2021 Subaru Forester recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 0 recalls for the 2021 Subaru Forester and 210 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are visibility/wiper (76), unknown or other (42), engine (33). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is about 29 mpg combined.
The 2021 ranks #7 of 14 Forester model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (332). It has 0 recalls vs. an average of 3.5 per model year.
Recalls 0
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2021 Subaru Forester. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
No recalls are on file with NHTSA for the 2021 Subaru Forester.
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
Driver side rear window spontaneously failed while driving on the highway. Passenger experienced cuts due to glass fragments
The transmission very suddenly (perfectly fine one day, bad the next) developed a severe transmission slip. Like getting rear ended feeling transmission slip. Dealership quotes the CVT control valve body.
On two separate occasions, less than one year apart after Subaru Service replaced my battery with a “larger” battery without my knowledge my vehicle suffered sudden, catastrophic electrical failure while moving in active highway traffic, causing an immediate loss of propulsion and creating a life-threatening safety hazard. This has happened two times the second time less than a…
Safety ratings
2021 Subaru Forester SUV AWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2021 Subaru Forester.
Forester AWD
Auto (AV-S7) · 4 cyl · 2.5 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2021 Subaru Forester have?
NHTSA lists 0 recalls for the 2021 Subaru Forester. 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 2021 Subaru Forester?
Based on 210 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are visibility/wiper (76), unknown or other (42), engine (33).
Is the 2021 Subaru Forester safe?
The 2021 Subaru Forester earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2021 a good year for the Subaru Forester?
The 2021 ranks #7 of 14 Forester model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (332). It has 0 recalls vs. an average of 3.5 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2021 Subaru Forester get?
The 2021 Subaru Forester is EPA-rated at about 29 mpg combined.
Own a 2021 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.