2001 SUBARU FORESTER

0 recalls, 169 complaints - 65 TSBs

No recalls found for this vehicle.

Complaint Statistics

169 total complaints 39 crashes 31 injuries 3 deaths

Top Reported Components

ComponentComplaints
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL23
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL10
POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY9
SUSPENSION:REAR9
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION7
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE7
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM6
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP6
TIRES5
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL5
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Mar 12, 2016
Incident date: Nov 19, 2015
WHILE PULLING OUT OF A CURBSIDE PARKING PLACE ON A CITY STREET THE ENGINE STARTED RACING AND I COULD NOT CONTROL IT BY STOMPING ON THE BRAKES OR APPLYING THE EMERGENCY BRAKE. AS I WAS WRESTLING TO KEEP THE SURGING CAR UNDER CONTROL ANOTHER CAR CAME DRIVING BY AND WAS SIDESWIPED. ON TWO PRIOR OCCASI... Read more
Crash
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Jan 2, 2016
Incident date: Jan 1, 2016
WHEN THE TEMPERATURE GETS COLD AND I TURN ON THE DEFROST TO WARM UP THE CAR WHILE PARKED I CAN SMELL GAS IN THE VEHICLE. IT GOES AWAY ONCE I START DRIVING. THIS IS A PROBLEM MANY SUBARU OWNERS HAVE BECAUSE A HOSE LOOSENS AND ALLOWS GAS TO LEAK OUT. ONCE THE CAR WARMS UP THE HOSE TIGHTENS AND THE PRO... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Dec 21, 2015
Incident date: Dec 1, 2009
WHENEVER THE OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE DROPS BELOW 20 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT, THERE IS A STRONG ODOR OF GASOLINE IN AND AROUND THE CAR. WHEN TAKEN TO A MECHANIC, I WAS INFORMED THAT ALL OF THE HOSE CLAMPS ON THE FUEL LINES WERE LOOSE. THEY WERE THEN TIGHTENED BUT EVERY TIME THE OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE DROPS, IT... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING Dec 21, 2015
Incident date: Jan 1, 2004
WHEN TURNING THE TURN SIGNALS ON, THE HEADLIGHTS GO OFF. THIS HAPPENS FREQUENTLY, SUDDENLY PLUNGING YOU INTO DARKNESS. THE HEADLIGHT COVERS ARE MADE OF INFERIOR PLASTIC THAT CLOUDS OVER WITH AGE, MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE TO SEE AT NIGHT. I HAD TO HAVE THEM REPLACED BECAUSE IT LOOKED AS IF THE HEADLI... Read more
WHEELS Dec 21, 2015
Incident date: Dec 1, 2009
IN DECEMBER, LESS THAN 3 MONTHS AFTER BUYING THE CAR USED, WHILE DRIVING I HEARD WHAT SOUNDED LIKE A FLAT TIRE. I WAS ONLY A FEW HUNDRED FEET FROM A SERVICE STATION SO DROVE TO IT, BUT DRIVING THAT SHORT DISTANCE RUINED THE TIRE. I HAD JUST PUT AIR IN THE TIRES, BUT DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT THE PROBLEM W... Read more
AIR BAGS Dec 21, 2015
Incident date: Dec 1, 2003
THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT DOES NOT RETRACT. THEN IT GETS CLOSED IN THE DOOR BECAUSE IT HANGS LOOSE. IN THE BACK SEAT, THE MIDDLE SEAT BELT HAS THE WRONG PART SO IT CANNOT BE LATCHED. BECAUSE OF THIS, I CANNOT SAFELY DRIVE WITH MORE THAN 2 PASSENGERS IN THE BACK SEAT.
