6 Must-Have Subaru Forester Off-Road Parts
A stock Subaru Forester is a fantastic vehicle, but it has its limitations when faced with serious off-road conditions. Insufficient ground clearance can leave you hung up on obstacles, factory tires can lose grip in mud, and the unprotected underbody is vulnerable to costly damage. These are common problems that can quickly end an adventure. The solution isn't to buy a different vehicle; it's to equip your Forester for the environment you want to explore. By carefully selecting the right Subaru Forester off-road parts, you can systematically address each of these weaknesses. This guide provides a clear roadmap for transforming your vehicle, focusing on the essential modifications for suspension, protection, and traction.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize the Foundational Trio: Focus your initial investment on the three upgrades that provide the most significant off-road advantage: a suspension lift for ground clearance, all-terrain tires for superior traction, and skid plates to protect your Forester's underbody. These components work together to form the core of a capable rig.
- Choose Performance Parts That Fit Your Goals: Select upgrades that match your specific Forester model year (2002-present) and your intended use, whether it's light trails or serious overlanding. Always opt for performance parts designed to exceed factory specs, rather than simple replacement parts, to ensure your vehicle can handle the added stress of off-road driving.
- Commit to Smart Installation and Maintenance: The reliability of your build depends on proper installation and consistent upkeep. Decide between DIY and professional installation based on the complexity of the part, and establish a routine post-trip inspection to check for loose components and potential issues. This proactive care ensures your Forester remains safe and trail-ready.
Why is the Subaru Forester Built for Off-Roading?
The Subaru Forester has earned a reputation as a reliable daily driver, but its true strength lies in its surprising off-road capability. What makes this crossover a favorite for trail enthusiasts? It all starts with a design that’s inherently ready for adventure. Unlike many SUVs in its class that offer all-wheel drive as an expensive add-on, every Forester comes standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. This system provides constant power to all four wheels, giving you superior grip on everything from slick pavement to loose gravel and muddy trails.
Beyond its intelligent drivetrain, the Forester boasts an impressive 8.7 inches of ground clearance straight from the factory. This allows you to clear rocks, ruts, and other obstacles that would stop other vehicles in their tracks. This combination of standard AWD and high clearance provides a solid foundation for light to moderate off-roading without any modifications.
However, the Forester’s real appeal is its incredible potential. Its durable build and smart design make it the perfect platform for creating a serious overlanding solution. While it’s capable in its stock form, the right Subaru Forester upgrades transform it into a machine that can confidently tackle more demanding terrain. By investing in quality parts, you can enhance its durability and performance, ensuring your modified vehicle remains dependable for years of exploration. It’s this unique blend of everyday practicality and rugged potential that makes the Forester a standout choice for adventurers.
Essential Off-Road Upgrades for Your Forester
Taking your Subaru Forester from a daily driver to a trail-ready rig starts with a few key modifications. These upgrades are designed to improve capability, durability, and safety when you leave the pavement behind. Focusing on these essential areas will give you the confidence to tackle more demanding terrain and get the most out of your adventures. Each component builds on the last, creating a well-rounded vehicle prepared for anything the trail throws its way.
Suspension Lift Kits for Better Ground Clearance
The first and most critical step in any off-road build is increasing ground clearance. A suspension lift gives you the height needed to clear rocks, ruts, and other obstacles that would otherwise stop you in your tracks. For most Forester owners, a spacer lift kit is an excellent starting point. It provides that essential clearance for fitting larger, more aggressive tires without requiring a complete suspension overhaul. This single modification fundamentally changes your vehicle’s capability and sets the foundation for all other overlanding solutions.
Skid Plates and Underbody Protection
Once you have more ground clearance, the next priority is protecting your Forester’s vital organs. The underbody houses critical components like the engine, oil pan, and transmission, all of which are vulnerable to impacts on the trail. A sturdy set of skid plates acts as armor, absorbing hits and preventing costly damage far from home. Companies like Primitive Racing are well-known for their Subaru-specific protection, but the key is to find a solution that covers the most exposed areas. Investing in underbody protection is one of the smartest ways to ensure your off-road trips end on a high note.
