Summary
The Subaru Forester has 28 recalls spanning the 1998 through 2026 model years, with the most serious recent issue affecting 2025 hybrid models where fuel can spill from the filler neck when the tank is near full and temperatures rise, creating a fire risk near any ignition source.
On the mechanical side, 2025 models with 18-inch aluminum wheels have two related recalls where the wheels may not be properly secured to the hub, which can cause the vehicle to become unstable while driving. The 2025 model also has loose child seat anchor bolts that can fail to hold a child restraint in a crash. For 2026 vehicles, a rear hatch support bracket can detach without warning, allowing the hatch to drop on someone standing nearby. The 2024 model has two issues: a front driveshaft that can crack and break, causing a sudden loss of drive power or rollaway when parked, and a coolant pipe with loose mounting bolts that can leak fluid onto a hot exhaust and start a fire. The 2023 Forester shares the driveshaft concern.
Going back to the 2015-2018 models equipped with heated front seats, a loose electrical connector in the passenger seat can cause the passenger-side airbag to shut off even when someone is sitting there, leaving that occupant without airbag protection in a crash. The 2015 model without heated seats has a separate version of the same passenger occupant detection problem. Also on 2015 models, the turbocharger intake duct can crack, causing rough idling, reduced power, or stalling.
The 2009-2013 model years carry the well-known Takata airbag inflator issue: the front passenger airbag inflator can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin. Front seatbelt force-limiters on 2009-2013 vehicles may also fail to function correctly in a crash, reducing restraint effectiveness. On 2009-2012 models, the rear center seatbelt's automatic locking retractor does not meet lockability requirements and may not hold a child seat securely. The 2009-2012 years also have a moisture-related short circuit risk in the puddle light system.
The 2014 Forester had two related floor mat recalls where the driver's side mat can curl from heat and interfere with the brake, clutch, or accelerator pedals. On 2003 models, both front seatbelt buckles were improperly made and can unlatch in a crash, and the rear seatbelt tongue can also disengage from its buckle with less force than required. The 2003-2008 model years, particularly those registered in northern and mid-Atlantic states, have front lower control arms that can corrode and break, causing a loss of vehicle control. The 2006 model had a pinched immobilizer wiring wire that could prevent the engine from starting or cause a stall while driving. The 1998 model has a brake system issue where in extremely cold weather the brake pedal can go to the floor during light braking, significantly extending stopping distance.
