Top Forester Wilderness Aftermarket Mods for the Trail

You bought the Forester Wilderness for its promise of adventure, but a few trips off the pavement quickly reveal its limits. That unexpected scrape over a rocky patch or the need for better lighting on a late-night trail are reminders that capable isn't the same as confident. This is where the world of Forester Wilderness aftermarket parts comes in. It’s not about fixing a flawed vehicle; it’s about making a good one truly exceptional. This guide breaks down the essential 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness aftermarket accessories, from protective skid plates to performance parts that give you an edge when it matters most.

Key Takeaways

• Prioritize Protection and Capability: Before adding accessories, focus on foundational upgrades. Start with essential armor like skid plates and performance parts like a quality suspension lift to ensure your Forester is genuinely trail-ready.
• Build Strategically in Phases: A great build happens over time. Invest in high-quality components that match your current needs and budget, allowing your vehicle's setup to evolve as your off-road skills and ambitions grow.
• Add Accessories with a Purpose: Select exterior and interior gear that solves specific challenges. Functional additions like roof racks for storage, LED lights for visibility, and organizers for your cabin are what make your rig truly self-sufficient.

Why Upgrade Your 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness?

The Subaru Forester Wilderness is an impressive machine right off the showroom floor. It comes equipped with higher ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and a rugged look that says it’s ready for adventure. So, you might be asking, why mess with a good thing? The answer is simple: to make it your thing. Upgrading your Forester isn't about fixing a flaw; it's about personalizing its capability to match your specific ambitions.

Think of the stock Wilderness as a fantastic starting point. You can take it on most trails and feel confident. But what about that rocky pass you've been eyeing, or the week-long overlanding trip that requires extra gear and fuel? That’s where strategic Subaru Forester upgrades come in. By adding the right components, you can transform your Forester from a capable weekend warrior into a purpose-built exploration vehicle.

Enhancements are about more than just performance; they’re about protection and peace of mind. Adding skid plates and rock sliders protects your vehicle's vital components from damage on rough terrain, ensuring you make it home safely. Upgrading your suspension can handle the extra weight of overlanding solutions like rooftop tents and full-size spares without compromising handling. It’s about building a vehicle that not only gets you out there but also gets you back, no matter what the trail throws at you. Every modification is a step toward creating a rig that’s perfectly suited for your unique adventures.

Model Year Compatibility

Covering 2022-2025 Forester Wilderness Models

When you're ready to start modifying your Forester Wilderness, you're in luck. The models from 2022 to 2025 are built on the same platform, which means most aftermarket components are designed to fit across this entire range. This consistency takes a lot of the guesswork out of buying parts. You can confidently shop for Forester performance parts knowing that a component designed for a 2022 model will fit your 2024 vehicle perfectly. This makes planning your build much simpler, allowing you to focus on what upgrades will best suit your adventures rather than worrying about minor generational changes.

The aftermarket community has fully embraced this generation of the Forester Wilderness. Companies like LP Aventure and RalliTEK offer extensive catalogs specifically for 2022-2025 models, from lift kits to protective armor. This widespread support ensures you have plenty of high-quality options to choose from. At Crawford Performance, we engineer our parts with the same precision, ensuring every component integrates seamlessly with your vehicle's existing systems. By focusing on parts made for these specific model years, you guarantee a proper fit and get the most out of your vehicle's capabilities.

Start Here: Essential Armor for Your Forester

The Forester Wilderness is built to explore, but the factory protection can only take you so far. When you venture off the pavement and onto more demanding trails, your vehicle's underbody, rocker panels, and bumpers become vulnerable to rocks, ruts, and stumps. Adding specialized armor is one of the smartest first steps you can take. It’s not just about preventing cosmetic scrapes; it’s about shielding critical components like your engine and differential from damage that could leave you stranded. Think of it as affordable insurance that lets you push your Forester's limits with confidence.

Protect Your Drivetrain with Skid Plates

Your Forester’s underside houses its most critical mechanical parts, and the factory splash guards offer minimal defense against serious impacts. Upgrading to heavy-duty skid plates is essential for true off-road readiness. These plates are designed to absorb and deflect hits from rocks and trail debris, protecting your oil pan, transmission, and rear differential. A dedicated rear differential skid plate is one of the most important Forester upgrades you can make, shielding an exposed and expensive component. This protection lets you slide over obstacles that would otherwise cause catastrophic damage, giving you peace of mind on technical terrain.