SERVICE BRAKES Aug 21, 2015
Incident date: Aug 20, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH AND ENGAGING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE ABS MALFUNCTIONED AND ERRONEOUSLY ACTIVATED, WHICH PREVENTED THE BRAKES FROM STOPPING THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO A CONCRETE MEDIAN, WHICH CAUSED... Read more
Crash
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS Mar 19, 2015
Incident date: Mar 16, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE REAR END OF THE VEHICLE SWAYED FROM SIDE TO SIDE WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SUBFRAME NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE M... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Feb 2, 2015
Incident date: Dec 1, 2013
SUBARU FORESTER SMELLS OF GAS INSIDE CAB WHEN WEATHER IS COLD. GAS LEAK VISIBLE FIRST TIME IT OCCURRED IN 2013. I TIGHTENED A CLAMP AND LEAK STOPPED. THIS WINTER I CANNOT SEE THE LEAK, BUT THE FUEL SMELL OVERTAKES MY CAR ABOUT 5 MINUTES INTO WARMING UP. EVENTUALLY IT DISSIPATES BUT I DO BELIEVE THAT... Read more
SUSPENSION Dec 18, 2014
Incident date: Nov 19, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2001 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE REAR CROSS MEMBER BECAME FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR CROSS MEMBER FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES Feb 9, 2014
Incident date: Feb 5, 2005
BRAKES JUST DO NOT WORK ON SNOW, ICE (ABS DOES NOT KICK IN), AND THE WHEELS DO NOT TURN. HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES, RAN INTO AN INTERSECTION ON RED AT LEAST 4 TIMES. ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN; NOTICED OTHER COMPLAINTS OF ACCIDENTS. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Feb 9, 2014
Incident date: Feb 5, 2005
BRAKES JUST DO NOT WORK ON SNOW, ICE (ABS DOES NOT KICK IN), AND THE WHEELS DO NOT TURN. HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES, RAN INTO AN INTERSECTION ON RED AT LEAST 4 TIMES. ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN; NOTICED OTHER COMPLAINTS OF ACCIDENTS. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Jan 29, 2014
Incident date: Dec 18, 2013
IN COLD WEATHER WE GET A STRONG FUEL SMELL. THE SMELL ENTERS THE CAR AND GIVES EVERYONE A HEADACHE. OTHER SUBARU OWNERS WE KNOW HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. SUBARU KNOWS OF THIS PROBLEM BUT WILL NOT MAKE A RECALL. ESTIMATES FOR A FIX RUN ABOUT $300. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Jan 28, 2014
Incident date: Jan 27, 2014
WHEN IT IS BELOW 25 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT, FUEL LINES AND RELATED COMPONENTS (INCLUDING RETAINING CLIPS AND FITTINGS) LEAK GASOLINE, CAUSING GAS FUMES TO ENTER THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. THIS PROBLEM IS SOMETIMES REFERRED TO AS A FUEL LINE SEEP. FUMES THEN ENTER THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT VIA THE HEATIN... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Jan 3, 2014
Incident date: Jan 4, 2012
WHEN IT IS BELOW 25 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT, FUEL LINES AND RELATED COMPONENTS (INCLUDING RETAINING CLIPS AND FITTINGS) LEAK GASOLINE, CAUSING GAS FUMES TO ENTER THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. THIS PROBLEM IS SOMETIMES REFERRED TO AS A FUEL LINE SEEP. FUMES THEN ENTER THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT VIA THE HEATIN... Read more
2 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Oct 10, 2013
