2018 SUBARU FORESTER

3 recalls, 679 complaints - 510 TSBs - 5/5 safety rating

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Defect Description

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.

Consequence

Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2021. Subaru and Toyota owners may call customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRG-21.

175,968 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.

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.

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

Defect Description

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Subaru Forester vehicles. The Certification Label may indicate the incorrect wheel size, tire size, and air pressure. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110,... Read more

Consequence

Installing incorrect tires or applying incorrect tire air pressure may increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will install a corrected label, free of charge. The recall began July 26, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WTS-78.

3,654 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.

Complaint Statistics

679 total complaints 47 crashes 2 fires 11 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
VISIBILITY/WIPER	127
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	77
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	69
AIR BAGS	57
ENGINE	56
POWER TRAIN	34
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	32
STEERING	22
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD	18
STRUCTURE:BODY	17

Incident date: Aug 28, 2026

The passenger Occupant Detection System (ODS), including the occupant detection sensor system in the passenger seat, has malfunctioned. The SRS/airbag warning light is illuminated. The vehicle produced diagnostic trouble codes B1650 and B1760. The affected passenger seat and components remain instal... Read more

Incident date: Jun 21, 2026

Airbag light came on - dealership confirmed it is an occupant detection system failure - wiring harness has gone bad. No history of moisture exposure, which would leave faulty part as the problem. Similar to Subaru recall from 2020 on heated passenger seats - this vehicle was not included in that re... Read more

Incident date: Jun 21, 2026

Incident date: Jun 8, 2026

The car suffered a long crank, then stalled completely while moving on a public road, which is a severe safety hazard.

Incident date: Jul 2, 2026

The contact owns a 2018 Honda Accord. The contact stated that while driving approximately 10 MPH, there was smoke coming from underneath the hood of the vehicle, and a fuel odor was entering the cabin of the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle immediately stopped. The contact activated the ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 17, 2026

I bought a vehicle used and it malfunctions in six days. It is a safety hazard to me the driver and other drivers on the roads. The vehicle is weighing heavy on the passenger side the car is not parallel. Also the vehicle stalls while driving. The pedal stops giving power to the car. I attempte... Read more

Incident date: Jul 17, 2026

I’m concerned about the power brakes I’ve received these faults a few times. DTC DTC System DTC Sub System C184987 CHASSIS LKAS Also there are reports online that other owners have experienced this issue with their Santa Cruz’s Some reporting dealers lack of concern. Diagnostics History ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 17, 2026

Incident date: Jul 14, 2026

The car has less than 50,000 miles on it and the transmission is malfunctioning. Something about the dual clutch system losing protection. It has lost more than 70%. I knew there was a problem when the car reported transmission temp hot.

Incident date: May 21, 2026

Backup camera stopped working and displays a blue screen stating “service backup camera.” This was an issue when the vehicle was under 3 year manufacturer bumper to bumper warranty and was fixed by dealer at no cost. Now this same issue has occurred again approximately 3-4 years later. I thought... Read more

Incident date: Apr 5, 2023

B1760 code for ODS AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON AND THE LIGHT FOR PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF is On. There is a recall open for many other Subarus, same make, model & year. Safety concern for my daughter as she rides passenger. I had the problem diagnosed and documented receipt from ACS in Roseville California... Read more

Incident date: May 28, 2026

The contact owns a 2017 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle shuddered abnormally. No warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the transmission and torque converter were previously replaced twice; however, the failure persisted. The veh... Read more

Incident date: Jul 24, 2023

**Incident / vehicle info:** - **Year / Make / Model:** 2026 / GMC / Yukon (Elevation) - **Date incident began:** ~mid-March 2026 - **Odometer / mileage:** under 1,000 - **Component:** Back Over Prevention: Rearview Camera (and/or Electrical System / Visibility) - **Crash? Fire? Injuries? Deaths?** ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2026

Was going down the highway at 72mph speed limit was 80. I felt my truck shift weird from 8th to 9th. Then once it hit 10th gear I watched it go to 1st gear then felt like it entered neutral. Shortly after it went back to 10th. Shortly after behind me it was smoking and it poured fluid from the trans... Read more

