2019 Subaru Forester

Car swirving as if someone grabbed the steering and pulled right left quickly when applying breaks. First incident happened on interstate which nearly caused an accident. Carriage makes a “clunk” sound when moving forward or backwards and you feel the cabin continue in motion when first stopping. When taken to Subaru, “trailing arm” was not attached to vehicle. Car is currently being fixed at Subaru of Olympia.

Reported

May 2026

Incident date

May 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I am reporting a serious safety issue involving my 2019 Subaru Forester related to failure of the Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. Since April 21, 2026, I have been in communication with Subaru of America regarding whether this issue is related to an existing safety recall (WUC-88). During this time, I provided detailed information about multiple occurrences of EPS warning light activation and intermittent loss of steering assist while driving. A local repair shop also inspected the vehicle and confirmed EPS-related diagnostic trouble codes (including B2811 and C2512), which are consistent with known EPS issues. This information was shared with Subaru of America; however, I did not receive a clear or actionable response, and the case has been delayed without resolution. Initially, the issue was intermittent, with the EPS warning light turning on and off. However, since May 9, 2026, the EPS warning light has remained continuously ON, indicating that the condition has worsened. On May 11, 2026, I visited an authorized Subaru service center while the EPS warning light was actively ON. Despite the issue being clearly present, the dealership only took photos confirming the EPS warning light and did not perform any additional diagnostic testing or repair. They advised that the EPS rack needs replacement at an estimated cost of approximately $2,500, with the part currently on backorder and no clear repair timeline. I have already reported this visit and the current condition to Subaru of America and am still awaiting a response. This issue involves intermittent and now persistent loss of steering assist while driving, causing the steering wheel to become extremely stiff and difficult to control. This poses a significant safety risk. Given that the issue has been ongoing since April, has been confirmed by both a repair shop and a Subaru dealer, and remains unresolved, I believe this represents a safety defect that is not being properly addressed. Please review th

Reported

May 2026

Incident date

Apr 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

We have replaced the battery twice and likely will need a third battery soon. I have learned that there is a known issue with the DCM trying to connect using 3G. This is causing a parasitic drain on the battery. The vehicle will fail to start. This has occurred many times over the last few years. We have just learned of the problem.

Reported

Apr 2026

Incident date

Apr 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Dear National Transportation Safety Board, I would like to bring a situation that happened to me while driving my 2019 Subaru Forester last Saturday March 7th, 2026 at 10:40am. I was coming back to my house from an errand. While waiting for my garage door to go all the way up, my car suddenly accelerated forcefully and lunged through the garage and into my home through the wall. There was a chest freezer that was against the wall in the garage which was against the back wall. This freezer was also taken through the wall and into my laundry room. The freezer was crushed. The front of the car and tires were up through the wall and in the home. There was a water spigot also in the garage that came into my home that broke and dispersed water. The furnace was crushed, water heater damaged, washer and dryer damaged, a water cooler damaged along with crushed metal bifold doors that were ripped off HVAC closet. And other things in garage totally crushed. Thankfully, no-one was killed. I was barely able to get out of car as when it suddenly accelerated, and clipped the bottom of garage door that wasn’t finished being up, then it went towards the left and corner of garage instead of of how I would normally pull in and park which would have been straight and middle of garage. The car went so fast and would not stop until it had hit the items in house that would make it not be able to go any further. This vehicle definitely had something faulty with it that caused this car to suddenly take off and crash. And the air bags did not go off. Surprised with such a forceful impact. My car had 62,039 miles on it and was well maintained. I bought brand new at Dellenbach Subaru in Fort Collins, CO in December 2018. Please contact me at [XXX] nk you so much in advance, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

Mar 2026

Incident date

Mar 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled, with several unknown warning lights intermittently illuminated. The failure had occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with thermal control valve failure. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the thermal control valve needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.

