Engine swap 2003 into a 2009 Forrester

Asked by GuruVY3D3 Aug 09, 2018 at 12:23 PM about the 2009 Subaru Forester 2.5 X Limited

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

Longer story but short is that I blew my engine on my 2009 Forrester and it needs to be replaced. I have a friend who has a wrecked 2003 Forrester and I have that engine that was pulled with everything attached in case it was needed. It was running well when pulled out last weekend. However, I can't get a straight answer if that older engine will fit in my 2009 vehicle? Anyone know these things inside and out and can let me know.

The 2003 VIN #JF1SG656X3H764762

2009 VIN# JF2SH64669H765037

Heard that the engine model went from a 'xxxxxxG' in the 2003 to a 'xxxxxH' model designation in the 2009 or something like that so I'm hoping it's a minor change.

I was told that the 2003 would definitely drop right into up to a 2008 but is questionable into a 2009. Not sure if that's convenient BS from the mechanic who wants to sell me an engine with his markup added instead of installing what I have. I'm hoping somebody can explain the differences and give me a definative answer.

1 Answer

F_O_R answered 6 years ago

The engine would fit but will not work with the newer ECU as your car had AVCS (variable cam timing) and the older car did not. Not only that but you would probably never pass smog inspection again. You need an AVCS engine.

3 people found this helpful.
Mark helpful

Your Answer:

Related Questions

  • Engine swap 2003 into a 2009 Forrester 1 Answer

    Longer story but short is that I blew my engine on my 2009 Forrester and it needs to be replaced. I have a friend who has a wrecked 2003 Forrester and I have that engine that was pulled with everythin...

    2009 Subaru Forester 2.5 X Limited

    -

    Maintenance & Repair

  • 2003 Subaru Forester Engine swap 1 Answer

    The engine in my 2003 forester X seized on me at about 102k miles. I think it was related to the gaskets leaking since the last time I had it serviced the mechanic told me "it has some oil leaking ...

    2003 Subaru Forester X

    -

    Maintenance & Repair

  • 2009 (June) Subaru Forester EJ253 H4 2.5i Engine Swap 5 Answers

    What engines are possible to swap with a 2009 Subaru Forester (NO Turbo) 2.5l 16 valve, single overhead cam, 4-cyl? It would be nice to get the same engine, but I am willing to try an engine swap if...

    2009 Subaru Forester 2.5 X

    -

    Maintenance & Repair

  • Altenater swap from a 99 Subaru Forrester to a 07 Pontiac g5 1 Answer

    Can I take a alternator out of a 2011 1999 Subaru Forester and put it in a 2007 Pontiac G5 are they compatible

    1999 Subaru Forester Base

    -

    Maintenance & Repair

  • Subaru 2009 forrester electrical 2 Answers

    The left headlight doesn't work, no high or low beams at the switch on the column. 3 of 5 wiper settings on the column don't work. The cigarette lighter has no power. I think these are wire harness...

    2009 Subaru Forester 2.5 X

    -

    Maintenance & Repair

Shortcuts

Search Subaru Forester Questions

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Chris W
    Reputation
    11,630
  • #2
    TheSubaruGuruBoston
    Reputation
    9,970
  • #3
    Nick Eidemiller
    Reputation
    6,220
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Subaru Outback
28 Great Deals out of 866 listings starting at $1,895
Used Toyota RAV4
101 Great Deals out of 2,120 listings starting at $3,888
Used Honda CR-V
100 Great Deals out of 3,893 listings starting at $1,795
Used Subaru Impreza
18 Great Deals out of 455 listings starting at $3,850
Used Toyota 4Runner
10 Great Deals out of 299 listings starting at $12,888
Used Subaru Legacy
3 Great Deals out of 176 listings starting at $4,977
Used Toyota Highlander
26 Great Deals out of 739 listings starting at $2,495
Used Toyota Tacoma
56 Great Deals out of 1,060 listings starting at $8,708
Used Honda Pilot
41 Great Deals out of 1,255 listings starting at $4,495
Used Nissan Rogue
142 Great Deals out of 5,546 listings starting at $2,495
Used Toyota Camry
53 Great Deals out of 996 listings starting at $2,212

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.