Incident date: May 8, 2026

The light appears on my dash indicating low oil level frequently between oil changes. I have to add oil to my car every 2-3 weeks. An abundant amount of white smoke comes from the exhaust pipes. I’ve been told it’s burning oil. This could ruin my engine or become catastrophic by fire. I was told... Read more

Incident date: Apr 14, 2026

The contact owns a 2026 Volvo XC60MHEV. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions under different driving conditions, the vehicle experienced phantom braking. Additionally, while driving in a narrow driveway near a brick wall on an incline, the screen became inoperable. No warning l... Read more

Incident date: Apr 14, 2026

My car would not go when i gave it gas on a major highway with mu 3 children in the back seat. We almost got into a wreck.

Incident date: Apr 1, 2024

1. My safety system/camera system is no longer working properly. The screen displays either a black/blank screen, an inverted (upside down) image, or an image that appears to be zoomed in to a very small viewing area. The alerts (beeping) does not function consistently when backing up. The horn does... Read more

Incident date: Jul 3, 2025

Brake Booster and ABS, Brake Master Cylinder went out in car without any lights or warning while driving the vehicle at a moderate speed on Freeway. I was able to avoid an accident and take the car to a repair shop in which at 119K miles and just at 10.5 yrs old the entire brake system had to be re... Read more

Incident date: Jul 3, 2025

Instrument Panel Cluster Failure. Black screen. Can’t see MPH, Gas, mileage or any engine functionality. Consistent with NHTSA safety recall. My VIN is not in the recall despite being a 2020 Jeep Wrangler that is listed in the safety recall. Stellantis won’t cover repair and Jeep dealer in Mars... Read more

Incident date: Jul 3, 2025

The head gasket has failed, leading to coolant intrusion into the number 2 cylinder. Several misfires occurred due to this. This is a known issue due to the design of the lower block, which uses a channel, thus causing a very small surface area for the head gasket between the channel and the cylinde... Read more

Incident date: Feb 18, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amoun... Read more

Incident date: Sep 1, 2025

The vehicle shifted itself into neutral and shut off while driving. It happened twice in three days. The first time I was pulling into the driveway so I was able to put it in park and restart the car safely. The second time I was in the middle of traffic in Tampa and it shifted into neutral and shut... Read more

Incident date: Sep 1, 2025

Car will randomly accelerate when not on gas pedal and/or a delay in brakes working. Has happened on more than one occasion.

Incident date: Sep 1, 2025

Car will randomly accelerate when not on gas pedal and/or a delay in brakes working. Has happened on more than one occasion.

Incident date: Apr 9, 2025

Front camera failure in 2019 honda odyssey after only 5 years. Total system failure causing multiple warning lights and loss of full adas system

Incident date: Apr 9, 2025

I am reporting a confirmed safety defect in my 2018 Ford Escape equipped with the 1.5L EcoBoost engine involving engine coolant intrusion into the cylinder bores. This appears to be a manufacturing defect associated with this engine design rather than a maintenance issue. I have exercised proper dil... Read more

Incident date: Apr 9, 2025

Front camera failure in 2019 honda odyssey after only 5 years. Total system failure causing multiple warning lights and loss of full adas system

Incident date: Feb 1, 2026

Driving home from work on a Friday about 1am and my engine started t knock and sputter and the engine light started flashing. Luckily I made it home. I let it sit for a minute and started it back up and it ran fine. I let it sit over the weekend I made an appointment the the dealership for the follo... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2025

Truck is shifting into low gear while at highway speed cause load thump or bang

Incident date: Aug 1, 2025

On 3 different occasions the car randomly accelerated at a high speed without stepping on the gas pedal. The first time was in a parking lot. The second time was on a busy road while traveling at 35 mph. The car accelerated to about 60 mph, fortunately once applying the brakes the vehicle slowed dow... Read more

