2002 SUBARU FORESTER
1 recalls, 109 complaints - 67 TSBs
02V282000 Oct 30, 2002
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Defect Description
CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY AND PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS WERE PRODUCED WITH AN IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED TRANSMISSION PARKING ROD. WHEN THE TRANSMISSION SELECTOR LEVER IS PLACED IN THE "P" (PARK) POSITION, THE TRANSMISSION PARK MECHANISM, THAT IS INTENDED TO HOLD YOUR VEHI... Read more
Consequence
THE VEHICLE COULD THEN MOVE/ROLL WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION PARKING ROD ASSEMBLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION JANUARY 8, 2003. AN INTERIM OWNER NOTIFICATION WILL BE SENT DURING NOVEMBER 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WI... Read more
Complaint Statistics
109 total complaints
29 crashes 1 fires 13 injuries
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL | 20 |
| POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 13 |
| SUSPENSION | 8 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING | 7 |
| FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM | 5 |
| UNKNOWN OR OTHER | 5 |
| AIR BAGS | 4 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP | 4 |
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE | 4 |
| AIR BAGS:FRONTAL | 4 |
SUSPENSION
Oct 26, 2019
Incident date: Oct 25, 2019
I WAS DRIVING I WAS MAKING A RIGHT HAND TURN FROM ONE ROAD TO ANOTHER AND I HIT A SLIGHT BUMP AND THEN THE WHOLE THING STARTS SWAYING ONLY TO FIND OUT THAT MY REAR SUBFRAME COMPLETELY ROTTED OUT AND DETACHED ITSELF FROM THE CAR DUE TO THE RUST AND THE BREAKING OF THE SUBFRAME IN THE REAR
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Oct 26, 2019
Incident date: Oct 25, 2019
I WAS DRIVING I WAS MAKING A RIGHT HAND TURN FROM ONE ROAD TO ANOTHER AND I HIT A SLIGHT BUMP AND THEN THE WHOLE THING STARTS SWAYING ONLY TO FIND OUT THAT MY REAR SUBFRAME COMPLETELY ROTTED OUT AND DETACHED ITSELF FROM THE CAR DUE TO THE RUST AND THE BREAKING OF THE SUBFRAME IN THE REAR
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Mar 18, 2019
Incident date: Mar 15, 2019
THE SUBFRAME COMPLETELY FELL OFF MY CAR. THIS IS MY SECOND SUBARU IS HAS HAPPENED TO I HAD TO SCRAP THE FIRST ONE. I DIDN'T NOTICE IT TILL I CAME HOME, I CHECKED IT BECAUSE IT WAS DRIVING FUNNY.
SUSPENSION
Feb 16, 2019
Incident date: Feb 15, 2019
WAS LUCKILY ONLY TRAVELING AT ABOUT 30 MPH WHEN FAILURE OCCURRED. GOT OUT OF THE CAR TO DISCOVER THE DRIVER SIDE WHEEL CORRECTLY POINTED STRAIGHT AND PASSENGER SIDE FRONT WHEEL POINTED INWARD. UPON INSPECTION, THE CONTROL HAD WITHOUT WARNING SNAPPED IN HALF TAKING THE CV AXLE AND STABILIZER LINKAGE ... Read more
SUSPENSION
Jun 3, 2018
Incident date: Jun 3, 2018
I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY 1 MILE FROM MY HOME WHEN THE CONTROL ARM SUDDENLY FAILED SENDING MY CAR VEERING ACROSS THE ROAD ALMOST HITTING ONCOMING TRAFFIC.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Dec 28, 2017
Incident date: Dec 28, 2017
FUEL LINES IN ENGINE LEAK IN COLD WEATHER. THIS IS A SERIOUS HAZARD THAT I AND MULTIPLE OTHER SUBARU OWNERS THAT I KNOW HAVE HAD OCCURRING AND RECURRING. I CALLED SUBARU AND THEY WERE UNINTERESTED IN ISSUING A SAFETY RECALL DESPITE THE EXTREME HAZARD LEAKING GASOLINE IN THE ENGINE POSES. THIS HAS NO... Read more
SUSPENSION
Nov 30, 2017
Incident date: Sep 15, 2017
PUT VEHICLE IN REVERSE AFTER BEING AT BANK AND HEARD A HUGE CLUNK. GENTLEMAN RAN UP TO ME AND SAID NOT TO MOVE IT. GOT OUT AND LEFT FRONT TIRE WAS ABOUT LAYING FLAT ON GROUND. HAD BROTHER BRING TOW DOLLY AND THEN TOOK IT APART. ENDED UP SPENDING 600 JUST ON PARTS AS THE CONTROL ARMS WERE ROTTED HORR... Read more
SUSPENSION
Sep 22, 2017
Incident date: Sep 20, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUSPENSION FAILED. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE SOUND OF A TIRE SQUEALING WAS HEARD. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE STEERING WHEEL TO DRIVE TO A SAFE LOCATION. THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND FOUND THAT THE ... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
May 25, 2017
Incident date: May 25, 2017
TAKATA RECALL MY CAR HAS A STRONG SMELL OF GASOLINE WHEN WALKING UP TO THE CAR AFTER IT HAS SAT AND IT IS EVEN STRONGER WHEN YOU SHUT THE CAR OFF AFTER DRIVING. IN THE WARMER WEATHER THE SMELL HAS INCREASED.