Reported

Mar 2026

Incident date

Mar 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The electrical system fails, and the battery is not charging sufficiently. When the auto start/stop engages, the car does not restart in traffic. Requested a battery test at the dealership in May 2025; was told it could not be done that day because it would require leaving the dealer service shop. Eventually, the electrical system became unstable, and the car stopped in traffic on 11/07/2025. Replaced battery following OEM specs. In February 2026, symptoms reappeared with a new battery failing on 02/15/2026, resulting in all saftey systems failing in traffic when auto start/stop enages.

Reported

Feb 2026

Incident date

Nov 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Pipa Rx Aire base latch system appeared to latch when it wasn’t secured to the anchor. I moved the base between vehicles. When reattaching the base, the right indicator clicked and turned green without actually being attached to the anchor. The seat felt secure, but shifted when I removed the carrier, which is when I realized it was not attached. Photo of latch system showing green and of manufacturer information is attached.

Reported

Feb 2026

Incident date

Feb 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

While at a Stop as the engine turns off and awaits decompression of brake to turn on again vehicle moves forward bit, then the engine shuts down while in drive (stalls) had a vehicle hit me in rear but luckily I had my trailer hitch on because it saved me from body damage . I had to place in park and restart this has happened several times before and I’m kinda nervous and makes my wife nervous when stopping at lights or stop signs it might turn off in the middle of the intersection. When this occurrence happens all dash lights pop up … I checked engine with code reader after the incidents but it doesn’t give out any info on what could possibly be happening. I had the Dealership change the Thermo control module in 2025 but these occurrences has happened before and after the TCM replacement.Having the dealership check is like wasting my time and money because they aren’t able to pinpoint the cause without a code . There has to be a problem somewhere in the system it’s just that the dealership in Hawaii has no clue ..

Reported

Jan 2026

Incident date

Jun 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash

The Thermal Control Valve on my Subaru Forester failed while I was driving recently. The failure caused the car to stop while making a turn. It was a very frightening experience. Luckily at that time the traffic was light. The car was towed to a Subaru dealer, and the Thermal Control Valve was replaced at no charge because Subaru extended the factory warranty. Subaru should have had a Recall Notice put out because this problem could cause serious bodily injury.

Reported

Jan 2026

Incident date

Jan 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Engine lost power and was misfiring while many warning symbols appeared on the dash. There was a divider separating the lanes. The car coasted to almost to a stop, but the engine chugged enough to slowly turn left at the first opening in the divider and just barely made it off the main road. The engine stopped. I restarted it several times. The engine was misfiring barely running. The electric brake was applied on its own. The car did not respond to moving the shift selector out of park, so the car was immobilized. I put the 4-way flashers on and called AAA. There seemed to be no way for me to move it out of park or release the electronic parking brake. AAA could not respond quickly and suggested I call the police to divert traffic around my car for safety which I did. The tow truck operator was able to disengage the wheels and was able to flatbed it to the nearest repair shop. This being Saturday 1/3/26 it wasn't until Tuesday the repair shop determined the car would not run long enough to provide a reliable diagnosis due to the multiple trouble codes coming up on the computer analysis. I had the car towed to the nearest Subaru dealership who replaced the thermos control valve under their warranty extension. The dealership said usually when this part fails it just triggers a check engine light and not the dangerous situation I experienced. I believe a recall to replace this part should be issued on all cars with this defective part as its failure can cause a dangerous situation without warning.

Reported

Jan 2026

Incident date

Jan 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I had a tire rotation at my Subaru dealer in 12/2024. Two weeks later I had a flat and could not break two lug nuts. Tire repair dealer found that the lug bolts had been stripped. I had the remaining lug bolts examined by the dealer and a 3rd was found stripped. All three had to be replaced. I underwent tire rotation on 12/11/2025 and dealer found a fourth lug bolt stripped which needed replacement. I was assured this was not the fault of the mechanics and was instead told that this was a manufacturer problem with the lug bolts. If this is true, there are a host of Subaru's out there with lug nuts that cannot be user removed to repair a flat. Although when stripped, the lug nuts are apparently firmly attached, does this represent a wheel / tire failure issue? Thanks for your attention.

