14 Best Subaru Forester Wilderness Accessories

The spirit of the Forester Wilderness is all about pushing boundaries and exploring what’s beyond the next hill. While your Subaru is capable from day one, there’s a difference between having a vehicle that can go off-road and one that is truly prepared for adventure. The right gear is what bridges that gap, turning ambitious trip ideas into reality. A roof rack opens up possibilities for extended overlanding, while powerful LED lighting means your day doesn’t have to end at sunset. This is about building a rig that won’t hold you back. We’ll explore the key Subaru Forester Wilderness accessories that will equip your vehicle to match your ambition, getting you out there further and more safely.

Key Takeaways

• Build for Your Specific Adventures: Tailor your upgrades to how you actually use your Forester. Prioritize protective armor like skid plates for rocky terrain, or focus on cargo solutions and comfort for long-distance overlanding trips.
• Start with Foundational Upgrades: The most critical first steps are protecting your vehicle's underbody with skid plates and improving grip with quality all-terrain tires. These two upgrades provide the biggest immediate improvement in off-road confidence and capability.
• Choose Proven Parts for Long-Term Reliability: Invest in accessories from specialized brands that test their products and have a deep understanding of the Subaru platform. Ensuring proper fitment and professional installation for complex jobs prevents future issues on the trail.

What Makes the Forester Wilderness Special?

The Subaru Forester Wilderness isn't just another trim package; it's a purpose-built machine designed for drivers who see the end of the pavement as the beginning of their adventure. While the standard Forester is a capable crossover, the Wilderness edition comes from the factory with a host of upgrades that make it uniquely suited for the trail. Think of it as the perfect starting point for your ultimate off-road or overlanding build.

So, what sets it apart? First and foremost are its enhanced off-road capabilities. Subaru gave the Wilderness a factory lift, bringing its ground clearance to an impressive 9.2 inches. It also comes standard with Yokohama GEOLANDAR® all-terrain tires and a full-size spare, so you’re ready for rougher terrain right off the lot. The suspension is tuned for rugged trails, providing stability and comfort when conditions get choppy. These features make it a prime candidate for even more advanced overlanding solutions.

Beyond its performance, the Wilderness has a distinct, rugged style. You’ll notice the aggressive front fascia, anti-glare hood decal, and exclusive badging. The anodized copper accents on the roof rails, tow hook points, and interior stitching are a signature touch that makes the model instantly recognizable. Subaru also included practical features like StarTex® water-repellent upholstery, knowing that adventures can get messy. It’s a vehicle that looks the part and has the hardware to back it up, creating a solid foundation for adding your own must-have accessories.

Key Performance Upgrades for Your Forester Wilderness

While the Forester Wilderness is capable right from the factory, the right performance upgrades can transform it into a truly dominant off-road machine. These aren't just about looks; they're about enhancing durability, power, and capability so you can push further on your adventures with confidence. By focusing on a few key areas, you can improve how your Forester handles challenging trails, steep inclines, and unpredictable terrain.

Whether you're planning a weekend camping trip or a serious overlanding expedition, these modifications provide tangible benefits. From protecting vital components under the vehicle to improving engine output, each upgrade is a step toward building a more resilient and responsive rig. Investing in high-quality performance parts ensures your Forester is prepared for whatever the trail throws its way, giving you peace of mind and a more enjoyable driving experience. Let's look at the essential upgrades that will make the biggest impact on your Forester's performance.

Protect Your Undercarriage with Skid Plates

When you’re navigating rocky trails or uneven ground, your vehicle's underbelly is extremely vulnerable. The factory protection is a good start, but for serious off-roading, a set of robust skid plates is non-negotiable. These plates act as armor for your Forester’s most critical components, including the engine, transmission, and rear differential. A well-placed rock or stump can cause catastrophic damage, ending your trip and leaving you with a hefty repair bill. Quality skid plates provide essential underbody protection, letting you slide over obstacles without worry. They are a foundational part of any overlanding solution and a smart investment for any adventurer.

