2016 SUBARU FORESTER

3 recalls, 619 complaints - 600 TSBs - 5/5 safety rating

AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION

Defect Description

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Forester vehicles equipped with heated seats. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may loosen.

Consequence

If the connection loosens, 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.

Remedy

Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, replace the ODS sensor mat harness, free of charge. The recall began February 11, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUM-98.

366,282 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.

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.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER

Defect Description

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 WRX vehicles manufactured April 10, 2015, to October 21, 2015, and Forester 2.0XT vehicles manufactured April 10, 2015, to October 20, 2015. The turbocharger air intake duct may crack and possibly result in an engine stall.

Consequence

An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the turbocharger air intake duct, and replace it as necessary, free of charge, depending on the lot number found on the duct. The recall began April 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this rec... Read more

18,187 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.

Complaint Statistics

619 total complaints 67 crashes 5 fires 38 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	80
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	71
AIR BAGS	68
ENGINE	67
POWER TRAIN	63
SERVICE BRAKES	33
STEERING	30
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	29
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	28
VISIBILITY/WIPER	19

Incident date: Jul 20, 2026

Vehicle reported an SRS Passenger problem intermittently, as displayed on the dashboard, the car's information system, and a diagnostic trouble code (the car's aftermarket radio is connected to the OBD-II connector and can pull codes). The problem would appear, and then disappear upon subsequent st... Read more

Incident date: Jul 20, 2026

Incident date: Aug 5, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving 65 MPH, there was an abnormally loud sound coming from the rear wheels of the vehicle. No warning light was illuminated. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined tha... Read more

Incident date: Jul 15, 2025

The Subaru's Starlink Radio has completely delaminated on the layer between the display and the digitizer, which does not allow the radio to be controlled in any way, shape, or form. This means that the touch screen is not working anymore, and because the radio is so delaminated, whenever the car is... Read more

Incident date: Jul 25, 2026

We were driving from [XXX], to [XXX], on XXX. That morning we'd taken the Honda Pilot in to Xpresso Lube and got an oil change and all fluids checked out. Eight hours into the drive we heard a little clanking and started to pull off the freeway. As we did so, a Low Oil Pressure light came on for a f... Read more

Incident date: Jul 25, 2026

I am reporting a serious safety concern with my 2024 Jeep Wagoneer. For approximately six months, I have repeatedly taken the vehicle to an authorized Viva Jeep dealership in [XXX], because of transmission and acceleration concerns. The dealership has attempted to diagnose the issue, including keepi... Read more

Incident date: Jul 25, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle came to a complete stop without warning. The contact stated that the failure had occurred twice. During the first failure, the vehicle was towed to the dealer and a lifter ins... Read more

Incident date: Jul 15, 2026

The “maintenance required” warning light came on. The Lexus dealer indicated that a tire rotation was required at a cost of approximately $100. We had the tires rotated at a tire store at a cost of zero ($.00). The Lexus dealer service department refused to turn off the “maintenance req... Read more

Incident date: Jul 26, 2026

The high voltage battery will no longer charge neither from being plugged in to the charger on the wall nor from the buikt in system onboard the car. There are warning lights saying the inverter coolant is low but the reservoir is at the proper level. I suspect the coolant for the Hybrid charging ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 26, 2026

Incident date: Jan 1, 2020

Bought this car, drove it home and realized when i drove slow, or stopped and turned wheel it made a clink/creeking noise. Took it to Honda where i bought it, they said it was the "power steering rack" which is known to have issues. told me it wasnt a safety issue and was safe to drive, they cannot ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2020

I am submitting this complaint regarding a possible airbag/SRS system failure involving a Hyundai vehicle. On May 26, 2026, the vehicle was involved in a severe front-end collision resulting in major structural damage to the front end, including the hood, bumper reinforcement, radiator support, and ... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Feb 10, 2026

1) The newly installed rack & pinion rack locks up and tried to turn right when on a continuous or left turn followed closely by another left turn. 2) My safety and the other drivers near me were all in danger when the loss of steering control occurs. The problem makes the vehicle want to turn hard... Read more

Incident date: Dec 1, 2023

—The floor harness has failed due to poor design & location of the harness as it creates a trap for moisture. —Yes, this component is available for inspection upon request. —The safety of myself was in moderate jeopardy due to the air struts malfunctioning. —Yes, the problem has been r... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2026

When accelerating from a stop position while pushing on the accelerator the vehicle will not move. Takes a couple seconds. Almost struck by oncoming car when attempting to turn left onto Main road. Happens frequently. Next: left sliding passenger door doesn’t close all the way then opens back up.... Read more

