One problem related to noises during shifting has been reported for the 2009 Subaru Forester. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2009 Subaru Forester based on all problems reported for the 2009 Forester.
Bought the 2009 Forester in December 08. Drove fine for the first two months. Then it started to lag in its shifting. If I was about to stop at a light and the light changed, I put my foot back on the gas and car would not accelerate so I give it more gas and then it kicks in hard almost causing an accident to the car in front of me. It doesn't happen all the time. So I thought it was just me. Until I was driving on the highway about 16 miles from home got off the exit and it did it again. I have had the car in to the dealer 4 times this year for the same problem. The first time tech reset the computer and it drove fine for 3 days then started again. It happens in all types of situations when it wants to. My other mechanic felt the same thing had me take it back to dealer. I am frustrated with driving it. I am also now having the vehicle making loud noises and rough idling, mysterious acceleration that will adjust after car in turned off and on again and a burning smell coming from the engine after being driven. I drive locally a couple of days a week. Subaru dealer wants to take my vehicle home to evaluate transmission. I was told it was because it is a learning transmission, so why hasn't it learned how I drive and I'm the only one driving car.