This page covers 2 recalls, 28 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2024 Subaru Forester.
29 mpg combined
8.1 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.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
The dominant pattern in 2024 Forester complaints centers on two systems: airbags and windshield-related issues. On the airbag side, owners report that airbags failed to deploy in collisions where they expected deployment, and some also describe the EyeSight driver assistance system throwing unexpected alerts or disengaging, particularly in poor weather conditions. The windshield complaints are notable, multiple owners describe the glass cracking or chipping with no apparent cause, sometimes repeatedly on the same vehicle, with cracks tending to appear on the driver's side. A few owners suspect a manufacturing issue with the glass itself. Visibility and wiper complaints largely overlap with the windshield cracking pattern rather than representing a separate concern. A small number of owners also mention oil leaks discovered during routine service, though that appears in only a handful of reports.
28
Total Complaints
3
Crash-Related
1
With Injuries
By System
The 2024 Subaru Forester has 2 recalls, the most serious involving the front driveshaft, which can crack and break, causing sudden loss of drive power while moving or allowing the vehicle to roll away when parked without the parking brake engaged.
The second recall affects the engine cooling system: loose bolts on the engine water pipe can allow coolant to leak and drip onto a hot exhaust pipe, raising the risk of a fire under the hood.
At a glance
What can fail
The outer race in the front driveshaft assembly can develop cracks and break, potentially affecting power delivery to the front wheels.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect both front driveshafts and replace them if needed at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
At a glance
What can fail
The engine water pipe may have loose attachment bolts, causing the pipe to lose its seal and leak coolant.
What the fix does
Tighten the water pipe attachment bolts to restore the seal and prevent coolant leakage.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