Gain Ground Clearance with Suspension & Lift Kits

The Forester Wilderness already sits higher than the standard model, but for true off-road capability, more ground clearance is always better. A suspension lift kit raises the entire body of your vehicle, giving you more room to clear rocks, ruts, and other obstacles on the trail. This modification is particularly beneficial because it allows you to fit larger, more aggressive all-terrain tires, which further improves traction and clearance. Upgrading your suspension doesn't just lift your vehicle; it can also improve handling and stability on rough terrain, providing a smoother and more controlled ride. Explore Subaru Forester upgrades to find a kit that matches your specific adventure needs.

Breathe Easier with a Performance Air Intake

Your Subaru's Boxer engine needs air to make power, and a performance air intake system helps it breathe more efficiently. By replacing the restrictive factory airbox, an upgraded intake allows a higher volume of cool, dense air to enter the engine. This simple change can lead to improved throttle response, a noticeable increase in horsepower, and a more aggressive engine sound under acceleration. Upgrading to a performance air intake is one of the most effective ways to help your Forester Wilderness breathe easier, enhancing its overall performance on and off the road. It’s a straightforward modification that delivers immediate results you can feel from the driver's seat.

Unleash Power with an Exhaust System Upgrade

Just as important as getting air into the engine is getting exhaust gases out. A performance exhaust system reduces backpressure, allowing your engine to expel exhaust more freely. This efficiency gain can unleash additional horsepower and torque, which is especially useful when you need extra power for climbing steep grades or accelerating on the highway. Beyond the performance gains, an upgraded exhaust gives your Forester a deeper, more satisfying tone that hints at its enhanced capabilities. An axle-back or cat-back system is a great way to improve both the sound and power output of your Subaru Forester without being overly loud or disruptive.

Gear Up: Top Exterior Accessories for Any Adventure

The Subaru Forester Wilderness is built to handle more than just paved roads, but the right exterior accessories are what truly prepare it for any adventure you can dream up. Equipping your vehicle for the trail isn't just about looks; it's about adding functional capability and crucial protection that lets you push further with confidence. From hauling essential gear for a week-long overlanding trip to lighting up a dark trail, these upgrades transform your Forester into a purpose-built exploration machine.

Think of your vehicle's exterior as its first line of defense and its primary tool for interacting with the environment. Adding armor like rock sliders and bumper guards protects your investment from costly damage, while upgrades like all-terrain tires give you the grip needed to conquer challenging obstacles. Meanwhile, roof racks and cargo carriers expand your capacity, allowing you to bring everything you need without compromising interior comfort. These accessories work together to make your Forester safer, more capable, and ready for whatever lies ahead. We'll cover the essential exterior upgrades that provide the biggest impact on your off-road and overlanding solutions.

Haul More Gear with Roof Racks & Cargo Carriers

One of the first challenges of any extended trip is figuring out how to pack everything you need. A quality roof rack system is the perfect solution for maximizing your Forester’s carrying capacity. Whether you opt for a low-profile platform rack or a classic roof basket, you gain valuable real estate for bulky items like recovery gear, camping equipment, and extra fuel. This frees up interior space for passengers and more sensitive items. Pairing a rack with a weatherproof cargo box or a durable cargo net ensures your gear stays secure and protected from the elements, no matter how rough the trail gets. It’s a foundational upgrade for any serious adventurer.

Light Up the Trail with LED Bars & Pods

The factory headlights on your Forester are great for city streets, but they can leave you wanting more on a pitch-black trail. Upgrading your lighting is a major safety and confidence improvement for any nighttime off-roading. LED light bars, mounted on the roof or front bumper, can turn night into day, illuminating the path far ahead and revealing obstacles you’d otherwise miss. Smaller LED pods are also incredibly versatile and can be mounted on the hood or near the A-pillars to provide focused ditch lighting, helping you see around tight corners. Quality lighting ensures your adventures don’t have to end when the sun goes down, making your Subaru Forester upgrades truly shine.