All-Terrain Tires and Performance Wheels
Your tires are the only connection between your Forester and the trail, making them one of the most impactful upgrades you can make. Swapping out factory tires for a quality set of all-terrain (A/T) tires will dramatically improve traction on dirt, mud, and rocks. Look for a tread pattern that balances on-road comfort with off-road grip. Pairing your new tires with a set of durable, lightweight performance wheels not only completes the look but can also handle the increased stress of off-road driving better than stock options.
Off-Road Lighting for Improved Visibility
Off-road adventures don’t always end when the sun goes down. A reliable lighting setup is essential for safely navigating trails at night or in low-visibility conditions like fog or heavy rain. Adding an LED light bar to your roof rack or bumper provides powerful forward-facing light, while smaller ditch lights mounted near the hood can illuminate the sides of the trail. This improved visibility allows you to spot obstacles sooner and choose your lines with greater confidence, making night runs safer and more enjoyable.
Recovery and Emergency Gear
No matter how capable your Forester is, getting stuck is always a possibility. That’s why having the right recovery gear is non-negotiable. This isn’t about performance; it’s about self-reliance and safety. Your kit should include, at a minimum, a set of traction boards, a sturdy tow strap with rated shackles, and a reliable tire repair kit. Investing in quality recovery equipment ensures you can handle unexpected situations on your own or assist others, turning a potential trip-ending problem into a minor inconvenience.
Roof Racks and Overlanding Storage
As your trips get longer and more ambitious, you’ll quickly run out of space inside your Forester. A roof rack is the perfect solution for expanding your cargo capacity. It allows you to carry bulky items like spare tires, recovery gear, extra fuel, and camping equipment, freeing up interior space for passengers and essentials. A quality roof rack is a cornerstone of any serious Subaru Forester upgrade, transforming your vehicle into a true overlanding platform ready for multi-day excursions.
Top Brands for Subaru Forester Off-Road Parts
When you start modifying your Forester, you’ll quickly learn that the brand name on the box matters. Choosing the right parts is about more than just a name; it’s an investment in quality, reliability, and performance that you can count on when you’re miles from the nearest paved road. The right components work together to create a capable and dependable rig, while subpar parts can leave you stranded.
To help you make the best choices for your build, I’ve put together a list of top-tier brands that have earned their reputation in the Subaru off-road community. These companies are known for their innovative designs, durable materials, and a deep understanding of what it takes to make a Forester truly trail-ready. From foundational suspension upgrades to essential protective gear, these are the names that consistently deliver results for enthusiasts who demand the best from their vehicles. Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip or a full-scale overlanding expedition, starting with these brands will set you up for success.
Crawford Performance: Premium Upgrades and Custom Solutions
When you want parts designed by people who live and breathe Subaru, Crawford Performance is the place to go. We specialize in high-quality overlanding solutions engineered specifically for models like the Forester and Crosstrek. Our components are built to make your Subaru more capable and reliable on challenging trails. We focus on creating integrated systems that enhance performance without compromising daily drivability. From our signature Air/Oil Separator to lift kits and engine tuning, every part is designed to meet the highest standards of durability and function, ensuring your vehicle is ready for any adventure you throw at it.
Old Man Emu: Adventure-Ready Suspension Systems
A quality suspension system is the foundation of any serious off-road build, and Old Man Emu (OME) is a legend in this space. Known for their adventure-ready suspension kits, OME focuses on improving ride control, handling, and load-carrying capacity. Their systems are engineered to handle the extra weight of gear like roof racks, bumpers, and recovery equipment while providing a stable and comfortable ride on rough terrain. An Old Man Emu suspension is a smart investment that ensures your Forester can tackle tough obstacles with confidence and maintain its composure on long journeys.
Primitive Racing: Specialized Subaru Protection
The underside of your Forester is vulnerable to rocks, stumps, and other trail hazards. That’s where Primitive Racing comes in. With deep roots in the world of Subaru rally racing, they are experts in vehicle protection. Primitive Racing is best known for its incredibly tough skid plates, which shield critical components like your engine, transmission, and rear differential from costly damage. Made from high-grade aluminum, their skid plates offer robust protection without adding excessive weight. Equipping your Forester with their armor is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure you make it home from every off-road trip.
