Model-year record

2013 Subaru Forester
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Complaints filed
77
Reports to NHTSA, 2013
Safety recalls
12
NHTSA campaigns on record
NHTSA crash test
Overall NCAP rating
Combined MPG
23
EPA estimate
Known issues
Engine issues lead owner complaints (29% of 77 reports), followed by air bags (16%).
+ 8 more component categories with fewer reports.
Share of all 77 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11111527, ODI 11640728, ODI 11536643, ODI 11531559, ODI 11529096.
Individual complaint reports(77)
Showing the 50 most recent reportsAir BagsDec 2025 · ODI 11707393 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
I had a family member driving an 2013 Subaru Forester all-wheel drive with a manual transition. The car had crash and rolled. The car at the most rolled twice and none of the air bags never deployed. I have photos of the accident and of the vehicle at the towed yard and its clear as day that the air bags are still rolled up.
- Reported
- Dec 2025
- Incident date
- Dec 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 1 injuries
EngineFeb 2025 · ODI 11640728Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2013 Subaru Forester. While the contact's daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the contact was informed that the VIN was not covered for the repair under the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
- Reported
- Feb 2025
- Incident date
- Nov 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
StructureAug 2024 · ODI 11610495Details +Close −
See attached document for complaint.
- Reported
- Aug 2024
- Incident date
- Jul 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Vehicle Speed ControlMay 2024 · ODI 11591102 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
The contact owned a 2013 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while idled in reverse with the brake pedal depressed, the vehicle accelerated in reverse on its own, colliding with a deck, after which the vehicle shifted into drive and continued to accelerate on its own, colliding with a brick wall, only then coming to a complete stop after colliding with a tree. The air bags did not deploy. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard and deemed a total loss by the contact's insurance provider. A police report was not filed, and injuries were reported. The contact reported an injury to her left eye but did not seek treatment. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and a technician was sent to inspect the vehicle. The failure mileage was 66,000.
- Reported
- May 2024
- Incident date
- May 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 1 injuries
EngineAug 2023 · ODI 11536643Details +Close −
On 7/31/23 I was driving on the highway when I started to hear a knocking sound. I got off the highway and my car stalled at the light off the exit. I was able to restart it after three tries and get it about 50 ft to the shoulder. At that point there was smoke coming from under the hood. I called AAA and had it towed to a nearby garage. They told me it had to go to the dealer because it likely needed a new engine. They said that the oil had mixed with the antifreeze. The dealer stated it needed a new engine. It was a catastrophic engine failure. I never had any warning (no panel lights ever illuminated) of any issue with the oil or engine issues. I feel very lucky that I did not have an accident due to this sudden failure. The cost of the repairs is estimated between $9,000 and $15,000 on a vehicle that is supposed to last 250K. It currently has 98K miles on it. My biggest complaint is there was never any warning of this. I feel that is a failure of the electronic system that should have alerted me of engine issues and a defective engine. I also filed a complaint with Subaru but have not heard from them yet.
- Reported
- Aug 2023
- Incident date
- Jul 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJul 2023 · ODI 11531559Details +Close −
While driving, the engine suddenly went dead with no warning. No lights came on no over heating signal, no warnings. Just gone. I could have been killed in other circumstances. Fortunately, I was going down hill in the slow lane and was able to get at least partially off the road. Subaru said the engine had no oil! This should not be possible with no warning and the good care and maintenance I have given the car. I just learned that Subaru settled a class action law suit for this exact problem. This is extremely dangerous and very common. Yet, Subaru did not let me know and will not do anything about it. How many others are in danger?
- Reported
- Jul 2023
- Incident date
- May 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJun 2023 · ODI 11529096Details +Close −
I was driving on the highway and the oil light came on as well as a ticking noise and vibration throughout the car. The engine shut off and now will not start. There is plenty of oil, gas, and the battery is charged. The engine turns when I turn the key but won't actually start and run. Makes a loud squeek as it trys.
- Reported
- Jun 2023
- Incident date
- Jun 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesApr 2023 · ODI 11519432Details +Close −
When the clutch is depressed the engine kills without indication anything is happening. All the dash lights come on and the power steering goes out. It has been happening repeatedly since last June. More frequently over time. If it happens on an off ramp or at an intersection the engine will not start for up to 5 minutes creating a safety hazard.
- Reported
- Apr 2023
- Incident date
- Apr 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesDec 2022 · ODI 11496800Details +Close −
My 2013 Subaru Forester had some noise (grinding) from the rear passenger side brake pad. I set up an appointment to have it inspected later that week. I then used my car to run an errand several days later. I was driving on the highway and found I had no brakes (brake pedal went to the floor). I was able to get to a parking lot and stop the car. When I exited the vehicle, I went to the right (passenger side) rear wheel and noticed brake fluid was on the pavement. This is concerning as the brake system should have redundancy (front brakes still work if the rear does not or vice versa). I had no brake pressure. I was told by the Subaru dealer that the brake pad had broken and fallen out, and in so doing the piston "went too far out" and brake fluid leaked as a result. This to me should not have eliminated all braking power for the vehicle. I was lucky to have been able to stop and get to a parking lot safely.