Incident date: Sep 27, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE VEHICLE STOPPED MOVING, IT ACCELERATED WITHOUT THE ACCELERATOR BEING DEPRESSED INTERMITTENTLY AND WITHOUT ANY WARNING. THE CONTACT ALSO CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE FIFTEEN FEET AWAY AND ALMOST HIT A PEDESTRIAN WHEN THE FA... Read more
Crash
SERVICE BRAKES Jun 12, 2013
Incident date: Jun 10, 2013
ON MONDAY AT 4:50 PM I WAS DRIVING N A SCHOOL ZONE AND REALIZED THAT I WAS HAVING TO RIDE MY BRAKES I ALSO THOUGHT THERE WAS SOME FUNNY NOISE FROM THE ENGINE. I ROLLED DOWN MY WINDOW AND COULDN'T HEAR ANY THING. AS I APPROACHED THE STOP SIGN MY CAR WOULD NOT STOP AND I PRESSED MY BRAKES ALL THE WAY ... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Jun 12, 2013
Incident date: Jun 10, 2013
ON MONDAY AT 4:50 PM I WAS DRIVING N A SCHOOL ZONE AND REALIZED THAT I WAS HAVING TO RIDE MY BRAKES I ALSO THOUGHT THERE WAS SOME FUNNY NOISE FROM THE ENGINE. I ROLLED DOWN MY WINDOW AND COULDN'T HEAR ANY THING. AS I APPROACHED THE STOP SIGN MY CAR WOULD NOT STOP AND I PRESSED MY BRAKES ALL THE WAY ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Apr 23, 2013
Incident date: Feb 25, 2013
I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE FREEWAY AT NIGHT WHEN I HEARD A LOUD BANG NOISE AND LOOKED BEHIND ME AND SAW BLACK SMOKE AND HAD LOST ALL POWER, NO POWER STEERING, NO BRAKES AND NO LIGHTS I HAD TO TRY TO CROSS 2 LANES OF TRAFFIC TO GET MY CAR TO THE SHOULDER WHILE IT WAS DECELERATING. I GOT THE CAR TO THE SH... Read more
STEERING Apr 23, 2013
Incident date: Feb 25, 2013
I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE FREEWAY AT NIGHT WHEN I HEARD A LOUD BANG NOISE AND LOOKED BEHIND ME AND SAW BLACK SMOKE AND HAD LOST ALL POWER, NO POWER STEERING, NO BRAKES AND NO LIGHTS I HAD TO TRY TO CROSS 2 LANES OF TRAFFIC TO GET MY CAR TO THE SHOULDER WHILE IT WAS DECELERATING. I GOT THE CAR TO THE SH... Read more
ENGINE Apr 23, 2013
Incident date: Feb 25, 2013
I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE FREEWAY AT NIGHT WHEN I HEARD A LOUD BANG NOISE AND LOOKED BEHIND ME AND SAW BLACK SMOKE AND HAD LOST ALL POWER, NO POWER STEERING, NO BRAKES AND NO LIGHTS I HAD TO TRY TO CROSS 2 LANES OF TRAFFIC TO GET MY CAR TO THE SHOULDER WHILE IT WAS DECELERATING. I GOT THE CAR TO THE SH... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Aug 1, 2012
Incident date: Jul 14, 2011
DRIVING N ON I5 HIGHWAY WHEN CAR MADE NOISES, PULLED OVER & WOULD NOT START AGAIN. TOWED IN. WAS TOLD THAT ENGINE WAS DEAD. CAR HAD JUST BEEN SERVICED BY DEALER. HAD TO BUY NEW ENGINE. SUBARU WOULD NOT TAKE ANY RESPONSIBILITY. CAR HAD VERY LOW MILEAGE & WAS IN GOOD SHAPE. WHEN DOING RESEARCH, FOUND ... Read more
ENGINE Aug 1, 2012
Incident date: Jul 14, 2011
DRIVING N ON I5 HIGHWAY WHEN CAR MADE NOISES, PULLED OVER & WOULD NOT START AGAIN. TOWED IN. WAS TOLD THAT ENGINE WAS DEAD. CAR HAD JUST BEEN SERVICED BY DEALER. HAD TO BUY NEW ENGINE. SUBARU WOULD NOT TAKE ANY RESPONSIBILITY. CAR HAD VERY LOW MILEAGE & WAS IN GOOD SHAPE. WHEN DOING RESEARCH, FOUND ... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Mar 11, 2011
Incident date: Mar 8, 2011
DRIVING ON HIGHWAY AT 75 MPH WITH CRUISE CONTROL SET. TRIED TO CANCEL CRUISE CONTROL WITH STALK, IT DID NOT DISENGAGE. TRIED REPEATEDLY, IT DID NOT DISENGAGE. HIT THE BRAKES TO CANCEL CRUISE CONTROL, IT DID NOT DISENGAGE (BRAKES ONLY SLOWED CAR DOWN). STEPPED ON THE CLUTCH TO CANCEL CRUISE CONTR... Read more
POWER TRAIN Mar 11, 2011
Incident date: Mar 8, 2011
DRIVING ON HIGHWAY AT 75 MPH WITH CRUISE CONTROL SET. TRIED TO CANCEL CRUISE CONTROL WITH STALK, IT DID NOT DISENGAGE. TRIED REPEATEDLY, IT DID NOT DISENGAGE. HIT THE BRAKES TO CANCEL CRUISE CONTROL, IT DID NOT DISENGAGE (BRAKES ONLY SLOWED CAR DOWN). STEPPED ON THE CLUTCH TO CANCEL CRUISE CONTR... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Feb 5, 2011
