1999 SUBARU FORESTER
1 recalls, 156 complaints - 45 TSBs
99V040000 Mar 3, 1999
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
Defect Description
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS). (THE 1999 2.2 LITER LEGACY VEHICLES ARE EXCLUDED). IN EXTREMELY COLD WEATHER, THE BRAKE PEDAL GOES TO THE FLOOR AND THE VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCE IS INCREASED.
Consequence
THIS CONDITION CAUSES THE VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCE TO BE INCREASED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER.
Complaint Statistics
156 total complaints
6 crashes 1 fires 8 injuries
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 14 |
| SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING | 11 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING | 11 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP | 8 |
| SUSPENSION:REAR | 7 |
| SUSPENSION:MULTIPLE AXLE | 6 |
| TIRES | 6 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS | 6 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE | 6 |
| POWER TRAIN | 5 |
ENGINE
Feb 28, 2020
Incident date: Jan 21, 1999
(PARTIAL COPY OF MESSAGE I SENT TO SUBARU EARLIER THIS WEEK.) [MY] FORESTER IS OLD, BUT I WOULDN'T BE REPLACING IT IF I DIDN'T NEED ANOTHER HEAD GASKET. YOU SURELY ARE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM YOUR 4 CYL. ENGINES HAVE HAD WITH FAILING HEAD GASKETS. UNFORTUNATELY, THIS IS THE SECOND ONE EXPERIENCI... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Jul 9, 2019
Incident date: Jul 7, 2019
WHY IS THE BRAKE LINE CORROSION RECALL WQK-47 ONLY FOR 2009-2013 FORESTERS? I OWN A 1999 FORESTER WHICH HAS JUST HAD A CATASTROPHIC BRAKE LINE FAILURE THAT IS EXACTLY THE SAME AS WHAT IS DESCRIBED IN THE RECALL. CORROSION OF THE BRAKE LINES IS IN THE AREA OF THE JUNCTION BLOCK THAT IS LOCATED UNDE... Read more
ENGINE
Apr 4, 2017
Incident date: Apr 15, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 SUBARU FORESTER. ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, WHILE DRIVING, THE ENGINE OVERHEATED AND SEIZED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE M... Read more
POWER TRAIN
May 28, 2016
Incident date: May 15, 2010
AS OTHERS HAVE STATED HERE AND MANY MORE FROM VARIOUS SUBARU FORUMS, I'VE BEEN DEALING WITH THE SHIFTING INTO DRIVE ISSUE (IT ACTS AS IF IT'S IN NEUTRAL) WITH THE AT. IT CAN TAKE SEVERAL SECONDS TO SEVERAL MINUTES (AND SOMETIMES LONGER OR NOT AT ALL) BEFORE IT ENGAGES. I USUALLY HAVE TO REV/PUMP THE... Read more
POWER TRAIN
May 20, 2015
Incident date: Jan 26, 2015
THERE ARE DAYS WHERE THE VEHICLE WILL NOT ENGAGE INTO DRIVE. IT GOES IN REVERSE BUT STILL NOT ENGAGE THE DRIVE GEAR. AFTER ABOUT A WEEK OF THE VEHICLE SITTING AND NOT BEING TURNED ON IT WILL ENGAGE AND WORK FINE. BUT WILL DO IT AGAIN A FEW WEEKS TO A COUPLE OF MONTHS LATER.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
May 20, 2015
Incident date: Jan 26, 2015
THERE ARE DAYS WHERE THE VEHICLE WILL NOT ENGAGE INTO DRIVE. IT GOES IN REVERSE BUT STILL NOT ENGAGE THE DRIVE GEAR. AFTER ABOUT A WEEK OF THE VEHICLE SITTING AND NOT BEING TURNED ON IT WILL ENGAGE AND WORK FINE. BUT WILL DO IT AGAIN A FEW WEEKS TO A COUPLE OF MONTHS LATER.
