2014 SUBARU FORESTER

2 recalls, 576 complaints - 768 TSBs - 5/5 safety rating

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH

Defect Description

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing ... Read more

Consequence

Brake lights that do not illuminate properly will not alert other drivers that the vehicle is slowing or stopping, increasing the risk of crash.

Remedy

Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake light switch, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUE-90.

1,303,530 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.

EQUIPMENT

Defect Description

Subaru is recalling certain model year 2014 Forester vehicles manufactured from January 2013 through March 2013. The backing for the carpeted floor mats was not manufactured to specification. As a result, the floor mats may curl when exposed to heat.

Consequence

Curling of the driver side floor mat could distract the driver and/or interfere with proper operation of one or a combination of, the vehicle's clutch, brake, and accelerator pedals. Brake or accelerator pedal interference may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop the veh... Read more

Remedy

Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace each of the vehicle's four (4) carpeted floor mats with new ones. These services will be performed free of charge. Subaru issued an interim notification during April 2013. Notification that the remedy is now available was mailed to owners on Jun... Read more

10,137 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.

Complaint Statistics

576 total complaints 69 crashes 5 fires 31 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
SUSPENSION	89
ENGINE	68
AIR BAGS	48
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	42
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	42
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	40
POWER TRAIN	39
SERVICE BRAKES	31
STRUCTURE:BODY	21
STEERING	19

Incident date: Jun 24, 2024

The contact owns a 2014 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while his wife was driving and stopped in traffic, the steering wheel locked up. The contact stated the steering wheel warning light illuminated and the vehicle was towed. The dealer was contacted and notified of the failure, and the f... Read more

Incident date: Mar 6, 2026

Truck started to make loud clunking noise when driving taken it to two shops and wrong parts were installed as stated below. Bought from a used car dealership and they sold it as is now with the wrong parts.

Incident date: Mar 19, 2026

Got home drone a short drive and my friend told me my truck was on fire. It happened so fast that I could not put it out.

Fire

Incident date: Nov 27, 2025

The fuel gauge and odometer digital display goes blank, when it comes back on it is showing scrambled numbers and letters. It doesn't do it all the time however it is getting more frequent.

Incident date: Nov 27, 2025

The backup camera in the dark on this vehicle is unusable. Someone will eventually run someone over. I have added brighter lights everywhere on the back of the vehicle and the camera is still useless at night. The dealer told me it looked fine to them (they checked it in a lit garage). There are hun... Read more

Incident date: Nov 27, 2025

Incident date: Nov 16, 2025

The contact owns a 2024 Kia Carnival. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, an abnormal gas odor would emit through the vehicle's ventilation system. The contact notified a local dealer, and an appointment was made to have the vehicle serviced. The vehicle was inspected, and the c... Read more

1 injured

Incident date: Nov 16, 2025

1 injured

Incident date: Nov 16, 2025

The front windshield spontaneously developed a crack about 5 inches long which later suddenly increased to about 15 inches in length. It is our understanding that this problem has occurred in the windshields of other Subaru models. The internet states that Subaru windshields have had a tendency to ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 9, 2025

My engine kept having a rough performance in idle and driving. It made rattling noises when accelerating. Took it to Nissan dealerships multiple times and was told it was SAFE TO DRIVE in that condition and it can be in regards to the current safety recall on this vehicle. They REFUSED to provide a ... Read more

Incident date: Sep 19, 2025

The contact owns a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. The vehicle was modified for wheelchair accessibility. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle started rocking abnormally. The contact stated that further down the road, the vehicle drove over imperfections in the roadway and started ro... Read more

Incident date: Jul 20, 2025

The contact owns a 2017 Toyota RAV4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V734000 (Electrical System); however, upon taking the vehicle to the dealer for the recall repair, the dealer refused to perform the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The c... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2017

The contact owns a 2022 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal there was an excessive amount of brake dust coming from the front brake pads. Additionally, there was an abnormal banging sound coming from the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle... Read more

Incident date: Aug 11, 2023

The problem I have is: There is 3 recalls for my vehicle. One is the urgent as Takata airbags installed. I called local Honda dealer on 6/27/25, they order the part and I received the email stating that part arrived. I called dealer today to schedule a replacement. When I ask how long it will take, ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 2, 2025

This 2018 GMC Sierra has 100,000 miles on it and in April 2025 the transmission went out and needed a new one. Now in July 2025 the engine has lifter failure leading to the need of a new engine.