- Reported
- Dec 2022
- Incident date
- Dec 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineNov 2022 · ODI 11493348Details +Close −
My car is consuming oil.
- Reported
- Nov 2022
- Incident date
- Jun 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingNov 2022 · ODI 11492886Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2013 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the headlights and taillights became inoperable. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who changed the taillight light bulbs approximately 10 times. The headlight light bulbs were replaced 4 times. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure however, no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000. The VIN was not available.
- Reported
- Nov 2022
- Incident date
- Jan 2015
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainOct 2022 · ODI 11491653 · crashDetails +Close −
The contact owns a 2013 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while coasting downhill into his carport to park his vehicle, the vehicle independently accelerated forward and crashed his camper. The vehicle became wedged underneath the camper and all four legs of the camper to fold. The airbags did not deploy upon impact. The contact was not injured and a police report was not filed. The dealer nor the manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
- Reported
- Oct 2022
- Incident date
- Oct 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash
Air BagsAug 2021 · ODI 11430758 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
The contact owned a 2013 Subaru Forester. The contact stated while driving at 58 mph, another vehicle behind the contact rear-ended their vehicle which caused the vehicle to spun out of control and hit a concrete barrier between highways twice causing damages to the front and rear of the vehicle. The side air bags did deploy but the front driver side air bag did not deploy. The contact stated at the time of impact the contact was thrown backward in their seat which their seat belt did not hold the contact in place which caused the contact to move around in the vehicle in the midst of the crash. The contact sustain injuries such as a fractured right thumb, neck strain, lumps on the top and side of the head, bruises along their body where medical treatment was needed at a hospital via ambulance. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard where it was later deemed as a total loss. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximate 60,698.
- Reported
- Aug 2021
- Incident date
- Aug 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 1 injuries
Electrical SystemApr 2021 · ODI 11413533Details +Close −
I UNDERSTAND THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THIS VEHICLE THAT CLAIMS TO BE REPAIRED- THE IGNITION TURNING OFF WHILE DRIVING. THIS HAPPENED A FEW MINUTES AGO WHILE DRIVING 65+ ON THE FREEWAY AND WE WERE ALMOST HIT BY AN 18 WHEELER BECAUSE OF IT. ZERO POWER WHATSOEVER. I WAS ABLE TO PUT IT IN NEUTRAL AND TURN THE KEY A FEW TIMES AND RESTART IT. AFTERWARDS, THE CHECK ENGINE, STABILITY CONTROL, TIRE PRESSURE, SEATBELT LIGHTS ARE ALL ON, CRUISE CONTROL IS FLASHING (I DON'T USE CRUISE). I DON'T KNOW HOW THE INCLUDED PICTURE HELPS. I FEEL LIKE THIS ISSUE WAS EITHER ABSOLUTELY NOT ADDRESSED, OR IF IT WAS, THE REPAIR HAS DEFINITELY FAILED. EITHER WAY, I NEED TO KNOW WHAT I SHOULD DO BECAUSE THIS IS MY ONLY VEHICLE, MY KIDS HAVE TO RIDE IN IT AND I CAN'T TRUST IT NOT TO KILL EVERYONE NOW.
- Reported
- Apr 2021
- Incident date
- Apr 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Vehicle Speed ControlApr 2021 · ODI 11407528 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
