: EJ20: check for gasket weeps. FB20: verify the oil-consumption fix/test history. Otherwise these boxers just run.
Fault Codes to Scan
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Belt history (EJ20)
- ☐Frequent oil changes
- ☐The safer boxer vs the 2.5
- ☐Check oil level + consumption history
- ☐CVT + AWD service records
- ☐Adequate, not fast, in a heavy car
Frequently asked questions
Is the Subaru Impreza / Forester 2.0 Boxer petrol (EJ20 / FB20) reliable?
Maint. Sensitive — The FB20 boxer is the newer-generation 2.0 petrol — chain-driven and a clear step up from the old EJ on head-gasket reliability. It's adequate rather than quick in a heavy AWD car, and the FB family's known trait is oil consumption from low-tension piston rings on some examples (usually after higher mileage). With standard AWD/CVT servicing it's a dependable, low-drama engine; check oil level and consumption history.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Subaru Impreza / Forester 2.0 Boxer petrol (EJ20 / FB20)?
The most commonly reported problems: Timing belt/chain + oil discipline, AWD fuel consumption, FB20 oil consumption (2011–2014) / EJ20 head gasket weep at age, Oil consumption (low-tension rings), AWD/CVT fluid discipline.
Is a used Subaru Impreza / Forester 2.0 Boxer petrol (EJ20 / FB20) worth buying?
Fine if serviced correctly — but it punishes neglect hard. History and the right consumables matter.