Incident date: Jun 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2011 Dodge Nitro. The contact stated that the vehicle frequently experienced electrical malfunctions, and the interior lights and windshield wipers would activate spontaneously. The “TEM” warning light was illuminated, and the radio display lights unexpectedly illuminated. Add... Read more

Incident date: Jan 10, 2026

Every month I am receiving a check engine light for abs / traction control / failure. Dealer states HPU unit is bad, however I noticed all the fuses in the fuse box were loose. I pushed them in to reseat and the error cleared. This happens monthly. This last time happened during a snow storm a... Read more

Incident date: Aug 15, 2025

On 10/29/25 the car lost power once it got to 3500rpm. Multiple warning lights came on. On 11/06/2025, the Thermo Control Valve, high pressure fuel line, and gaskets for intake manifold and EGR were replaced. On 11/24/25, when backing up slowly in a small parking lot, the rear camera detection pick... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Oct 31, 2025

My 2015 BMW 320 is having a performance issue. After I diagnosed this is due to corrosion on the wastegate actuator and has failed. The bushing and part corroded and the rod is dangling. This should be covered by the extended warranty on the part as it’s a known defect failure by BMW

Incident date: Nov 1, 2025

I purchased my vehicle in October 10th of 2025. I drove the vehicle home 2hrs away on the Friday. On Sunday the 12th I started the vehicle with a error of " Park brake fault Service now" I had the car taken to the nearest Ford dealership as it sat for 3 weeks. I was told the recall for the vehicle... Read more

Incident date: Oct 1, 2024

The contact owns a 2020 BMW X3. The contact stated that the vehicle hesitated while starting. The contact then stated that while at a relative's home, the vehicle failed to start after multiple attempts, with white colored smoke coming from the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The co... Read more

Incident date: Oct 2, 2023

When my vehicle is in reverse the back up camera shuts off or shows inverted.

Incident date: Oct 2, 2023

-My 2019 Ford Edge Transmission went out it won’t shift at all and when it does it is shifting harsh the car has been not drivable for 2 month and I only got it in Jan 2025. Yes this vehicle can be inspected upon request. -There were no warnings at all it just started not shifting when I went to b... Read more

Incident date: Oct 2, 2023

235/60/R18 103H These Tires came on my new 2024 Honda CRV (OEM TIRES) and needed to be replaced at 38,000 miles. The tread wear on these 70,000 mile rated premium tire was unacceptable. I did all the recommended rotations, wheel alignments and pressure checks throughout.

Incident date: Sep 3, 2025

The ABS computer brake module is bad in my jeep. It needs a replacement. Confirmed by Chrysler Jeep dealership. However, Chrysler does not offer a replacement module. ABS does not work on my vehicle. This is a huge safety issue and is common problem among this year Jeep. Chrysler shouldn’t be ... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2024

The contact owns a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while driving approximately 5 MPH, and pressed the brakes when suddenly the second row passenger side captain seat erroneously moved forward. The [XXX] child seated in a high-back booster seat in the second row passenger seat was pus... Read more

1 injured

Incident date: Aug 1, 2024

ON SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, AT APPROXIMATELY 12PM, I WAS DRIVING SOUTH ON UNION BLVD., COLORADO SPRINGS, CO, BETWEEN ACACIA DR. AND CIRCLE DR., WHEN I HEARD A LOUD EXPLOSION COMING FROM MY ROOF. I DID NOT FEEL ANYTHING HIT MY CAR AND DID NOT SEE ANYTHING OR ANYBODY THAT COULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE LOUD S... Read more

Incident date: Oct 3, 2024

I have been having intermittent problems for well over 1 year with my vehicle not accelerating. I try to accelerate from a stop, the vehicle does not respond. I have the accelerator pedal pressed to the floor nothing happens for 10-15 seconds, then vehicle will lurch forward and start responding. Th... Read more

Incident date: Oct 3, 2024

The contact owns a Chicco Car Seat, Model Name: MYFIT, Model Type: 4-in-1 Convertible, Model Number: 04079783250070, Manufactured Date: June 2018. The contact stated that padding on the headrest detached from the back. While the contact was about to wash the padding, the contact noticed that the gl... Read more

Incident date: Aug 22, 2025

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle unintendedly started to decelerate. Additionally, while depressing the accelerator pedal, the brakes unintendedly engaged. The “Scheduled Maintenance” light was illuminated. The contact pulled over t... Read more

Incident date: Aug 22, 2025

Incident date: Feb 15, 2025

On the evening of August 27, 25, when exiting the highway ramp, the vehicle's engine suddenly stopped and stalled, the gear automatically shifted to neutral, and the hazard lights could not be turned on. After about 2 minutes, it restarted normally and turned on the hazard lights.