ON 4/3/21 AT APPROXIMATELY 1:30 PM, THE 2013 SUBARU FORRESTER WAS SLOWLY BACKED OUT OF THE GARAGE, GEAR WAS IN REVERSE, FOOT ON ACCELERATOR WITH SPEED OF <1 MPH; JUST ENOUGH MOMENTUM TO GET CAR OUT OF GARAGE, DOWN DRIVEWAY AND ONTO THE STREET. WHILE STILL IN REVERSE, THE CAR WAS POSITIONED ONTO THE STREET TO DRIVE FORWARD IN AN EASTWARD DIRECTION. BEFORE THE GEARSHIFT COULD BE MOVED FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE (FOOT WAS NOT ON ACCELERATOR AT THE TIME), THE CAR UNEXPECTEDLY SURGED BACKWARDS ACROSS THE STREET WENT UP AN EMBANKMENT CUTTING INTO NEIGHBOR'S YARD AND HIT A PARKED CAR IN THE NEIGHBOR'S DRIVEWAY AND STOPPED. THE FLOORMAT ON DRIVER'S SIDE LAY FLUSH/FLAT AGAINST THE FLOOR, THERE WAS NO OBSTRUCTION BY THE FLOORMAT OR ANY OBJECT TO THE GAS OR BRAKE PEDAL. DRIVER HAD SEATBELT ON AND SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES (BUMP ON HEAD AND ELBOW, ABRASION FROM SEATBELT, AND BACK PAIN) DUE TO HITTING PARKED CAR. SUBARU HAD TO BE TOWED ON A FLATBED TRUCK. IT LOOKED LIKE THE AXEL WAS BROKEN, RIGHT FRONT TIRE AND LEFT REAR TIRE WERE MISALIGNED, AND DAMAGE TO REAR BUMPER. SEE PHOTOS
- Reported
- Apr 2021
- Incident date
- Apr 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 1 injuries
EngineFeb 2021 · ODI 11395083Details +Close −
EXCESSIVE OIL LEAKING FROM VALVE COVER SEALS AND CAM SHAFT SEALS. VEHICLE ONLY HAS 120K MILES. VEHICLE LEAKS APPROXIMATELY 2 QUART OF OIL EVERY 1000MILES. DEALER COST TO REPAIR IS OVER $2500. REPAIR CAN'T BE COMPLETED WITHOUT COMPLETELY REMOVING ENGINE FROM VEHICLE, AND EXTENSIVE TARE DOWN OF MOTOR. UNACCEPTABLE MECHANICAL FAILURE FOR A REGULARLY DEALER MAINTAINED VEHICLE OF THIS AGE,
- Reported
- Feb 2021
- Incident date
- Oct 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainJan 2021 · ODI 11388454Details +Close −
THIS IS A FOLLOW UP TO COMPLAINT NUMBER 11387558. I TOOK MY CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF THE TORQUE CONVERTER..THE CAR WAS GETTING WORSE WITH SHAKING, SHUDDERING AND STALLING. THEY REPLACED THE TORQUE CONVERTER AND CHARGED ME $1,029.25. THE SERVICE ADVISOR TOLD ME SUBARU HAS HAD TROUBLE WITH THEIR 2010-2013 MODELS ESPECIALLY THE OUTBACKS. HE SAID THIS IS A FIRST WITH THE FORESTER I HAVE AND HE HAS BEEN THERE FOR 9 YEARS. HE ADVISED ME TO CONTACT SUBARU AND SEE IF THEY WOULD HELP ME OUT. I CALLED AND THEY WOULD NOT REIMBURSE ME FOR THE TOTAL COST OF THE REPLACEMENT. THEY ONLY OFFERED A PARTIAL "GOODWILL REIMBURSEMENT" OF 350.00 SINCE THE CAR WAS OUT OF WARRANTY. IT IS OBVIOUS THAT THIS PART IS DEFECTIVE SINCE I ONLY HAVE 56,000 MILES ON THE CAR. THEY NEED TO RECALL THEIR CARS THAT HAVE THIS DEFECTIVE TORQUE CONVERTER IN THEM. THEY ARE LIABLE WARRANTY OR NO WARRANTY. I WAS VERY FORTUNATE THAT I DID NOT GET INTO AN ACCIDENT.
- Reported
- Jan 2021
- Incident date
- Oct 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainJan 2021 · ODI 11387558Details +Close −
THE CAR ENGINE WANTS TO STALL OUT WHEN CHANGING FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE WHILE PULLING ONTO THE STREET. IT USUALLY DOES THIS WITHIN THE FIRST 10 MINUTES OF DRIVING. IT ALSO WANTS TO STALL OUT WHEN I COME TO A COMPLETE STOP-IT WILL SHUDDER AND SHAKE AND CATCH ITSELF AT TIMES BUT IT USUALLY STALLS OUT. IT WILL STALL OUT IN TRAFFIC WHEN I AM STOPPING AT A LIGHT. I HAVE TO RESTART THE CAR AND CONTINUE. I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY STATED THE TORQUE CONVERTER NEEDS REPLACED FOR 1200.00.
- Reported
- Jan 2021
- Incident date
- Oct 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherOct 2020 · ODI 11363575Details +Close −
MY FORESTER WILL NOT RELEASE THE KEYS FROM THE IGNITION, EVEN WHEN I AM VERY CAREFUL TO PUT IT IN PARK. I UNDERSTAND THAT THIS IS A WELL KNOWN PROBLEM, AS THEY HAVE A TSB 16-112-18R ABOUT IT. WHEN I CONTACTED SUBARU OF AMERICA, THEY REFUSED TO COVER THE COST OF THE REPAIR DUE TO THE FACT THAT THE CAR IS A 2013 MODEL, EVEN THOUGH IT ONLY HAS 36,000 MILES ON IT. THEY INSTEAD PROVIDED A COUPON FOR $250 TOWARD THE REPAIR. I CLEARLY CANNOT GO ANYWHERE WITH THE CAR IN THIS CONDITION, AS IT REQUIRES LEAVING THE CAR UNLOCKED WITH THE KEYS IN THE IGNITION. THIS HAPPENED WHEN I PULLED INTO MY GARAGE LAST EVENING. I FEEL VERY FORTUNATE THAT I WAS NOT IN A LOCATION WHERE I HAD TO LEAVE THE CAR.
