Who are we? We are Lemberg Law, a Consumer Law Firm
Lemberg Law is a consumer law firm helping victims of bad manufacturing and run-arounds from auto companies. We are ranked A+ by the BBB. Call our Helpline today! There is no charge unless we win.
For consumers looking to find a family-friendly vehicle, it’s often been the 2017 Subaru Forester that gets chosen. After all, Subaru is known for its dependability. The company even states that the newest models provide “Quality That Lasts.” Yet, those that actually own this model have something different to say. They claim that the defective airbags, faulty powertrain and poorly constructed engine are just the tip of the iceberg.
Click on other model year to view more problems: 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Contents
We've fixed thousands of lemon problems. Message or call 877-795-3666 today.
Complaint Category | Number of Complaints |
---|---|
Air Bags | |
Visibility/wiper | |
Electrical System | |
Unknown Or Other | |
Engine | |
Power Train | |
Vehicle Speed Control | |
Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification | |
Seats | |
Steering |
Airbags are needed to keep occupants safe, but this technology rarely gets evaluated. Instead, most consumers just expect that they are going to work when the time comes. Owners of the 2017 Subaru Forester know that this is something that should never be taken for granted.
One NHTSA complaint says, “Involved in a car accident that was where the Subaru was T-boned on the passenger side, resulting in extensive damage. Both front and rear door and all paneling on the passenger side had to be replaced. The side airbags failed to deploy upon impact. My vehicle was moving at 40 mph and the vehicle that hit me was going 20-30 mph and accelerating.”
It turns out that a recall was issued because of these concerns. NHTSA Campaign Number 19V701000 discusses how the front passenger airbag connection loosens and causes the airbag to fail during an accident. This affected more than 300,000 vehicles, but the automaker didn’t make the parts available right away. Instead, owners are told to wait for repairs. Maybe the tagline should be – Injuries that Last instead.
PURCHASED A 2017 SUBARU FORESTER. ON 09/24/16. ON 09/05/17 THE WARNING LIGHT ON DASHBOARD CAME ON WARNING THAT THE PASSENGER AIRBAGS WERE NOT FUNCTIONING. THIS HAPPENED WHEN A PASSENGER WAS IN THE PASSENGER SEAT AND THE CAR WAS ON A HIGHWAY. THE WARNING LIGHT HAS COME ON 40-50 TIMES WHEN THE CAR IS ON THE ROAD AND A PASSENGER IS IN THE PASSENGER SEAT. THE CAR WAS BROUGHT INTO DEALER AND I WAS TOLD MULTIPLE TIMES CODES WERE NOT THERE SO NO PROBLEM. WE WERE TOLD DO NOT PLACE ANYTHING ELECTRONIC NEAR THE SEAT. TOLD WE HAD SPILLED LIQUID ON SEAT AND SEAT DIRTY. NOTHING HAS EVER BEEN SPILLED ON THE SEATS. I FIND IT TROUBLING THAT A MAJOR SAFETY SYSTEM OF A VEHICLE IS MALFUNCTIONING ON A REGULAR BASIS AND THE SUBARU IS NOT ACTIVELY TRYING TO FIX THE VEHICLES. I WENT INTO DEALER TODAY ON 3 OCT 2019 TO AGAIN HAVE THE PROBLEM LOOKED AT ONLY TO BE TOLD THAT THE CAR IS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY AND THEY CAN ORDER PART. I HAVE SEARCHED ONLINE AND IT IS INTERESTING TO SEE THAT SO MANY OTHER SUBARU FORESTER OWNERS HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM AND THERE ARE LAW GROUPS LINING UP CLASS ACTION SUITS. I WOULD JUST LIKE SUBARU TO TAKE OWNERSHIP OF THE PROBLEM AND FIX THE AIRBAG SYSTEMS BEFORE SOMEONE IS INJURED OR KILLED.
THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG SENSOR DOES NOT ALWAYS KNOW WHEN AN ADULT IS SEATED IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG WILL REMAIN OFF EVEN WHEN AN ADULT IS SEATED WITH THE SEAT BELT ON. THE AIRBAG LIGHT WILL LIGHT UP ON THE DASH RANDOMLY BUT CLEARS ONCE THE VEHICLE IS SHUT OFF. THIS OCCURS WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION AND IS CONCERNING AS THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG WOULD NOT DEPLOY IN A CRASH.
2017 SUBARU FORESTER WITH 45,000 MILES – AIR BAG SENSOR WENT OUT UNEXPECTEDLY (AS SHOWN BY A RED AIRBAG LIGHT ON THE DASHBOARD) AIR BAG WOULD NOT DEPLOY IF THE CAR WERE TO GET INTO AN ACCIDENT EVEN WHEN THERE WAS A PERSON IN THE PASSENGER SEAT OF THE CAR. LIGHT WOULD INDICATE THAT THERE WAS AN ISSUE WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED. LIGHT WOULD TURN OFF ON OCCASION AND THEN TURN BACK ON, EVEN WITH NO CHANGE IN WEIGHT ON THE SEAT, INDICATING THAT THE SENSOR WAS FAULTY. NOTHING WAS SPILLED ON THE SEAT WHERE THE SENSOR IS LOCATED NOR SHOULD THERE BE ANY OTHER REASON THAT THE SENSOR SHOULD STOP WORKING AT ONLY 45,000 MILES. THIS WAS PURELY AN EQUIPMENT MALFUNCTION.