Incident date: Jan 7, 2025

Driving 70 on the interstate without any cars in front or side of me and car auto hard braked down to 60 and red emergency brake light was on. An 18 wheeler was behind me. Luckily no injuries or accidents happened.

Incident date: Apr 22, 2025

Driving at highway speeds and my truck began to shake violently and very loud banging sound. Slowed down to pull over on the highway. Found driveshaft broken in half with gas dumping out of the fuel tank. Broken driveshaft damaged heat shield for gas tank, punctured gas tank and dented/broke clips o... Read more

Incident date: Mar 20, 2025

Water pump

Incident date: Mar 20, 2025

Water pump

Incident date: Mar 20, 2025

Car started making a “pinging” noise and gradually got worse over time. Finally today, it’s really bad so I crawl under and look to notice not one but TWO holes in the exhaust pipe. I noticed several recalls on other models with the same issue but not this year.

Incident date: Feb 6, 2025

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Veloster. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact depressed the brake pedal and the vehicle started to shake. The contact stated that after shifting into gear the vehicle became... Read more

Incident date: Feb 1, 2024

The vehicle is leaking oil from in between the engine and transmission I am some bit mechanical and im sure its the rear Maine seal leaking yes the vehicle is available for inspection im taking it to H&H chevrolet [XXX] for a inspection I talked to Christian brothers repair and I told them what it w... Read more

Incident date: Oct 17, 2024

It's clear that my abs module is bad but it consists of three components. Mopar online doesn't have any components available to fix the problem. And the Dealer is selling the components separately and telling you which one they will sell you first and also at a higher price than what's available to ... Read more

Incident date: Oct 1, 2024

I was driving and my car began to lose power and Drivetrain Malfunction appeared on the screen. I had to pull over to a side street and turn the car off. I turned it back on but it was very sluggish and moved very slow. Once I parked it I turned it off and tried to start it back up but it wouldn’t... Read more

Incident date: Sep 27, 2024

I have a 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and the front seat headrest popped out while I was driving at 35 miles per hour. My daughter was sitting there, and fortunately, no injuries occurred. This happened on the passenger side, but six months ago, it happened on the driver’s side as well, which I repla... Read more

Incident date: Aug 19, 2024

The contact owns a 2023 Mercedes Benz C300 equipped with Pirelli Tires, Tire Line: P Zero, Tire Size: 255/35/VR19, DOT Number: [XXX] . The contact stated while driving at undisclosed speeds, there was an unknown bumping sound heard. The contact pulled over and noticed that the passenger's side front... Read more

Incident date: Aug 23, 2024

The contact owns a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission failed to shift as intended. The contact stated that the transmission jolted. Additionally, the transmission was hard shifting. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechani... Read more

Incident date: Aug 23, 2024

The contact owns a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the steering wheel seized and was unable to be turned. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle; however, the steering failure message was displayed, and the power steering function was not available. The veh... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2024

Paint is peeling between roof and body pillars. It is a 2019 built in 11/2018. Also clear coat and paint flaking off drivers door.

Incident date: May 18, 2024

I was preparing to turn around a curve when my steering wheel locked straight, causing my vehicle to collide with a concrete barrier. My vehicle was the only one involved, and collided with the barrier twice. This has led to several thousands in mechanical and body damages.

Crash

Incident date: Jun 21, 2024

My oil cooler has failed and it caused oil to mix with my coolant and also causing a bad coolant leak. It over heats to car and my warranty will not cover ANYTHING! This is a major problem with diesel jeeps and the oil cooler needs to be recalled also. It can catch on fire and is a real safety hazar... Read more

Incident date: Jun 21, 2024

The car loose power while driving, near stop it pulls hard as it wants to turn off. Have show multiple times the fuel system error and shut off while operating. Is been doing the same problems for years now.