CVT Transmission and Gas Tank Protection

Beyond the engine, your Forester’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) and fuel tank are two of the largest and most exposed components on its underbelly. A hard hit from a rock or log can puncture the transmission case, leading to a complete loss of fluid and a vehicle that isn’t going anywhere. Similarly, a compromised gas tank is not only a trip-ender but also a serious safety hazard. Purpose-built skid plates for these areas are non-negotiable for serious trail driving. They are engineered to distribute the force of an impact, shielding these vital systems so you can tackle obstacles without the constant fear of a catastrophic failure.

Control Arm and Trailing Arm Skid Plates

While full-coverage skid plates protect the core of your drivetrain, it's easy to forget about the suspension components that hang lower. Your control arms and trailing arms are critical for keeping your wheels pointed in the right direction, but their position makes them prime targets for trail damage. Bending a control arm can instantly ruin your alignment and make the vehicle unsafe to drive. Adding specific skid plates for these Forester components provides targeted protection, allowing them to slide over rocks and ruts that might otherwise cause severe damage. This is a smart, proactive upgrade that reinforces some of your vehicle's most crucial connection points.

Prevent Body Damage with Rock Sliders

Don't confuse factory side steps with rock sliders. While they may look similar, rock sliders are built from heavy-gauge steel and mount directly to your vehicle's frame. Their purpose is to protect your rocker panels—the area below your doors—from being crushed or dented by rocks and other trail hazards. This is one of the most common and costly types of off-road damage. A solid set of rock sliders provides a durable barrier, allowing your Forester to pivot around or slide along obstacles without damaging the body. They are a must-have for anyone serious about navigating tight, challenging trails.

Add Front-End Protection with a New Bumper

The front and rear of your Forester are your first lines of defense against trail obstacles. An aftermarket bumper or brush guard provides far more protection than the stock plastic covers. The Crawford Wilderness Brush Guard is designed to shield your grille and headlights from branches and impacts without compromising your vehicle’s approach angle. In the back, the Crawford Performance rear bumper adds robust protection with a rally-inspired look. These additions not only guard against damage but often provide mounting points for lights, recovery gear, and other essential accessories.

Improve Your Off-Road Capability with These Upgrades

The Forester Wilderness is impressive right off the showroom floor, but its true potential is unlocked with a few key performance upgrades. If you’re planning to venture beyond graded fire roads and into more technical terrain, enhancing your vehicle’s capability is a smart move. These modifications aren't just about looks; they're about improving ground clearance, traction, and engine responsiveness to give you more confidence and control when the trail gets rough. By focusing on suspension, tires, and engine breathing, you can transform your Forester into a more formidable overlanding machine, ready to tackle challenges you might have previously avoided. These foundational upgrades work together to create a more balanced and reliable rig for any adventure.

Get More Ground Clearance with a Lift Kit

One of the first things you’ll notice on a challenging trail is the need for more ground clearance. A quality suspension lift kit is the answer. Lifting your Forester gives you the height needed to clear rocks, ruts, and other obstacles without damaging your undercarriage. This modification also improves your approach and departure angles, allowing you to climb steeper inclines and descend without scraping your bumpers. More importantly, a well-designed kit maintains proper suspension geometry, ensuring your vehicle handles safely both on and off the road. Investing in thoughtfully engineered overlanding solutions ensures you get the performance you need without compromising ride quality.

Upgrade Your Grip with All-Terrain Tires

Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that touches the ground, making them one of the most critical upgrades for off-road performance. The stock tires are great for daily driving, but a set of aggressive all-terrain (A/T) tires will completely change how your Forester handles loose surfaces. A/T tires feature deeper tread patterns for superior grip in dirt, mud, and gravel, along with tougher sidewalls that resist punctures from sharp rocks. Pairing them with a durable set of aftermarket wheels can further reduce weight and increase strength. This combination is fundamental for anyone serious about exploring remote areas and is a cornerstone of our recommended Subaru Forester upgrades.

Get More Power with an Upgraded Intake and Exhaust

To get more power for climbing steep grades or navigating difficult sections, you need to help your engine breathe better. An upgraded air intake system allows cooler, denser air to enter the engine, while a high-flow exhaust system helps expel gases more efficiently. Together, these modifications improve throttle response and can add a noticeable amount of horsepower and torque. This isn't just about going faster; it's about having reliable power exactly when you need it. At Crawford Performance, we specialize in creating performance parts that deliver a real-world difference, giving your Forester the extra muscle and satisfying engine note to match its rugged capabilities.