Get a Grip with All-Terrain Tires & Wheels

Tires are arguably the single most important upgrade for off-road performance. The stock tires on the Forester Wilderness are capable, but a set of aggressive all-terrain (A/T) tires will completely change how your vehicle handles challenging surfaces. With deeper treads and tougher sidewalls, A/T tires provide superior traction in mud, sand, and on rocky terrain, reducing the risk of getting stuck or suffering a puncture. Pairing them with a set of durable aftermarket wheels not only completes the rugged look but can also offer better strength and offset for a wider, more stable stance. This is a non-negotiable upgrade for anyone serious about leaving the pavement behind.

Guard Your Doors with Rock Sliders

If you plan on tackling rocky or technical trails, rock sliders are essential armor. Unlike factory side steps, which are often made of plastic and meant for aesthetics, true rock sliders are built from heavy-duty steel and mount directly to the vehicle's frame. Their purpose is to protect your rocker panels—the area below your doors—from being crushed or dented by rocks, logs, and other trail obstacles. A single impact in this area can cause thousands of dollars in damage and even prevent your doors from opening properly. Think of rock sliders as an insurance policy that allows you to approach difficult lines with much greater peace of mind.

Add Front-End Protection with Bumper Guards

The front of your Forester is vulnerable to impacts from trail hazards like rocks, branches, and unexpected dips. A steel bumper guard or bull bar provides a critical layer of protection for your grille, radiator, and headlights. Beyond defense, these guards also serve as a sturdy mounting platform for other essential performance parts like a winch or auxiliary lighting. Whether you choose a full-width bumper for maximum protection or a smaller, more subtle guard, this upgrade adds both rugged style and practical functionality, ensuring your vehicle is ready to handle close encounters on the trail.

Upgrade Your Cabin for Comfort and Utility

While engine mods and rugged exterior accessories often get the spotlight, the cabin is where you experience every mile of your adventure. Upgrading your Forester Wilderness’s interior isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about making your vehicle more functional, comfortable, and durable for the long haul. The right interior accessories protect your investment from the wear and tear of the trail and transform your cockpit into a command center that’s ready for anything. From keeping mud and dirt contained to ensuring your gear is organized and your devices are charged, these cabin upgrades will enhance every drive, whether you're deep in the backcountry or just running errands around town.

Keep it Clean with All-Weather Mats & Mud Flaps

Your Forester Wilderness was built to get dirty, but that doesn't mean your interior has to suffer. The first line of defense for your carpets is a set of high-quality, all-weather floor liners. Unlike standard carpet mats, these are laser-measured for a perfect fit and feature deep channels to trap mud, water, snow, and sand. They are incredibly easy to remove and hose off, keeping your factory carpets in pristine condition. Similarly, a good set of mud flaps is essential for protecting your vehicle's paint from rocks and debris kicked up by the tires, which in turn reduces the amount of grime that finds its way onto your door sills and into the cabin.

Protect Your Seats from the Elements

The StarTex water-repellent upholstery in the Wilderness is tough, but adding a layer of protection with custom-fit seat covers is a smart move. This is especially true if you have pets, kids, or frequently hop in the car after a muddy hike or a day at the beach. Quality seat covers guard against rips, stains, and UV fading while preserving the unique bronze stitching and accents of your Wilderness seats. When choosing, make sure you select a set specifically designed for the Forester to ensure a snug fit and, most importantly, compatibility with the side-impact airbags built into the front seats. Many options are available, from rugged Cordura to comfortable neoprene, letting you find the right material for your needs.

Stay Organized with Smart Storage Solutions

An organized cabin is a safe and efficient cabin, especially when you’re on the move. Small, strategic additions can make a huge difference in managing your everyday carry and trail essentials. A simple center console organizer tray can instantly tame the deep storage bin, creating tiered compartments for small items like keys, sunglasses, and charging cables. For more extensive storage, consider seat-back organizers or MOLLE panels that mount to the rear windows. These systems provide a secure and accessible place to store first-aid kits, recovery gear, and tools, keeping them from becoming projectiles during sudden stops or on bumpy trails.

