NHTSA data · updated October 21, 2026
Subaru Forester recalls & problems by year
Across 2012–2025, NHTSA lists 49 recalls and 4,652 owner complaints for the Subaru Forester. The 2024 has the fewest complaints (30) and the 2019 has the most (834).
| Year | Recalls | Owner complaints | Top problem area | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 15 | engine | 4★ | |
| 2013 | 12 | engine | 4★ | |
| 2014 | 2 | suspension | 5★ | |
| 2015 | 3 | engine | 5★ | |
| 2016 | 3 | air bags | 5★ | |
| 2017 | 1 | air bags | 5★ | |
| 2018 | 3 | visibility/wiper | 5★ | |
| 2019 | 3 | visibility/wiper | 5★ | |
| 2020 | 0 | visibility/wiper | 5★ | |
| 2021 | 0 | visibility/wiper | 5★ | |
| 2022 | 1 | visibility/wiper | 5★ | |
| 2023 | 1 | unknown or other | 5★ | |
| 2024 | 2 | unknown or other | 5★ | |
| 2025 | 3 | unknown or other | 5★ |
Newer model years have had less time on the road to collect complaints. Compare years of similar age.
Questions
What is the most reliable year of the Subaru Forester?
By NHTSA owner complaints, the 2024 Subaru Forester has the fewest (30) of the 2012–2025 model years. Newer model years have had less time to collect complaints, so compare similar ages.
Which Subaru Forester year has the most problems?
The 2019 Subaru Forester has the most NHTSA owner complaints (834) of the 2012–2025 model years.
How do I check if my Subaru Forester has an open recall?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our free VIN check, or at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.