THE SRS AIRBAG SYSTEM WARNING LIGHT BEGAN TO OCCASIONALLY ALERT AND TURN OFF THE PASSENGER AIRBAG AT ABOUT 25,000 MILES IN BOTH OF OUR 2 YEAR OLD 2017 SUBARU FORESTERS. NOW THE PASSENGER AIRBAG TURNS OFF WHEN JUST ABOUT ANYTHING IS PUT INTO THE FRONT SEAT. THIS HAPPENS BOTH WHEN THE CAR IS RUNNING WHILE IT IS STATIONARY OR WHEN IT IS IN MOTION. NEITHER CAR HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN AN INCIDENT/ACCIDENT.
When it comes to the powertrain, Subaru owners aren’t just complaining that this component is underpowered, but also faulty.
Just look at this Edmunds review. “Incredibly sluggish for a CVT. the gearing designed to simulate actual shifting is terrible. It is so awful that at low speeds the vehicle will jerk you around rather than driving smoothly because it can’t decide if you are driving in its fake 2nd or fake 3rd gears. Additionally it appears that the transmission either slips or cannot decide whether it is time to engage when you hit the gas suddenly from a stand still. This is particularly dangerous if you need to accelerate in order to avoid a collision.”
It seems there are multiple problems going on with the powertrain. In Service Bulletin #WTJ-70A, it’s stated that CVT transmissions in the Forester require additional fluid. It appears that they didn’t have the right amount when leaving the factory. At what point does the factory employ workers that aren’t sure how to fill or quality check the fluid levels? This is not what high-quality looks like and should cause them to feel embarrassed.
I HAVE OWNED MANY SUBARU`S AND HAVE NOT HAD ANY ISSUES WITH THE TRANSMISSIONS. MY NEW 2017 FORESTER HAS AN ISSUE SHIFTING GEARS. ALTHOUGH IT HAS ONLY HAPPEND ONCE, THE TIME IT HAPPEND WAS PRETTY SCARY. AS I WAS SLOWING DOWN AT A RED LIGHT THE LIGHT CHANGED TO GREEN BEFORE I MADE A COMPLETE STOP. AT THIS POINT I THEN ACCELERATED THE CAR BUT THE TRANSMISSION WOULD NOT SWITCH GEAR. I THEN THOUGHT I HAD THE CAR IN MANUAL MODE BUT IT WASN’T. I HAD TO SLOW ALL THE WAY DOWN TO GET THE TRANSMISSION TO SHIFT AGAIN. THIS ALL HAPPEND WHILE TURNING. THE DRIVER BEHIND US HAD TO SWERVE AROUND OUR CAR TO AVOID HITTING US BECAUSE I WAS GOING TO SLOW WHEN THE LIGHT WAS GREEN. THIS ISSUE PUT MY FAMILY AND MYSELF IN DANGER WHEN DRIVING ON THE ROAD. I SPOKE WITH SUBARU BUT THEY SAID GIVEN THAT THE CAR WAS NO LONGER EXPERIENCING IT, THEY COULDNT DO ANYTHING. I WAS WONDERING IF SUBARU WILL BE ISSUING A RECALL ON THEIR CVT TRANSMISSIONS. I DON`T WANT THIS TO HAPPEN TO ME AGAIN AND NEXT TIME IT DOES TURN INTO A CRASH. PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHAT CAN BE DONE.
VEHICLE OFTEN SHUDDERS VIOLENTLY AT LOW SPEEDS COMING TO A STOP – STALLING ITSELF ONCE. WHEN MERGING ONTO FREEWAY OR OVERTAKING ON THE HIGHWAY THE VEHICLE OCCASIONALLY MAKES LOUD CLICKING NOISE AND AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION ACTS AS IF IT IS DISENGAGED (LIKE A FULLY DEPRESSED CLUTCH PEDAL IN A MANUAL, AND ENGINE STILL REVS). TOOK TO SUBARU DEALER MULTIPLE TIMES AND RECEIVED THE “WE CAN’T REPLICATE IT SO THERE IS NO PROBLEM” FEEDBACK – DEALER ALSO CLAIMS THERE ARE NO ERROR CODES. CONTACTED SUBARU OF AMERICA (SOA) DIRECTLY AND WAS INSTRUCTED BY SOA TO TRUST DEALER’S DIAGNOSIS. ONLINE FORUMS AND INDEPENDENT MECHANICS BELIEVE MY ISSUE IS A BAD TORQUE CONVERTER OR SOME ISSUE WITH THE AUTOMATIC CVT TRANSMISSION – A SIMILAR ISSUE CONSUMER GROUPS HAVE ACCUSED SUBARU FOR ON PREVIOUS GENERATIONS OF MY VEHICLE
AS I WAS SLOWLY ROLLING INTO A FRONT PARKING SPOT THE CAR ACCELERATED ON IT’S OWN – I TURNED THE WHEEL TO THE LEFT SO I WOULDN’T CRASH FULL ON INTO THE BUILDING – TRYING TO CONTROL THE CAR – I WENT OVER A CURB THAT WAS JETTING OUT – DEFINING THE PARKING SPACES – MY RIGHT FRONT AND BACK TIRES WENT OVER THE CURB – JUST MISSING A TREE – FINALLY COMING TO A STOP – IF THERE WAS ANYONE THERE – I WOULD HAVE HIT THEM – THAT DAY I TOOK THE CAR TO THE SUBARU DEALER AND TOLD THEM WHAT HAPPENED – AND ON MY PAPERWORK IT STATED “CUSTOMER STATES SUBARU SEEMS TO ACCELERATE ON ITS OWN – TECH FOUND NO CODES. TECH DROVE VEHICLE AND COULD NOT DUPLICATE”
Arguably one of the most important parts of any car is the engine. It’s considered the heart of the entire vehicle. When this fails, the vehicle is essentially worthless. While most new cars don’t have trouble with the engine, the 2017 Subaru Forester isn’t one of them.