BFGoodrich: The Gold Standard in All-Terrain Tires
Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that actually touches the trail, making them one of the most critical upgrades for off-roading. Good all-terrain tires are essential, and BFGoodrich has set the industry standard for decades. Their All-Terrain T/A KO2 is a favorite among off-roaders for its aggressive tread pattern, exceptional traction on varied surfaces, and famously tough sidewalls that resist punctures. Upgrading to a set of BFGoodrich tires will dramatically improve your Forester’s ability to handle mud, sand, and rocky trails, giving you the grip you need to push further.
Yakima: Trusted Roof Rack Systems
Off-road adventures require a lot of gear, and your Forester’s interior space can fill up fast. Yakima is a trusted leader in creating external storage solutions that let you carry everything you need. Their versatile roof racks, cargo baskets, and gear mounts are designed for durability and ease of use. A Yakima roof rack system allows you to securely transport bulky items like rooftop tents, recovery boards, spare tires, and fuel cans. This not only frees up valuable cabin space but also helps keep your vehicle’s center of gravity balanced for better stability on uneven terrain.
How to Choose the Right Off-Road Parts for Your Forester
Building your ideal off-road Forester starts with a solid plan. Choosing the right parts from the beginning not only saves you from headaches down the road but also ensures your vehicle is safe, reliable, and perfectly suited for your adventures. Before you add anything to your cart, it’s essential to think through a few key factors that will guide your decisions. By considering your vehicle’s specific model year, defining your off-roading goals, and understanding the type of parts you need, you can build a capable machine that’s ready for anything you throw at it. This thoughtful approach guarantees that every dollar you invest directly contributes to a more capable and enjoyable experience on the trail.
Confirm Your Forester's Year Compatibility (2002-Present)
The first step in any upgrade project is ensuring the parts you want will actually fit your vehicle. The Subaru Forester has gone through several generations since 2002, with changes to its chassis, suspension geometry, and engine components along the way. A lift kit designed for a 2010 model won't work on a 2022 model. Always double-check the product description for year-range compatibility. Reputable suppliers clearly list which models their parts are designed for, making it easy to find the right Subaru Forester upgrades for your specific vehicle. This simple check prevents costly returns and installation frustrations.
Match Parts to Your Off-Road Goals
What kind of adventurer are you? Your answer will shape your entire build. Are you planning on tackling rocky trails, exploring remote fire roads, or embarking on long-distance overlanding trips? Each goal requires a different set of modifications. If you’re mostly sticking to light trails, a modest lift and all-terrain tires might be all you need. However, if you’re building a serious rig for extended travel, you’ll want to consider heavy-duty suspension, full underbody protection, and specialized overlanding solutions. Investing in quality upgrades that align with your goals from the start ensures your Forester is durable and reliable for years of adventure.
Performance vs. Replacement Parts: What's the Difference?
It’s important to distinguish between replacement parts and performance parts. Replacement parts are designed to bring your Forester back to its original factory condition. Performance parts, on the other hand, are engineered to exceed factory specifications, giving you enhanced capability, strength, and durability. For an off-road build, you should always focus on performance parts. For example, a modest two-inch lift combined with quality all-terrain tires is a performance upgrade designed to find a happy medium between trail capability and on-road comfort. These components are built to handle the unique stresses of off-road driving, giving you the confidence to push your Forester further.
The Real-World Benefits of an Off-Road Forester
Modifying your Subaru Forester for off-road use is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about unlocking its true potential and preparing it for any adventure you can dream up. The right upgrades deliver tangible benefits that you’ll feel every time you leave the pavement. A properly equipped Forester becomes a more capable, durable, and reliable partner on the trail, allowing you to explore with greater confidence.
These enhancements transform your daily driver into a versatile machine ready for weekend camping trips, challenging trails, and overland journeys. From gaining critical ground clearance to protecting vital components, each modification serves a purpose. You’ll be able to carry more gear, handle tougher terrain, and get home safely. The real-world value of these upgrades becomes clear when you’re navigating a rocky pass or a muddy backroad—it’s the difference between turning back and pushing forward. Let’s look at the specific advantages you gain when you invest in quality Subaru Forester upgrades.