Incident date: Jun 21, 2024

Incident date: Jun 12, 2024

The contact owns a 2018 Honda Accord. The contact stated while driving at approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle hesitated while accelerating. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the contact was informed that a diagnostic test was needed to confirm that... Read more

Incident date: Jun 7, 2024

I have made a prior complaint about the same issue when I had the truck for only a day and 111 miles on it that the entire truck lost power as I was making a left hand turn. It has again happened that the entire truck lost power as I was driving. I now have 15,039 miles on it. I was driving stop ... Read more

Incident date: Jun 7, 2024

The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that the second-row seat belts were being frayed while retracted by the belt latch. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the fraying of the belt webbing was slight but over time had become more notice... Read more

Incident date: Dec 31, 2023

The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that the vehicle would not immediately start. After finally starting the vehicle the check engine light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the engine gasket was faulty causing oil to leak from ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 29, 2024

The vehicle has started displaying an error message when parking stating to secure the vehicle against rolling. This is due to a very common issue with a spring in the shifter needing to be replaced. Based on what I have read, the spring issue is occurring in almost all 2016 and 2017 bmw x1's. This ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2024

The transmission began slipping causing poor control at higher speeds using the cruise control or passing gear. Only about 42,000 miles on the vehicle and no financial help from Ford. Service for a new transmission was $7667.11at Dave Sinclair Ford, 7466 South Lindbergh, St. Louis Missouri, 63125. 3... Read more

Incident date: Feb 3, 2020

The blind spot warning system stopped working, and yes it is available for inspection upon request. I have heard this leads to further electrical problems and am worried this may compromise my safety if not dealt with. The problem has not been confirmed by a dealer. The component has not been ins... Read more

Incident date: Feb 3, 2020

Incident date: Feb 20, 2024

The contact owns a 2018 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to accelerate, the transmission failed to shift above third gear and instead downshifted into first gear. After the failure, the vehicle lost motive power and was unable to accelerate abo... Read more

Incident date: Dec 30, 2023

Driving to the store and l smell smoke. Pull up to Walmart entrance because l seen a fireman going in. So, l got out to ask him to come help me l smell smoke by time l got back to the car fire started. He was able to put it out but my vent in my second row is burn, side my driver seat a burn a litt... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Dec 30, 2023

Vehicle lighting is downright not safe at night. It's somewhat bright but the beam shape is the real issue. While turning the beam dips 'below' where you are cornering, so cannot see ANYTHING through the turn. Extremely dangerous. Adjusting the headlight up slightly helps, but only after it's adju... Read more

Incident date: Aug 18, 2022

Pearl White Paint is peeling off the car in multiple locations. Several areas are beginning to rust and damage the body The problem is well known online through multiple Kia/Sorrento Owners. We've taken the vehicle to several car painting companies who confirmed the defect. The problem began about ... Read more

Incident date: Oct 10, 2023

i own a 2011 chevy impala 4 door that has a very serious engine issue. I was on my way home and suddenly the service stability trac, and check engine light came on, then the message center displayed reduced engine power and low oil pressure then the engine shut off. I tried to restart the vehicle an... Read more

Incident date: Oct 10, 2023

Incident date: Nov 1, 2023

ADAS sporadically works. It constantly turns off and on. Have taken it to dealer, codes are cleared, camera is cleaned, and am told that should fix the problem. Within 5 blocks of leaving dealership, the problem comes back. The next solution according to them is replace the camera for $1800. This... Read more

Incident date: Sep 20, 2023

The contact owns a 2018 Mazda Mazda3. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle returned to normal functionality. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who was unable... Read more

Incident date: Aug 20, 2023

Accord LX dash says vehicle requires a software update. Car was taken to dealer. Dealer says they hooked car to a computer and says there is no software update available. Dash continues to say vehicle requires software update.

