2014 Subaru Forester recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2014 Subaru Forester and 403 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are suspension (94), engine (69), air bags (57). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 25–27 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2014 ranks #8 of 14 Forester model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with more complaints than the average year (332). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 3.5 per model year.
Recalls 2
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2014 Subaru Forester. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Exterior lighting · brake lights · switch
Problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and also preventing keyless ignition vehicles from starting and CVT/automatic transmissions from being able to be shifted out of Park.
Risk: Brake lights that do not illuminate properly will not alert other drivers that the vehicle is slowing or stopping, increasing the risk of crash.
Fix: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake light switch, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUE-90.
Equipment
Problem: Subaru is recalling certain model year 2014 Forester vehicles manufactured from January 2013 through March 2013. The backing for the carpeted floor mats was not manufactured to specification. As a result, the floor mats may curl when exposed to heat.
Risk: Curling of the driver side floor mat could distract the driver and/or interfere with proper operation of one or a combination of, the vehicle's clutch, brake, and accelerator pedals. Brake or accelerator pedal interference may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop the vehicle, which could cause a crash.
Fix: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace each of the vehicle's four (4) carpeted floor mats with new ones. These services will be performed free of charge. Subaru issued an interim notification during April 2013. Notification that the remedy is now available was mailed to owners on June 5, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's recall campaign number is WQH-44.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
The contact owns a 2014 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while his wife was driving and stopped in traffic, the steering wheel locked up. The contact stated the steering wheel warning light illuminated and the vehicle was towed. The dealer was contacted and notified of the failure, and the failure was diagnosed with rack and pinion and electrical power steering failures…
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2014 Subaru Forester on March 5, 2026. The contact stated that while attempting to register the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the mileage was 77,000. At the time of the registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 166,000.
Unintended acceleration while parking /braking in front of a Verizon store leading to crash into store
Safety ratings
2014 Subaru Forester SUV AWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2014 Subaru Forester.
Forester AWD
Auto (variable gear ratios) · 4 cyl · 2.5 L
Regular
Forester AWD
Auto (variable gear ratios) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L · Turbo
Premium
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2014 Subaru Forester have?
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2014 Subaru Forester, most recently for exterior lighting · brake lights · switch (02/28/2019). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2014 Subaru Forester?
Based on 403 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are suspension (94), engine (69), air bags (57).
Is the 2014 Subaru Forester safe?
The 2014 Subaru Forester earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2014 a good year for the Subaru Forester?
The 2014 ranks #8 of 14 Forester model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with more complaints than the average year (332). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 3.5 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2014 Subaru Forester get?
EPA ratings for the 2014 Subaru Forester range from 25 to 27 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2014 Subaru Forester in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved October 21, 2026. NHTSA model names used: FORESTER, Forester.