Stay Connected with Essential Tech Upgrades

Staying powered up and connected is crucial for modern adventures. One of the most popular and simple tech upgrades is a wireless adapter for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. These small devices plug into your USB port and eliminate the need to constantly connect your phone with a cable, creating a cleaner, more convenient dashboard experience. For those planning extended trips, adding extra USB ports or a 12V outlet in the cargo area is perfect for powering a portable fridge or charging drones, cameras, and other devices. A reliable dash cam is another excellent addition for capturing scenic drives and providing peace of mind.

Improve Visibility with Mirrors & Rain Guards

Clear visibility is critical for safety, and a few simple accessories can significantly improve your view in challenging conditions. A set of window rain guards allows you to crack your windows for fresh air, even in a downpour, which helps reduce window fogging without letting water in. An auto-dimming rearview mirror is another fantastic upgrade that reduces glare from headlights behind you during night driving. Many of these mirrors also include a compass and HomeLink buttons for opening garage doors, integrating useful features directly into your cabin. These small enhancements contribute to a more comfortable and confident driving experience, no matter the weather.

Who Makes the Best Forester Wilderness Accessories?

With the Forester Wilderness gaining popularity among off-road and overlanding enthusiasts, the market for high-quality accessories has exploded. This is great news for owners, as it means you have plenty of options to customize your rig. However, it can also make it challenging to decide which brands to trust. Different manufacturers have different philosophies—some focus on pure, race-inspired performance, while others prioritize rugged aesthetics or all-around utility.

The key is to find a company that aligns with your specific goals for your vehicle. Are you planning to tackle technical trails that demand maximum protection and durability? Or are you building a versatile overlanding vehicle for long-haul adventures? Below, we’ll look at a few of the top names in the industry, each known for their unique approach to building parts for the Subaru Forester Wilderness. By understanding what each brand does best, you can make an informed decision and invest in accessories that will serve you well on any trail.

Crawford Performance: The Subaru Specialists

When you want parts from people who live and breathe Subaru, Crawford Performance is at the top of the list. Because we focus exclusively on the Subaru platform, our team has an unmatched understanding of how these vehicles work. We engineer Subaru Forester upgrades that are not just bolted on but are designed to integrate perfectly with your vehicle’s existing systems. Our products, like our signature Air/Oil Separator and protective skid plates, are developed from decades of rally and racing experience, ensuring they deliver proven performance and reliability when you need it most. For the owner who values precision engineering and track-tested durability, our parts offer a distinct advantage.

LP Aventure: Built for Adventure

LP Aventure has built a strong reputation in the Subaru community for producing gear that looks as tough as it performs. They specialize in accessories that enhance the Forester’s off-road capabilities while adding a distinct, rugged aesthetic. Their product lineup includes popular items like lift kits, bumper guards, and rock sliders, all designed specifically for adventure-focused builds. If you’re looking to give your Forester Wilderness a more aggressive stance and add practical protection for trail driving, LP Aventure is a brand that consistently delivers quality parts that are ready for the outdoors.

Anderson Design & Fabrication: Off-Road Experts

Anderson Design & Fabrication (ADF) is another excellent choice for Forester Wilderness owners, known for its high-quality, American-made off-road parts. They specialize in lift kits and suspension components that are engineered to handle serious trail abuse while maintaining good on-road manners. ADF’s commitment to durable materials and smart design has made them a go-to for enthusiasts looking to maximize their vehicle's ground clearance and capability in challenging terrain. Their products are a testament to a design philosophy that prioritizes function and strength for the dedicated outdoor adventurer.

Choosing Between OEM and Aftermarket Parts

Deciding between factory (OEM) accessories and aftermarket parts is a common crossroads for many owners. OEM accessories offer a guaranteed fit and maintain your factory warranty, but they are often designed as one-size-fits-all solutions. Aftermarket performance parts are where you find true specialization. Companies like ours engineer components that often exceed factory specifications to meet the higher demands of off-roading and performance driving. While OEM parts are a safe bet, high-quality aftermarket accessories provide the enhanced durability, capability, and performance that serious enthusiasts require for their adventures.

