Hey guys! Ready to trick out your brand-new 2023 Subaru Forester? You've made a solid choice with this versatile SUV, and now it's time to make it uniquely yours. Let's dive into some of the best accessories to enhance your Forester's style, functionality, and overall awesomeness. This guide will cover everything from practical additions to eye-catching enhancements, ensuring your Forester stands out from the crowd while perfectly matching your lifestyle.

Enhancing Protection and Utility

All-Weather Floor Mats: Keep it Clean

Okay, let's be real: life gets messy. Especially if you're an outdoor enthusiast or have kids (or both!). That's where all-weather floor mats come in clutch. These aren't your flimsy, generic mats; we're talking heavy-duty, custom-fit protectors designed to trap dirt, mud, snow, and spills. Forget scrubbing carpets for hours; just pull these out, hose them down, and you're good to go. Brands like WeatherTech, Husky Liners, and even Subaru's own accessory line offer excellent options. Investing in a good set of all-weather floor mats is seriously a game-changer for maintaining your Forester's interior. Think about it: you're constantly tracking in dirt, leaves, and who-knows-what-else. Regular carpet floor mats absorb all that gunk, leading to stains, odors, and a generally unpleasant interior. All-weather mats, on the other hand, create a waterproof barrier, preventing anything from seeping into the carpet below. This not only keeps your car cleaner but also helps preserve its resale value. Plus, many of these mats feature raised edges and channels that trap liquids, so even if you spill a whole coffee, it won't spread everywhere. Installation is a breeze, too. Most all-weather mats are designed to fit perfectly into your Forester's footwells, with no trimming or modifications required. They simply snap into place using the existing anchor points. And when it's time to clean them, just remove them from the car, rinse them off with a hose, and let them air dry. It's that easy. Seriously, if you're planning on doing anything more than just driving to the grocery store in your Forester, these are a must-have. They'll save you time, effort, and a whole lot of frustration in the long run.

Cargo Area Protector: Guard Your Gear

Similar to floor mats, a cargo area protector shields the back of your Forester from scratches, spills, and general wear and tear. Whether you're hauling groceries, sports equipment, or camping gear, this accessory is a lifesaver. Look for one made from durable, waterproof material that's easy to clean. Some even come with bumper flaps to protect the exterior when loading and unloading. Protecting the cargo area of your Forester is crucial, especially if you frequently transport bulky or dirty items. Without a cargo area protector, your Forester's carpet and plastic trim are vulnerable to scratches, stains, and damage. A good cargo area protector acts as a barrier, preventing these issues and keeping your cargo area looking like new. There are several types of cargo area protectors available, each with its own advantages. Some are simple mats that cover the floor of the cargo area, while others are more elaborate systems that include side wall protection and bumper flaps. Bumper flaps are particularly useful for preventing scratches when loading and unloading heavy items. When choosing a cargo area protector, look for one that is made from durable, waterproof material. This will ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily use and protect your cargo area from spills and stains. Also, make sure that the protector is easy to clean. A quick wipe-down should be all that's needed to remove dirt, mud, or other debris. Installation is typically straightforward, with most cargo area protectors simply unfolding and laying flat in the cargo area. Some may require you to attach straps or Velcro to secure them in place. Overall, a cargo area protector is a small investment that can pay off big time in terms of protecting your Forester's interior and preserving its resale value. It's a must-have accessory for anyone who uses their Forester for hauling cargo on a regular basis.

Splash Guards/Mud Flaps: Keep the Sides Clean

Let's face it: driving in wet or muddy conditions can turn your Forester into a rolling Jackson Pollock painting. Splash guards, also known as mud flaps, help prevent that by deflecting water, mud, and road debris away from your vehicle's sides. This not only keeps your Forester cleaner but also protects the paint from chips and scratches. Plus, they add a rugged, adventurous look. These are generally inexpensive and easy to install, making them a worthwhile addition. Installing splash guards or mud flaps on your Subaru Forester is a simple yet effective way to protect your vehicle's paint and body from damage caused by road debris. These accessories are designed to deflect mud, water, rocks, and other materials away from your Forester's sides, preventing them from chipping, scratching, or staining the paint. In addition to protecting your Forester's paint, splash guards and mud flaps can also help to keep your vehicle cleaner. By preventing mud and water from splashing onto the sides of your Forester, they reduce the amount of washing and detailing required to keep it looking its best. This is especially beneficial if you live in an area with frequent rain or snow. There are a variety of splash guards and mud flaps available for the Subaru Forester, ranging from basic rubber flaps to more elaborate molded plastic designs. Some are designed to be installed using existing mounting points on your Forester, while others may require drilling or other modifications. When choosing splash guards or mud flaps for your Forester, it's important to consider the type of driving you do and the conditions you typically encounter. If you frequently drive on unpaved roads or in areas with heavy snow or mud, you'll want to choose a more durable and protective option. If you primarily drive on paved roads in dry conditions, you may be able to get away with a less robust design. Regardless of the type you choose, splash guards and mud flaps are a worthwhile investment for any Subaru Forester owner who wants to protect their vehicle's paint and body from damage.

