2023 Subaru Forester recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2023 Subaru Forester and 74 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are unknown or other (20), forward collision avoidance (13), visibility/wiper (11). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 26–29 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2023 ranks #2 of 14 Forester model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (332). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 3.5 per model year.
Recalls 1
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2023 Subaru Forester. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Power train · driveline · driveshaft
Problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Crosstrek, Impreza, 2023-2024 Forester, and 2023 WRX vehicles. The front driveshaft assemblies' outer race may develop cracks and break.
Risk: A broken driveshaft can cause a loss of drive power while driving or vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is in park without the parking brake engaged. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the left and right front driveshafts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRP-23.
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
Transmission slipped, stranded me in the middle of a road XXX. Stopped wouldn’t go. Started locking down in reverse 1 month after I purchased the vehicle. XXX, my husband was backing down a road that had no turnaround. The RAB locked down, slammed so hard, the car slid six feet and the motor shut down. I found out a week later that L-5 was fractured in my back. The lockdown ha…
I am writing to formally report a critical safety defect regarding the driver-side footwell design in my 2023 Subaru Forester Sport, which poses an immediate and severe risk of a crash. A hard plastic lower extension for the HVAC air duct sits dangerously low directly above the brake and accelerator pedals. For drivers with larger or longer feet, this duct extension acts as a…
Eyesight collision braking system engaged as I was rolling up my driveway to go into garage. Garage door was rolling up and was about 5 feet off the ground when Anti Collision system engaged and slammed the brakes on. I was going under 1 mph and would not have hit the door. It beeped right before brakes engaged. This is the second time it has engaged when it shouldn't have.…
Safety ratings
2023 Subaru Forester SUV AWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2023 Subaru Forester.
Forester AWD
Auto (AV-S7) · 4 cyl · 2.5 L
Regular
Forester Wilderness AWD
Auto (AV-S8) · 4 cyl · 2.5 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2023 Subaru Forester have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2023 Subaru Forester, most recently for power train · driveline · driveshaft (11/09/2023). 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 2023 Subaru Forester?
Based on 74 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are unknown or other (20), forward collision avoidance (13), visibility/wiper (11).
Is the 2023 Subaru Forester safe?
The 2023 Subaru Forester earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2023 a good year for the Subaru Forester?
The 2023 ranks #2 of 14 Forester model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (332). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 3.5 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2023 Subaru Forester get?
EPA ratings for the 2023 Subaru Forester range from 26 to 29 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2023 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.