Conquer Snow, Rock, and Mud with Ease
The Subaru Forester’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-Mode already give it a solid foundation for tackling tricky conditions. However, adding a few key off-road parts takes its capability to a whole new level. A modest two-inch suspension lift provides the ground clearance needed to clear rocks, ruts, and deep snow without scraping the undercarriage. When you pair that lift with a set of aggressive all-terrain tires, you gain the traction required to power through mud, sand, and slick surfaces where stock tires would struggle. These upgrades work together to let you confidently venture onto trails that would be off-limits to a standard Forester.
Protect Your Forester for the Long Haul
Off-roading puts significant stress on your vehicle, and protecting its critical components is essential for long-term reliability. The factory underbody offers minimal defense against rocks, stumps, and other trail hazards. Installing a set of durable skid plates is one of the smartest investments you can make. These plates shield your engine, transmission, and differential from impacts that could otherwise cause catastrophic damage and leave you stranded. By investing in high-quality performance parts from the start, you ensure your Forester can withstand the rigors of the trail and remain a dependable adventure vehicle for years to come.
Increase Load Capacity for Bigger Adventures
Whether you’re heading out for a weekend of camping or a week-long overland expedition, you need to bring the right gear. A stock Forester has limited cargo space, but the right upgrades can dramatically expand its carrying capacity. An aftermarket roof rack is the perfect platform for mounting a rooftop tent, awnings, and extra storage boxes for fuel, water, and recovery equipment. These overlanding solutions allow you to pack everything you need for self-sufficient travel without sacrificing interior space or comfort. This means you can plan bigger, longer, and more ambitious trips.
Improve Safety and Reliability on the Trail
Every modification that improves your Forester’s capability also enhances its safety on the trail. Increased ground clearance from a lift kit doesn’t just help you clear obstacles; it reduces the risk of getting high-centered or damaging crucial components far from help. Upgraded all-terrain tires provide superior grip and puncture resistance, giving you more control on unpredictable surfaces and lowering the chance of a flat tire in a remote area. These upgrades give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your vehicle is prepared to handle unexpected challenges, making every off-road experience safer and more enjoyable.
Where to Find the Best Deals on Quality Off-Road Parts
Upgrading your Forester is an investment, and like any smart investment, you want the best value for your money. Finding a great deal isn’t just about the lowest price tag; it’s about securing high-quality, durable parts that will perform when you need them most. A cheap part that fails on the trail is far more costly than a quality component bought at a fair price. With a little strategy, you can equip your Subaru with top-tier gear without overspending. The key is knowing where to look and when to buy.
Buying Direct vs. Through Online Retailers
When you’re ready to purchase, you’ll generally have two options: buying directly from the manufacturer or going through a third-party online retailer. While large retail sites can sometimes offer competitive pricing, purchasing directly from a specialist like Crawford Performance has major advantages. You get expert advice from the people who designed and built the part, ensuring perfect compatibility with your Forester. This direct line also simplifies warranty claims and provides access to unparalleled support. For critical components that define your vehicle’s capability, buying from the source guarantees you’re getting authentic, purpose-built overlanding solutions designed specifically for your Subaru.
Watch for Seasonal Sales and Promotions
Patience can pay off. If you’re not in a rush, timing your purchases around major sales events can lead to significant savings. Keep an eye out for promotions during Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other holiday seasons when brands often discount their inventory. The best way to stay in the loop is to follow your favorite manufacturers on their social media channels and subscribe to their newsletters. Companies frequently announce exclusive deals on performance gear to their followers first, giving you a head start on the best prices for everything from lift kits to engine components.
Inquire About Custom Builds and Bulk Orders
If you have a specific vision for your Forester that goes beyond off-the-shelf parts, don’t hesitate to reach out to a manufacturer directly. Many specialists, including our team at Crawford Performance, are equipped to handle custom builds and can tailor solutions to fit your exact needs. This is also a great route if you’re planning a large-scale upgrade or outfitting multiple vehicles with friends. Discussing your project directly can open the door to package deals or bulk order discounts, ensuring you get precisely the setup you want while potentially saving on the total cost of your performance parts.
How to Install and Maintain Your New Upgrades
Once you’ve selected the perfect off-road parts, the next step is getting them onto your Forester and ensuring they perform reliably for years to come. The right installation sets the foundation for performance, while a solid maintenance routine protects your investment and keeps you safe on the trail. It’s also crucial to know what kind of support you have from the manufacturer if something goes wrong.