Incident date: Jan 10, 2008
THE ISSUE IS IN REGARD TO MY 2001 SUBARU FORESTER, WHEN THE WEATHER COOLS OFF TO BELLOW 0, A STRONG SMELL OF GASOLINE DEVELOPS INSIDE THE PASSENGER CABIN. I HAVE SMALL KIDS AND ASIDE FROM A POSSIBILITY OF AND ENGINE FIRE AM ALSO WORRIED ABOUT IMPACT OF BREATHING THE STRONG GASOLINE FUMES IN THE CABI... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Jan 13, 2011
Incident date: Aug 3, 2010
I WAS DRIVING ALONE IN A 2001 SUBARU FORESTER AROUND 3PM ON A SUNNY AUGUST DAY IN 2010. HEADING SOUTH ON A 2 LANE ROAD IN TALLAHASSEE, FL, I APPROACHED A RED STOPLIGHT AHEAD WITH TWO VEHICLES STOPPED IN FRONT OF ME. AS I STARTED TO BRAKE, THE VEHICLE ABRUPTLY ACCELERATED, I SWERVED INTO THE ONCOMING... Read more
POWER TRAIN Dec 27, 2010
Incident date: Dec 23, 2010
MY 2001 STANDARD TRANSMISSION SUBARU FORRESTER FAILED TO RELEASE CRUISE CONTROL WHEN BRAKE WAS USED. I HAD DIFFICULTY, BUT WAS ABLE TO GAIN CONTROL AND SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL ON THE SHOULDER. AFTERWARD, BRAKES SEEMED TO WORK FINE. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Jul 19, 2010
Incident date: Jul 19, 2010
CAR ACCELERATING WHILE BRAKES ENGAGED AND FOOT OFF GAS PEDAL. HIT ANOTHER CAR AND BRICK WALL WHILE USING THE EMERGENCY BRAKE. ENGINE AFTERWARD REVVED UP SO FAST WHEN CAR TURNED ON SEVERAL TIMES. RETURNED TO NORMAL. DROVE CARE TO DEALER. NOTHING WRONG CAN BE FOUND. *TR
Crash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Jun 15, 2010
Incident date: Jun 14, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ON JUNE 14, 2010, WHILE AT A STOP SIGN, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AND CRASHED INTO THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF HER. THERE WERE NO INJURIES BUT THE VEHICLE SUSTAINED MINOR DAMAGES. NO POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKE... Read more
Crash
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Oct 6, 2009
Incident date: Sep 22, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS EXAMINING HER VEHICLE, SHE NOTICED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. A LOCAL MECHANIC STATED THAT THE KNOCK SENSOR HAD TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED THAT THE INSIDE OF HER VEHICLE BECAME VERY WARM WHILE SHE WAS D... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Jan 6, 2009
Incident date: Jan 10, 2007
THERE ARE TWO ORGANIC TUBES THAT CARRY FUEL, ABOVE THE ENGINE. IN COLD WEATHER, THEY LEAK WHERE CLAMPED TO METAL TUBES AND FITTINGS. THE FUEL LEAKS ONTO THE ENGINE. THE INDICATION IS A SMELL OF GASOLINE IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. *TR
SUSPENSION:REAR Dec 8, 2008
Incident date: Dec 15, 2007
2001 SUBARU FORESTER 87500 MILES ON IT. 12/2007 HAD REAR WHEEL BEARINGS REPLACED AT INDEPENDENT SHOP. NOW IT IS 12/2008 WITH ONLY 92K MILES ON IT, AND THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR WHEEL BEARING IS HOWLING LIKE A BANSHEE. PASSENGER REAR WHEEL BEARING GETTING LOUDER BUT NOT AS BAD. MIGHT HAVE DEALER REP... Read more
VISIBILITY Jul 1, 2008
Incident date: Jan 9, 2008
I HAVE A 2001 SUBARU FORESTER WITH A DEFECTIVE MAGNA DONNELLY AUTO DIMMING REARVIEW MIRROR. THIS MIRROR IS IN A NUMBER OF DIFFERENT MAKES OF CARS, AND HAS BROADLY FAILED, IN SOME INSTANCES LEAKING (EVEN BURSTING) CAUSTIC CONTENTS THAT HAVE DISSOLVED PLASTIC COMPONENTS IN CARS. SOME CERTIFIED AUTO ... Read more
Crash 1 injured
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION Feb 29, 2008
Incident date: Aug 23, 2007