- Reported
- Oct 2020
- Incident date
- Oct 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJul 2020 · ODI 11342060Details +Close −
EXCESSIVE OIL COMSUMTION - STARTED BEFORE 100,000 AROUND 2016- HAS GOTTEN WORSE - BURN A QUART AND A HALF IN 1100 MILES.... HAD OIL CONSUMPTION TEST BEFORE WARRENTY RAN OUT AND WAS TOLD ITS FINE. EXCELLENT MAINTAINANCE ON CAR - OIL CONSUMPTION RUINED CATALYTIC CONVERTOR BY 150,000 - HAD TO REPLACE/ KEEP CALLING SUBARU 800 NUMBER TOLD THAT THIS IS NORMAL FOR WEAR AND TEAR ON CAR
- Reported
- Jul 2020
- Incident date
- Jun 2016
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJun 2020 · ODI 11329216Details +Close −
OIL CONSUMPTION REGULAR OIL CHANGES EVERY 5,000 MILES BOUGHT CAR WITH JUST OVER 22,000 MILES AFTER ONLY 30,000 MILES HEARD KNOCKING NOISE CHECKED DIP STICK NO OIL KNOW WARNING SIGNS WHAT SO EVER I.E. ENGINE RUNNING HOT ,NO OIL LIGHT NOTHING.EVER SINCE TAKES A QUART OF OIL EVERY 1,000 MILES. *TR
- Reported
- Jun 2020
- Incident date
- Mar 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineMar 2020 · ODI 11315323Details +Close −
2013 SUBARU FORESTER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO OIL CONSUMPTION ISSUE. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE NEEDED OIL ADDED IN BETWEEN OIL CHANGES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND OFFERED 1500 TOWARDS A NEW CAR OR REPAIR. THE CONSUMER WAS DISSATISFIED. *JS
- Reported
- Mar 2020
- Incident date
- Jul 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Seat BeltsFeb 2020 · ODI 11312033Details +Close −
1. CARS SHORT BLOCK IS REPLACED 4 DAYS AGO UNDER WARRANTY. THE TEMPERATURE DROPPED TO -20 CELCIUS (-25 CELSIUS WITH WIND CHILL) I STARTED THE CAR AND IT IS MAKING RATTLING NOISE. ALTHOUGH I ALWAYS WARM THE CAR BY FOR APPROX 5 MIN LIKE LAST DAY, YET A CONTINUOUS RATTLING NOISE IS THERE, AND I HAVE A FEELING THAT TIME-TO-TIME IT SHAKE VIGOROUSLY AFTER SHORT BLOCK REPLACEMENT BY THE SUBARU DEALER. I HAVE YET TO CONTACT THE DEALER FOR THE ISSUE. PRESENTLY VEHICLE IS MAKING RATTLING NOISE WHILE STATIONARY AND ALL THE TIME WHEN IN MOTION TOO. 2. SEAT BELT RECEIVER FOR DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE AND LITERALLY BAD; DEALER REFUSED TO REPLACE THEM UNDER WARRANT. ALTHOUGH I PUT A LITTLE OF LITHIUM GREASE THEN-AFTER THEY ARE WORKING GREAT.
- Reported
- Feb 2020
- Incident date
- Feb 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EquipmentJan 2020 · ODI 11297929Details +Close −
THE ?LOOKUP? FOR THE VIN NO. ON YOUR WEBSITES IS DYSFUNCTIONAL. MY VIN IS [XXX] (SUBARU FORESTER) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
- Reported
- Jan 2020
- Incident date
- Jan 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Vehicle Speed ControlNov 2019 · ODI 11281256Details +Close −
THE CRUISE CONTROL LIGHT ON THE DASH HAS COME ON BY ITSELF AND IS FLASHING CONSTANTLY AS SOON AS THE VEHICLE IS TURNED ON. IT CANNOT BE TURNED OFF OR ON WITH THE CONTROLS. THIS PROBLEM HAS CAUSED THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND THE UNEVEN TRACTION LIGHT TO COME ON AS WELL. THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THIS EXACT SAME PROBLEM ON THE 2014 MODELS. I OWN A 2013 MODEL AND IT DOING THE SAME THING. CONTACTED SUBARU MAIN BRANCH ABOUT THE ISSUE AND THEY WILL NOT STAND BEHIND THE PROBLEM EVEN THOUGH THE RECOGNIZE THE PROBLEM IS THE SAME IN MY VEHICLE AS 2014 RECALL.
