Performance Radiator for Subaru Forester (2014-2018) 2.5L

Heavy-Duty All-Aluminum Performance Radiator for 2014-2018 Subaru Forester

Replaces failure-prone factory radiators with a fully welded all-aluminum core to maximize heat rejection and eliminate end-tank seam separation.

The Stock Forester Plastic Tank Vulnerability

OEM radiators in the fourth-generation Forester rely on molded plastic end tanks crimped onto an aluminum core using elastomeric gaskets. Over continuous thermal cycles, ambient temperature swings, and internal operating pressure, the nylon-reinforced plastic degrades, turning brittle. This frequently causes micro-cracking at the upper inlet neck and perimeter gasket blowouts, leading to coolant loss, rapid overheating, and catastrophic head gasket failure on the Boxer engine.

The Engineering Solution

This direct-replacement unit utilizes 100% furnace-brazed aluminum construction with precision TIG-welded end tanks, eliminating mechanical crimp seals entirely. The high-density fin and tube configuration increases cooling surface area to resist heat soak under heavy load, towing, or severe off-pavement driving. Billet mounting points, precision-machined hose connections, and integrated fan mounting brackets ensure a drop-in installation retaining factory fan shrouds and sensors.

Technical Specifications

Compatibility

• 2014-2018 Subaru Forester: 2.5L Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (Base, Premium, Limited, Touring)
• OEM Cross Reference: 45111SG000
• DPI Number: 13425
• Note: Does not fit 2.0L Turbo XT models (DPI 13424 / FA20DIT).

The Subaru Thermal Reliability Standard

Engineered to handle sustained high-RPM loads and challenging AWD terrain, this all-aluminum cooling unit maintains stable coolant operating temperatures to protect the horizontally opposed boxer architecture from thermal distortion and warping.