This NHTSA reviewer says, “Our defective, now discontinued model, new 2017 Subaru Forester XT Touring has broken down while accelerating on the highway twice due to a faulty piston thus leading to our engine being replaced. The first time the car was moving east on i-70 in Colorado and luckily my husband was able to veer in the median of an exit ramp. The second time we were traveling east on i-70 again and luckily were able to pull off on the side of the freeway. This all began at 22,352 miles and to-date the market value of repairs has accumulated to $16,100.00. This same engine issue has happened two years in a row, yet a Subaru representative mentioned to us that it is cheaper for Subaru to fix vehicle by vehicle that comes in instead of issuing a nation-wide recall on our model. We were told our Forester XT has the same engine that is in an Impreza, which is not safe and is not right to the consumer.”
The company isn’t blind to what is occurring with the engines. Even Service Bulletin #11-169-16R discusses knocking during high intake air temperature, surging during acceleration and random Check Engine light illumination. All of these problems require an updated ECM. If this car was built to last, why does it need updates right out of the gate?
2.5 MANUAL, BURNS OIL AT EXCESSIVE RATE. CHECK ENGINE OIL LIGHT TURNED TWICE SO FAR, ONCE AT 2K MILES ON A CAR AND NEXT TIME AT 16K MILES. BOTH LIGHTS WERE WELL WITHIN THE OIL CHANGE SCHEDULE AND THE CAR HAS NOT BEEN SUBDUED TO ANY UNUSUAL USE. UNABLE TO TRAVEL IN THE CAR LONG DISTANCES WITHOUT HAVING 2 QUARTS OF OIL IN A TRUNK DUE TO POSSIBLE ENGINE FAILURE FOR LACK OF OIL. BOTH TIMES THE LOW OIL LIGHTS WENT UP WHEN TRAVELING ON ROADS AND SUBARU DEALER HAD TO ADD OIL
WHILE DRIVING MY VEHICLE WANTS TO STALL AND I HAVE TO FLOOR THE GAS PEDAL AND IT SLOWLY STARTS TO ACCELERATE. IM AFRAID THAT ONE OF THESE DAYS IT WILL NOT ACCELERATE AND WILL CAUSE A FATAL ACCIDENT. I BROUGHT IT IN TO PINE BELT SUBARU IN LAKEWOOD, NJ FOR SERVICE AND THEY SAID THE SOFTWARE NEEDS UPDATING AND THEY UPDATED IT. HOWEVER, ITS STILL STALLING. THIS STALLING HAPPENS MANY TIMES
When it comes to steering an SUV, most people know that it shouldn’t feel much different than a smaller car. The vehicle might be a little larger, but engineers tend to calibrate everything to feel just right. With the 2017 Subaru Forester, that’s not exactly the case.
One Edmunds reviewer explains it like this, “This is our 4th Subaru. Previously owned Impreza 2007, Forester 2011 and Outback 2013. I got to say, I’m extremely disappointed with 2017 Forester. Aesthetically it is very appealing and during the test drive everything appears to be great. Well after driving for 5 thousand miles and couple of smaller road trips, we realized that ride quality is very poor, it feels like the car wobbles side to side like a carriage and because of the wobble it you constantly have to correct the wheel for it to go straight, especially at higher speeds.”
Once again, the automaker isn’t oblivious to the concerns. With Service Bulletin #04-23-18R, they make it clear that they know about sounds coming from the electronic power steering gearbox assembly. These sounds present as a rattling, clanging and knocking along with vibration. What’s humorous about the entire communication is that they provide their technicians with a flow chart to figure out what’s wrong. It’s as if they are acknowledging that their trained technicians are incapable of diagnosing steering sounds. To build a vehicle with Quality that Lasts, it might help to have some techs and engineers that know the basics of automobiles.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO TURN THE VEHICLE INTO AN INTERSECTION, THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED AND THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A POLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND RECEIVED FRONT END DAMAGE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NECK AND BACK INJURIES. THE CONTACT DID NOT RECEIVE MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,000
STEERING STICKS WHILE IN A TURN AND RESISTS THE DRIVERS INPUT TO STRAIGHTEN THE WHEEL, CAUSING EITHER FAILURE TO STRAIGHTEN ON DEMAND OR OVER-STEERING TO OPPOSITE SIDE WHILE ATTEMPTING TO STRAIGHTEN. THIS IS AN INTERMITTENT ISSUE AND VARIES IN BOTH FREQUENCY AND SEVERITY, AND TYPICALLY OCCURS DURING EACH USE OF THE VEHICLE. THE MALFUNCTION SEEMS TO OCCUR MORE FREQUENTLY DURING SUSTAINED LEFT TURNS, AND IS MOST PROBLEMATIC ON CURVY ROADS WHERE FAILURE TO STRAIGHTEN WHEELS OR OVER-STEERING TO OPPOSITE SIDE COULD BE CATASTROPHIC. THE MALFUNCTION OCCURS WHILE IN A TURNING MOTION ON CITY STREETS AND ON CURVY HIGHWAYS, USUALLY WHEN WHEEL IS TURNED MORE THAN ~20 DEGREES AND SUSTAINED BRIEFLY. THE ISSUE WAS REPORTED TO THE SUBARU DEALER. THEY DROVE AND INSPECTED THE CAR AND WERE UNABLE TO FIX OR DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM.