Axle-Back Exhaust Systems

For a more immediate impact on your Forester's sound and engine breathing, an axle-back exhaust system is a fantastic choice. This upgrade replaces the final section of your exhaust, from the rear axle to the tips, with a less restrictive setup. The primary benefit is improved exhaust flow, which helps your engine expel gases more efficiently. While it provides a modest performance gain on its own, its true potential is realized when combined with an upgraded air intake. This combination allows your engine to take in more cool air and push out exhaust more freely, resulting in better throttle response and a more satisfying growl. It’s one of the most popular Subaru Forester upgrades for drivers who want to enhance their vehicle's character and enjoy a more engaging experience on every trail.

Upgrade Your Stopping Power with Brake Conversion Kits

When you're navigating a steep, rocky descent, your brakes are just as critical as your suspension and tires. The added weight from overlanding gear, like rooftop tents and extra fuel, puts a significant strain on the factory braking system, increasing the risk of brake fade when you need control the most. This is where a brake conversion kit becomes a vital safety upgrade. These kits typically include larger rotors and multi-piston calipers that provide superior clamping force and dissipate heat more effectively. This means you get consistent, reliable stopping power, even on long, challenging downhills. Investing in a better braking system isn't just about performance; it's about giving you the confidence to tackle technical terrain safely, knowing your Forester can stop as well as it can go.

Must-Have Must-Have Exterior Accessories

Once your Forester’s performance and protection are dialed in, it’s time to equip it for the journey ahead. The right exterior accessories don't just add a rugged look; they provide practical solutions for carrying gear, improving visibility, and staying organized on the trail. These upgrades are what truly transform your daily driver into a capable exploration vehicle, ready for whatever the adventure throws your way. Think of your Forester Wilderness as a solid foundation. Now, we're adding the functional components that support your specific hobbies, whether that's kayaking, mountain biking, or multi-day camping. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a serious overlanding expedition, smart exterior mods are essential for a successful and enjoyable trip. Let's look at the key pieces that will prepare your Forester Wilderness for the wild, turning it into a self-sufficient basecamp on wheels.

Carry More Gear with a Roof Rack

Your Forester has a generous amount of interior space, but for longer trips with bulky gear like tents, recovery equipment, or extra fuel, you’ll need to expand your storage. A quality roof rack is the foundation of any serious adventure build. It allows you to secure cargo up top, freeing up valuable cabin space. You can start with a simple set of crossbars for mounting bikes or a cargo box, or go for a full platform rack for maximum versatility. These systems provide a solid base for all your overlanding solutions, letting you carry everything you need without compromise.

Light Up the Trail with LED Upgrades

Stock headlights are fine for city streets, but they often fall short on unlit backroads and technical trails after dark. Upgrading your lighting is one of the most important safety modifications you can make. High-performance LED light bars, ditch lights, or pod lights dramatically improve your field of vision, helping you spot obstacles and handle challenging terrain with confidence. Look for durable, weather-resistant options from reputable brands that can handle vibrations and impacts. Better lighting not only makes night driving safer but also gives your Subaru Forester a more aggressive, trail-ready appearance.

Popular Lighting Brands like Rigid Industries

When you’re ready to invest in better lighting, it pays to choose a brand known for quality. One of the top names in the off-road world is Rigid Industries, a company well-regarded for its incredibly durable and weather-resistant lighting solutions that can take a beating on the trail. Their D-Series PRO flood lights, for example, are a popular choice among enthusiasts for their exceptional brightness and reliability in harsh conditions. As you shop, look for lights built to withstand heavy vibrations and impacts. It's also crucial to pair them with sturdy mounting solutions to ensure they stay aimed correctly, no matter how rough the terrain gets. A good lighting setup isn't just about safety; it also gives your Forester that aggressive, purpose-built look that shows it’s ready for anything.

Organize Your Gear with MOLLE Panels

Organization is key when you’re living out of your vehicle. MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) panels are a fantastic way to keep your essential gear secure, organized, and easily accessible. These grid systems can be mounted on rear windows, seat backs, or exterior storage boxes, providing a customizable platform for attaching pouches, tools, first-aid kits, and recovery gear. By moving items out of bags and onto dedicated mounts, you’ll always know exactly where your critical equipment is. It’s a simple but effective way to streamline your setup and keep your rig tidy on the move.