- Reported
- Nov 2019
- Incident date
- Sep 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)Nov 2019 · ODI 11280230Details +Close −
I TOOK MY CAR TO THE MECHANIC TO HAVE A BUSTED RADIATOR HOSE REPAIRED. THEY FOUND OIL IN THE COOLANT TANK, WATER IN THE OIL TANK, AKA FLUID CROSS-CONTAMINATION AND TOLD ME THAT I'D NEED A NEW ENGINE. THEN I GOT A SECOND MECHANIC TO CONCUR. THEN, I TOOK TO A SUBARU DEALER WHO SAID THE SHORT BLOCK OF THE ENGINE IS OK BUT THE HEAD GASKETS WOULD NEED REPLACING. THE CAR HAS 107K MILES ON IT! SUBARU NEEDS TO BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR THIS DEFECT! AS A NOTE, NO RELEVANT DASHBOARD LIGHTS EVER ILLUMINATED. (2013 FORESTER, 1 OWNER)
- Reported
- Nov 2019
- Incident date
- Nov 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Vehicle Speed ControlAug 2019 · ODI 11244776 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
AS I BEGAN TO BACK MY BOSSES CAR OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY, I LOOKED OUT OF MY LEFT MIRROR TO FOLLOW THE CURVE OF THE DRIVEWAY IN ORDER TO DIRECT ME. I DIDN'T SEE ANYTHING BEHIND ME, SO I PROCEEDED TO CONTINUE DOWN THE DRIVEWAY, AND THEN I FELT A BUMP. THEN I SAW IN THE CAMERA THAT I MUST HAVE HIT A VAN IN THAT WAS PARKED IN THE DRIVEWAY. THE BACK DOORS OF THE VAN WERE OPEN. THEN I DECIDED THAT I NEEDED TO PUT THE CAR IN DRIVE AND PARK MY CAR SO I COULD GET OUT AND MAKE SURE I DIDN'T HURT ANYONE. AS I PUT THE VEHICLE IN DRIVE, IT MADE A LOUD WINDING NOISE AND LURCHED FORWARD. IT THEN PROCEEDED TO ACCELERATE AND PICK UP SPEED IN THE DRIVEWAY. AS I BECAME PARALLEL WITH THE OTHER VEHICLE PARKED IN THE OWNERS DRIVEWAY, THE VEHICLE I WAS DRIVING WAS STILL PICKING UP SPEED SO I PUT THE CAR IN PARK AND PUT ON THE BRAKES SO I COULD STOP THE VEHICLE, ALTHOUGH WITHIN SECONDS I WAS CRASHING THROUGH THE BACK YARD FENCE. THE VEHICLE PROCEEDED TO PICK UP SPEED. I WAS PUTTING A LOT OF PRESSURE ON THE BRAKES BUT IT WAS NOT MAKING ANY DIFFERENCE. I THOUGHT OF SWERVING THE VEHICLE TO THE LEFT, BUT I WAS AFRAID OF THERE BEING CHILDREN IN THE OTHER YARD SO I QUICKLY MADE THE DECISION TO HIT THE TREE SO I COULD SPARE ANY POSSIBLE LIVES AND STOP THE VEHICLE COMPLETELY. AS SOON AS I REALIZED I CRASHED THE VEHICLE INTO THE TREE, I IMMEDIATELY GOT OUT SO I COULD SEE WHAT HAPPENED. I KEPT REPEATING TO MYSELF 'WHY DIDN'T IT STOP?' I COULD NOT UNDERSTAND AFTER DOING EVERYTHING IN MY MIND TO STOP THE CAR, THAT NOTHING WAS SUCCESSFUL. I DID WHAT I THOUGHT WAS THE BEST DECISION AS MUCH AS I COULD WITHIN THOSE CHAOTIC MOMENTS. I JUST WANTED TO STOP THE CAR AND NOT HARM IN PEOPLE IN THE PROCESS. I HIT THE TREE AT WITH ENOUGH VELOCITY THAT THE AIR BAG DEPLOYED AND I BROKE MY LEG IN 3 PLACES. THANKS [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).' *PM
- Reported
- Aug 2019
- Incident date
- Dec 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 1 injuries
EngineAug 2019 · ODI 11244720Details +Close −
LACK OF POWER WHEN I TRY TO ACCELERATE. THE VEHICLE FEEL DOES'T GO WHEN I PRESS THE GAS FROM GETTING OUT OF STOP FOR A 10 SECONDS.
- Reported
- Aug 2019
- Incident date
- Aug 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineMay 2019 · ODI 11207747Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND WAS ABLE TO RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 70,000. *TR CONSUMER STATED MY SAFETY AND OF THOSE AROUND ME WOULD BE IN JEOPARDY. THERE IS A RECALL FOR AN IGNITION SWITCH ON LIKE MODELS FOR JUST THIS TYPE OF OCCURRENCE, BUT NOT MY VIN.*JB
- Reported
- May 2019
- Incident date
- Apr 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsApr 2019 · ODI 11193777Details +Close −
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V009000 (AIR BAGS). SUBARU OF MUSKEGON (LOCATED AT 1878 E STERNBERG RD, MUSKEGON, MI 49444, (231) 799-2886) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
- Reported
- Apr 2019
- Incident date
- Mar 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMar 2019 · ODI 11192133Details +Close −
TAKATA RECALL PASSENGER SIDE FRONTAL AIR BAG
- Reported
- Mar 2019
- Incident date
- Mar 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherMar 2019 · ODI 11191721Details +Close −
MY MECHANIC RAN A DIAGNOSTIC AFTER MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT KEPT COMING ON. IT SHOWED THAT THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER WAS FAILING AND WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED OR IT WOULD CONTINUE TO SHOW 'CHECK ENGINE', AND THE CRUISE CONTROL WOULD NO LONGER WORK. IT HAS 117,000 MILES ON IT.