THE STEERING GETS LOCKED AND THE KEY WILL NOT TURN. THE WHEELS ARE NOT TURNED IN AND ARE STRAIGHT. DEALER CLAIMS”THIS IS NORMAL” CAN NOT START THE CAR WITHOUT FIGHTING WITH THE STEERING AND THE KEY. VERY SCARY AND DANGEROUS.
At first, it might seem that the electrical system is simply just the battery and alternator, but there’s so much more to it than that. In fact, the electrical components operate almost every feature inside the cabin. When there’s a fault, even a small one, it creates a very uncomfortable ride.
One Edmunds user wanted to share his concerns with the vehicle by saying, “My name is Steve and I recently purchased new 2018 Subaru Forester. Not long afterwards I had a very surprising discovery I would like to share with you guys. Every time you will disconnect your battery you will need to have your windows reprogrammed in order for them to function. It can be done at your Subaru dealership. I did contact Subaru of America representative to confirm everything – yes, windows need to be reprogrammed. And on top of enormous inconvenience it brings – YOU WILL HAVE TO PAY FOR IT!”
What a terrible design this is. It turns out that Subaru wasn’t happy with their power windows either. That’s why they issued Service Bulletin #07-152-19R to announce new power windows switch assemblies. This was done to address other concerns, such as the inability to operate windows from the driver’s side and to create one-touch functions. At least the company is trying to make a Quality that Lasts the second time around; it’s just too bad for those that got the vehicle before they cared.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE LOST POWER WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART ITSELF AFTER A FEW MINUTES. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PROFILE SUBARU, BUT THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 1,500.
VEHICLES BATTERY HAS SLOW CRANKING POWER, SINCE NEW CURRANT MILES ARE 47,800 TODAY VEHICLES SLOW TO START ,ONCE STARTED ALL ENGINE WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATE AND STAY ON AND VEHICLE WILL NOT DRIVE IN FORWARD OR REVERSE, REPLACED BATTERY WITH NEW AND VEHICLE STARTED NORMAL AND STRONG, PUT INTO DRIVE AND VEHICLE DROVE NORMAL, PUT INTO REVERSE AND AGAIN VEHICLE WILL NOT DRIVE FORWARD OR REVERSES, VEHICLE IN IN DEALERSHIP REPAIR FACILITIES AT THIS TIME, PROBLEM UNKNOWN,
Advanced technologies are only as good as those that engineered it. If the systems don’t work, drivers are put in more danger than before they were included. That’s precisely what happens with the vehicle speed control of a 2017 Subaru Forester.
NHTSA filed a complaint saying, “The consumer stated while attempting to park the vehicle, it accelerated in reverse. The vehicle drove over a curb and crashed into a tree. The brakes were inoperable. The key was removed from the ignition to bring the vehicle to a stop. The airbag did not deploy.”
There are multiple problems addressed in this complaint. Not only is the SUV doing whatever it feels like, but the airbag is not working as illustrated earlier. This is one dangerous combination, so it would be natural for the automaker to scramble to find solutions. Yet, there isn’t one communication regarding the vehicle speed control. It’s as if the company decided that talking about it would prove that this vehicle wasn’t built to be high-quality as promised. Instead, they have chosen to run and hide. Let’s just hope they aren’t running in front of an out of control Forester.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2017 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE PARKING THE VEHICLE, IT ACCELERATED FORWARD ON ITS OWN. THE CONTACT ENGAGED THE PARKING BRAKE, BUT THE VEHICLE FINALLY STOPPED AFTER CRASHING INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED AWAY. THE CONTACT WAS INJURED AND TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL FOR MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 20,000. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY WITHOUT WARNING. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A CEMENT DIVIDER. THE VEHICLE THEN LUNGED FORWARD AND CRASHED INTO A TREE THREE TIMES AND A PARKED VEHICLE. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED HEAD INJURIES THAT DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. IT WAS UNKNOWN IF A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOW LOT AND LATER TOWED TO MCKENNA SUBARU. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO LOCATE A FAILURE CODE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2017 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PULL THE VEHICLE INTO A PARKING SPACE, IT SUDDENLY EXPERIENCED UNINTENDED ACCELERATION. THE DRIVER LOST CONTROL AND CRASHED INTO A PARKED VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO AN UNDISCLOSED LOCATION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE LEFT WRIST, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE LOCAL DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE.
One of the final complaints to deal with is the trouble with the windshield. This is a rampant problem that deserves attention.
Just look at this NHTSA review. “Damaged windshield from a tiny pebble resulting in a 2-inch spider webbed. Crack. Driving on highway on a paved road without any construction. Very small pebble struck windshield and left a large crack.”
Again, Subaru has remained silent about cracking windshields despite the long list of drivers claiming it has happened to them. Instead, they discuss a different visibility concern with Service Bulletin #12-272-19R. It states another design change made, this time to the front door glass run channels. It appears the first design allowed water to run into the channels and cause a stick-slip condition that affects the operation of the windows. How many redesigns does this car need to undergo to be officially declared low-quality? After the first, people should have gotten the hint that this isn’t the vehicle they thought it was.