Reported

Dec 2025

Incident date

Dec 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owned a 2019 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving and merging onto the highway in the rain approximately 62 MPH, the contact’s vehicle was rear-ended by another vehicle that was driving erratically. Due to the impact, the vehicle spun out of control approximately 3-4 times and the vehicle bounced off the concrete highway sound barrier. The vehicle continued to spin out of control and struck the barrier wall on the passenger’s side before coming to a stop. The contact stated that the rear driver’s axle fractured and ended up on top of the wheel, and the wheel was flat on the ground. The contact stated that the air bags failed to deploy upon impact or during the crash. The vehicle was not drivable. The contact and his wife were transported to the hospital and were both treated for whiplash, body pain, and pain to the head and neck. The contact also had a throbbing headache from the crash. The contact and his wife both received CT scans that showed no signs of injuries. The other driver also spun out of control and struck the metal guardrail located in the middle of the highway. The contact stated that the other driver had not received medical attention at the scene. A Police Report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a collision yard where it remained. The insurance company had not inspected the vehicle; however, the contact expected that the vehicle would be deemed a total loss. The contact stated that the driver who caused the accident was cited by the Police for causing the crash. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 71,400.

Reported

Dec 2025

Incident date

Dec 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash 2 injuries

Subaru Forester 2019 January - February of 2025: issue initially presented as the hatch beeping, indicating that it was not closing fully. The hatch would not pop back up as if something was in the way, just remain down & continue beeping. The car would then not start, with only the hatch beeping noise (beep beep beep) going off. When I drove it, it kept warning me that the hatch wasn't shut completely. After I parked it in the garage, the next morning it would be dead. The issue was supposedly resolved in February of 2025 as I replaced the battery on my own and replaced this part: 29182AA060. Schomp Subuaru reported no issues with their diagnostic tests. November 30th - December 2025: I started the car just fine. When I opened the trunk and closed it, it gave me three beeps and wouldn't fully close, even if I pushed it shut and locked it. The next morning, the car would not start - the battery was dead. The tow company also could not jump start the car. As the car was being towed, the hatch alert was the only thing working/beeping. Even when not trying to use the hatch. I have used the car every single day up until this issue started. I have not left the keys in the car. The car is now back at the dealership. The unreliability of this can/has left me and my passengers stranded and cold. The dealership found no issue the last time this occurred even though there was a class action lawsuit about this exact issue, but somehow my car was not considered included. I cannot have Subaru tell me that there is no issue again.

Reported

Dec 2025

Incident date

Nov 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the Forward Collision Avoidance system activated, and the vehicle immediately decelerated to 56 MPH. The failure was intermittent but had occurred several times over 5 years. The contact had to manually turn off the Forward Collision Avoidance system to avoid the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Reported

Nov 2025

Incident date

Nov 2020

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I have reported this before but it never went anywhere. When at a red light or in a traffic slowdown, the car will activate the auto start/stop system. Three times in the past 2 days, the car would not turn back on and required me to turn the car off and back on again. You can imagine that this leaves me in a dangerous situation because the cars behind me see a green light and get ready to move, or they see traffic clearing up and they get ready to move. I am forced to turn my car off and back on again in the middle of a 4 lane highway or on a busy city street. I get cursed at and nearly rear ended each time this happens. I did an internet search and there are entire threads dedicated to this exact problem with this subaru model and year. There should be a recall. It is very unsafe

Reported

Nov 2025

Incident date

Nov 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

About a month ago while approaching a stop light turning green at a busy intersection, I was slowing into the left turning lane when my car just stopped. No avoidance, no alerts. I had a semi behind me who started pulling out around me in heavy traffic. I could use my flashers. I turned the car off, then on and it finally restarted. This is a 2019 Subaru Forester, original owner, only one incident - but it was definitely weird, and unsafe!