Enhancing Style and Appearance

Alloy Wheels: Upgrade Your Look

Swapping out your Forester's stock wheels for a set of alloy wheels is a surefire way to boost its style. Alloy wheels come in a variety of designs, finishes, and sizes, allowing you to customize your Forester's appearance to your exact taste. Not only do they look great, but they can also improve handling and performance by reducing weight. Just make sure to choose wheels that are compatible with your Forester's specifications. Upgrading to alloy wheels is a fantastic way to enhance the appearance of your Subaru Forester and give it a more personalized look. Alloy wheels are typically lighter than steel wheels, which can improve your Forester's handling and fuel efficiency. They also come in a wide variety of styles and finishes, allowing you to choose a set that perfectly complements your Forester's paint color and overall aesthetic. When selecting alloy wheels for your Forester, it's important to consider the size and offset of the wheels. The size refers to the diameter and width of the wheel, while the offset refers to the distance between the wheel's mounting surface and its centerline. It's crucial to choose wheels that are compatible with your Forester's specifications to ensure proper fitment and avoid any potential problems. You can find this information in your Forester's owner's manual or by consulting with a tire and wheel specialist. In addition to size and offset, you'll also want to consider the load rating of the wheels. The load rating refers to the maximum weight that each wheel can safely support. Make sure to choose wheels with a load rating that meets or exceeds your Forester's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). This information can also be found in your Forester's owner's manual. Once you've selected the right alloy wheels for your Forester, you'll need to have them installed by a qualified mechanic. They will ensure that the wheels are properly balanced and torqued to the correct specifications. With a new set of alloy wheels, your Subaru Forester will look and perform its best.

Roof Rack/Crossbars: Adventure Ready

Planning on hauling bikes, kayaks, or a roof box? Then you'll need a roof rack and crossbars. These accessories attach to your Forester's roof and provide a secure platform for carrying all sorts of gear. Look for a system that's easy to install and remove, and that's compatible with your specific needs. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a full-time adventurer, a roof rack and crossbars are essential accessories for your Subaru Forester. These accessories allow you to carry a wide variety of gear on your Forester's roof, freeing up valuable space inside the vehicle. Whether you're hauling bikes, kayaks, skis, snowboards, or camping equipment, a roof rack and crossbars will make your life much easier. When choosing a roof rack and crossbars for your Forester, it's important to consider the weight capacity of the system. The weight capacity refers to the maximum weight that the roof rack and crossbars can safely support. Make sure to choose a system with a weight capacity that meets or exceeds the weight of the gear you plan to carry. You'll also want to consider the type of crossbars you want. There are two main types of crossbars: round and aerodynamic. Round crossbars are the most common type and are typically less expensive than aerodynamic crossbars. However, they can generate more wind noise and reduce fuel efficiency. Aerodynamic crossbars are designed to reduce wind noise and improve fuel efficiency, but they are typically more expensive. Once you've selected the right roof rack and crossbars for your Forester, you'll need to have them installed properly. This may require some basic tools and a little bit of mechanical knowledge. However, most roof rack and crossbar systems come with detailed instructions that make the installation process relatively straightforward. With a roof rack and crossbars, your Subaru Forester will be ready for any adventure.

Tech and Convenience Upgrades

Remote Starter: Warm Up From Afar

Living in a cold climate? A remote starter is a game-changer. Start your Forester from the comfort of your home or office and let it warm up before you even step inside. This is especially useful on those frosty mornings when you don't want to sit in a freezing car. Many aftermarket options are available, and some can even be controlled via your smartphone. A remote starter is a convenient and luxurious accessory for your Subaru Forester, especially if you live in an area with cold winters or hot summers. With a remote starter, you can start your Forester's engine from a distance, allowing it to warm up or cool down before you get inside. This can be a lifesaver on those frigid mornings when you don't want to sit in a freezing car or on those sweltering afternoons when you want to cool down the interior before you drive. There are two main types of remote starters: aftermarket and factory-installed. Aftermarket remote starters are installed by a third-party installer and can be more affordable than factory-installed systems. However, they may not be as seamlessly integrated with your Forester's existing systems. Factory-installed remote starters are installed by the manufacturer and are designed to work perfectly with your Forester's other features. They typically offer a higher level of integration and convenience. When choosing a remote starter for your Forester, it's important to consider the range of the system. The range refers to the distance from which you can start your Forester's engine. Some remote starters have a range of only a few hundred feet, while others have a range of up to a mile or more. You'll also want to consider the features offered by the remote starter. Some remote starters offer basic features such as remote start and door lock/unlock, while others offer more advanced features such as climate control integration and security system integration. With a remote starter, your Subaru Forester will be more comfortable and convenient to drive, no matter the weather.

Auto-Dimming Mirror with Compass: Stay Oriented

A auto-dimming mirror with compass is a small but significant upgrade. The auto-dimming feature automatically reduces glare from headlights behind you, making nighttime driving much safer and more comfortable. The compass is a handy addition for navigating unfamiliar areas. It's a simple upgrade that adds both safety and convenience. An auto-dimming mirror with compass is a practical and convenient accessory for your Subaru Forester, enhancing both safety and convenience while driving. The auto-dimming feature automatically reduces glare from headlights behind you, making nighttime driving much more comfortable and less straining on your eyes. This is particularly helpful on highways or in urban areas where you are frequently exposed to bright headlights from other vehicles. The compass provides you with your current heading, which can be useful for navigation, especially in unfamiliar areas or when you don't have access to a GPS system. It can also be a helpful tool for orienting yourself when hiking or camping. Some auto-dimming mirrors also include additional features such as a HomeLink transceiver, which allows you to control garage doors, gates, and other compatible devices from your rearview mirror. This can be a convenient way to simplify your daily routine and reduce clutter in your car. Installing an auto-dimming mirror with compass is typically a straightforward process that can be done by a qualified mechanic or by yourself if you have some basic automotive knowledge. The mirror usually replaces your existing rearview mirror and plugs into your Forester's electrical system. With an auto-dimming mirror with compass, your Subaru Forester will be safer, more comfortable, and more convenient to drive.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! These are just a few of the many awesome accessories available for your 2023 Subaru Forester. By adding these enhancements, you can personalize your ride and make it perfectly suited to your lifestyle. Happy accessorizing!