THE WINDSHIELD ON MY VEHICLE DEVELOPED DOZENS OF CHIPS AFTER ONLY 40K MILES OF DRIVING. MY PREVIOUS VEHICLES DRIVEN IN THE SAME MANNER IN THE SAME PLACES HAD NO SUCH PROBLEM. THE OTHER THE DAY FACTORY WINDSHIELD DEVELOPED A LARGE CRACK AND HAD TO BE REPLACED. PLEASE LOOK AT OTHER OWNER COMPLAINTS AT SUBARUFORESTER.ORG ABOUT THE QUALITY OF THE FORESTER WINDSHIELD. THERE IS A TREND OF BROKEN WINDSHIELDS ON THIS MODEL. THIS IS DEFINITELY A SAFETY ISSUE THAT SUBARU NEEDS TO RESOLVE. THE FACTORY WINDSHIELD IS TOO WEAK.
WINDSHIELD CRACKED ALL BY ITSELF A SECOND TIME. GOT INTO THE CAR, LOOKED UP, MASSIVE CRACK FROM THE TOP EDGE DOWN AND ACROSS. THERE WAS NO IMPACT. FILED INSURANCE CLAIM, TOOK TO DEALERSHIP, HAD WINDSHIELD REPLACED WITH ANOTHER OEM SUBARU WINDSHIELD, HAD EYESIGHT SYSTEM CALIBRATED. CAR SAT AT DEALERSHIP UNDRIVEABLE FOR 4 MONTHS BECAUSE WINDSHIELD WAS ON NATIONAL BACKORDER.
OWN A 2017 SUBARU FORESTER, WE HAVE LESS THAN 11,000 MILES AND LESS THAN ONE YEAR OF OWNERSHIP. A SMALL STONE HITTING THE WINDSHIELD, QUICKLY ENDS UP IN A 24″ TO 30″ LONG LINEAR CRACK UNLIKE MY OTHER TWO VEHICLES. WE ARE IN PROCESS OF REPLACING 3RD WINDSHIELD GLASS IN LESS THAN ONE YEAR. IT APPEARS THAT THERE MAY BE AN OEM DEFECT. THIS LONG CRACK CREATES DANGER VISION PROBLEM. EVERY WINDSHIELD REPLACEMENT REQUIRES RE-CALIBRATION OF EYESIGHT TOO. THIS IS AN ADDITIONAL BURDEN ON INSURANCE AS WELL AS OWNERS AND SHOULD BE ADDRESSED ASAP. MANUFACTURER HAS NOT YET ACKNOWLEDGE THE EXISTENCE OF DEFECTIVE WINDSHIELD. WE REQUEST THAT CONSUMER PRODUCT RECALL INVESTIGATE THIS ISSUE ASAP.
Think you have a lemon? Sit back and let the experts work out your lemon case at no cost to you. The law makes Subaru pay legal fees. You may be able to get your lemon out of your life. Every year, auto manufacturers buy back, replace or pay cash settlements to thousands of ‘lemon’ owners like you.
Category | Power Train |
Date | Jan 30, 2023 |
State | PA |
Description | The contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormally loud sound. The oil temperature, abs, and traction control warning lights were illuminated. Additionally, the awd failed to operate, and only the fwd was operable. The vehicle had previously been at the dealer for an air conditioner repair, and the dealer reset the warning lights; however, the failure recurred. Additionally, the rear wheel bearings, and valve body solenoid were previously replaced. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 154,095. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Jan 21, 2023 |
State | FL |
Description | We took our 2017 subaru forester on december 9, 2022, to change the ignition switch because our key continued getting stuck. It was covered under an extended warranty. The spark plugs were changed during the same appointment only to satisfy the maintenance agreement. Before we took our subaru in, our vehicle was running at an optimal level, and nothing was wrong with how it drove. On december 10, 2022, we drove our car, and it started to hesitate and misfire. This has never happened before. We called the dealership, and they had us bring the vehicle back in. They performed a fuel injection cleaning and reset the computer. Once again, the same problem continued after picking up our vehicle. The same problem continued daily, and several calls were made to the dealership and trips to the maintenance service department. It is erratic when it happens, but we have experienced it more during city driving versus highway driving. It's been over a month, and the problem is still not resolved. At this point, we genuinely feel that this is a safety issue. Not to mention that if the vehicle continues to perform poorly, it can create additional damage. We are at a point of pure frustration and disappointment. |
Category | Wheels |
Date | Jan 21, 2023 |
State | OR |
Description | I believe this is my 3rd or 4th lug stud that's sheared off when removing. I believe it happened at the dealer once and the tire shop I have the tires rotated at two or three times in the last couple of years. This worries me that they may be weak and could potentially break, while driving, before removal breaks them. The boken stud is typically sheared and stuck inside the lug nut. Google searches would make this seem like it's not an uncommon issue. Subaru may have a tsb for rusted nuts already that may relate to this issue. Tsb 05-79-20 is what I found through google searches, if related. |
Category | Suspension, Wheels |
Date | Jan 16, 2023 |
State | NY |
Description | Ball bearings all broke in car. This is a known issue but not until I googled it. It causes horrible noises and potential inquiry if not corrected. |
Category | Engine |
Date | Jan 09, 2023 |
State | GA |
Description | I have a 2017 subaru forester touring. It has stalled on acceleration twice. Once on a divided highway attempting to increase speed going up slight incline around 60mph. It stalled and shut off. It also stalled but didn't completely shut off going through an intersection at 45mph today. |
Category | Electrical System, Visibility/wiper |
Date | Jan 06, 2023 |
State | WV |
Description | The motor for the wiper fluid dispenser went bad. I took the vehicle back to be repaired and while they had the vehicle apart, I was informed that my entire wiring harness needed to be replaced. Now, my vehicle has sporadic issues such as windows not going down, the door locks engaging on their own, my fuel economy will suddenly drop to 19mpg from 28 mpg. Subaru initially stayed this was all due to the remote start I had installed at a retailer, this was after calling the dealership and they informed me that it was fine since my warranty had just expired. When I tried ro pursue something through the retailer, the dealership that had my vehicle denied saying that it was due to the remote start. So, I am stuck with a vehicle that has numerous problems, is not very safe and everyone says not my problem. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Dec 09, 2022 |
State | NY |
Description | My battery was replaced in may 2021, I bought the car in july 2021. I was never notified that there was a battery problems with the 2017 subaru forester's when I purchased my car and I just had to replace the battery today december 9, 2022. I called subaru and was told that the settlement was only good for 60 days from the action date of september, 2022. So, this this problem could be very serious if not addressed going forward. The car probably should not be on the road if the battery drains that quickly. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Nov 03, 2022 |