- Reported
- Mar 2019
- Incident date
- Mar 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMar 2019 · ODI 11191278Details +Close −
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V009000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. AN UNKNOWN DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
- Reported
- Mar 2019
- Incident date
- Mar 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMar 2019 · ODI 11187142Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V009000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. NORTHTOWN SUBARU (3930 SHERIDAN DR, AMHERST, NY 14226, (716) 992-6547) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT. *TT CONSUMER STATED HE CALLED THE DEALER ON 3/15 FOR AIRBAG RECALL. CONSUMER'S APPOINTMENT WAS 8/20/19. DEALER CALLED BACK FEW DAYS LATER AND MOVED THE APPOINTMENT TO 4/16/19.*JB
- Reported
- Mar 2019
- Incident date
- Mar 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMar 2019 · ODI 11186579Details +Close −
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V009000 (AIR BAGS). THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. CONTINENTAL SUBARU (4900 OLD SEWARD HWY, ANCHORAGE, AK 99503, (907) 562-2722) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE VEHICLE COULD NOT BE REPAIRED UNTIL MAY 23, 2019. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
- Reported
- Mar 2019
- Incident date
- Mar 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMar 2019 · ODI 11186636Details +Close −
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V009000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. CARTER SUBARU SHORELINE (17225 AURORA AVE N, SEATTLE, WA 98133, (206) 542-1166) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WOULD NOT BE AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY UNTIL JULY 2, 2019. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
- Reported
- Mar 2019
- Incident date
- Mar 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineMar 2019 · ODI 11183527Details +Close −
BLOWN HEAD GASKET
- Reported
- Mar 2019
- Incident date
- Sep 2017
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineMar 2019 · ODI 11183529Details +Close −
BLOWN HEAD GASKET
- Reported
- Mar 2019
- Incident date
- Mar 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineMar 2019 · ODI 11183533Details +Close −
SUSPECTED BLOWN GASKET
- Reported
- Mar 2019
- Incident date
- Mar 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJan 2019 · ODI 11166029Details +Close −
AFTER READING OTHER COMPLAINTS ON THIS SITE - PROMPTED ME TO WRITE THIS. 2YRS INTO OWNING MY CAR HAD OIL CONSUMPTION TEST DONE BECAUSE IT SEEMED THE SYNTHETIC OIL IS DISAPPEARING. WAS TOLD CAR IS FINE. I STILL NEED TO PUT OIL IN - IN BETWEEN CHANGES. THE ENGINE HAS NO LEAKS. I WAS TOLD SYNTHETIC OIL BURNS OFF WHEN YOU DRIVE A LOT OF MILES. I FEEL THIS SHOULD BE LOOKED INTO.
- Reported
- Jan 2019
- Incident date
- Jul 2016
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Seat BeltsDec 2018 · ODI 11155496Details +Close −
SQUEAKY BRAKES, SEATBELT RECOIL
- Reported
- Dec 2018
- Incident date
- Dec 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineNov 2018 · ODI 11150674Details +Close −
VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY SITTING AT A LOCAL DEALERSHIP WITH A BAD MOTOR THAT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. THE ENGINE FAILURE CORRELATES WITH THE ISSUES THAT SUBARU HAS WITH THIS YEAR MODEL. I HAVE TRIED UNSUCCESSFULLY TO COME TO TERMS WITH SUBARU, I AM MOVING FORWARD WITH A LAWSUIT AND ALL OPTIONS AFFORDED TO ME TO ENSURE THAT SUBARU IS HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR PRODUCT.
- Reported
- Nov 2018
- Incident date
- Sep 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineOct 2018 · ODI 11142168Details +Close −
FAILED OIL CONSUMPTION TEST ,ENGINE HAD TO BE REPLACED .I HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM WITH MY SECOND SUBARU FORESTER 2011 ITS ENGINE HAD TO BE REPLACED TOO. IN BOTH CARS I FOUND THE PROBLEMS ACCIDENTALLY WHEN I TOOK THE2011 TO HVE NEW TIERS I ASKED THEM TO CHECK OIL LEVEL FOUND NO OIL ON THE STICK FILLED IT WITH 3 BOTTELS OF OIL BEFORE I DROVE IT TO THE DEALER I FEEL THAT THEY SHOULD RECALL ALL FORESTER ALSO I WAS NOT END A NOTICE THAT THEY EXTENDED THE WARRANTY FOR THIS PROBLEM. NOW THEY OFFER ME 1000$ TO APPLY FOR BUYING NEW SUBARU
- Reported
- Oct 2018
- Incident date
- Aug 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineSep 2018 · ODI 11128423Details +Close −
I JUST RECEIVED A CALL FROM MECHANIC AFTER TAKING IT IN FOR OIL CHANGE. THERE WAS NO OIL IN THE PAN, DIPSTICK CLEAN! I DO NOT HAVE A LEAK AS I PARK IN GARAGE AND WOULD SEE IT. NO INDICATOR LIGHTS CAME ON DASH, WHICH IS A HUGE CONCERN! LOOKING BACK SUBARU HAS HAD ISSUES WITH OIL BURNING UP QUICKLY. THIS NEEDS TO BE FIXED!