Reported

Oct 2025

Incident date

Aug 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

While I was driving on a major road, the car appeared to sense an issue and automatically started to brake. While I was a road with 55mph drivers, my car was forcing me to stop. May warning light appeared; Eyesight Issue, Check Engine, Brake and many others. I was able to disengage the crash prevention manually and continue to drive. When I took it to my mechanic, he told me all the codes went to a Technical Service Bulletin for the Thermo Control Valve. He reset the codes and told me to take it to Subaru for an under warranty repair. Once I left the mechanic, I was travelling home and the car had the same issues, again while driving on a very busy road. This time I could not disengage the system, and I struggled to get the car over to the left shoulder. It was very narrow, and not safe. I ended up having to have the car towed to the dealer. The dealer did fix the car, under warranty. However, twice I was caught on busy roads in a very dangerous situation. I am very glad that I was not injured, nor those that came to rescue me. But this should not have happened. The Technical Service Bulletin was issued on April of 2024 and I had no idea.

Reported

Oct 2025

Incident date

Oct 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The auto stop/start feature occasionally causes the entire vehicle to totally shut off. This happened 3 times 2 years ago and I was to it was a low battery. On 10/4/25, the car is stopped at a red light on a four lane highway and when my wife stepped on the gas to start, the vehicle totally shut off. After panicking, I helped her turn the electronics on in order to start the flashers, then move the vehicle from drive to park, and then restart the vehicle. With cars moving at 55 miles an hour toward a green light we were very concerned about getting hit from behind. Luckily, we were not hit. The Subaru dealer then suggested the problem might be the ECM and they charged us $203 for a software update. It is not clear what causes this total vehicle shutdown but it is a significant safety issue that puts the vehicle and occupants at risk. I hope the Subaru engineers have identified and fixed this issue in future models.

Reported

Oct 2025

Incident date

Oct 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

- *Incident 1 (2023):* While driving, my vehicle suddenly stopped while in drive gear, accompanied by a high-pitched alarm and multiple engine service lights. It took over 30 seconds to shift into park and restart the vehicle. The incident occurred at an intersection, and I was fortunate to avoid any collisions. - *Incident 2 (September 2025):* The same problem recurred on two separate occasions- AFTER CERTIFIED REPAIRS. The vehicle came to a complete stop while driving uphill at a decelerated speed, and also while stopped at an intersection. In both instances, the gear was in drive, and the vehicle shut down completely, displaying engine service lights. *Previous Repairs:* - *TCV Replacement:* The Thermo Control Valve was replaced under warranty due to a faulty issue affecting the EyeSight system. - *Battery Replacement:* The battery was replaced under warranty in 2023 after the initial incident. Whats concerning is that my dealer said to have found an “after market” appliance hooked up. This said feature was placed by certified subaru dealership when vehicle was purchased. This said item was never identified as to causing the said issue. Which raised even more safety concerns.

Reported

Oct 2025

Incident date

Sep 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

50k Mileage Mark: When the vehicle turned off at the stop light to save gas, the car stalled. I had to frequently put the car back in Park, and restart the engine. Since then, I had to turn off the “auto turn off” function for fear of the car stalling on the road. This has caused unnecessary anxiety and fear while driving, harming my psychological wellness. Since the 50k mark this has happened about 10 times. The most recent issue was this month

Reported

Sep 2025

Incident date

Sep 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Car has died 10+ times in the last 2 weeks. Will not hold a charge and it’s getting to the point that my car is dying in the middle of the road, during heavy traffic. That or the car will just not start unless jumped

Reported

Sep 2025

Incident date

Sep 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

At a stop light, auto stop engaged. When foot put on gas, engine died and every warning light the car has appeared on the dash board. It took several tries, but I did get the car started again. Took to dealer who confirmed the incident and replaced the starter at 38, 126 miles. The fuel pump relay was also replaced. After this incident, the cancel auto stop/start button was used most of the time when driving the car. 10 months later, forgetting to engage the cancel button, and the auto stop/start working, the car once again died at an intersection. We were able to get it restarted and it went back to the dealer. They again confirmed that the starter was faulty and once again replaced it and the fuel pump relay. This occurred at 44,770 miles. Thankfully, In both incidents, we were stopped at intersections with traffic lights. The first was in a left turn lane surrounded by cars on a hill. I was able to engage the parking brake before I rolled back into anyone. The second incident was at a flat intersection. Others were stopped around us and no one was approaching us with speed. My concern is that this will occur when waiting to make a left turn at an intersection and the car would roll forward into traffic. Another concern is if highway traffic is stopped and then starts moving again. If the car stalls and won't restart, traffic around you would go forward and traffic behind them would approach your stalled car at speed. Someone is going to be killed from this problem if they haven't been already.