Incident date: Dec 1, 2023

Steering is sticky at highway speeds, steering wheel will not move without force that can cause lane departure. This is dangerous when attempting to follow the curve of the road. Component: steering rack. Inspection availability: yes. Safety: jerky steering and lane departure Reproduced: no, though ... Read more

Incident date: Dec 1, 2023

Incident date: Nov 1, 2025

My 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X experienced an engine failure requiring full replacement under warranty. The vehicle was out of service for approximately 46 days. After replacement, the vehicle experienced additional electrical issues and unsafe operating conditions. The replacement engine has now fa... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2023

I was turning into a parking space in my 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid Touring, in a plaza area. As I depressed the brake, I felt some pressure, but then all of a sudden it went straight to the ground, which caused my car to go over a landscape median, and hit the tree in the middle of it, causing my car ... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: May 1, 2023

RE: Failed Radar Braking on a 2024 Hyundai Palisade What component or system failed or malfunctioned .. . . On Feb 8th, 2026 I was driving in to Lakeland FL on I-75 N, in the right hand lane, near a green stoplight following a car 2 lengths ahead. The radar cruise control was slowing me down, kee... Read more

Crash 3 injured

Incident date: Mar 11, 2026

Astro white exterior paint is chipping on the roof of the vehicle in multiple locations. See pictures attached of sever chipping above windshield and wear the roof meets. Also chipping occurring above both rear doors on roof. This was not due to an accident or normal wear and tear.

Incident date: Mar 11, 2026

Vehicles coolant emptied out causing vehicle to overheat and smoke from under engine.

Incident date: Mar 11, 2026

Vehicles coolant emptied out causing vehicle to overheat and smoke from under engine.

Incident date: Nov 15, 2023

Car was jerking when acceleration. Dealer inspected the vehicle and said the head gasket is blown. It overheated a day after Honda dealership fixed my water pump.

Incident date: Nov 15, 2023

I was driving and without any type of warning the car stopped shifting so I was barely touching the gas but my tac was all the way up.

Incident date: Jan 19, 2026

Contacted local Dodge dealer for repair of the below known part issue. They stated they are only receiving 1 unit/week to be able to replace and the repair could be weeks out. I use my truck for towing frequently and am not comfortable doing so with the upcoming recall known. Manufacturer Recall N... Read more

Incident date: Oct 1, 2025

While driving out of my neighborhood at a low speed, the vehicle’s brakes suddenly stopped responding. I pressed the brake pedal multiple times, but it felt soft and failed to slow or stop the car as expected. I had to rely on the parking brake to bring the vehicle to a stop safely. Fortunately, t... Read more

Incident date: Jun 7, 2025

Summary: While driving, the transmission intermittently fails to shift and the truck has locked up and screeched to a complete halt approximately four times, creating a sudden stop/near rear‑end‑collision risk. Details & timeline: First symptoms were around 55,010 miles. On 10/13/2024 the Chevr... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2013 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while attempting to turn to the right, the steering wheel seized. The contact used excessive force to maneuver the vehicle. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired and remained at the residence. The... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2025

When attempting to stop, the brakes were rock hard and would barley compress. Almost crashed into the car in front of me. Brake booster was replaced a month ago by dealer, but still is losing vacuum. No codes are being thrown, so any reasonable driver would assume everything is fine with the vehicle... Read more

Incident date: Jun 23, 2025

I am writing to file a complaint regarding my 2014 Ford Focus, which is experiencing transmission failures related to the known defective transmission system. Ford acknowledged widespread issues with this transmission in Customer Satisfaction Program 14M02, which extended coverage for the Transmiss... Read more

Incident date: Sep 1, 2025

Automatic Transmission failure

Incident date: Sep 1, 2025

I own a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe High Country (VIN: [XXX] ). My vehicle is subject to Recall #N252494000 (NHTSA #25V274) concerning the L87 engine and potential loss of propulsion. On [XXX], I received a “Low Oil” warning for the second time within a few months. This recurring issue matches the reca... Read more

Incident date: Sep 1, 2025

Automatic Transmission failure

Incident date: Jan 1, 2023

Coolant intrusion into the cylinder head. This caused a sudden halt of he vehicle which could have caused an accident and loss of life. The engine coolant overheating temperature warning light came on. Vehicle was inspected by ford dealership and found to have blown head gasket. The car is vat for i... Read more