ENGINE
Dec 8, 2014
Incident date: Dec 12, 2011
NOTE: BELOW IS AN EXTRACT FROM A MESSAGE I SENT TO AN ATTORNEY IN WISCONSIN IN 2011 REGARDING THE PROBLEMS I WAS HAVING WITH MY VEHICLE. I HAVE SINCE HAD THE COOLING SYSTEM PROBLEM REPAIRED AT MY OWN EXPENSE. NOTE ALSO: I SEE WHERE THERE HAS BEEN A RECENT ENTRY FOR PENDING D... Read more
TIRES
Dec 18, 2012
Incident date: Dec 15, 2012
IN ONE MONTHS TIME WE HAVE HAD 4 SEPARATE COOPER WEATHERMASTER S/T2 205/70R15 TIRES HAVE SIDEWALL FAILURE. THESE ARE SNOW TIRES USED ONLY DURING WINTER MONTHS. 3 OF THE 4 TIRES WERE PURCHASED FOR THE 2010/11 WINTER, AND HAD LESS THAN 5000 MILES ON THEM, THE 4TH WAS NEW WITH ABOUT 100 MILES ON IT... Read more
POWER TRAIN
Aug 20, 2010
Incident date: Jan 1, 1901
199 SUBARU FORESTER. LETTER FROM CONGRESSMAN SARBANES ON BEHALF OF CONSTITUENT WITH CONCERNS ABOUT MECHANICAL PROBLEMS WITH SUBARU VEHICLES *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED IT WAS DIFFICULT TO PUT THE GEAR INTO DRIVE. A MECHANIC INFORMED THE CONSUMER THE FAILURE WAS WITH THE CLUTCH. THE TRANSMISSION FAILE... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Jan 14, 2009
Incident date: Dec 30, 2008
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. THERE WAS CORROSION AROUND THE GAS CAP. SHOP DIAGNOSED PROBLEM AS RUSTED FUEL FILLER NECK - REPLACED AT A COST OF $330. I HAD STARTED TO NOTICE A FUEL SMELL IN MY GARAGE, SO FUMES WERE LEAKING OUT. MECHANIC SAID IT WAS PROBABLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE GAS MAY HAVE COM... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Dec 19, 2008
Incident date: Dec 19, 2008
I HAVE A SUBURA 1999 FORESTER IT IS TELLING ME ON INTERNET THEIR IS A RECALL PART NEEDED FOR BRAKES SYSTEM. BUT MY DEALER SAYS THERE IS NOT. .ONLY FOR A DIFFERENT FORESTER. I THINK MY FORESTER SHOULD BE COVERED. IT IS A FORRESTER. I AM HAVING A BRAKE PROBLEM. THE INTERNET SAYS YES THE DEALER SAYS NO... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Oct 9, 2008
Incident date: Oct 6, 2008
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND AFTER CHECKING/CHANGING GAS CAP AND HAVING LIGHT RESET, IT CAME ON AGAIN. I THEN CHECKED INTERNET SITES FOR POSSIBLE PROBLEMS AND THEN NOTICED CORROSION WHEN I REMOVED THE GAS CAP. ONE AREA HAD A SMALL HOLE STARTING IN THE METAL. WE HAD THE FUEL FILLER NECK REPLACED AT... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Aug 25, 2008
Incident date: May 30, 2008
HEAD GASKET/ENGINE FAILED WHILE ON HIGHWAY. CAR STALLED, UNABLE TO BE DRIVEN. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Apr 14, 2008
Incident date: Apr 10, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE COASTING, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ACCELERATE ON ITS OWN. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 48,700. UPDATED 05/06/08 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED DREYER & REINBOLD CHECKED ENGINE, TRANSMISSION MOUNTS SPEED CONTR... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Apr 14, 2008
Incident date: Apr 10, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE COASTING, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ACCELERATE ON ITS OWN. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 48,700. UPDATED 05/06/08 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED DREYER & REINBOLD CHECKED ENGINE, TRANSMISSION MOUNTS SPEED CONTR... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Apr 14, 2008