BOUGHT MY 2001 FORESTER USED WITH APPROXIMATELY 64,000 MILES ON IT. AFTER OWNING IT FOR ABOUT 6 MONTHS NOTICED HESITANCY WHEN TRYING TO PULL OUT. SLOWLY STARTED GETTING WORSE. CAR WOULD SIT FOR ABOUT 10 TO 15 SECONDS AFTER BEING PUT INTO DRIVE BEFORE ENGAGING AND IF FOOT IS NOT ON BRAKE, HAS A HARSH... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR Dec 18, 2007
Incident date: Dec 18, 2007
LEFT REAR WHEEL BEARING HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE. RIGHT REAR WHEEL BEARING NEEDS TO BE REPLACED NOW. DEALER SERVICE PERSONNEL TOLD ME THAT THE WHEEL WAS ABOUT TO FALL OFF OF THE VEHICLE THE FIRST TIME I HAD THE BEARING REPLACED. *TR
SUSPENSION:REAR Dec 16, 2007
Incident date: Dec 15, 2007
01 FORESTER WAS BOUGHT FROM VAN BORTEL SUBARU ON 4/24/04 COMING OFF A LEASE WITH 29,000 MILES. I HAD TO NEGOTIATE THAT DEALER TO CHECK CAR FOR SERVICE BULLETINS AND RECALLS AND ASKED FOR THE 30K MAINTENANCE TO BE COMPLETED. MINIMAL WORK WAS COMPLETED AND SUBSEQUENTLY MAJOR PROBLEMS SUCH DUE TO DEFEC... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS Nov 26, 2007
Incident date: Jan 1, 2007
HEADLIGHT LENSES ARE TOO CLOUDED OVER TO USE SAFELY. REGULAR EXTERIOR MAINTENANCE (WASHING, WAXING WHERE INDICATED) HAS NEVER MADE A DIFFERENCE MATERIALS USED WERE SUB-STANDARD & DID NOT EVEN OUTLIVE OUTLIVE THE ORIGINAL MFR. WARRANTY. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Sep 13, 2007
Incident date: Sep 10, 2007
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH WITH THE CONTACT'S FOOT OFF THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED TO 30 MPH. SHE DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL, HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE DRIVE... Read more
Crash 1 injured
EQUIPMENT Aug 18, 2007
Incident date: Aug 18, 2007
AS SOON AS THE CAR AGED TO 75,000 MILES I STARTED HAVING PROBLEMS. THE CLOSEST SUBARU DEALER IS 51 MILES AWAY FROM MY CURRENT LOCATION. NOT EASY TO GET TO. MY IN TOWN MECHANIC HAS ONLY BEEN TRYING TO TREAT THE SYMPTOMS. I'VE HAD THERMOSTAT, HEATER CORE, VALVE COVERS, SPARK PLUG WIRES REPLACED, HOS... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING Aug 18, 2007
Incident date: Aug 18, 2007
AS SOON AS THE CAR AGED TO 75,000 MILES I STARTED HAVING PROBLEMS. THE CLOSEST SUBARU DEALER IS 51 MILES AWAY FROM MY CURRENT LOCATION. NOT EASY TO GET TO. MY IN TOWN MECHANIC HAS ONLY BEEN TRYING TO TREAT THE SYMPTOMS. I'VE HAD THERMOSTAT, HEATER CORE, VALVE COVERS, SPARK PLUG WIRES REPLACED, HOS... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION Apr 18, 2007
Incident date: Jan 15, 2007
PURCHASED USED "AS IS" 02/01/2007 FROM DEALER THAT LISTED 2001 FORESTER AT $9800.00, THEN WHEN I WENT TO BUY THEY REDUCED COST TO $5200.00 JUST TO MOVE THEIR USED VEHICLES OFF LOT. THEY DID NOT DISCLOSE ANY PROBLEMS AND SAID FORESTER WENT THOROUGH VEHICLE INSPECTION AND VEHICLE WAS IN EXCELLENT ... Read more
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:CONSTANT VELOCITY JOINT Apr 18, 2007
Incident date: Jan 15, 2007
PURCHASED USED "AS IS" 02/01/2007 FROM DEALER THAT LISTED 2001 FORESTER AT $9800.00, THEN WHEN I WENT TO BUY THEY REDUCED COST TO $5200.00 JUST TO MOVE THEIR USED VEHICLES OFF LOT. THEY DID NOT DISCLOSE ANY PROBLEMS AND SAID FORESTER WENT THOROUGH VEHICLE INSPECTION AND VEHICLE WAS IN EXCELLENT ... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Oct 29, 2006
Incident date: Oct 4, 2005
BLOWN HEAD GASKETS, CRACKED SHORT BLOCK, AND O2 SENSORS ALL REPLACED AT AROUND 100,000 MILES. O2 SENSORS REPLACED TWICE. UNKNOWN WHEN PROBLEM FIRST OCCURRED AND WHICH WAS CAUSE AND WHICH EFFECT. HEAD GASKETS SHOULD BE COVERED BY PROGRAM WWP-99, BUT SUBARU WILL NOT CONSIDER NOR DISCUSS ANY ACCOMMO... Read more
SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING Aug 4, 2006
Incident date: Jul 30, 2006
SUBARU 2001 FORESTER, 71,440 MILES, ONE OWNER, PURCHASED 04/2000. WHILE DRIVING, GRINDING NOISE FROM REAR OF VEHICLE. TALKED WITH SUBARU AND TWO INDEPENDENT GARAGES, AND ALL WITH SAME CONCLUSION - DEFECTIVE WHEEL BEARING. ALL STATED THIS WAS/IS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE BECAUSE PART WAS N... Read more
POWER TRAIN Jul 31, 2006
Incident date: Jul 26, 2006
1) GRINDING NOISE WHEN ACCELERATING ESPECIALLY GOING UP HILL. 2) 4WD DIFFERENTIAL FAILURE 3) DIFFERENTIAL CAN ONLY BE REPLACED AS PART OF THE WHOLE TRANSMISSION. 4) VEHICLE ONLY HAS 86300 MILES, SEEMS LIKE A TRANSMISSION/DIFFERENTIAL SHOULD LAST LONGER THAN THAT. COST FOR REPLACEMENT OVER $3,70... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL Jul 6, 2006
Incident date: Jan 1, 1901
CONSUMER 2001 FORESTER ACCELERATOR PEDAL STICKS. *TS *JB
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Jul 3, 2006
Incident date: Jun 14, 2006
I WAS BACKING OUT OF A PARKING PLACE. MY 2001 SUBARU FORESTER SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. I HAD NOT PUT MY FOOT ON THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. I COULD NOT MAKE THE CAR STOP WITH THE BRAKE ALTHOUGH I PRACTICALLY STOOD ON THE BRAKE. MY RIGHT LEG WAS INJURED BECAUSE THE LIGAMENT WERE STRAINED BY THE FORCE I US... Read more
Crash 1 injured
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION May 30, 2006
Incident date: May 30, 2006
WHEN I SHIFT INTO DRIVE (ANY OF THE DRIVE GEARS), THE CAR HESITATES TO ENGAGE (MOVE FORWARD) FOR ANYWHERE BETWEEN 2-3 SECONDS AND UP TO 1 MINUTE. THIS DOES NOT HAPPEN WHEN SHIFTED INTO REVERSE. THE WAIT TIME IS RANDOM SO I NEVER KNOW HOW LONG IT WILL TAKE. THE OTHER DAY, I HAD TO REVERSE TO GET O... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR May 28, 2006
Incident date: May 12, 2005
FAILURE OF REAR WHEEL BEARINGS. *NM

Showing 50 of 169 complaints.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2001 SUBARU FORESTER

65 manufacturer communications from 40 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

ComponentBulletins
350000 EQUIPMENT19
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM6
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL5
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY4
100000 POWER TRAIN4
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING3
105400 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:CENTER SUPPORT BEARING2
101000 POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY2
01-168-09R Aug 1, 2023
350000 EQUIPMENT
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
01-168-09R Aug 1, 2023
170000 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
01-168-09R Aug 1, 2023
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
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
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models
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
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.
09-51-08R Jun 7, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
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.
03-82-18R Jan 12, 2021
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
This bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing.
03-82-18R Jan 12, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing.
03-82-18R Jan 12, 2021
101000 POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
This bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing.