Incident date: Aug 11, 2025

The steering wheel while taking a right turn locked and wouldn't straighten all lights turned off on the panel all was locked and caused a crash because steering was locked into a turn

Crash

Incident date: Aug 11, 2025

The steering wheel while taking a right turn locked and wouldn't straighten all lights turned off on the panel all was locked and caused a crash because steering was locked into a turn

Crash

Incident date: Aug 3, 2025

The truck has had the HCU not working for at least two years, with no success at repair due to part unavailable. Truck has low miles due to the brakes being a safety concern. Reached out to RAM customer care several times with the response being parts unavailable. January of 2025 a case number was i... Read more

Incident date: Aug 3, 2025

The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the rear-end of the vehicle was making an abnormally loud sound. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was determined that the rear-end had failed and needed to be replaced. The dealer w... Read more

Incident date: Aug 3, 2025

While getting gas the car was running and I got a warning that said engine stopped power steering low. I started the car and everything was fine and was able to drive with no issues and haven't seen the warning. I know sometimes dealerships have reminders for maintenance and not sure if this was jus... Read more

Incident date: May 5, 2023

Incident date: Feb 1, 2025

7/24/25 Ford Dealer replaced airbag recall, however, the caution light still lights up, like there is still a problem. to do a diagnostic why , they will not cover the cost. Is it possible that the new Airbag still has a problem and should they cover the cost of diagnostic problem

Incident date: May 5, 2023

Incident date: Feb 1, 2025

MMI system is failing, parking assist is malfunctioning, back up camera doesn’t activate, CarPlay turns off mid drive and reboots, navigation not working, car wants to brake at highway speeds as computer system malfunctions, Bluetooth phone connection drops mid call, overall the computer infotainm... Read more

Incident date: Feb 1, 2025

Incident date: May 1, 2025

Transmission flutters a little before changing from 1st to 2nd gear. In 4th and 5th gear the transmission pauses a few seconds before going into the next gear. From 8th gear to the ninth gear, the transmission jerks really hard. The transmission only has 72000 miles on it. And also the dash board ma... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2025

In June of this year, with about 82,000 miles I began to experience a clunk felt through the vehicle while slowing down from @35 mph upon the downshift. The clunk was more noticeable under braking, i.e. approaching a stop light. This went on for a few days growing more frequent and noticeable. On... Read more

Incident date: Jun 18, 2025

On June 5, 2025, while driving eastbound on Interstate 20 in Louisiana between Ruston and Monroe, the awning unexpectedly deployed while the RV was in motion. This sudden deployment posed a significant threat to myself, my passengers, and other motorists. Fortunately, no collision occurred, but the ... Read more

Incident date: Jun 10, 2025

The engine maintenance required message appeared on the dash. I was travel from work to home (about 40 miles). I pulled over immediately at a store, left my car and walked over a mile to the mechanic shop down the road (in 95° weather with a knee that has been through 3 surgeries in less than 5 yea... Read more

Showing 50 of 619 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2016 SUBARU FORESTER

2016 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, 2016 SUBARU FORESTER

600 manufacturer communications from 211 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
350000 EQUIPMENT	113
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	106
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	37
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	26
100000 POWER TRAIN	22
353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)	21
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL	20
220000 SEATS	20

350000 EQUIPMENT

T16 Warranty Extension (15-317-24R) Frequently Asked Questions.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

T16 Warranty Extension (15-317-24R) Frequently Asked Questions.

350000 EQUIPMENT

In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is extending the Data Communication Module (DCM) Warranty from 3 years (36 months) of 36,000 miles to 8 years (96 months) or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin announces repair procedures to be used when diagnosing dark current draw (parasitic draw) on vehicles equipped with Gen 1 Data Control Modules.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin announces repair procedures to be used when diagnosing dark current draw (parasitic draw) on vehicles equipped with Gen 1 Data Control Modules.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin provides a repair procedure when diagnosing dark current draw on vehicles with GEN 1 Data Control Modules.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin provides a repair procedure when diagnosing dark current draw on vehicles with GEN 1 Data Control Modules.

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

350000 EQUIPMENT

Subaru has extended the Data Communication Module (DCM) warranty from 3 years 36,000mi to 8 years or 100,000mi. In rare cases, customers may experience a dead battery as a result of the DCM continually trying to access the 3G network.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

350000 EQUIPMENT

This letter provides information regarding the warranty extension for the Telematics Data Communications Module (DCM).

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This letter provides information regarding the warranty extension for the Telematics Data Communications Module (DCM).