- Reported
- Sep 2018
- Incident date
- Sep 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesSep 2018 · ODI 11128426Details +Close −
I HAVE BEEN HEARING A SLIGHT SQUEAKING NOISE WHEN DRIVING. THE OTHER DAY IT WAS A HORRIFIC, LOUD SCREECHING NOISE! TOOK IT IN TO MECHANIC, MY CALIPER IS STUCK. THEY COULDN'T EVEN MANUALLY SPIN TIRE. BECAUSE OF THIS IT BURNED UP ROTORS AND PADS, SO NOW I NEED TO REPLACE THEM ALL AT A COST OF $900! HOW DOES A CALIPER JUST FREEZE UP??
- Reported
- Sep 2018
- Incident date
- Sep 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJul 2018 · ODI 11111527 · fireDetails +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2013 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH IN BUMPER TO BUMPER TRAFFIC, THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED ALONG WITH OTHER UNKNOWN INDICATORS. THE VEHICLE WAS PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROADWAY. THE CONTACT OPENED THE HOOD AND OBSERVED FLAMES COMING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED AND EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED BY THE FIRE AND WAS TOWED TO A TOW YARD. THE CONTACT CALLED METROWEST SUBARU AT (508) 651-2000 (LOCATED AT 948 WORCESTER ST, NATICK, MA 01760), BUT NO ONE ANSWERED THE PHONE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 55,000. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED. *TT
- Reported
- Jul 2018
- Incident date
- Jul 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Fire
Air BagsJun 2018 · ODI 11104575 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNED A 2013 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE SUDDENLY MERGED INTO THE CONTACT'S LANE WITHOUT STOPPING. TO AVOID A CRASH, THE CONTACT DROVE OVER THE EMBANKMENT AND THE VEHICLE ROLLED OVER. THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE LEFT KNEE AND HAD SCRATCHES ON THE LEFT COLLAR BONE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NOT REQUIRED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V012000 (AIR BAGS). THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED ABOUT PART AVAILABILITY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
- Reported
- Jun 2018
- Incident date
- Jun 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 1 injuries
EngineJan 2018 · ODI 11064585Details +Close −
SUBARU HAS 86K MILES ON IT. WE WERE DRIVING DOWN HIGHWAY AT ABOUT 60MPH AND THE CAR STARTED MAKING A HORRIBLE CLACKING NOISE. THE CAR DIED. WE STARTED IT AGAIN, ALL THE LIGHTS WENT ON AND THE CAR DIED. IT HAD TO BE PUSHED OFF INTO A PARKING LOT. CAR HAS BEEN TOWED TO A SUBARU DEALER AND THEY ARE TELLING ME THAT IT HAS "CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE DUE TO THE 'ROD BEARINGS FAILING, ALL METAL THROUGHOUT MY OIL, AND THE SHORT BLOCK (ENGINE?) NEEDS TO BE REBUILT." I REALLY DO NOT WANT THIS ENGINE REBUILT NOR DO I WANT THE CAR BACK. I NEED HELP! PLEASE CONTACT ME.
- Reported
- Jan 2018
- Incident date
- Jan 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJan 2018 · ODI 11064600Details +Close −
I'M SORRY, BUT I'M SENDING IN ANOTHER INCIDENT REPORT AS I JUST WANT TO AMEND MY PRIOR INCIDENT REPORT # 11064585. IF YOU ARE ABLE TO ACCESS THAT YOU WILL SEE THAT MY ENGINE FAILED ON MY 2013 SUBARU FORRESTER. IN THE DESCRIPTION I SENT TO YOU, I COMPLETELY FORGOT TO MENTION THAT THE SUBARU DEALERSHIP TOLD ME THAT IT WOULD COST BETWEEN $8,000 TO $12,000 TO FIX THIS PROBLEM! I HAVE THREE KIA'S IN MY DRIVEWAY, ALL WITH MILEAGE OVER 125,000 AND NONE OF THEM HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM. I BOUGHT THE SUBARU FOR THEIR RELIABILITY AND DEPENDABILITY. PLEASE ADD THIS TO MY PRIOR CASE NUMBER FILE. THANKS SO MUCH.