STRUCTURE:BODY
Mar 14, 2017
Incident date: Jun 15, 2009
6/15/2009 I WAS HEADED HOME AT A RATE OF ~20-25 MPH ON PISGAH CHURCH RD AS I WAS APPROACHING WHERE I TURN RIGHT ONTO LAWNDALE AVE AND I REAR ENDED A VEHICLE WHICH WAS PUSHED FORWARD REAR ENDING A 2ND VEHICLE TO THE TUNE OF $16,183.57 ERIE INSURANCE CHARGE (CLAIM # 010910179459) AND 3 NASTY POINTS. ... Read more
Crash
2 injured
AIR BAGS
Mar 14, 2017
Incident date: Jun 15, 2009
6/15/2009 I WAS HEADED HOME AT A RATE OF ~20-25 MPH ON PISGAH CHURCH RD AS I WAS APPROACHING WHERE I TURN RIGHT ONTO LAWNDALE AVE AND I REAR ENDED A VEHICLE WHICH WAS PUSHED FORWARD REAR ENDING A 2ND VEHICLE TO THE TUNE OF $16,183.57 ERIE INSURANCE CHARGE (CLAIM # 010910179459) AND 3 NASTY POINTS. ... Read more
Crash
2 injured
SUSPENSION
Nov 20, 2015
Incident date: Nov 19, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING AT 50 MPH, THE VEHICLE VIBRATED AND PULLED TO THE RIGHT WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT SLOWED DOWN AND DROVE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM OF THE SUSPENSION WAS FRACTURED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. T... Read more
ENGINE
Aug 22, 2015
Incident date: Aug 10, 2015
I HAD STOPPED MY FORESTER IN THE LEFT HAND TURN LANE ABOUT 3 TO 5 FEET BEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE WHILE WAITING FOR THE SIGNAL TO CHANGE FROM RED TO THE GREEN ARROW. I PUT MY VEHICLE INTO PARK AND TOOK MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE. I TURNED TO CHECK THE POCKET OF MY JACKET IN THE REAR SEAT. I TURNED BACK IN TH... Read more
Crash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Aug 22, 2015
Incident date: Aug 10, 2015
I HAD STOPPED MY FORESTER IN THE LEFT HAND TURN LANE ABOUT 3 TO 5 FEET BEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE WHILE WAITING FOR THE SIGNAL TO CHANGE FROM RED TO THE GREEN ARROW. I PUT MY VEHICLE INTO PARK AND TOOK MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE. I TURNED TO CHECK THE POCKET OF MY JACKET IN THE REAR SEAT. I TURNED BACK IN TH... Read more
Crash
AIR BAGS
Aug 21, 2015
Incident date: Feb 1, 2013
THE AIRBAG THAT IS IN THE CENTER OF THE STEERING WHEEL HAS A DESIGN FLAW. THE COVER SECTION UNDER THE THE WORDS SRS AIRBAG IS A WEAK POINT IT DEVELOPS A LARGE CRACK LINE ON THE WEAK SPOT. SHOULD THE AIRBAG BE DEPLOYED WITH THIS CRACK, THE SHARP BROKEN PIECES COULD CAUSE SERIOUS LACERATIONS TO VICTIM... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Mar 16, 2015
Incident date: Jan 2, 2012
2002 SUBARU FORESTER. FOR THE PAST FEW WINTERS I HAVE NOTICED A VERY STRONG RAW GAS SMALL INSIDE THE CAR WHEN THE CAR IS IDLED, OR SITTING STILL AND THE TEMPERATURE IS 20 DEGREES F OR LOWER. OBVIOUSLY SOMETHING CONTRACTS BELOW THAT TEMPERATURE AND BY DOING A GOOGLE SEARCH I AM APPARENTLY NOT THE O... Read more
STEERING
Oct 7, 2014
Incident date: Sep 20, 2014
AFTER PURCHASING A 2002 SUBARU FORESTER, THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN FOR A VERY SHORT PERIOD OF TIME PRIOR TO NOTICING THAT THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO FEEL LOOSE AND UNSTABLE WHILE STEERING, AND THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO PULL TO ONE SIDE WHILE ACCELERATING AND BRAKING. AFTER NOTICING THE INSTABILIT... Read more
Crash
POWER TRAIN
Oct 7, 2014
Incident date: Sep 20, 2014
AFTER PURCHASING A 2002 SUBARU FORESTER, THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN FOR A VERY SHORT PERIOD OF TIME PRIOR TO NOTICING THAT THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO FEEL LOOSE AND UNSTABLE WHILE STEERING, AND THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO PULL TO ONE SIDE WHILE ACCELERATING AND BRAKING. AFTER NOTICING THE INSTABILIT... Read more