Showing 50 of 576 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2014 SUBARU FORESTER

2014 Subaru Forester SUV AWD

Category	Rating
Overall Rating	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash, Passenger	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Side Crash	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Passenger	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Rollover	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Rollover Risk	16.9%

Safety Technology

Feature	Status
Electronic Stability Control	Standard
Forward Collision Warning	Optional
Lane Departure Warning	Optional

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings Program. Ratings are based on crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2014 SUBARU FORESTER

768 manufacturer communications from 355 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
350000 EQUIPMENT	148
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	71
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	63
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	51
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL	46
100000 POWER TRAIN	34
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	22
160000 STRUCTURE	18

143100 AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION

Due to limited part supply, the availability of the passenger front seat cushion may not satisfy demand. To reduce extended downtime for the customer, this bulletin announces the diagnostic and repair procedures to be used when DTC B1760 (O

220000 SEATS

140000 AIR BAGS

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin announces a design change to the CVT select lever (shifter) mechanism in response to isolated customer concerns of not being able to remove the key from the ignition switch when the vehicle is in Park.

100000 POWER TRAIN

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.

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.

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.

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.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The purpose of this Bulletin is to provide procedures for the diagnosis and repair of oil seepage which may be coming from the timing chain cover, front camshaft cap, camshaft carrier and / or upper oil pan.

140000 AIR BAGS

Takata Front Passenger Airbag Module / Inflator a??Like for Likea?? Recall

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This Service Information Bulletin provides an updated diagnostic flow along with an IMPORTANT caution to follow for certain CVT solenoid related DTCs as listed.

100000 POWER TRAIN

This Service Information Bulletin provides an updated diagnostic flow along with an IMPORTANT caution to follow for certain CVT solenoid related DTCs as listed.

020000 SUSPENSION

This bulletin announces a design change made to the front stabilizer bushings.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin provides updated parts information and a service procedure to follow for removing accumulated carbon deposits from fuel injectors and internal engine components.

350000 EQUIPMENT

The purpose of this bulletin is to provide a description of current changes to Service Manuals.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin provides updated parts information and a service procedure to follow for removing accumulated carbon deposits from fuel injectors and internal engine components (e.g. intake valves and / or manifold, and combustion chambers).

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Special Edition, 2012 current model subaru evaporative diagnostics and smoke testing.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

This bulletin announces a design change made to the front stabilizer bushings.

020000 SUSPENSION

This bulletin announces a design change made to the front stabilizer bushings.

220000 SEATS

This bulletin announces a design change made to the Slide Rail components of the left and right front power seat frame / track assembliesd.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin announces a design change to the CVT select lever mechanism in response to isolated customer concerns of not being able to remove the key from the ignition switch when the vehicle is in Park.

100000 POWER TRAIN

150000 SEAT BELTS

This bulletin provides a procedure to address customer concerns of a squeaking sound originating from where the front seat belt buckle assembly attaches to the seat frame.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin announces the Service Manual correction for the diagnostic trouble tree for DTC C2521 and/or DTC 21.

350000 EQUIPMENT

The purpose of this bulletin is to provide a description of current changes to Service Manuals available via the Subaru Technical Information System (STIS) web site.

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).

061571 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION:SUMP/TANK:DRAIN PLUG

This Bulletin announces design changes to the engine oil and CVT fluid drain plugs.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This Bulletin announces design changes to the engine oil and CVT fluid drain plugs.

020000 SUSPENSION

This bulletin announces a design change made to the front stabilizer bushings.

100000 POWER TRAIN

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin has been developed in response to a small number of customer concerns regarding fluid seepage found coming from the CVT assembly.

100000 POWER TRAIN

This bulletin has been developed in response to a small number of customer concerns regarding fluid seepage found coming from the CVT assembly.

100000 POWER TRAIN

050000 PARKING BRAKE

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin provides a new flow chart and additional diagnostic tools to assist technicians with troubleshooting DTC P0841- SECONDARY OIL PRESSURE SENSOR PERFORMANCE.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin provides a new flow chart and additional diagnostic tools to assist technicians with troubleshooting DTC P0841- SECONDARY OIL PRESSURE SENSOR PERFORMANCE.