Reported

Sep 2025

Incident date

Sep 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

My 2019 forester touring. The sound system will randomly raise to extremely high volume. It’s an extremely loud, distorted, static version of what you were listening to. You cannot turn it down with the volume control with knob or power it off. It is unresponsive and you must wait 5-10 seconds for the sound to go back to normal. Not knowing when it’s going to happen scares the heck out of me. I’m afraid to drive off the road or cause an accident when being startled in this way. This has been happening since one month of my owning the car. (Ordered it, got it October of 2018] I’ve had it to the dealer numerous times and called Subaru of America. I was told if the problem doesn’t duplicate at the dealer nothing can be done. I only have 24k miles on it. It’s not safe! I now a have grand baby to drive. I also wear a hearing aide now which I cannot drive with as it’s way worse with the high volume the problem produces.

Reported

Sep 2025

Incident date

Nov 2018

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

My Subaru smelled like gas and caught on fire while I was driving to work less than 72 hours after it left the service department at the local Subaru dealership. Earlier that week I dropped the car off for service due to a check engine light and multiple other warning lights on the dashboard. The check engine light was determined to be due to a faulty thermo control valve (a known issue on several models of 2019-2021 Subarus). During that service appointment, the thermo control valve was replaced under warranty, the 60000 mile service, state inspection, and an oil change/tire rotation were completed. The morning of the incident, the car smelled like gas, but there were no warning lights on the dashboard and the temperature and gas gauges were all in range. While looking for a safe place to pull over on the side of the road, the gas smell worsened, I heard a pop, the check engine light and every single other light on the dashboard lit up, it smelled like burning jet fuel, and the front of the car was smoking and there were flames, and all mechanical and electrical control of the vehicle was compromised. The car coasted to the side of the right lane. I was unable to operate the gear shift to put the car in park. I opened the driver’s side door, removed my seatbelt, grabbed my backpack, lunch bag, and phone, and exited the vehicle while it was still rolling. I ran around the back of the car to get onto the side walk. Flaming, melting pieces of plastic were coming off the bottom of the car. Flames and smoke were visible on the front hood of the car. I called 911 while the car continued to roll across several lanes onto the other side of the road. The burning car rolled and hit a guardrail on the opposite side of the road and continued to burn until the local Fire Department arrived on scene. Local police and the fire inspector wrote reports. My insurance declared the car a total loss. I have informed the local dealership and worked to get them access to the vehicle.

Reported

Aug 2025

Incident date

Jul 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Fire

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Forester. The contact was informed by his wife that while driving over bumps in the roadway at various speeds, there was a rattling sound coming from the vehicle, and the driver brief lost control of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a dealer who discovered that the rear stabilizer bracket bolts had detached from the suspension and needed to be replaced. The contact discovered that prior to owning the vehicle, the vehicle was serviced under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V263000 (Suspension). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the recall was no longer applicable to the vehicle. The vehicle was repaired by the dealer. The failure mileage was 102,911.

Reported

Jul 2025

Incident date

May 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owned a 2019 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving on a main road at 30 MPH upon approaching a red light the contact attempted to slow down by depressing the brake pedal, however the vehicle would not slow down, the contact proceeded to swerve to the right and in the process crashed into a lamppost and power pole with the entire front end of the vehicle. There was property damage to both the lamppost and the power pole, and the vehicle came to a stop upon impact. The airbags were deployed. The vehicle was going 30 MPH at the time of the crash. The vehicle was towed to a local junk yard. No warning lights were illuminated. A police report was filed. The vehicle was destroyed. The contact was injured, and she was seated in the driver's seat. No one outside of the vehicle was reported to be injured. The contact sustained injuries to her chest, abdomen, and shins. Medical treatment was required for the injuries. The approximate failure mileage was 50,000.