Additional Utility and Stability Mods

Beyond the major upgrades, a truly dialed-in rig is defined by the details. These smaller utility and stability modifications are what separate a good build from a great one. They address the practical challenges you encounter on the trail, from setting up camp in the dark to ensuring your vehicle remains balanced and predictable when fully loaded with gear. These components add a layer of refinement and functionality, making your off-road experience smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. Think of them as the finishing touches that complete your Forester’s transformation into a fully capable adventure vehicle.

Hood Light Brackets and Awning Attachment Kits

When you’re navigating a tight trail after sunset or trying to find the perfect campsite, your factory headlights just won't cut it. Hood light brackets, often called ditch light mounts, are a simple yet incredibly effective solution. They allow you to mount powerful LED pods on your hood near the A-pillars, illuminating the sides of the trail where hazards often hide. This wider field of vision is a game-changer for nighttime driving. Similarly, an awning attachment kit transforms your Forester into a comfortable basecamp, providing essential shelter from sun and rain. These utility mods extend your vehicle's functionality far beyond just transportation.

Leveling Spacers, Jack Spacers, and Anti-Wobble Inserts

Once you start adding weight from bumpers, roof racks, and gear, your Forester's suspension can begin to sag, affecting its handling and stability. Leveling spacers, often included in comprehensive Subaru Forester upgrades, correct this by restoring a balanced, factory-like stance. This ensures your suspension geometry remains optimal for both on-road comfort and off-road performance. Smaller components like jack spacers provide a secure lift point for high-clearance vehicles, while anti-wobble inserts eliminate rattling from hitch-mounted accessories. These stability-focused parts work together to ensure your fully loaded rig feels solid and planted, no matter the terrain.

Interior Mods for Comfort and Utility

Long trips off the grid are as much about endurance as they are about adventure. A comfortable and organized cabin makes all the difference when you’re spending days or weeks on the trail. While engine performance gets you over the obstacle, a well-thought-out interior ensures you’re rested and ready for whatever comes next. These upgrades focus on protecting your Forester’s interior from the elements and keeping your essential gear secure and within reach, turning your vehicle into a true home away from home.

Keep Your Interior Clean with Floor Liners

Overlanding is inherently messy. You’ll be tracking in mud, dust, and water, and the factory floor mats just aren't built for that kind of abuse. Investing in a set of high-quality, all-weather floor liners is one of the smartest first moves you can make. Look for custom-fit liners with deep channels and raised edges that contain spills and debris, protecting your carpet from stains and wear. Don't forget about your seats, either. Durable, water-resistant seat covers will shield your upholstery from dirt, gear snags, and the occasional coffee spill, preserving your Forester's resale value.

Organize Your Trunk with Cargo Solutions

A cluttered cabin is more than just an annoyance—it can be a safety hazard on uneven terrain. Keeping your gear organized and secured is essential. Start with simple solutions like cargo nets and seat-back organizers for smaller items. For a more serious setup, consider a drawer system in the cargo area to keep recovery gear, tools, and cooking supplies tidy and accessible. Crawford Performance offers a range of overlanding solutions that can help you build a storage system tailored to your specific needs. Properly stowing your equipment means you’ll find what you need quickly and prevent items from becoming projectiles during bumpy ascents.

Essential Comms and Navigation Gear

Once you leave paved roads behind, you can't rely on your phone for directions or emergencies. Reliable off-grid communication and navigation are non-negotiable. A dedicated GPS unit loaded with topographic maps is a must-have for finding your way. For safety, a satellite communicator allows you to send messages and an SOS signal from anywhere in the world. If you travel with a group, a GMRS radio is an excellent tool for vehicle-to-vehicle communication, ensuring everyone stays connected on the trail, even without cell service.

How Much Do Forester Wilderness Upgrades Cost?

Planning your Forester Wilderness build is one of the most exciting parts of owning one. Mapping out your budget is the first practical step to bringing that vision to life, but it’s more than just crunching numbers. It’s about creating a roadmap for your vehicle's transformation. A truly great build happens over time, piece by piece, so don’t feel pressured to get everything at once. Instead, think about how you plan to use your Forester. Is it your daily driver that doubles as a weekend warrior for hitting local trails? Or are you gearing up for extended, multi-day overlanding trips deep in the backcountry? Answering that question will help you prioritize your upgrades.