Crash
SUSPENSION
Oct 7, 2014
Incident date: Sep 20, 2014
AFTER PURCHASING A 2002 SUBARU FORESTER, THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN FOR A VERY SHORT PERIOD OF TIME PRIOR TO NOTICING THAT THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO FEEL LOOSE AND UNSTABLE WHILE STEERING, AND THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO PULL TO ONE SIDE WHILE ACCELERATING AND BRAKING. AFTER NOTICING THE INSTABILIT... Read more
Crash
SERVICE BRAKES
Feb 27, 2014
Incident date: Feb 25, 2014
BRAKE PADS ARE GOOD AND MOST OF THE TIME WORK RIGHT. WHEN ROAD IS ICY OR WET AND I PUSH THE PEDAL THE CAR STARTS SHUTTERING, BRAKE LETS LOOSE AND WON'T STOP THE CAR. I TRY TO LET OFF THE PEDAL AND BARELY PUSH IT AGAIN AND IT STILL WON'T QUIT SHUTTERING OR STOP. IF I GO TO LOW GEAR REAL FAST OR PUL... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Feb 6, 2014
Incident date: Feb 6, 2014
ON A VERY COLD MORNING WITH TEMPS IN THE TEENS, AFTER DRIVING THE CAR LESS THAN 10 MILES AND PARKING IT IN THE DRIVEWAY I NOTICED A STRONG RAW GAS SMELL. I OPENED THE HOOD AND SAW GAS LEAKING AROUND TWO METAL CLAMPS ON A SMALL RUBBER HOSE TO THE LEFT AND BELOW THE POWER STEERING FLUID CAP. AFTER DOI... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Jan 23, 2014
Incident date: Jan 14, 2014
IN VERY COLD CONDITIONS. WHEN THE CAR IS IN IDOL OR RUNNING IT HAS A VERY STRONG GAS SMELL AROUND THE ENGINE AND IN THE CABIN AREA. I HAVE HEARD THE WRX AND OUTBACK MODELS HAVE ALSO HAVE THIS PROBLEM.I WAS TOLD IT IS THE FUEL LINE HOSE THE CONNECTS TO THE CLAMP AND CONTRACTS IN SEVERE COLD AND EXTRA... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Jan 23, 2014
Incident date: Jan 14, 2014
IN VERY COLD CONDITIONS. WHEN THE CAR IS IN IDOL OR RUNNING IT HAS A VERY STRONG GAS SMELL AROUND THE ENGINE AND IN THE CABIN AREA. I HAVE HEARD THE WRX AND OUTBACK MODELS HAVE ALSO HAVE THIS PROBLEM.I WAS TOLD IT IS THE FUEL LINE HOSE THE CONNECTS TO THE CLAMP AND CONTRACTS IN SEVERE COLD AND EXTRA... Read more
TIRES
Nov 11, 2013
Incident date: Oct 22, 2013
I RECENTLY PURCHASED A NEW SET OF 4 COOPER CS4 (P215/60R16) TIRES FOR MY 2002 SUBARU FORESTER, HAVING THEM INSTALLED BY A DEALER, ALONG WITH BALANCING AND ALIGNMENT. ABOUT A WEEK LATER I CROSSED THE COUNTRY FROM WISCONSIN TO CALIFORNIA. ON GROOVED CONCRETE INTERSTATE HIGHWAYS, THE TIRES MADE MY CAR... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Nov 24, 2012
Incident date: Nov 16, 2012
FUEL LEAK UNDER THE HOOD. COULD NOT SEE ACTUAL LEAK BUT A STRONG FUEL ODOR FILLED THE VEHICLE UPON IDLING WITH THE HEATER ON. THIS ALSO HAPPEN TODAY AFTER DRIVING A SHORT DISTANCE(~4 MILES) A STRONG FUEL ODOR WAS DETECTED UPON STOPPING THE VEHICLE THE ODOR SEEM TO COME FROM THE INTAKE MANIFOLD AREA ... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Nov 28, 2011
Incident date: Jan 1, 2006
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD STRUGGLE TO ACCELERATE UP INCLINES AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED WHILE THE FAILURES OCCURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY A LOCAL MECHANIC. THE FAILURE WAS LOCATED AT THE FUEL SENSOR MODULE. THE VEHICLE ... Read more
AIR BAGS
Jan 29, 2011
Incident date: Jul 1, 2010
AIRBAG DASHBOARD LIGHT COMES ON REPEATEDLY. DEALER HAS REPLACED THE RIGHT AND LEFT HAND FRONT SEAT AIR BAG HARNESS CONNECTOR KIT TWICE (IN 2006 AT 34,000 MILES AND AGAIN IN 2009 AT 63,000 MILES.) AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON AGAIN APPROXIMATELY 6 MONTHS LATER. DEALER WILL NOT ADMIT TO ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Jan 26, 2011