Reported

Jul 2025

Incident date

Jul 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash 1 injuries

When stearing car it is hard to steal stering will not come back after rounding corners it's almost like there is no power steering sometimes it's there and next it's not

Reported

Jul 2025

Incident date

Jul 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Cracked windshield - Subaru windshields are weak and crack easily. I've been driving 45 years, never had a cracked windshield. I bought a new 2019 Subaru Forester and have had 3 cracked windshields. Ridiculous and dangerous. They need to be recalled and pay for replacements. The first crack happened about 1 1/2 years after purchase, I took to dealership for replacement and paid ~$1,200. Then second crack was a star crack, and I had it sucked out/fixed (~$250). And now, vehicle is 5 years old 45k miles on it and has a huge crack in the middle of the windshield in front of the passenger side.

Reported

Jul 2025

Incident date

Jul 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

CVT Transmission failed and not repairable. 6 months out of warranty but under mileage for warranty at 37,000 miles. Fairly new vehicle that is useless w/o $9,000 for a replacement transmission. Exact same defect in 2018 and older models that Subaru is covering repairs and extended warranty for those years.

Reported

Jun 2025

Incident date

Jun 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

See attached document for complaint.

Reported

Jun 2025

Incident date

Mar 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Subaru Transmission is wonky! Makes noise... Feels unsafe... sent to shop... they say it needs a new transmission

Reported

Jun 2025

Incident date

Jun 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

In May 2025, I had the passenger-side mirror on my 2019 Subaru Forester replaced at a licensed Subaru dealership. I was told the replacement part would be factory-original and matched to the vehicle’s VIN, which specifies a dark metallic grey exterior. After the repair was completed, I noticed that the mirror casing was the wrong color — a visibly lighter grey than the rest of the car. While the mirror is functional and undamaged, the color mismatch may affect how other drivers perceive the vehicle, especially during lane changes or turns. In certain lighting or weather conditions, the inconsistency could potentially cause confusion or misinterpretation of the car’s shape or position. The dealership acknowledged that the wrong part color was used based on my VIN, but refused to replace it without full repayment. There were no warning lights or error messages associated with the issue. The part is still installed on the vehicle and available for inspection. I am reporting this as a consumer concern regarding improper VIN-matched component replacement, which may pose a minor but notable risk to the awareness and safety of other drivers.

Reported

Jun 2025

Incident date

May 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

During severe stop/go, thick, holiday traffic on I-495 (DC Beltway), during daylight hours, once AGAIN (this has happened several times before), the auto engine shutoff feature catastrophically malfunctioned, turning the car off, and simultaneously, activated the entirety of the dashboard to flash on/off, causing nearly every indicator light to come on, and then had difficulty restarting. This has been brought to Subaru's attention multiple times and they essentially have washed their hands of it and stating since they can't duplicate it, it essentially must not be occurring and they cannot repair it.

Reported

May 2025

Incident date

May 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

My car is a 2019 suaru forester 54,268mi I was driving from Houston to Dallas on the freeway during a thunderstorm on [XXX] [XXX]. I got off the freeway and was almost on the road near my house when my car engine suddenly died, I had no control of my car, my car engine would not start anymore. I had no problems with my car before. I towed it home the next day and had it checked with a scanner and it came up with about 25 check engine codes. 5/14/2025 Subaru dealer (ewing of plano) had it checked and had the thermo control valve replaced because it was bad. They had no previous notices or recalls. If my car had stopped in the middle of the freeway it could have been a major accident..other people's lives are important..please look into this issue INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

May 2025

Incident date

Apr 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, there was white smoke coming from the exhaust pipes. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who diagnosed that the engine PCV had failed, causing catastrophic damage to the engine. The contact was advised that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed that the vehicle was previously serviced under NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V856000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); and the engine was replaced as part of the recall repair. The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 122,000.