Incident date: Apr 10, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE COASTING, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ACCELERATE ON ITS OWN. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 48,700. UPDATED 05/06/08 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED DREYER & REINBOLD CHECKED ENGINE, TRANSMISSION MOUNTS SPEED CONTR... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Feb 6, 2008
Incident date: Jan 30, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL TO AVOID A DOG. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP AND CRASHED INTO A TELEPHONE POLE. THE POLICE ARRIVED AND FILED A REPORT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP. THE INSURANCE COMPANY INVESTIGATED... Read more
Crash
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Jan 24, 2008
Incident date: Mar 1, 2006
THIS PROBLEM INITIALLY OCCURRED ONLY ONCE A MONTH OR SO, BUT HAS SINCE DETERIORATED TO OCCURRING MULTIPLE TIMES PER DAY. WHEN APPROACHING A STOPLIGHT, OR BRAKING HARDER THAN USUAL, THE VEHICLE WILL SLIP INTO NEUTRAL. THE SHIFTER DOES NOT MOVE, IT IS STILL IN DRIVE, HOWEVER, WITHOUT WARNING, THE CA... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
Dec 17, 2007
Incident date: Dec 13, 2007
ABOUT 3 YEARS INTO OWNING THIS '99 FORESTER, THE ILLUMINATION FOR MY GEAR SHIFTING COLUMN BETWEEN THE FRONT SEATS WENT OUT. COST TO REPAIR WAS PROHIBITIVE, SO I LEARNED TO DEAL WITH IT. ABOUT 2 YEARS AGO, THE LED CLOCK ABOVE THE MIRROR WENT OUT. COST TO REPAIR $180, SO I DECIDED TO LIVE WITHOUT A... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Feb 21, 2007
Incident date: Feb 10, 2007
ON 1998 FORESTER 5-SPD, WHEN PULLING OUT ON FREEWAYS AND OTHER ROADS, AS I SWITCH FROM 3 TO 4 OR FROM 4 TO 5, ENGINE WANTS TO DROP TO IDLE AS I TRY TO ACCELERATE. *NM
STRUCTURE
Oct 12, 2006
Incident date: Aug 7, 1999
CONSUMER COMPLAINT CONCERNING 1999 FORESTER GAS MILEAGE. *TS THE CONSUMER STATED HE EXPERIENCED PROBLEMS WITH THE TRANSMISSION, BRAKES, A KNOCK SENSOR, A SQUEAK IN THE CARGO PANEL AND THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Oct 12, 2006
Incident date: Aug 7, 1999
CONSUMER COMPLAINT CONCERNING 1999 FORESTER GAS MILEAGE. *TS THE CONSUMER STATED HE EXPERIENCED PROBLEMS WITH THE TRANSMISSION, BRAKES, A KNOCK SENSOR, A SQUEAK IN THE CARGO PANEL AND THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Oct 12, 2006
Incident date: Aug 7, 1999
CONSUMER COMPLAINT CONCERNING 1999 FORESTER GAS MILEAGE. *TS THE CONSUMER STATED HE EXPERIENCED PROBLEMS WITH THE TRANSMISSION, BRAKES, A KNOCK SENSOR, A SQUEAK IN THE CARGO PANEL AND THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. *JB
POWER TRAIN
Oct 12, 2006
Incident date: Aug 7, 1999
CONSUMER COMPLAINT CONCERNING 1999 FORESTER GAS MILEAGE. *TS THE CONSUMER STATED HE EXPERIENCED PROBLEMS WITH THE TRANSMISSION, BRAKES, A KNOCK SENSOR, A SQUEAK IN THE CARGO PANEL AND THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Aug 10, 2006
Incident date: Jul 28, 2006
WE HAVE A 1999 SUBARU FORESTER WITH A 2.5 L ENGINE. WE GOT A RECALL NOTICE 2-2004 REGARDING EXTERNAL COOLANT LEAKS AT THE ENGINE CYLINDER HEAD GASKETS. THIS RECALL COVERED VEHICLE YEARS 1999-2002 OR 4 YEARS OF VEHICLES. WE TOOK THE VEHICLE IN AND HAD THE SPECIFIC (SPECIAL CONDITIONER) INSTALLED AS R... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
May 26, 2006
Incident date: May 22, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED FUEL LEAKED ONTO THE GROUND WHILE FILLING THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY THE CONTACT WHO DETERMINED THE FUEL FILLER PIPE WAS RUSTED. THE PLASTIC COVERING AROUND THE FILLER PIPE BECAME CLOGGED WITH ROAD DEBRIS AND APPEARED TO HAVE CAUSED THE RUST. ADDITIONALLY... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR
May 24, 2006
Incident date: Jan 20, 2006
AFTER PURCHASING MY 1999 SUBARU FORESTER, AT 67,000 MILES THE LEFT REAR WHEEL BEARING BEGAN TO FAIL. THIS APPEARS TO BE A COMMON EVENT JUDGING FROM THE COMPLAINTS I HAVE RESEARCHED FROM VARIOUS INTERNET SOURCES. INSTEAD OF RECALLING THE DEFECTIVE PARTS, SUBARU HAS DECIDED TO IGNORE THE ISSUE AND M... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Mar 10, 2006
Incident date: Jul 12, 2005
HEAD GASKET FAILURE. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
Dec 19, 2005
Incident date: Oct 15, 2005
DT: THE CONTACT STATED SINCE PURCHASE OF THE VEHICLE THERE HAS BEEN ANTIFREEZE SMELL. HE WOULD PERIODICALLY CHECK THE RESERVOIR, AND ONCE HE NOTICED IT WAS LEAKING. HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A MECHANIC, WHO DETERMINED THE HEAD GASKET WAS LEAKING. THERE WAS MANUFACTURER RECALL WWP-99, FOR THI... Read more
SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING
Aug 3, 2005
Incident date: Jul 19, 2005
BOTH REAR WHEEL BEARINGS HAVE FAILED TWICE. REPLACED TWICE BY REPAIR SHOP. ORIGINAL ONES LASTED 50,000 MILES, 1ST REPLACEMENT LASTED 10,000 MILES. *JB
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Jul 13, 2005
Incident date: Jul 13, 2005
DT: THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WOULD ONLY GO INTO REVERSE. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
May 25, 2005
Incident date: May 25, 2005
LOUD CLUNKING NOISE COMING FROM ENGINE. MY MECHANIC DIAGNOSED AS A CRACKED CYLINDER OR PISTON. TOOK THE CAR TO LOCAL SUBARU DEALERSHIP TO REPIAR - HOPING THAT SUBARU WOULD COVER PART OF THE COST (NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTEE.) HAVE BEEN TOLD BY DEALERSHIP AFTER A REP. FROM SUBARU LOOKED AT THE CAR -... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Feb 10, 2005
Incident date: Dec 2, 2004
1999 SUBARU FORRESTER. VEHICLE TRANSMISSION BEGAN HAVING DIFFICULTY SHIFTING INTO DRIVE. AFTER APPROXIMATELY 7-10 DAYS, VEHICLE SLIPPED INTO NEUTRAL UPON BRAKING. TOOK SEVERAL MINUTES TO GET VEHICLE BACK INTO DRIVE. 2ND INSTANCE ALMOST CAUSED A MAJOR ACCIDENT. I BRAKED TO TURN LEFT AND BEGAN MY... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Feb 5, 2005
Incident date: Feb 5, 2005
SUBARU FORRESTER 1999 W/113,000 MILES HAS BLOWN HEAD GASKET I AM INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING IN A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT TO RECOVER DAMAGES. *JB
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Jan 8, 2005
Incident date: Nov 20, 2002
HAVE A 1999 FORESTER L W/AUTO TRAMSMISSION. I CAN DRIVE IN REVERSE ALL DAY WITH NO PROBLEM. GOING FORWARD IS HIT AND MISS. SOMETIMES I CAN SIT FOR 15 TO 30 MINUTES BEFORE THE FORWARD GEARS ENGAGE. ONCE FORWARD ENGAGES, I HAVE NO PROBLEM UNTIL I TURN OFF THE IGNITION. SERVICING THE TRANS IS A TEMPORA... Read more
WHEELS
Nov 12, 2004
Incident date: Nov 1, 2004
WHILE DRIVING AT 55 ON THE HIGHWAY LEFT REAR DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE BLEW OUT. CONSUMER HAD TO REPLACE THE TIRE, AND THE WHEEL WAS BENT. CONSUMER MADE CONTACT WITH THE MANUFACTURER, WHO WANTED THE WHEEL AND TIRE MAILED.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Oct 13, 2004
Incident date: Mar 18, 2004
WHILE DRIVING AT 70 MPH, SUDDENLY THERE WAS A CLICKING NOISE FROM THE ENGINE AND THEN IT STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALERSHIP. THE DEALERSHIP STATED, THERE WAS INTERNAL ENGINE DAMAGE. THIS OCCURRED BECAUSE WATER SEEPED INTO THE ENGINE BECAUSE OF A FAULTY GASKET. *JB
SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING
Sep 30, 2004
Incident date: Jul 16, 2004