350000 EQUIPMENT

(Subaru Retailers) As part of Subarua??s dedication to customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is announcing an extension to the Basic New Car Limited Warranty for the CVT Parking Switch for certain 2015-2018 MY Legacy, Outback

100000 POWER TRAIN

050000 PARKING BRAKE

350000 EQUIPMENT

(Owner Letter) As part of Subaru of Americaa??s dedication to customer satisfaction, this letter is to inform you of an extension to the Basic New Car Limited Warranty for your vehiclea??s CVT Parking Brake Switch.

100000 POWER TRAIN

050000 PARKING BRAKE

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin announces an additional service procedure for timing chain and / or cam sprocket replacement on FA and FB type engines.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin announces an additional service procedure for timing chain and / or cam sprocket replacement on FA and FB type engines.

200000 WHEELS

This bulletin announces a change made to the wheel lug nuts.

350000 EQUIPMENT

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

081100 FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin provides a description of current changes to Service Manuals available via the Subaru Technical Information System (STIS) web site.

220000 SEATS

This bulletin provides a procedure to address customer concerns of a squeaking sound originating from where the front seat belt buckle assembly attaches to the seat frame.

150000 SEAT BELTS

This bulletin provides a procedure to address customer concerns of a squeaking sound originating from where the front seat belt buckle assembly attaches to the seat frame.

010000 STEERING

As part of Subarua??s dedication to customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is announcingan extension to the Basic New Car Limited Warranty for the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) GearBox Assembly for certain 2012-2018 MY vehic

350000 EQUIPMENT

As part of Subarua??s dedication to customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is announcing an extension to the Basic New Car Limited Warranty for the Electronic Power Steering Gear Box Assembly for certain 2012-2018 MY vehicles.

010000 STEERING

As part of Subarua??s dedication to customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is announcing an extension to the Basic New Car Limited Warranty for the Electronic Power Steering Gear Box Assembly for certain 2012-2018 MY vehicles.

010000 STEERING

As part of Subaru of Americaa??s dedication to customer satisfaction, this letter is to inform you of an extension to the Basic New Car Limited Warranty for your vehiclea??s Electronic Power Steering Gear Box Assembly.

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

100000 POWER TRAIN

This bulletin provides corrected diagnostics containing a revised flow for certain CVT solenoid related DTCs.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin is to advise of SOAa??s revised catalytic converter recycling program shipping procedure.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin is to advise of SOAa??s revised catalytic converter recycling program shipping procedure.

170000 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

This bulletin outlines changes in the service procedure for replacement of the Power Rear Gate control module.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin outlines changes in the service procedure for replacement of the Power Rear Gate control module.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin outlines changes in the service procedure for engine oil pressure inspection.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin provides updated parts information and a service procedure to follow for removing accumulated carbon deposits from fuel injectors and internal engine components.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Description of current changes to Service Manuals available via the Subaru Technical Information System (STIS) web site.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

As part of our dedication to customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. is initiating a program to extend the original New Car Powertrain Limited Warranty coverage for excessive engine oil consumption on applicable vehicles to 8 years /

020000 SUSPENSION

This bulletin announces a design change made to the forward bushing used in the front lower control arm to address customer concerns of a rattle-type sound and / or a possible vibration felt in the steering wheel.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

This bulletin announces availability of new front wheel hub assemblies incorporating bearing surfaces having increased resistance to imperfections resulting from shock loads.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin announces availability of new front wheel hub assemblies incorporating bearing surfaces having increased resistance to imperfections resulting from shock loads.

204000 WHEELS:HUB

This bulletin announces availability of new front wheel hub assemblies incorporating bearing surfaces having increased resistance to imperfections resulting from shock loads.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

100000 POWER TRAIN

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin announces availability of reprogramming files to optimize the Engine Control Module (ECM).

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin announces availability of reprogramming files to optimize the Engine Control Module (ECM).

100000 POWER TRAIN

In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is extending the New Car Limited Powertrain Warranty coverage for the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) on the above listed models and model years from the ori

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.

160000 STRUCTURE

This bulletin provides a procedure for replacement of the black foam rubber insulating cushions for the roof spoiler.

138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

This bulletin provides a service procedure to address customer concerns of a rattling-type sound\ coming from the defroster vent grille area of the instrument panel (IP) near the base of the windshield.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin provides a procedure for diagnosis and repair of DTC P0300 which may result from fluctuation of the alternator's current output outside of the specified limits.