Reported

May 2025

Incident date

May 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Since I purchased the vehicle, I have experienced recurring problems with the starter system, affecting the car's performance and reliability. Despite receiving regular maintenance and being evaluated at the authorized Subaru dealership in San Juan, Puerto Rico, the issue remains unresolved. I was informed that even if I replace the part with a new one, the failure could continue, as the component is still being manufactured under the same part number. As a preventive measure, I also replaced the battery to rule out a possible cause, but unfortunately, the problem persists. This is particularly concerning because the car has shut off in the middle of traffic, at intersections, and while waiting at traffic lights, which poses a serious safety risk to me and other drivers. I understand that this issue may be common among other vehicles of the same make and model, and I respectfully request that it be investigated as a potential case for a technical service campaign or safety recall. Additionally, I ask that my case be reviewed for a goodwill repair, as the issue has been present since early in the vehicle’s use—even if the standard warranty has expired. I look forward to your response and to a fair and timely resolution. I sincerely appreciate your attention and assistance in this matter.

Reported

Apr 2025

Incident date

Nov 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Auto start/stop shut off engine at drive thru line. Locked up brakes and could not get it to unlock and restart car. It has happened on a number of occasions. After multiple attempts trying and letting it sit for a couple of hours, somehow got it to unlock and start. Thank goodness we haven’t gotten into an accident

Reported

Apr 2025

Incident date

Apr 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

1) The seat is cracking on the drivers seat. The vehicle only has 64,000 miles on it. No word from Subaru. 2) Parking collision warning system works part of the time. Dangerous when the system does not detect a person or vehicle in the blind spot.

Reported

Mar 2025

Incident date

Mar 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I got in my vehicle after getting gas. I was on my way to Neosho, MO, hundreds of miles from home. Thes lights were all on and I couldn't get them to go off. I figured it was because my windshield was dirty. I turned my wipers on to find out one needed replaced. I paid $30 for 1 since I have an odd type of wipers and I had been to 3 auto stores to find it. The Eye Sight, brake, check engine, air bag, and lane assist lights never went off. Now they come on randomly and go off randomly. This causes all safety features to not work. No adaptive cruise control, nothing. I finally got them to go off somehow the day I came back home. I live nowhere near a Subaru dealer. It had no other effect on my vehicle as far as I could tell. Now when they come on. I pull over until they come back on or have to drive it home to sit.

Reported

Mar 2025

Incident date

Nov 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

When I first noticed that my car wasn’t heating properly, it was in May 20 24 when I purchased the car and Carvana dropped it off to my place of residency. When I notified someone of this issue, they told me it probably just needed coolant. I did as instructed and noticed that I was adding in coolant frequently. On February 19, 2025 I returned home one evening and noticed that smoke coming from my car and coolant was leaking from underneath. I called roadside assistance in order to get my car towed and into service at the Subaru dealership. After inspection, the mechanic noticed that there was oil inside the coolant suggesting that there may be an issue with the head gaskets then warned me not to drive my car because there could be further issue with the engine as a result of the head gasket being blown.

Reported

Feb 2025

Incident date

Feb 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Forester. The contact stated while driving approximately 55 MPH, there was an alarm heard before several unknown warning lights illuminated and the vehicle lost motive power and decelerated to 35 MPH. The contact shifted to neutral to restart the vehicle. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and waited for a while before continuing to drive. The eyesight, brake light, automatic transmission, oil temp, and several other warning lights illuminated intermittently. The failure occurred a second time on the same day. The dealer was contacted and advised the contact to take the vehicle to the dealer whenever the lights were illuminated. The vehicle had not been taken to the dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was 119,000.