- Reported
- Jan 2018
- Incident date
- Jan 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingDec 2017 · ODI 11055843Details +Close −
SINCE PURCHASING THIS VEHICLE WE HAVE REPLACED THE DRIVERS SIDE HEADLIGHT 6 TIMES. IN THIS SAME TIME PERIOD WE HAVE REPLACED THE PASSENGER SIDE HEADLIGHT ONLY ONCE. THIS CONCERNS ME, AS IT MAKES ME THINK THERE IS A WIRING PROBLEM & A POSSIBILITY OF A MORE SEVERE PROBLEM
- Reported
- Dec 2017
- Incident date
- Apr 2014
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.
Recalls(12)
Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.
Seat BeltsOct 2022 · 22V838000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles. The front seat belt assembly force-limiter may not operate correctly in the event of a crash.
Risk: The seat belt assembly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the seat belt assembly, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 9, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRJ-22.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air BagsFeb 2020 · 20V001000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators with alternate inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-20.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air BagsFeb 2020 · 20V002000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-20.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air BagsFeb 2020 · 20V003000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-20.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Electrical SystemNov 2019 · 19V297000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch installed as a replacement part. The ball spring inside the switch may break, reducing the strength of the ignition switch. If this occurs, the weight on the key ring and certain road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
Risk: The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. If a crash occurs under this condition, the air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ignition switch, replacing the ignition switch, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 10, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUF-91.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air BagsSep 2019 · 19V007000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Forester, 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, Legacy, and 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-19.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air BagsSep 2019 · 19V008000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, and Legacy vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-19.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air BagsSep 2019 · 19V009000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-19.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air BagsSep 2018 · 18V012000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Legacy, Forester, Tribeca, WRX and Outback vehicles, and 2009-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-18.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Service BrakesOct 2014 · 14V311000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Outback and Legacy, 2008-2011 Impreza and 2008-2014 Impreza WRX/STI, and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, currently, or formerly, registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. Salt water could splash on the brake lines through a gap in the fuel tank protector, resulting in excessive corrosion of the brake lines. Note that affected vehicles not currently, or formerly registered, in the salt belt states identified above are eligible for repair, at no cost to the customer, upon request.
Risk: Brake line corrosion may result in brake fluid leakage. Fluid leakage may result in longer distances being required to slow or stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will test the brake system by depressing the brake pedal and inspecting for brake fluid leaks. If no brake fluid seepage is observed, the affected areas will be rustproofed with anti-corrosion wax. If brake fluid seepage is observed, the brake lines will be replaced followed by rustproofing with anti-corrosion wax. These services will be performed free of charge. The recall began July 2014 and second notifications will run through November 2014. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's recall campaign number is WQK-47. Note: This recall supersedes recall 13V-110 which applied to certain 2005-2009 Legacy/Outback vehicles. Vehicles that were remedied under the previous campaign still need additional areas rust-proofed.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Service Brakes · 14V830000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Impreza, 2008-2014 WRX and STI, and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, currently, or formerly, registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia that were remedied under recall 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014. The brake lines may experience brake line corrosion due to salt water splashing on the brake lines through a gap in the fuel tank protector.
Risk: Brake fluid may leak due to the brake line corrosion and may result in longer distances being required to slow or stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will apply an anti-corrosion wax to the four-way joint connector area of the brake line system, free of charge. The recall began on January 27, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQQ-52. Notes: This recall is specific to affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI customers who had their car remedied under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014. Subaru has determined that this remedy was inadequate due to incomplete repair instructions provided to dealers. Affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI vehicles that were not repaired under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014 will continue to be processed under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311. Affected vehicles not currently, or formerly, registered in the salt belt states identified in this recall are eligible for repair, at no cost to the customer, upon request.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Electrical System · 16V738000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2008-2014 Impreza vehicles and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, all equipped with turbo-charged engines. The relay that controls the secondary air injection pump may fail, causing the pump to continuously operate and overheat.
Risk: If the air injection pump overheats, it may melt and increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary air injection pump relay, free of charge. The recall began December 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTM-73.
Open full NHTSA recall record →A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.
Investigations
0 NHTSA investigations on record
No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.
Crash-test ratings
2013 Subaru Forester SUV AWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
Fuel economy by trim
| Trim | Engine | Drivetrain | Transmission | City | Hwy | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forester AWD | 2.5L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Manual 5-spd | 21 | 27 | 23 |
| Forester AWD | 2.5L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S4) | 21 | 26 | 23 |
| Forester AWD | 2.5L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S4) | 19 | 23 | 21 |
EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.
Before you buy
Useful next checks
Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.
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Compare the year-by-year record
Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.
2013 Subaru Forester: frequently asked
What does the complaint record show for the 2013 Subaru Forester?
Owners filed 77 NHTSA complaints about the 2013 Subaru Forester. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.
What are the most common problems on the 2013 Subaru Forester?
The most-reported problem areas are Engine (29% of complaints) and air bags (16%).
How many recalls does the 2013 Subaru Forester have?
12 recalls have been issued that affect the 2013 Subaru Forester, covering components such as seat belts. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.
What gas mileage does the 2013 Subaru Forester get?
The EPA rates the 2013 Subaru Forester between 21 and 23 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.