REAR WHEEL BEARINGS WERE REPLACED FOUR TIMES. VEHICLE WAS MAKING TOO MUCH NOISE BEFORE THE BEARINGS WERE REPLACED. CONSUMER FELT THAT THE WHEEL BEARINGS SHOULD HAVE LASTED LONGER. MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED.*AK *NM
EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
Sep 16, 2004
Incident date: Aug 4, 2004
MY 1999 SUBARU FORESTER'S AIR CONDITIONER STOPPED WORKING RIGHT AFTER 5 YEARS. I LEFT THE CAR AT THE DEALERSHIP OVER NIGHT AND THEY SUSPECTED THAT THE AIR COMPRESSOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, BUT THEY WERE NOT 100% SURE AT THAT TIME. THEY DID MAKE SOME ADJUSTMENT AT THAT TIME AND THE AIR CONDITIONER ... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
Aug 19, 2004
Incident date: Dec 1, 2003
1999 SUBARU FORESTER HAS A LEAK IN THE DRIVER'S SIDE HEAD GASKET. (NAR). *MR *CB
SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING
Aug 19, 2004
Incident date: Jun 15, 2004
THERE WAS A GRINDING NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE. UPON INSPECTION OF THE NOISE BY THE DEALERSHIP, THEY INDICATED THE NOISE OCCURRED BECAUSE OF A RIGHT WHEEL BEARING FAILURE. THE RIGHT WHEEL BEARING WAS REPLACED, BUT THEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON THE LEFT SIDE. *JB
AIR BAGS
Aug 17, 2004
Incident date: Jul 13, 2004
DURING A 35 MPH REAR COLLISION FRONT AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. VEHICLE WAS TOWED. CONSUMER SUFFERED MINOR INJURIES. DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. *AK
Crash
1 injured
SUSPENSION:REAR
Jul 16, 2004
Incident date: Jul 12, 2004
REAR WHEEL BEARINGS ON MY 1999 SUBARU FORRESTER PURCHASED ON MAR 6, 1999 HAVE FAILED ON THE LEFT REAR WHEEL AT 31619 MILES ON NOV. 13, 2001. THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL BEARING FAILED ON JULY 1, 2004 AT 58974 MILES. THE LEFT REAR FAILED AGAIN ON A VACATION TRIP TO VERMONT ON JULY 12, 2004 AT 59832 MILES.... Read more
EQUIPMENT
Jul 16, 2004
Incident date: Jul 12, 2004
REAR WHEEL BEARINGS ON MY 1999 SUBARU FORRESTER PURCHASED ON MAR 6, 1999 HAVE FAILED ON THE LEFT REAR WHEEL AT 31619 MILES ON NOV. 13, 2001. THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL BEARING FAILED ON JULY 1, 2004 AT 58974 MILES. THE LEFT REAR FAILED AGAIN ON A VACATION TRIP TO VERMONT ON JULY 12, 2004 AT 59832 MILES.... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Jul 7, 2004
Incident date: Jun 1, 2004
PROBLEMS WITH TENSIONER, FRONT BELT COVER AND HEAD GASKET. *MR THE FRONT BELT COVER AND TENSIONER FAILED TWO MONTHS AFTER THE HEAD GASKET WAS REPAIRED. THE MECHANIC DID NOT TORQUE DOWN THE TENSIONER BOLT AND CAUSED IT TO COME LOOSE. THE VALVES WERE BENT EVEN THOUGH THE MOTOR IS CONSIDERED NON... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Jun 1, 2004
Incident date: May 13, 2004
AT 53,500 MILES ENGINE OIL BEGAN LEAKING. ALL SEALS HAD TO BE REPLACED INCLUDING WATRE PUMP SEALS WICH HAD ALSO FAILED.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR
May 18, 2004
Incident date: Mar 23, 2004
WHILE DRIVING, THE ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE MECHANIC REPAIRED THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER ONCE, BUT THE CONSUMER CONTINUED TO HAVE THE SAME PROBLEMS. *JB THE CONVERTER WAS REPLACED ONCE AND THE #02 SENSOR WAS REPAIRED FORCED. TWO DEALERS SUGGESTED THAT THIS MODEL VEHICLE HAD A PROBLEM WITH TH... Read more
WHEELS
Apr 22, 2004
Incident date: Aug 15, 2003