Incident date: Jan 24, 2011
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE MAKING A U-TURN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WENT STRAIGHT TO THE FLOOR AND HIS FOOT GOT STUCK CAUSING HIM TO CRASH INTO A BUILDING. THE CONTACT NOR HIS PASSENGER WERE INJURED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN I... Read more
Crash
SUSPENSION
Oct 16, 2010
Incident date: Oct 1, 2010
SUBARU FORESTER 2002 REAR WHEEL BEARINGS KEEP FAILING AND HAVE TO BE REPLACED! *TR
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
May 14, 2010
Incident date: May 14, 2010
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE FOR STATE INSPECTION AND WAS ADVISED THAT THE VEHICLE COULD NOT PASS DUE TO EXTREME FRAME RUST AND CORROSION. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THAT BECAUSE THE VEHICLE WAS PRIMARILY HOUSED IN PENNSYLVANIA, A SALT BELT STATE, THAT THE ... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Feb 24, 2010
Incident date: Jan 15, 2010
INTERMITTENT ENGINE SURGING AND/LOSS OF POWER. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Feb 24, 2010
Incident date: Jan 15, 2010
INTERMITTENT ENGINE SURGING AND/LOSS OF POWER. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Feb 22, 2010
Incident date: Feb 19, 2010
I WAS ENTERING A PARKING SPACE AT A LOCAL GROCERY STORE WHEN THE VEHICLE SURGED FORWARD INTO ANOTHER PARKED CAR. I HAD MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE AND HAD PLACED THE VEHICLE IN PARK WHEN IT SUDDENLY AND UNEXPECTEDLY LURCHED FORWARD. I DAMAGED THE PARKED CAR AND MY OWN. THIS HAS HAPPENED PREVIOUSLY WHEN ... Read more
Crash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Feb 9, 2010
Incident date: Oct 3, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING IN REVERSE AT SPEEDS OF LESS THAN 3 MPH, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY AND ABNORMALLY ACCELERATED AND CRASHED INTO THE SIDE OF A HOUSE AND PROCEEDED TO CRASH INTO A WOODEN FENCE. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP AND THE CONTACT WAS FORCED TO PUT THE VEHICLE... Read more
Crash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Dec 16, 2009
Incident date: Aug 2, 2009
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH THE DRIVER SIDE REMOVABLE FLOOR MAT TRAPPED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL TO THE FLOOR. CONSEQUENTLY THERE WAS AN UNINTENDED INCREASE OF VEHICLE ACCELERATION. SHE WAS ABLE TO REGAIN VEHICLE OPERATION. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BE... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Dec 8, 2009
Incident date: Dec 7, 2009
A VERY STRONG FUEL SMELL COMES INTO THE CAB OF MY 2002 SUBARU FORESTER WHEN TEMPERATURES DROP BELOW 35. I RECENTLY MOVED TO MONTANA AND HADN'T NOTICED IT BEFORE BECAUSE PORTLAND DOESN'T GET THIS COLD. .AFTER RESEARCHING THE ISSUE ONLINE, FOUND OUT SEVERAL OTHERS ARE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM. SUBARU... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
Aug 5, 2009
Incident date: Apr 21, 2009
DEFECTIVE HEAD GASKET. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Feb 9, 2009
Incident date: Feb 5, 2009
AFTER A PERIOD OF COLD WEATHER (BELOW FREEZING), I DROVE MY CAR FOR ABOUT 20 MINUTES. AFTER EXITING THE CAR, I SMELLED A STRONG ODOR OF GASOLINE AT THE FRONT OF THE CAR. DURING THE TRIP WHEN USING THE HEAT INSIDE THE VEHICLE, I ALSO SMELLED A STRONG ODOR OF GASOLINE AND EXHAUST AND SHUT OFF THE HEAT... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Jan 22, 2008
Incident date: Jan 20, 2008
