Subaru Forester cam carrier seal failure causing oil leak on exhaust and potential sensor issue on Subaru Forester

Some Subaru Forester owners report experiencing cam carrier seal failures that can lead to oil leaks, potentially allowing oil to reach the exhaust system. This issue is commonly linked to the hardening of the rubber seals over time, which can result in valve cover leaks. Owners of high mileage Foresters, particularly those around 70,000 miles, should be vigilant for slow leaks from sources such as rocker cover gaskets, cam carrier seals, and oil pan drain plugs. The presence of oil on the valve cover seams, especially towards the back of the engine, can indicate a leak from the cam carrier. If not addressed promptly, these oil leaks may cause complications with the exhaust system and affect sensors due to oil contamination in undesired areas, emphasizing the importance of timely resolution to maintain the vehicle's performance.