3 RIGHT WHEEL BEARING FAILURES. AT 16000 MILES THE RIGHT WHEEL BEARING WAS REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY (9-11-01). AT 22000 MILES (4-23-03), RIGHT REAR BEARING NOISE RETURNED AND DEALER 'ADJUSTED' THE BEARING. WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED, BUT DEALER DID NOT CHARGE FOR 'ADJUSTMENT'. AT 24100 MILES, BEARING F... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Apr 22, 2004
Incident date: Dec 15, 2001
ENGINE SEIZED AND BLEW AT 30,000 - I PROVIDED SUBARU WITH ALL RECEIPTS FOR OIL CHANGES THAT COMPLIED WITH WARRANTY. SUBARUA DENIED WARRANTY WRITING THAT OHIO HAS SUCH SEVERE WEATHER THAT THE WARRANTY PROVISIONS DID NOT APPLY. I HAVE SINCE LEARNED THAT SUBARU HAS NO SUCH WARRANTY POLICY. SUBARU DE... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Apr 21, 2004
Incident date: Apr 19, 2004
CATASTROPHIC TRANSMISSION FAILURE. *AK
Showing 50 of 156 complaints.
Technical Service Bulletins, 1999 SUBARU FORESTER
45 manufacturer communications from 39 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 350000 EQUIPMENT | 12 |
| 110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 4 |
| 105400 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:CENTER SUPPORT BEARING | 2 |
| 103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 2 |
| 103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM) | 2 |
| 100000 POWER TRAIN | 2 |
| 070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE | 2 |
| 075000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:CARBURETOR SYSTEM | 1 |
12-249-23R
Jul 11, 2023
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin announces the recommended cleaning procedures to followed when encountering vehicles with long time exposure to pollen on painted surfaces on vehicles imported from Japan. This bulletin does not apply to SIA built vehicles.
01-167-08R
Aug 23, 2022
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
15-302-22
Aug 23, 2022
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
15-302-22
Aug 23, 2022
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
15-192-22R
Mar 18, 2022
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This bulletin has been developed to outline the steps for gathering basic essential information during diagnosis and repair of the Infotainment concerns. (Applicable to all models with Harman or Denso CP1 Infotainment).
01-167-08R
Jun 17, 2021
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models
01-167-08R
Jun 17, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models
09-51-08R
Jun 7, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin is to advise of SOAa??s revised catalytic converter recycling program shipping procedure.
09-51-08R
Jun 7, 2021
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
This bulletin is to advise of SOAa??s revised catalytic converter recycling program shipping procedure.
14-22-16R
Feb 1, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
To help reduce confusion and increase technician efficiency, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) has developed the following cross reference list to help locate the appropriate Special Service Tool.
14-22-16R
Aug 4, 2020
350000 EQUIPMENT
Special Service Tools Cross Reference List.
01-181-20
Apr 30, 2020
350000 EQUIPMENT
All Models (Vehicle Cleaning- COVID-19Best Practices)
06-68-19R
Jul 11, 2019
030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
This Service Information bulletin announces instruction for application of additional lubrication between the brake caliper support and pad clips. This will prevent the pad from dragging due to corrosion buildup which may result in uneven o
Subaru Tech Tips
May 21, 2019
350000 EQUIPMENT
Subaru Service and Technical Support Line Newletter.