03-82-18R Jan 12, 2021
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
This bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing.
01-168-09R Jan 4, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information.
01-168-09R Jan 4, 2021
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information.
03-82-18R Aug 26, 2020
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
This service information bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing used on the models listed.
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.
03-82-18 Oct 26, 2018
100000 POWER TRAIN
This Service Information bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing used on the models as listed above. During assembly of the bearing, a different type of grease is used which has a higher resistance to heat. In cases
03-82-18 Oct 26, 2018
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
This Service Information bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing used on the models as listed above. During assembly of the bearing, a different type of grease is used which has a higher resistance to heat. In cases
03-82-18 Oct 26, 2018
100000 POWER TRAIN
This Service Information bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing used on the models as listed above. During assembly of the bearing, a different type of grease is used which has a higher resistance to heat. In cases
03-82-18 Oct 26, 2018
350000 EQUIPMENT
This Service Information bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing used on the models as listed above. During assembly of the bearing, a different type of grease is used which has a higher resistance to heat. In cases
03-82-18 Oct 26, 2018
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
This Service Information bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing used on the models as listed above. During assembly of the bearing, a different type of grease is used which has a higher resistance to heat. In cases
01-168-09R Nov 16, 2016
350000 EQUIPMENT
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
01-168-09R Sep 30, 2016
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
01-168-09R Apr 12, 2016
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
Revised TSB. The Subaru Lock Information Site (SLIS) is located at http://lockinfo.subaru.com, and provides information on how to obtain immobilizer codes and key cut codes for Subaru vehicles from the 2000MY to present. This bulletin iden
01-168-09R Apr 12, 2016
350000 EQUIPMENT
Revised TSB. The Subaru Lock Information Site (SLIS) is located at http://lockinfo.subaru.com, and provides information on how to obtain immobilizer codes and key cut codes for Subaru vehicles from the 2000MY to present. This bulletin iden
01-168-09R Apr 12, 2016
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Revised TSB. The Subaru Lock Information Site (SLIS) is located at http://lockinfo.subaru.com, and provides information on how to obtain immobilizer codes and key cut codes for Subaru vehicles from the 2000MY to present. This bulletin iden
0116809R Jul 17, 2014
116340 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:KEY/SENDER
Replacement Key and Immobilizer Info
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.
0116809R Apr 25, 2013
116340 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:KEY/SENDER
Replacement Key and Immobilizer info
037012R Jan 3, 2013
060000 ENGINE (PWS)
Repair Procedure for High-Pitched Sound
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
1810506 Apr 17, 2006
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
SERVICE MANUAL CORRECTIONS. *TT
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
063304 Feb 15, 2004
034520 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:PADS
DISC BRAKE PAD MODIFICATION FOR UNEVEN OR PREMATURE WORN BRAKE PADS. *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
WWF89 Apr 1, 2002
116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
SUBJECT REGARDING ENGINE CONTROL MODULE REPROGRAMMING. *SLC
1510501 Jan 4, 2002
350000 EQUIPMENT
SUBJECT REGARDING AUTO DIMMING ELECTROCHROMIC COMPASS MIRROR TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE. *SLC
186901 Jul 1, 2001
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
SUBJECT REGARDING SERVICE MANUAL CORRECTIONS. *JB
WXW80 Jan 1, 2001
063100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE FRONT OXYGEN AIR / FUEL (A/F) SENSOR ELEMENT CRACKING. *TT
010700 Jul 1, 2000
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
SUBJECT REGARDING OWNER'S MANUAL CORRECTION FOR THE REAR WINDOW WIPER OPERATION. *TT
2000 Feb 1, 2000
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
BRIEF INFORMATION PERTAINING TO THE SELECT MONITOR CARTRIDGE. *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
PE, Closed , Model Year: 2016
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
PE, Closed , Model Year: 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 (current) 0 169
2000 0 95 View
1999 1 156 View
1998 1 138 View

Other SUBARU Models

Model Recalls Complaints
IMPREZA 321 3,425 View
LEGACY 307 4,132 View
OUTBACK 288 12,131 View
SOLTERRA 259 109 View
WRX 190 1,208 View
ASCENT 112 1,248 View
TRIBECA 70 51 View
CROSSTREK 42 1,453 View