This page covers 3 recalls, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2016 Subaru Forester.
25–27 mpg combined
8.7–9.4 L/100km
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 3 tested variants for this model year.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
The 2016 Subaru Forester has 3 recalls, the most serious involving the passenger seat occupant detection system on vehicles with heated seats, where a loose electrical connection can cause the front passenger airbag to deactivate even when someone is sitting there.
On the engine side, the 2.0XT turbocharged trim has a recall where the turbocharger air intake duct can crack, potentially causing the engine to stall while driving. There is also a brake light switch recall where the brake lights may fail to illuminate when the pedal is pressed, leaving drivers behind unaware the vehicle is slowing or stopping.
At a glance
What can fail
The electrical connection for the front passenger seat's Occupant Detection System may loosen, affecting how the seat detects occupancy.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the ODS sensor mat harness and replace it if needed, at no cost to you.
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Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Contaminants can damage the brake light switch, stopping brake lights from working and preventing some vehicles from starting or shifting out of Park.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the brake light switch at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The turbocharger air intake duct may crack, potentially causing the engine to stall.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and replace the turbocharger air intake duct if necessary, at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