Making smart decisions about installation and upkeep is just as important as choosing the right gear. Let’s walk through what you need to consider, from the initial install to long-term care and warranty protection. This approach ensures your Forester is always ready for the next adventure.
Professional Installation vs. DIY: What to Consider
The satisfaction of installing your own upgrades is undeniable, but it’s important to be realistic about your skills, tools, and time. Some Subaru Forester upgrades, like bolt-on light bars or skid plates, can be great weekend projects for a home mechanic. However, more complex jobs, especially suspension lift kits that alter your vehicle’s geometry and alignment, often benefit from professional expertise.
Before you decide, ask yourself if you have the right tools for the job, like a torque wrench and jack stands, and a safe space to work. A professional installation not only saves you time but also comes with the assurance that the job was done correctly, which is critical for safety-related components. For complex systems, trusting an expert can prevent costly mistakes and ensure your Forester performs exactly as it should.
Create a Maintenance Plan for Lasting Performance
Investing in quality parts is the first step, but consistent maintenance is what truly keeps your modified vehicle reliable. Off-roading introduces a lot of stress, from vibrations and impacts to mud and water. That’s why a post-trip inspection should become second nature. After every adventure, take a few minutes to check for loose bolts, inspect your tires for damage, and look for any new leaks or scrapes on the underbody.
Creating a simple checklist can make this process quick and effective. Regularly re-torquing suspension components, cleaning your undercarriage to prevent rust, and checking fluid levels will help you catch small issues before they become major problems on the trail. This proactive approach is key to protecting your overlanding solutions and ensuring your Forester is always ready to go.
Understand Your Warranty and Protection Options
A good warranty is a sign that a manufacturer stands behind its products. Before you buy, take a moment to understand the terms of the warranty for any parts you’re considering. How long does the coverage last? Does it cover defects only, or does it account for the rigors of off-road use? It’s also important to know if a DIY installation could potentially void your coverage.
At Crawford Performance, we believe in the durability of our engineering, which is why we offer a standard 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty on our performance parts. Knowing you have this protection provides peace of mind, allowing you to push your Forester to its limits with confidence. Always choose brands that are transparent about their warranty and are committed to supporting their customers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
If I can only afford one upgrade to start, what should it be? Without a doubt, your first investment should be a quality set of all-terrain tires. While a lift kit is fantastic, your tires are what physically connect your Forester to the trail. A good set of A/T tires will give you a dramatic and immediate improvement in traction on dirt, mud, and rocks, providing the biggest boost in capability for your money.
How will these off-road upgrades affect my Forester's daily driving and gas mileage? It's important to be realistic about the trade-offs. Adding a lift kit and larger, heavier all-terrain tires will create more drag and rolling resistance, which typically results in a small decrease in fuel economy. You might also notice the ride is a bit firmer on pavement. However, most quality suspension systems are designed to balance on-road comfort with off-road performance, so the change is usually minimal and well worth the incredible gain in capability.
How high can I lift my Forester before running into issues? For most Forester owners, a two-inch lift is the sweet spot. This provides a significant increase in ground clearance for clearing obstacles and fitting larger tires without drastically altering the vehicle's suspension geometry. Going higher than two inches often requires more complex and expensive modifications to correct things like CV axle angles, which can lead to premature wear and reliability issues if not addressed properly.
Do I need to install all of these upgrades at once? Not at all. One of the best parts of building a rig is doing it in stages that match your budget and evolving needs. A great approach is to start with all-terrain tires, then add underbody protection like skid plates. As you tackle more challenging trails, you can add a suspension lift, and then supplement with gear like off-road lighting and a roof rack as your adventures get bigger.
Will installing these parts void my Subaru factory warranty? This is a common concern, but the answer is generally no. Legally, a manufacturer cannot void your entire vehicle warranty just because you installed an aftermarket part. For a warranty claim to be denied, the dealer must prove that the specific part you installed was the direct cause of the failure. Using high-quality, vehicle-specific parts and ensuring they are installed correctly is the best way to protect yourself and your vehicle.