350000 EQUIPMENT

This announcement provides information in regard to the extension of the basic new car limited warranty for the Telematics Data Communication Module (DCM). This coverage will apply to the vehicles listed for vehicles sold or leased in the U

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

350000 EQUIPMENT

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is extending the Data Communication Module (DCM) warranty from three years (36 months or 36K miles) to eight years (96 months or 100K miles), whichever comes first. This extension is in light of the rare cas

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin provides procedures required for reprogramming the Data Communication Module (DCM) in Gen 1 Subaru vehicles due to sunsetting of the 3G network.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin provides procedures required for reprogramming the Data Communication Module (DCM) in Gen 1 Subaru vehicles due to sunsetting of the 3G network.

350000 EQUIPMENT

In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. is extending the New Car Basic Warranty coverage for the 12 Volt batteries used in the above listed models and model years beyond the original three (3) years or thirty six t

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.

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

353610 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT:SOFTWARE

This Bulletin provides reference tables and photos to use for determining the infotainment head unit supplier and generation.

353600 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT

This Bulletin provides reference tables and photos to use for determining the infotainment head unit supplier and generation.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This Bulletin provides reference tables and photos to use for determining the infotainment head unit supplier and generation.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This Bulletin provides reference tables and photos to use for determining the infotainment head unit supplier and generation.

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.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin announces repair procedures to be used when diagnosing dark current draw (parasitic draw) on vehicles equipped with Gen 1 Data Control Modules.

353600 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT

This Bulletin provides reference tables and photos to use for determining the infotainment head unit supplier and generation.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This Bulletin provides reference tables and photos to use for determining the infotainment head unit supplier and generation.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This Bulletin provides reference tables and photos to use for determining the infotainment head unit supplier and generation.

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.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Subaru Battery Drain Product Liability Litigation.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Subaru Battery Drain Product Liability Litigation.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Subaru Battery Drain Product Liability Litigation.

350000 EQUIPMENT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Subaru Battery Drain Product Liability Litigation.

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.

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

Battery Class Action Settlement Resources. (2)

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Battery Class Action Settlement Resources. (2)

350000 EQUIPMENT

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

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin announces a warranty extension information regarding 12 Volt vehicle batteries.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin announces a warranty extension information regarding 12 Volt vehicle batteries.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Battery Drain Class Action Settlement- Warranty Extension Training.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Battery Drain Class Action Settlement- Warranty Extension Training.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Announcement to Subaru Retailers regarding the preliminary settlement in a class action lawsuit regarding battery drain in certain Subaru vehicles.

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).

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin announces a warranty extension information regarding 12 Volt vehicle batteries.

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.

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This Bulletin announces the preferred practices to be used when handling vehicles equipped with Gen2 Telematics which are enrolled in the Subaru STARLINKA? Security Plus Service featuring Stolen Vehicle Recovery Plus with Immobilizer.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

350000 EQUIPMENT

346000 COMMUNICATION:MANUFACTURER TELEMATICS

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).

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Going forward when a customera??s vehicle is equipped with a DCM that does not have Software version ID DCM_06.00.17_20190816 installed and they wish to subscribe to Starlink Telematics Service, the DCM must be replaced.

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

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

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

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.

100000 POWER TRAIN

(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

350000 EQUIPMENT

050000 PARKING BRAKE

(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.

350000 EQUIPMENT

050000 PARKING BRAKE

100000 POWER TRAIN

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.

350000 EQUIPMENT

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.

Showing 100 of 600 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).

116 Total Recalls

8,731 Total Complaints

2 Investigations

801 Reported Crashes

139 Reported Fires

9 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	3	28	View
2025	3	127	View
2024	2	41	View
2023	1	110	View
2022	1	142	View
2021	0	285	View
2020	0	812	View
2019	3	1,088	View
2018	3	679	View
2017	1	800	View
2016 (current)	3	619
2015	3	897	View
2014	2	576	View
2013	12	94	View
2012	15	140	View
2011	16	195	View
2010	17	307	View
2009	18	228	View
2008	1	67	View
2007	1	89	View
2006	2	121	View
2005	1	105	View
2004	2	270	View
2003	3	238	View
2002	1	109	View
2001	0	169	View
2000	0	95	View
1999	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

2016 SUBARU FORESTER

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2016 SUBARU FORESTER

Safety Technology

Technical Service Bulletins, 2016 SUBARU FORESTER

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, SUBARU FORESTER

SUBARU FORESTER - All Years Overview

SUBARU FORESTER - Year by Year

Other SUBARU Models