A smart approach is to invest in quality from the start. It’s always better to buy one well-engineered component that will withstand years of abuse than to cycle through three cheaper alternatives that fail when you need them most. Think of your budget in tiers: entry-level essentials to get you started, mid-range upgrades to seriously improve capability, and premium setups for a no-compromise build. This method lets you build momentum, adding parts as your budget allows and as your skills on the trail grow. Each addition should be a deliberate step toward creating the reliable, capable, and fun-to-drive Forester you’ve been dreaming of.

Getting Started: Mods Under $1,500

This is where you build a solid foundation for all future modifications. For a relatively small investment, you can add accessories that offer a big return in capability and protection. Start with the essentials that make an immediate impact on the trail, like a lift kit to gain crucial ground clearance or ditch light brackets for better visibility on those late-night runs. One of the smartest first moves is installing an Air/Oil Separator to protect your engine during steep climbs and off-camber situations. These initial Forester upgrades are perfect for getting your feet wet and making your vehicle more trail-ready without a massive financial commitment.

The Sweet Spot: Upgrades from $1,500 to $5,000

Once you have the basics covered, the mid-range is where you can start making significant improvements to your Forester’s performance and durability. This is where you move beyond simple spacers to full suspension systems that dramatically improve handling and control, both on and off the road. A quality set of all-terrain tires paired with lightweight wheels will also completely transform how your vehicle grips the trail. Other popular upgrades in this tier include front and rear bumpers for added protection and improved approach angles. These are the parts that prepare your rig for more serious overlanding solutions and give you the confidence to tackle more challenging adventures.

Going All Out: Builds Over $5,000

For the ultimate build, the premium tier is where you invest in specialized, high-performance equipment designed for the most demanding conditions. This budget allows for top-of-the-line, adjustable suspension, heavy-duty bumpers with integrated winch mounts, and advanced lighting systems that turn night into day. It’s also where you can get into serious performance gains with professional engine tuning services that optimize power, torque, and reliability for your specific setup. These are the no-compromise upgrades that turn your Forester Wilderness into a purpose-built machine ready for any adventure you can throw at it, built with the same engineering principles that go into professional race cars.

How to Spot Quality Parts

With so many options on the market, knowing how to identify quality parts is key to a successful build. Look for components made from durable materials like TIG-welded steel or aircraft-grade aluminum. Pay close attention to a brand’s reputation—companies with a proven track record in motorsports and off-roading, like Crawford Performance, build their products to a higher standard because they’ve been tested in the harshest environments. A solid warranty and positive, detailed customer reviews are also great indicators of a trustworthy product. Investing in well-engineered performance parts from the start saves you money and headaches down the road, ensuring your Forester is reliable when you need it most.

Where to Buy the Best Forester Wilderness Accessories

Finding the right accessories for your Forester Wilderness means going to the experts. While general auto parts stores have their place, Subaru specialists offer parts engineered specifically for your vehicle’s capabilities. These companies live and breathe Subaru performance, ensuring you get components that fit perfectly, perform reliably, and withstand the rigors of the trail. Sourcing your gear from reputable manufacturers not only protects your investment but also gives you peace of mind when you’re miles from the nearest paved road.

Crawford Performance and Other Subaru Specialists

When you want parts designed with precision for your Forester, starting with a dedicated Subaru specialist is your best bet. We engineer our products to meet the unique demands of off-road and rally-inspired driving. For example, our front off-road bumper brush guard adds crucial protection without compromising your approach angle. We also developed a matching rear bumper that enhances durability and gives your Forester a more aggressive, rally-ready look. Because these parts are built specifically for 2022–2024 Forester models, you can count on a straightforward installation and a flawless fit.

LP Aventure

Parts for Subaru, Toyota, and More

LP Aventure is another top-tier manufacturer specializing in parts that make your Forester Wilderness more capable and visually aggressive. They offer a comprehensive catalog of accessories for 2022–2025 models, focusing on everything from essential protection to complete aesthetic overhauls. You’ll find robust bumper guards that add front-end defense, full underbody skid plates for critical protection, and lift kits designed to give you the ground clearance needed for serious trails. Their components are engineered to work together, allowing you to build a cohesive and functional rig. For Forester owners looking to create a tough, adventure-ready vehicle, LP Aventure provides a wide selection of high-quality, purpose-built parts.

