Avoid: 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2008 · Best recent: 2023
24 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 29 model years, the Subaru Forester has 6,569 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 116 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are visibility/wiper and engine. 2019 drew the most complaints (833), 2008 the fewest of the years on the road 3+ years (50).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Subaru Forester vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $15,000–$24,194.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 31 |
| 2025 | 102 |
| 2024 | 58 |
| 2023 | 74 |
| 2022 | 98 |
| 2021 | 207 |
| 2020 | 600 |
| 2019 | 833 |
| 2018 | 495 |
| 2017 | 586 |
| 2016 | 414 |
| 2015 | 613 |
| 2014 | 403 |
| 2013 | 77 |
| 2012 | 105 |
| 2011 | 147 |
| 2010 | 262 |
| 2009 | 178 |
| 2008 | 50 |
| 2007 | 74 |
| 2006 | 88 |
| 2005 | 93 |
| 2004 | 219 |
| 2003 | 191 |
| 2002 | 93 |
| 2001 | 146 |
| 2000 | 79 |
| 1999 | 141 |
| 1998 | 112 |
Highest: 2019 (833 complaints). Lowest: 2008 (50).
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment across multiple generations, with the Forester consistently praised for its practicality, safety, all-weather capability, and long-term reliability when properly maintained.
Concerns about long-term reliability beyond 100,000 miles, with strong owner consensus recommending proactive fluid changes every 30,000-60,000 miles despite some manufacturer guidance.
Occasional screen freezes, slow response, or connectivity issues. Noted as an annoyance but not a dealbreaker.
Described as an "Achilles' heel"; prone to cracks and chips, necessitating comprehensive glass insurance.
Bushings reported to fail relatively early, sometimes between 60,000-100,000 miles, affecting ride quality.
Some models, particularly older generations, noted to consume more oil than average, requiring monitoring between changes.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Forester. Individual model years are broken down above.
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