DURING A VERY COLD DAY I FELT VERY STRONG GASOLINE SMELL RIGHT AFTER START IN MY 2002 SUBARU FORESTER S. I LOOKED IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND I SAW GASOLINE O ONE OF THE RUBBER HOSES CONNECTING 2 FUEL LINES. THE SMELL DISAPPEARED AFTER THE ENGINE WARMED UP, BUT REAPPEARED AFTER THE CAR STAYED OUTS... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
Oct 15, 2007
Incident date: Oct 12, 2007
IN THE LAST WEEK, MY HEATER STARTED WORKING SPORADICALLY, PUTTING OUT COOL AIR AND HOT AIR INTERMITTENTLY. THEN MY TEMPERATURE GAUGE STARTED CLIMBING QUICKLY TO THE HOT END. I TURNED MY HEATER ON FULL-BLAST TO COOL DOWN THE ENGINE AND THIS WORKED FOR ABOUT A MILE, THEN THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE WENT A... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Sep 15, 2007
Incident date: Aug 30, 2007
EXTERNAL COOLANT LEAK DUE TO FAILURE OF HEAD GASKETS IN ENGINE ON A 2002 SUBARU FORESTER WITH 50,000 MILES. RESULTS IN COOLANT DRIPPING ONTO EXHAUST SYSTEM AND OTHER COMPONENTS RESULTING IN STRONG ODOR. ALSO CREATES POSSIBILITY OF LOW COOLANT CAUSING OVERHEATING, ENGINE DAMAGE AND POSSIBLE ENGIN... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Jul 12, 2007
Incident date: Jul 10, 2007
SOA IS NOT BEING FORTHCOMING ABOUT A MAJOR DEFECT AFFECTING MANY OF ITS VEHICLES. ON WEDNESDAY JULY 11, 2007 I SPOKE TO SOA AND EXPLAINED MY CONCERNS ABOUT THE CHRONIC LEAKING HEAD GASKET PROBLEMS ON MANY OF YOUR VEHICLES. I OWN A 2002 SUBARU FORESTER WHICH WAS DIAGNOSED WITH A LEAKING HEAD ... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Mar 5, 2007
Incident date: Mar 5, 2007
WHEN PARKING VEHICLE IN GARAGE, ENGINE REVVED AND CAR DROVE FORWARD CAUSING DAMAGE TO CAR AND GARAGE EVEN THOUGH CAR HAD BEEN PLACED INTO PARK. *JB
Crash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Mar 5, 2007
Incident date: Mar 5, 2007
WHEN PARKING VEHICLE IN GARAGE, ENGINE REVVED AND CAR DROVE FORWARD CAUSING DAMAGE TO CAR AND GARAGE EVEN THOUGH CAR HAD BEEN PLACED INTO PARK. *JB
Crash
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Dec 5, 2006
Incident date: Oct 15, 2006
WHEN TRAVELING 60 MPH THE CAR SUDDENLY LOOSES ACCELERATION, LIKE IT IS SLIPPING INTO NEUTRAL. AT FIRST, I COULD REMOVE MY FOOT FROM THE GAS, ALLOW THE CAR TO COAST AND SLOW, AND THEN RE-APPLY GAS, AND IT WOULD ACCELERATE AGAIN. NOW WHEN IT OCCURS, I HAVE TO STOP, NORMALLY ON THE SIDE OF A RURAL HI... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Nov 20, 2006
Incident date: Aug 24, 2006
2002 SUBARU FORESTER HESITATES AND LURCHES DANGEROUSLY AS IF FUEL IS NOT GETTING TO THE ENGINE. WHEN PULLING ON TO A STREET OR HIGHWAY, THE VEHICLE WON'T PICK UP SPEED AND CREATES A SAFELY HAZARD AND POTENTIAL REAR END ACCIDENTS. *JB
SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING
Oct 20, 2006
Incident date: Oct 6, 2006
METALLIC, GRINDING NOISE FROM RIGHT REAR WHEEL. WHEN PARKED FOR A WEEK, REFUSED TO MOVE - FROZEN IN PLACE. AFTER MUCH ACCELERATION, THE CAR WAS ABLE TO MOVE. NOISE GREW AND GREW TO A SHRIEKING PITCH. TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED IT AS A FAILURE OF THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL BEARING. *NM
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Mar 27, 2006
Incident date: Mar 27, 2006
WE PURCHASED THIS LOW-MILEAGE VEHICLE (~11K MILES) 2ND HAND FROM LOCAL SUBARU DEALER MID-FEB 2006, & NOTICED ONLY ROUGH SHIFTING WHEN ENGINE IS COLD- NO OTHER PROBLEMS. TODAY, WHILE TURNING LEFT AT LOW SPEED, THE CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED, & SEEMED TO DO SO FOR A SHORT TIME AFTER BRAKING HARDER. I A... Read more
Crash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Feb 10, 2006