RalliTEK

Product Selection and In-House Services

Known as "Subaru Off-Road Specialists," RalliTEK has earned a strong reputation for its durable and well-engineered parts for the 2022–2024 Forester Wilderness. They offer a wide range of upgrades, including performance springs, skid plates, and complete suspension lift kits designed to handle tough outdoor adventures. What sets RalliTEK apart is their combination of quality products and expert services. For owners who prefer a professional touch, they offer in-house installation, alignments, and even complete wheel and tire packages. This makes them a great one-stop shop if you want to ensure your new components are installed correctly for optimal performance and safety on rugged roads.

Anderson Design & Fabrication (ADF)

USA-Made Parts with Warranties

Anderson Design & Fabrication (ADF) is a go-to source for Forester Wilderness owners who prioritize American-made quality and durability. They specialize in lift kits that provide the extra clearance needed for larger tires and more challenging terrain, all while maintaining proper suspension geometry. Beyond lifts, their product line includes practical accessories like ditch light brackets and skid plates designed for the 2022–2024 models. A major advantage of choosing ADF parts is their commitment to quality, backed by a lifetime warranty on their products. This gives you confidence that you’re investing in gear that’s built to last through countless adventures.

Which Aftermarket Brands Can You Trust?

Beyond our own offerings, the Subaru community trusts several other brands to deliver high-quality gear. Anderson Design & Fabrication (ADF) is well-known for its extensive lineup of parts specifically for the 2022–2024 Forester Wilderness. If you’re looking for lift kits or skid plates, RalliTEK is another excellent source that focuses on improving your vehicle’s off-road prowess. For exterior gear like roof racks and cargo carriers, industry leaders like Thule and Yakima consistently provide reliable solutions that integrate well with the Forester’s factory rails. Exploring these brands can help you round out your build with proven, trail-tested components.

How to Time Your Purchases for Big Savings

Building your dream rig doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan your purchases strategically. Many brands offer significant discounts during major sales events. Keep an eye out for promotions around Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other holidays, as this is when you’ll often find the best deals of the year. For instance, some retailers offer discounts ranging from 6% to over 50% off during these periods. Signing up for newsletters from your favorite brands, including ours, is a great way to get notified about upcoming sales so you can get the performance parts you want at a lower price.

Related Articles

• Your Guide to a Forester Wilderness Suspension Upgrade
• 2019-2024 Subaru Forester Overland Parts & Upgrades

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm on a tight budget. What's the single most important upgrade to start with? That's a great question, and the best answer depends on your biggest priority. If your main concern is protecting your investment, the first thing I'd recommend is a rear differential skid plate. It's a relatively inexpensive part that shields a very exposed and costly component from damage. If you're more focused on immediate capability, a quality 2-inch lift kit will give you the most noticeable improvement in ground clearance, allowing you to tackle more challenging trails right away.

Will adding these performance parts void my Subaru warranty? This is a common and completely valid concern. The short answer is no, not automatically. Thanks to the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a manufacturer has to prove that your specific aftermarket part directly caused a specific failure. For example, they can't deny a claim for a faulty infotainment screen because you installed a lift kit. The best way to protect yourself is to use high-quality, well-engineered parts from reputable brands and keep detailed records of your installations.

How much of a lift is too much for a Forester Wilderness? While it might be tempting to go for maximum height, a balanced approach is key for the Forester platform. Generally, a 2-inch lift is the sweet spot. This provides a significant improvement in ground clearance and allows for larger tires without drastically altering the vehicle's suspension geometry. Going much higher can put excessive strain on components like your CV joints and negatively impact your Forester's excellent on-road handling and stability.

Do I really need heavy-duty armor like skid plates for casual trail driving? Think of armor as affordable insurance. The factory splash guards offer very little protection against a well-placed rock or stump, even on a trail that seems easy. A single impact on your oil pan or rear differential can end your trip and lead to a very expensive repair bill. If you plan to leave the pavement at all, a set of skid plates provides the peace of mind to explore with confidence, knowing your vehicle's vital organs are protected.

Besides more power, how do an intake and exhaust system actually help on the trail? While the horsepower gains are nice, the real benefit off-road comes from improved throttle response and engine efficiency. When you're navigating a technical, rocky section, you need precise control over your power delivery. An upgraded intake and exhaust can make the engine feel more responsive to small inputs. On long, steep climbs, helping the engine breathe better allows it to maintain power more consistently without working as hard, which is crucial for reliability on extended adventures.