030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

This Service Information bulletin announces availability of a new front brake pad shim kit to specifically address customer concerns of a squeaking or squealing sound on the models listed above.

220000 SEATS

This bulletin announces a design change made to the front seat hinge bolts.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin announces a design change made to the front seat hinge bolts.

100000 POWER TRAIN

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The purpose of this bulletin is to provide procedures for the diagnosis and repair of oil seepage which may be coming from the timing chain cover, front camshaft cap, camshaft carrier, and/or upper oil pan.

350000 EQUIPMENT

The purpose of this bulletin is to provide a description of current changes to Service Manuals available via the Subaru Technical Information System (STIS) web site.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

The purpose of this bulletin is to provide a description of current changes to Service Manuals available via the Subaru Technical Information System (STIS) web site.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing.

220000 SEATS

This bulletin provides a procedure to address customer concerns of a squeaking sound originating from where the front seat belt buckle assembly attaches to the seat frame.

Showing 100 of 768 bulletins.

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.

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... les use a capacitive type ODS, which is intended to classify the occupant of the passenger seat as either full-sized, small stature, a child seat or other object. The complaints reported the ODS failed to operate properly, the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) warning light illuminated, and/or the ODS incorrectly suppressed (turned off) the front passenger air bag when the seat was occupied by a full-sized passenger. In a frontal crash that is sufficient to warrant deployment, a suppressed air bag may increase the risk of injury to the occupant of the seat.On August 14, 2019 ODI sent an Information Request (IR) to Subaru requesting information on the subject vehicles and MY 2014-2015 Subaru Forester vehicles.On October 3, 2019, Subaru submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR) to NHTSA describing a safety defect in the passenger-side front airbag Occupant Detection System (ODS) harness of 366,282 MY 2015-2018 Subaru Forester vehicles equipped with seat heaters.The DIR stated that over time, due to a decrease in contact pressure between the terminals in the ODS sensor mat harness, a temporarily unstable electrical connection may be possible. If the connection is temporarily unstable, the ODS may not properly determine the status of the right front seat occupant. If the ODS is unable to correctly determine the status of the front occupant, the airbag warning light may illuminate, and the front passenger airbag may deactivate even though the seat is occupied, increasing the risk of injury to the front passenger in the event of a crash.Using vehicle production data and field occurrence frequency, Subaru determined the potentially affected vehicle production range to be between January 20, 2015 ?and August 1, 2017.In addition, Subaru indicated that over 99 percent of the related MY 2015-2018 field reports with vehicles in the production range involved vehicles with seat heaters.NHTSA's analysis of complaint and warranty claim data showed 1,440 of the complaints and 11,672 of the claims involve vehicles with seat heaters that were built within the production range covered by Subaru's recall.In addition, NHTSA's analysis showed a complaint rate of 393.1 per hundred thousand vehicles for the recalled population and 89.0 for MY 2014 through 2018 vehicles that are not included in the recall. Analysis of warranty claim data found a claim rate of 3.2 percent for the recalled population and 0.3 percent for MY 2014 through 2018 vehicles that are not included in the recall.Subaru will instruct owners with Subaru Forester vehicles produced in the affected vehicle production range, to bring their vehicles to a dealer to have the sensor mat harness, inspected and replaced with a new part, including the seat cushion assembly, if necessary.Based on ODI's analysis, the actions taken by Subaru mitigate any unreasonable risk to safety posed by ODS sensor mat failures in the subject vehicles. For subject and peer vehicles outside the recall population and those equipped without seat heaters, ODI's analysis indicates that there is currently no safety-related defect trend. Given these circumstances, further use of the agency resources in this matter does not appear to be warranted. Accordingly, this investigation is closed.Read more

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 (current)	2	576
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	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

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

2014 SUBARU FORESTER

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2014 SUBARU FORESTER

Safety Technology

Technical Service Bulletins, 2014 SUBARU FORESTER

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, SUBARU FORESTER

SUBARU FORESTER - All Years Overview

SUBARU FORESTER - Year by Year

Other SUBARU Models