14-22-16R
May 6, 2019
350000 EQUIPMENT
To help reduce confusion and increase technician efficiency, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) has developed the following cross reference list to help locate the appropriate Special Service Tool.
037012R-1
Jan 15, 2014
095400 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:KINETIC:HOUSING/CASE
Repair Procedure for High-Pitched Sound from Extension Housing Area Using Latest Generation Production Parts
03-70-12R
Jan 15, 2014
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
REPAIR PROCEDURE FOR HIGH-PITCHED SOUND FROM EXTENSION HOUSING AREA USING LATEST GENERATION PRODUCTION PARTS - THIS BULLETIN PROVIDES PRODUCTION CHANGE, REPAIR PROCEDURE AND PARTS INFORMATION TO ADDRESS A CUSTOMER CONCERN OF A HIGH-PITCHED
037012R
May 22, 2013
100000 POWER TRAIN
This Bulletin provides production change, repair procedure and parts information to address a customer concern of a high-pitched sound coming from the transmission extension housing area.
03-70-12
Dec 13, 2012
350000 EQUIPMENT
REPAIR PROCEDURE FOR HIGH-PITCHED SOUND FROM EXTENSION HOUSING AREA USING LATEST GENERATION PRODUCTION PARTS
037012
Dec 13, 2012
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Repair Procedure for High-Pitched Sound from Extension Housing Area Using Latest Generation Production Parts
166399R
Dec 12, 2012
103110 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
Remanufactured Automatic Transaxle Program
03-68-12R
Dec 11, 2012
105400 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:CENTER SUPPORT BEARING
THIS BULLETIN REVIEWS A CHANGE TO THE PART NUMBERS USED FOR THE TRANSFER DRIVEN GEAR BEARINGS. THESE REVISED BEARINGS ARE TO BE USED TO ENHANCE DURABILITY.
036812R
Dec 11, 2012
105400 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:CENTER SUPPORT BEARING
5MT Transfer Driven Gear Bearings
SB-05-50-10R
Feb 3, 2011
190000 TIRES
SUBARU: THERE IS A STEERING WHEEL VIBRATION AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS DUE TO AN IMPORPER WHEEL BALANCE. *RM
02
Feb 1, 2006
061110 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS
RUBBING MARK ON TIMING BELT. SUBARU. *TT
029605
Sep 9, 2005
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
2.5L REMANUFACTURED SOHC SHORT BLOCK RELEASE. *TT
170601
Apr 20, 2005
151400 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
INFORMATION REGARDING SEAT BELT LATCH SLIDES TO THE LOWER SEAT BELT ANCHOR. *YH UPDATED *EH
128505
Feb 25, 2005
162500 STRUCTURE:BODY:TAILGATE
THIS BULLETIN PROVIDES INFORMATION TO PROPERLY DIAGNOSIS THE REAR GATE STAYS AND ALSO AVOIDS UNNECESSARY REPLACEMENT OF NON-FAILED STAYS. *TT
063103
Dec 8, 2004
036100 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
REPLACEMENT OF THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT (ECU) FOR ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) REPAIR. *TT UPDATE. *TT
99
Feb 1, 2004
062000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM CONDITIONER.*MR
035203
May 19, 2003
101000 POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
CLUTCH PEDAL STICKING. *TT
127803
Mar 21, 2003
350000 EQUIPMENT
FLOOR MAT HOOK REPAIR. *TT
166602
Mar 15, 2003
100000 POWER TRAIN
TRANSMISSION CONTROL UNIT (TCU) CODE 45 AND ALL-WHEEL DRIVE HARSH ENGAGEMENT. *TT
035002
Dec 23, 2002
021600 SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING
NEW PROCEDURE FOR REPLACING REAR WHEEL BEARINGS. *TT
WWG90
May 1, 2002
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
SUBJECT REGARDING AIR FLOW METER SENSOR. *JG
010302
Mar 1, 2002
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