State | CO |
Description | I have had to replace my subaru forester battery at least 4 times since I have owned it. The battery dies within a few days of replacing and I am forced to jumpstart the vehicle every time I want to drive. This has been happening since the day I bought the vehicle... |
Category | Steering |
Date | Oct 28, 2022 |
State | NC |
Description | The steering began to shake and vibrate at interstate speeds upon changing lanes or making a "lazy" turn. It has very disconcerting. I slowed down, avoided changing lanes and very wary of the turns while I continued on my journey back home. Over time the problem became progressively worse. I had the tires rebalanced but the problem continued to worsened even at slower speeds. I took the car to another shop but they could not find a problem. I was finally took onto a shop where the mechanic instantly knew what the problem was. He stated he had seen many 2017 subarus with the same problem over the past few months. Both steering control arms had to bee replaced and the tires aligned at a cost of 6. 57. When the problem started the vehicle only had 56,000 and has never been driven off road and only driven on gravel roads at slow speeds about 6 miles a year. I have been driving for over 50 years and have had numerous vehicle during my life and I have never had this happen to a 5year old vehicle with only 56,000 miles. |
Category | Engine |
Date | Oct 27, 2022 |
State | PA |
Description | The catalytic converter had substantial rust and was beyond repair (I. E., welding). The vehicle was only 6 years old and did not have any issues with rust identified during the 2021 annual inspection (as required by our state). This year, the vehicle failed inspection due to the amount of damage from rust. Our mechanic advised the rust was most likely caused by the plastic covers surrounding the catalytic converter not allowing enough air to circulate to keep the area dry / prevent rust from forming. |
Category | Engine |
Date | Sep 29, 2022 |
State | MD |
Description | Exhaust fumes noticed in the passenger cabin of the vehicle. Pzev equipped. I have heard of others experiencing the same issue. This was noted some time ago, however parts were not available at the time and subaru n. A. Had not responded to my written correspondance until I finally phoned them. Very concerned about potential for carbon monoxide. I understandf ford explorer and vw had similar issues. The attached estimate was recently obtained from the dealership but service rep claimed this was the recommended service at time of discovery. |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification |
Date | Sep 23, 2022 |
State | PA |
Description | 2017 subaru forester. Air bag sensor light for the occupant occasionally flashes on and off. We brought it to the dealer and was told the sensor was defective and would not deploy if an accident occurred. The subaru service tech informed us that the air bags would not deploy in case of an accident. The car only has 55,500 miles. It is garaged and has had no front end problems or accidents. This is a safety hazard that could cause a death if the sensor is not working properly and the vehicle was in an accident. |
Category | Electrical System, Exterior Lighting |
Date | Sep 12, 2022 |
State | MA |
Description | This is the same issue we are seeing with our other subaru where we come out to drive and the battery is dead. We would jump the battery and be able to drive for the day and the next day the battery is dead in the morning. I replaced the battery several times over the last few year and the battery would die with a less than 2 month old battery. I was driving around in both cars with jumper cables permanently. After taking it to the dealer, the battery was in great condition, the alternator was charging properly and there is a known electrical issue with this model and year that is part of a class action lawsuit. I had to replace my rear gate module electrical unit because it was going on and off in the night and draining my battery. I will be looking to get re-eimbursed for this company issue. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Aug 30, 2022 |
State | VA |
Description | I am unable to remove key from ignition switch when the car is placed in park requiring shifting several times to finally remove key. 2017 forester with less than 40,000 miles on it. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Aug 30, 2022 |
State | PA |
Description | The windshield cracked without anything happening. It started at the bottom and moved it's way up. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Aug 29, 2022 |
State | MT |
Description | If you do not start the car everyday, the car drains the battery. Car must be jumped. Nothing left on. It has a battery drain problem. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Aug 26, 2022 |
State | NY |
Description | Windshield cracked while being parked on driveway over the week. Car has not been driven for a week and has not been hit by anything prior, normal outdoor temperature 50-85f. |
Category | Engine |
Date | Aug 20, 2022 |
State | NJ |
Description | Noticed sputtering in my car. Took it to dealership. I was told I needed condenser and compressor. When googled, there was a recall for condenser for subaru forester 2017 model. The dealership told me that it's only vin# specific for that reason not covered under recall. That was a shock. Same model and year but they would only cover certain vin #? For the same known issue? Why? It should cover all vin # for the safety of the consumer. I am writing to report the issues encountered so far with this vehicle. 1. Batteries were leaking prematurely, I got it replaced 4 months ago 2. Need condenser and compressor replaced at less than 60,000 miles for a newly car purchased car from dealership. Please look in to this issue if reported by more consumers for safety reason and also to hold the company accountable for faulty parts. Thank you. |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification, Seats |
Date | Aug 19, 2022 |
State | MD |