How to Choose the Right Accessories

With so many options available, picking the right accessories can feel overwhelming. The key is to think about your specific goals for your Forester Wilderness. Are you planning weekend camping trips or tackling serious overland trails? Answering this question will help you filter through the noise and invest in gear that truly enhances your experience. A little planning upfront ensures you build a capable and reliable rig that’s ready for anything you throw at it.

Match Durability to Your Off-Road Needs

The best accessories are designed to make your Forester Wilderness more capable and protected for off-road driving. Before you buy, be honest about how you’ll use your vehicle. If you’re sticking to fire roads and campgrounds, you might not need the heaviest-duty skid plates. But if you plan on navigating rocky terrain, investing in maximum protection is a smart move. Look for high-quality materials like steel or aluminum and construction that can handle impacts. The goal is to find a balance between toughness and weight, ensuring your overlanding solutions are built for the adventures you actually take.

Check for Compatibility and Easy Installation

Nothing is more frustrating than ordering a part that doesn’t fit. Always double-check that an accessory is made specifically for the Subaru Forester Wilderness, paying close attention to model years. Most reputable manufacturers and retailers make it easy to confirm fitment before you purchase. Many parts are designed for a straightforward, bolt-on installation that doesn’t require permanent modifications like drilling. Reading installation guides or watching videos beforehand can give you a clear idea of the process and help you decide if it’s a job you can handle yourself or if you should seek professional help for your Subaru Forester upgrades.

Consider Weight and Load Limits

Every accessory adds weight, which can affect your vehicle's performance, handling, and fuel economy. This is especially critical when adding gear to your roof. Pay close attention to your Forester’s roof rail load limits, which include both a dynamic (while driving) and static (while parked) capacity. Subaru is very specific about these limits, and exceeding them can be dangerous. Always factor in the weight of the rack itself, your cargo carrier, and everything you plan to put in it. This is especially important if you’re considering a rooftop tent, where the static load limit is the key number.

Don't Fall for These Common Accessory Myths

The world of vehicle modification is full of myths, from engine break-in procedures to which oil to use. One common misconception is that any aftermarket part will automatically void your vehicle’s warranty—this is rarely true, especially for bolt-on accessories. Another myth is that you must buy OEM parts for the best quality. While OEM accessories are a solid choice, many aftermarket brands offer superior performance and durability. Instead of getting caught up in myths, focus on buying from reputable companies known for their quality and expertise. When in doubt, consult with specialists who can provide guidance based on real-world testing and experience with performance parts.

Where to Buy Your Forester Wilderness Accessories

Once you’ve decided which accessories are right for your build, the next step is figuring out where to get them. The market is full of options, from your local Subaru dealership to specialized online retailers. Each has its pros and cons, and the best choice often depends on the specific part you’re buying, your budget, and how comfortable you are with installation.

Making the right choice isn’t just about price; it’s about getting quality parts that fit correctly and are backed by solid support. Let’s break down the main places to shop and what you need to consider before you click “buy” or head to the parts counter.

Authorized Dealers vs. Online Shops

Your local Subaru dealer is a reliable source for OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) accessories. The main benefit here is guaranteed compatibility and the option for professional installation, which can give you peace of mind. However, their selection is usually limited to factory-approved items, and you might miss out on more specialized or higher-performance gear.

For a much wider selection, online shops are the way to go. Retailers specializing in Subaru Forester upgrades offer everything from basic add-ons to high-performance components you won’t find at a dealership. Online stores are perfect for finding specific off-road gear from dedicated brands, often at more competitive prices. The key is to buy from a reputable source known for quality and customer support.

Factory Add-Ons vs. Aftermarket Parts

Factory add-ons are accessories designed and sold by Subaru, like all-weather floor mats or splash guards. They are designed to fit your Forester Wilderness perfectly and won’t void your vehicle’s warranty. While they are great for basic utility and protection, they don’t typically enhance performance.