Incident date: Feb 10, 2006
DRIVER OF FORESTER WAS STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT ABOUT 10 FEET AWAY FROM CAR IN FRONT. DRIVER TOOK FOOT AWAY FROM BRAKE PEDAL FOR A MOMENT AND CAR SURGED FORWARD ON ITS OWN. DRIVER SLAMMED BRAKE PEDAL TO THE FLOOR, BUT FORESTER CONTINUED TO SURGE FORWARD. DRIVER SWERVED TO TRY TO AVOID ACCIDENT BUT ... Read more
Crash
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Nov 14, 2005
Incident date: Nov 11, 2005
ON THREE OCCASIONS WHEN PLACING MY 2002 SUBARU FORESTER IN REVERSE, THE ENGINE HAS BEGUN TO RACE UNCONTROLLABLY. IN EACH INSTANCE, BECAUSE I HAD MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE AND WAS ABLE TO SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL, I WAS ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND AVOID A CRASH. *JB
Showing 50 of 109 complaints.
Technical Service Bulletins, 2002 SUBARU FORESTER
67 manufacturer communications from 39 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 350000 EQUIPMENT | 20 |
| 110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 6 |
| 356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY | 5 |
| 060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING | 4 |
| 100000 POWER TRAIN | 4 |
| 355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL | 3 |
| 103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 2 |
| 101000 POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY | 2 |
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
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.
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)
07-75-13R
Mar 10, 2020
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
This Bulletin provides information regarding DTC P0606 related specifically to the determination of this code on Forester Turbo and applicable WRX models.
07-75-13R
Mar 10, 2020
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
This Bulletin provides information regarding DTC P0606 related specifically to the determination of this code on Forester Turbo and applicable WRX models.
07-75-13R
Mar 10, 2020
350000 EQUIPMENT
This Bulletin provides information regarding DTC P0606 related specifically to the determination of this code on Forester Turbo and applicable WRX models.
07-75-13R
Mar 10, 2020
111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
This Bulletin provides information regarding DTC P0606 related specifically to the determination of this code on Forester Turbo and applicable WRX models.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
037012
Dec 13, 2012
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Repair Procedure for High-Pitched Sound from Extension Housing Area Using Latest Generation Production Parts
03-70-12
Dec 13, 2012
350000 EQUIPMENT
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
036812R
Dec 11, 2012
105400 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:CENTER SUPPORT BEARING
5MT Transfer Driven Gear Bearings
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.
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
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
94
Dec 1, 2002
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED 4EAT TRANSMISSION PARKING PAWL ROD. *TT
127502
Apr 1, 2002
162800 STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD
SUBJECT REGARDING EXCESSIVE TRANSPORTATION COATING UNDER THE HOOD. *JG
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
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 (current) | 1 | 109 | |
| 2001 | 0 | 169 | View |
| 2000 | 0 | 95 | View |
| 1999 | 1 | 156 | View |
| 1998 | 1 | 138 | View |