CUSTOMER COMPLAINTS OF A GROWLING NOISE FROM THE ENGINE AREA. *TT
116702
Feb 21, 2002
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
SUBJECT REGADING AIR FLOW METER SENSING UNIT AVAILABILITY. *TT
17
Jan 1, 2002
102000 POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
SUBJECT REGARDING POPPING OUT OF FIFTH GEAR CONDITION. *JG
166599R
Mar 17, 2000
103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
CUSTOMER COMPLAINT THAT THE A/T TEMPERATURE LIGHT FLASHING AND CODE 38 FOUND IN THE TCM. *TT
115900
Feb 25, 2000
075000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:CARBURETOR SYSTEM
SUBJECT REGARDING AIR INTAKE CHAMBER BOX BREAKAGE. *TT
2000
Feb 1, 2000
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
THIS BULLETIN MENTIONS IF YOU HAVE A 1999MY OR LATER VEHICLES WITH THE NEW (SECOND GENERATION) 4EAT AND ARE DIAGNOSING A CODE FOR A DUTY SOLENOID, CHECK THE TRANSMISSION OIL PAN FOR ANY DENTS. *TT
166599
Jan 31, 2000
103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
SOME CUSTOMERS MAY COMMENT ABOUT THE A/T TEMPERATURE LIGHT FLASHING AND CODE 38 FOUND IN THE TCM. *TT
185499
Apr 30, 1999
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
SUBJECT REGARDING 1999 FORESTER SERVICE MANUAL. *TT
040599
Apr 5, 1999
036000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
SUBJECT REGARDING BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN ON SOME VEHICLES WITH ABS. *TT
010898
Aug 1, 1998
105000 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE
INFORMATION ON INSTALLING REAR DIFFERENTIAL PROTECTOR . *TT
NHTSA Safety Investigations, SUBARU FORESTER
Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.
PE19009
Opened: Aug 6, 2019 , Closed: Jan 22, 2020
Occupant Detection System (ODS) Failure
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE19-009 to investigate 51 complaints and additional Early Warning Report (EWR) data related to allegations of front passenger seat Occupant Detection System (ODS) malfunctions in model year (MY) 2016 through 2018 Subaru Forester vehicles. These vehic... Read more
PE99020
Opened: Mar 5, 1999 , Closed: Mar 26, 1999
SEAT BELT ANCHORAGE SEPARATION
ODI HAS ONE COMPLAINT ALLEGING THE PASSENGER'S SIDE SAFETY BELT ANCHORAGE, LOCATED BETWEEN THE SEAT AND CENTER CONSOLE, BECAME DETACHED WHILE DRIVING.IN ADDITION, THE OWNER INSPECTED THE DRIVER'S SIDE SAFETY BELT ANCHORAGE AND FOUND THAT THE BOLT WAS PARTIALLY BACKED-OUT.THE COMPLAINT VEHICLE WAS EQ... Read more
SUBARU FORESTER - All Years Overview
Complete safety history for the SUBARU FORESTER across all model years (1998, 2026).
114
Total Recalls
8,633
Total Complaints
2
Investigations
784
Reported Crashes
135
Reported Fires
10
Reported Deaths
SUBARU FORESTER - Year by Year
Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.
| Year | Recalls | Complaints | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 2 | 17 | View |
| 2025 | 2 | 108 | View |
| 2024 | 2 | 38 | View |
| 2023 | 1 | 102 | View |
| 2022 | 1 | 137 | View |
| 2021 | 0 | 285 | View |
| 2020 | 0 | 798 | View |
| 2019 | 3 | 1,084 | View |
| 2018 | 3 | 669 | View |
| 2017 | 1 | 789 | View |
| 2016 | 3 | 609 | View |
| 2015 | 3 | 894 | View |
| 2014 | 2 | 576 | View |
| 2013 | 12 | 94 | View |
| 2012 | 15 | 140 | View |
| 2011 | 16 | 195 | View |
| 2010 | 17 | 307 | View |
| 2009 | 18 | 228 | View |
| 2008 | 1 | 67 | View |
| 2007 | 1 | 89 | View |
| 2006 | 2 | 121 | View |
| 2005 | 1 | 105 | View |
| 2004 | 2 | 270 | View |
| 2003 | 3 | 238 | View |
| 2002 | 1 | 109 | View |
| 2001 | 0 | 169 | View |
| 2000 | 0 | 95 | View |
| 1999 (current) | 1 | 156 | |
| 1998 | 1 | 138 | View |