Description | My vehicle had the wum98 safety recall completed on march 09, 2020. In july 2022, the srs system started giving error messages that the system needed to be checked. It seemed to reset when the vehicle was turned off and restarted. When it happened for the 3rd time in 3 weeks, I took it in to the subaru dealership where they found this: b1650 perform diag tsb#07-108-16r. They claimed that the seat must have gotten wet to create this error code, but it seems to me to be the same problem as was reported in the :number: wum-98r nhtsa id: 19v-701 date: 10/14/19 revised: 12/13/19 documents that I found on the nhsta site. I think the same issue is in this newer harness that was in the older one. On august 16,2022, we picked up the vehicle from its other repairs (60,000 mile service and ac condenser replacement). The dealer had just reset the b1650 code. We drove less than 50 miles before the âsrs airbag system needs to be checkedâ error message came back on. It only seems to come on at certain times when the passenger is over 190lbs. In addition, every once in a while the passenger seatbelt alarm goes off with no one in the seat. The only way to get it to stop is to engage the seatbelt. The subaru dealer wants to replace the seat cushion with the harness and the ods mat for a total of 00. 00. I believe that this was one of the options to do in 2020, but they opted for only replacing the cable, not the full sensor and seat. |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification, Seats |
Date | Aug 17, 2022 |
State | AZ |
Description | The contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the passenger's side front seat and air bag sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 46,000. |
Category | Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Aug 14, 2022 |
State | IL |
Description | After coming to a complete stop, the vehicle, a 2017 subaru forrester suddenly and without driver input surged forward. It crashed into a large garbage can directly in front of the vehicle, crushing it. It then continued forward crushing two whole-home air conditioning units and driving one of them into a brick wall, dislodging and breaking some of the bricks. The vehicle suffered considerable front end damage including the bumper, right front fender, and right headlight. The collision avoidance system should have prevented this occurrence as the flat sided municipal type garbage can was directly in front of the car. Furthermore the front air-bag did not deploy despite the considerable damage to the front bumper. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Aug 12, 2022 |
State | AZ |
Description | Battery drains if not driven approximately every 5 days. We have replaced battery three times. We've asked the local subaru dealer a couple of times why the battery goes dead so quickly. Their response it's a known issue. Not good that whenever we park the car or take it out of town we have to take a battery charger with us. This includes manually unlocking doors, climbing over back seat to get to the charger. |
Category | Power Train |
Date | Aug 12, 2022 |
State | GA |
Description | The contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated while driving approximately 50 mph, the vehicle suddenly stalled. The contact veered to the side of the road and turned off the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where the transmission clutch was replaced. However, the failure reoccurred while driving approximately 30 mph, and the vehicle had 95,000 miles. The vehicle was towed to the dealer who diagnosed that the transmission clutch, the ball bearings, and the flywheel needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 50,000. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Aug 11, 2022 |
State | NE |
Description | The lower part of the windshield has cracked and I have no incident that occurred to cause it to crack. If a piece of gravel caused it, it was so small to not even be noticed by me. I have never had a windshield crack so easily in all my years of driving. |
Category | Forward Collision Avoidance: Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings |
Date | Aug 09, 2022 |
State | NY |
Description | We have a 2017 subaru forester 2. 5i premium with eyesight with 58,582 miles. During the first week in june, 2022 the eyesight system failed and displayed an error message that stated to âsee owner's manual â. The owner's manual stated âtake the vehicle to subaru dealer for servicingâ which we did on june 9, 2022. The subaru servicing dealer's statement from the diagnostic invoice states âchecked for codes in all systems found code b2809 vdc malfunction in eyesight module. Checked code in vdc module found c1742 wheel cylinder pressure sensor ran test for code lead to needing vdc module replaced â. Subaru parts stated to the dealership that the part would not be available until july 30, 2022 when that date came I was notified that part would not be available until aug. 8, 2022. I was notified again on aug. 9, 2022 of another delay only this time indefinite as to when it may be available. Without the eyesight system the following safety functions that I am aware of do not work 1) adaptive cruise control, 2) emergency front braking, 3) lane departure and lane keeping assistance, 4) forward collision warning, and there may be other safety features that are connected to this system that I am not aware of. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Aug 05, 2022 |
State | FL |
Description | Unknown I was pulling toward a parking space. We heard a loud revving sound and the car jumped forward. I braked and then after a short discussion with my passenger trying to figure out what just happened I proceeded to turn into the space. All of a sudden the car revved even louder rapidly accelerated and we hit the pole grazing another vehicle. Felt like someone rammed us but nobody else was behind us when I looked in the rear mirror. Thank god nobody was hurt but if someone was walking in that area they could have been killed. There was almost seven thousand dollars in damage from the car wrapping around the pole and we are very lucky it happened in a parking lot |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Aug 01, 2022 |
State | TX |
Description | 2 new battery drains dead just sitting in the driveway. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Jul 30, 2022 |
State | OH |