Incident date: Jan 1, 2025

I am leasing a 2017 Hyundai Sonata from Car City in Michigan. In May 2025, the vehicle received a brand-new engine replacement due to previous problems. I picked the car up on [XXX], and on the same day, the vehicle began malfunctioning. It would not accelerate properly, jerked and stalled, and mul... Read more

Showing 50 of 679 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2018 SUBARU FORESTER

2018 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, 2018 SUBARU FORESTER

510 manufacturer communications from 172 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
350000 EQUIPMENT	111
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	110
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	40
100000 POWER TRAIN	25
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	23
220000 SEATS	18
140000 AIR BAGS	16
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL	12

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.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin addresses rare cases of engine surg or jolting when the operator releases the accelerator from half-throttle.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin addresses rare cases of engine surg or jolting when the operator releases the accelerator from half-throttle.

061600 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)

This bulletin announces diagnostic procedures and availability of new Engine Control Module (ECM) reprogramming files to address DTC P2404 (Evap System Leak Detection Pump Sense Circuit Range/Performance) detection.

350000 EQUIPMENT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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

170000 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

This bulletin announces the initialization service procedures to be followed when diagnosing and/or repairing Power Rear Gate (PRG) systems.

162600 STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE

This bulletin announces the initialization service procedures to be followed when diagnosing and/or repairing Power Rear Gate (PRG) systems.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin announces the initialization service procedures to be followed when diagnosing and/or repairing Power Rear Gate (PRG) systems.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This Service Information Bulletin announces diagnostic service procedures to be followed when DTC P0420 (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1) is detected by the Engine Control Module (ECM).

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

350000 EQUIPMENT

063140 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

260000 FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

This Bulletin announces additional information regarding error codes 1403- 1407 encountered when attempting an adjustment/calibration of the EyeSightA? system after body repair procedures have been performed.

350000 EQUIPMENT

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.

020000 SUSPENSION

This bulletin provides a procedure to address customer concerns of surface rust accumulating in the top center retaining nut area of the front strut mounts.

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 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.

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.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Subaru Battery Drain Product Liability Litigation.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Subaru Battery Drain Product Liability Litigation.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Subaru Battery Drain Product Liability Litigation.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

As part of Subarua??s dedication to customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is announcing an extension to the Emissions Warranty for Front Exhaust Pipe Bellows cracks on certain 2017-2018MY Forester vehicles. This will extend c

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin announces Warranty Extension and design changes made to the front exhaust pipe and covers to address the concerns of some customers regarding a rattle-type noise or fluttering sound coming from the undercarriage, during accele

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Subaru Battery Drain Product Liability Litigation.

020000 SUSPENSION

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

350000 EQUIPMENT

Battery Class Action Settlement Updates.

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

Battery Class Action Settlement Updates.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Battery Class Action Settlement Updates.

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.

100000 POWER TRAIN

The bulletin announces the design change made the propeller shaft to address the small number of customer concerns regarding a growling-type sound being heard from under the vehicle when driving.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

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.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

350000 EQUIPMENT

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

350000 EQUIPMENT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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

Showing 100 of 510 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 (current)	3	679
2017	1	800	View
2016	3	619	View
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

2018 SUBARU FORESTER

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2018 SUBARU FORESTER

Safety Technology

Technical Service Bulletins, 2018 SUBARU FORESTER

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, SUBARU FORESTER

SUBARU FORESTER - All Years Overview

SUBARU FORESTER - Year by Year

Other SUBARU Models