Reported

Feb 2025

Incident date

Feb 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The issue started last year over a period of several months when my car kept stalling at a traffic light. After stopping on a red light my car stalled. I had to shut off the car then restart to get it going. Had the battery replaced and problem was gone until this week. Car stalled at the traffic light again (in the middle of busy downtown and being the 1st car at the intersection), but this time it wouldn't restart and battery light turned on when attemped to restart. Called Subaru road assist and requested jumpstart service. While waiting for road assist to arrive, attempted to jumpstarts with a manual jump starter, but didn't work. Attempted with the jumpstart cables, but still didn't work. Subaru assist arrived and was able to successfully jumpstart my car. The Subaru tech assessed my battery and showed 75% battery life. Drove home on the freeway for about 25 miles. The next day drove to and home from work (25 miles reach way) with no issues. The following day, my car wouldn't start from my home. Jumpstarted with the manual one and brought it to the shop a few miles away. Got to the shop and turned off the engine. When turning on again, it wouldn't start.

Reported

Jan 2025

Incident date

Jan 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

[XXX], driving home, dark at [XXX] in Airway Heights WA. About 10 mins to home, lights in dashboard suddenly lit (brake, check engine, battery icon, water temp icon, 2 yellow colored pictures that had the word “off”, park, ABS, exclamation point next to a circle that had a symbol in circle like a Mercedes Benz, and another symbol colored yellow). I kept driving with very little power in the car and it was hard turning the wheels to left or right turns. I was so scared thinking I would be stranded in the middle of the street! Made it to my carport and drove it in. Turned off car; attempted to restart but didn’t, and during the times I started the car, it would make a stuttering noise. The lights that lit up remained, wouldn’t turn off until attempt to start again when the lights all turned off. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

Dec 2024

Incident date

Dec 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

cracked windshield

Reported

Dec 2024

Incident date

Dec 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

When I break and stop the car power is reduced, at times it stalls out and be hard to start again when starting back up in traffic. This is also starting to happen in my other Forrester of the same year.

Reported

Dec 2024

Incident date

Dec 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

As I was driving, every warning light came on, my car emitted a high pitched alarm and the car stopped working. This happened twice. I had to put my car in park. Turn off the car and turn it back on to make it driveable. I took it to the dealer and was informed that the battery and starter required replacement. The battery was covered by an extended warranty (I paid $100 or 20% of the cost), but the starter was not covered by any warranty since my car has 41K miles and is 5 yrs old. I contacted Subaru and they agreed to pay $800 towards the $1209.13 repair. My Subaru Case # 241016-1801159. I believe my starter failed because of the automatic start/stop engine feature. I asked the dealer if the starter failure could have been detected during a regular maintenance and they said no.

Reported

Oct 2024

Incident date

Sep 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Forester. The contact stated while driving at 65 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed and became inoperable. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or independent mechanic for diagnosis or repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 12,000.

Reported

Oct 2024

Incident date

Oct 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The power lift gate closes on people when trying to open it.

Reported

Oct 2024

Incident date

Oct 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

1 injuries

While driving, the engine stalled and many dash lights came on. The thermo control valve was the cause. There was no warning and fortunately I was able to park off of the roadway. The car was towed to the nearest Subaru dealership at a cost of $223.00. The car was repaired under the extended warranty, but I am out the towing fee. Had the defective part been recalled, I would not have experienced this engine failure.

Reported

Sep 2024

Incident date

Sep 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash

See attached document for complaint.

Reported

Aug 2024

Incident date

Aug 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Forester and Crosstrek vehicles. A connector inside the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) unit may short circuit resulting in a loss of electric power steering assistance.

Risk: Loss of power steering assist would require higher steering effort, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: None of the affected vehicles have been sold yet. Subaru has notified dealers and they will inspect the steering gearbox, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 7, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUC-88.

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent vehicles. The aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve can separate, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, resulting in a loss of power while driving.

Risk: An unexpected loss of power while driving can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the PCV valve, free of charge. If the PCV valve has separated and the components cannot be found, the short block engine will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began January 31, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUW-08.

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Subaru Crosstrek, 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid, and 2019 Forester vehicles. The rear stabilizer bracket bolts may loosen and detach.

Risk: Missing bolts may allow the rear stabilizer bracket to shift, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will retorque and replace any missing bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 17, 2021. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRD-21.