This is where aftermarket parts come in. Companies like Crawford Performance engineer performance parts specifically to improve your Forester’s power, handling, and off-road capability. Aftermarket accessories offer far more variety and customization, allowing you to build a vehicle that truly matches your adventure style. From lift kits to engine components, the aftermarket is where you’ll find the gear to push your Forester beyond its factory limits.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

Many Forester Wilderness owners enjoy working on their own vehicles, and plenty of accessories are perfect for a weekend DIY project. Installing things like mud flaps, seat covers, or simple cargo solutions is straightforward and can save you money on labor costs. It’s also a great way to get more familiar with your vehicle.

However, some upgrades are best left to the professionals. Complex jobs like installing a suspension lift kit, a full exhaust system, or wiring auxiliary lights require specialized tools and expertise. A professional installation ensures everything is fitted correctly and safely, preventing potential damage or performance issues down the road. For engine work, relying on expert tuning services is essential to get the most out of your new hardware.

Understand Your Warranty and Support Options

Before installing any accessory, it’s smart to understand how it might affect your vehicle’s warranty. While dealers can’t void your entire warranty for using aftermarket parts, they can deny a claim if they determine the part caused the failure. Always read your warranty agreement and don’t hesitate to ask your dealer for clarification.

Reputable aftermarket brands stand behind their products with their own warranties. For example, at Crawford Performance, we offer a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty on our engines because we are confident in our engineering and quality. When choosing parts, look for companies that provide strong support and a clear warranty policy. This gives you an extra layer of protection and confidence in your investment.

Related Articles

• Your Guide to a Forester Wilderness Suspension Upgrade
• 2019-2024 Subaru Forester Overland Parts & Upgrades
• The Ultimate Guide to Subaru Forester Off-Road Parts
• 6 Essential Subaru Forester Off-Road Parts

Frequently Asked Questions

I’m just getting started. What are the first one or two upgrades I should make? Tires are, without a doubt, the best place to start. A quality set of all-terrain tires will make a bigger difference in your vehicle's off-road capability than any other single modification. After that, invest in a set of skid plates. They act as crucial armor for your engine and transmission, giving you the confidence to tackle rougher trails without worrying about expensive damage from a poorly placed rock.

Will installing these aftermarket parts void my Subaru warranty? This is a common concern, but the short answer is no. Legally, a dealer cannot void your entire vehicle warranty just because you've installed aftermarket parts. They must prove that the specific part you installed was the direct cause of a specific failure. For bolt-on accessories like skid plates, roof racks, or an axle-back exhaust, it's highly unlikely to cause any issues. Just be sure to buy from reputable brands and have parts installed correctly.

How do I choose between a lift kit and just getting bigger tires for more clearance? It's best to think of them as a team. A suspension lift kit is what physically raises your vehicle's body, creating the necessary space in the wheel wells to fit larger, more capable tires. While bigger tires on their own provide a small amount of clearance at the axles, you need the lift kit to prevent rubbing and allow for proper suspension travel. For a truly capable setup, you'll want to combine a modest lift with the right size all-terrain tires.

Do I really need engine upgrades like an intake or exhaust for overlanding? While not strictly necessary, engine performance upgrades provide practical benefits beyond just going faster. An improved air intake and exhaust system help your engine breathe more efficiently. This translates to better throttle response, which is incredibly helpful when navigating technical, low-speed obstacles. It also provides more reliable power for passing on the highway when your Forester is loaded down with heavy gear.

Is it better to install these parts myself or have a professional do it? This depends on the complexity of the part and your own comfort level. Many accessories, like floor mats, seat covers, and even some roof racks, are designed for easy DIY installation. However, for more involved jobs like suspension lifts, complex electrical wiring for lights, or any engine component, we strongly recommend professional installation. This ensures the job is done safely and correctly, preventing potential issues down the road.