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MotorFiable

EE20

2.0 D 147-150 hp Euro 6 (EE20, 2015-2018) engine: faults and reliability

Subaru bóxer (gasolina EJ and FB and diésel EE20) version

With caution

AUTO BILD says the new 2015 block should bring peace of mind, but it still recommends the petrol engines and no source quantifies the failures of this version; same checks as on the Euro 5.[1][2]

Years
2015–2018
Power
147–150 hp
Faults that affect it
2
0 of high or critical severity
Cars that use it
3
in our database

5 sourcesHow we work

What changes in this version

2015 Euro 6 version: 15.2:1 compression, 2,000 bar injection pressure and a third chain for the fuel pump, according to the Polish article; AUTO BILD mentions a new engine block in 2015. The Forester has had a CVT with the diesel since 28 March 2015, and diesel production ends in 2018.[1][2][3]

Engine codes of this version: EE20.

Faults of the EE20 engine

The documented engine faults that affect this version and its years, from most to least important.

  1. 1Medium severityFrequency: CommonEmissions controlClogged particulate filter on the EE20 dieselThe particulate filter on the EE20 boxer diesel tends to clog, especially on those built up to the end of 2010 according to Gebrauchtwagenberater; AUTO BILD cites it on the XV I together with a rising oil level, among the diesel's problems.
  2. 2Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalInjectionImprecise injectors and sooty EGR valve on the EE20 dieselThe EE20's Denso injectors can work imprecisely and produce a knocking noise, and soot in the injectors and EGR valve can lead to expensive repairs; AUTO BILD cites 500-800 euros per injector in Germany.

Cars fitted with the EE20 engine

Open each car to see all its faults with this engine and what to check before buying it.

Subaru

Frequently asked questions

Is the EE20 engine reliable?

Our verdict is “With caution”. AUTO BILD says the new 2015 block should bring peace of mind, but it still recommends the petrol engines and no source quantifies the failures of this version; same checks as on the Euro 5.[1][2]

What faults does the EE20 engine have?

The documented ones that affect this version, by importance: clogged particulate filter on the EE20 diesel (medium severity) and imprecise injectors and sooty EGR valve on the EE20 diesel (medium severity).

Which cars use the EE20 engine?

Subaru Forester IV (2012–2018), Subaru XV I (2011–2017) and Subaru Outback V (2015–2021).[1][3][4][5]

Are you buying a car with the EE20 engine?

We will put you in touch with a partner only if you authorise it in the form.

Do you have a car with this engine? Tell us which faults you have had and at how many kilometres. Report your fault.

Sources

Every fact on this page links to its source. If you find an error, let us know.

  1. Subaru XV I im Gebrauchtwagen-Test: «Vorsicht vor dem Boxer-Diesel!»AUTO BILD · Motoring press · published 17 December 2019 · consulted 9 October 2026 · in German
  2. Jak to działa: silnik Boxer Diesel w samochodach SubaruAutoblog (Spider's Web) · Motoring press · published 29 August 2018 · consulted 9 October 2026 · in another language
  3. Subaru ForesterWikipedia (de) · Other source · consulted 9 October 2026 · in German
  4. Subaru XVWikipedia (de) · Other source · consulted 9 October 2026 · in German
  5. Subaru OutbackWikipedia (de) · Other source · consulted 9 October 2026 · in German