Description | The passenger seat air bag sensor failed. The seat cushion/ airbag sensor assembly was replaced under a recall at 43,000 miles. It was replaced with an identical assembly which has now failed at 113,000 miles. Subaru says they will not cover the cost ( Who are we? We are Lemberg Law, a Consumer Law Firm Lemberg Law is a consumer law firm helping victims of bad manufacturing and run-arounds from auto companies. We are ranked A+ by the BBB. Call our Helpline today! There is no charge unless we win. Who are we? We are Lemberg Law, a Consumer Law Firm Lemberg Law is a consumer law firm helping victims of bad manufacturing and run-arounds from auto companies. We are ranked A+ by the BBB. Call our Helpline today! There is no charge unless we win. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Jul 21, 2022 |
State | ME |
Description | There appears to be a parasitic battery drain in the vehicle when it is stopped and all electrical systems are off (lights, heated seats, chargers etc) but the key is in the ignition. The most recent event was 7/20/2022 when the car was stopped for fueling and the key left in the ignition for no more than 10 minutes. Battery discharged sufficiently in that time that the car would not start requiring roadside assistance. Spoke with dealer who stated to keep the key 30 feet from the car (note, this is not a smart key car) and to ensure all is off as all computer electricals will continue to run even with the car off. Will be having a battery test next week but I see that this is a recurring issue for this make/model on this forum. The same problem happened in december 2021, although at that time the weather was also severely cold and the key was in the ignition (all electrical systems off) for approximately 45 minutes. The issue is one of personal safety and being stranded in a vehicle which cannot be moved (steering and transmission locked due to low/no power) as well as cost in time and money to investigate and remedy the issue. It is also an issue of functionality and usability. If I cannot leave the key in the ignition with the car off, I am unable to use any accessories or even my safety flashers in the event the situation would warrant it. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Jul 20, 2022 |
State | OR |
Description | I started noticing grid lines on my computer screen and am unable to read the screen. I took the car to suburu and was told they were always there but I have owned the car for six years and they just appeared this march. I asked them to replace the screen as I cannot read it and was told they wouldn't replace it until it shows gridlines in the dark which doesn't do me any good as I don't drive after dark. Someone online said there is a bulletin number 15-177-14r; revised 07/26/19 cause defective display unit. Recommendation: order an exchange head unit following the normal procedure. Ff667um |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Jul 18, 2022 |
State | WY |
Description | We have had issues with the battery draining since early on in owning the car. First the power windows stopped working and they replaced the battery. We are now having more battery issues and the care is in the shop. |
Category | Air Bags, Seats |
Date | Jul 13, 2022 |
State | OH |
Description | My srs airbag light came on and said it needed to be inspected. Notably, this issue is similar to a prior recall of this vehicle that I had repaired. The subaru dealership indicated that the bottom of the seat needed replaced and that the airbag may not function properly until this is fixed; however, they also noted that the part won't be in stick until october/november. This seems like a huge safety issue to not have the part and there is potential that the airbags won't work. |
Category | Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Jul 11, 2022 |
State | NY |
Description | Sitting in line to get gas and when I put car in drive it went to full throttle and struck two vehicles in front of me. Car ended up on resting on driver's side and had to be towed. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Jul 03, 2022 |
State | KS |
Description | This is for a 2017 subaru forester. The passenger airbag sensor in the seat keeps turning off the airbag when a passenger is in the seat. The problem is intermittent. The dealer couldn't replicate the problem and it wasn't repaired. I believe this car had a recall about this, but the problem keeps happening. This car has had the issue dozens of times and the problem needs to be investigated. There are many, many complaints about this issue. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Jun 30, 2022 |
State | SC |
Description | 2017 subaru forester - passenger airbag seat sensor intermittent failure. Does not detect passenger when seated and thus does not arm airbag while in motion. Safety of driver, passenger, and other drivers at risk due to product failure. Problem has been confirmed by local subaru dealer and subaru of america, but part is back ordered with no timetable for fulfillment. Multiple owners facing same issue, should be investigated for a full product recall. |
Category | Air Bags, Seats |
Date | Jun 23, 2022 |
State | OH |
Description | Issue with passenger air bag. Issue was caught and detected by dealership as ods sensor error. Further research revealed recall in vehicles of the same year, make, and model as vehicle in question for that part. Dealership and corporate offices deny relation of problems with recall, claim no such recall exists for the vehicle. |
Category | Suspension, Wheels |
Date | Jun 18, 2022 |
State | AZ |
Description | 46,000 miles and the lower control arm is broken. Causing the vehicle to shake and almost be undrivable. |
Category | Air Bags, Electrical System |
Date | Jun 16, 2022 |
State | NY |
Description | The srs airbag light is on, airbags disabled while driving vehicle with passenger in front. Sensor within passenger seat cushion is defective. Dealer says to fix passenger seat cushion needs to be replaced. Previous recall for harness already complete. Quoted 00 to repair. 2017 forester premium, 78,000 miles |
Category | Fuel/propulsion System, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Jun 11, 2022 |
State | CA |
Description | 2017 subaru forester- I had arrived to work and stopped at parking spot. Before I could put car in park position.. I heard a car high pitch revving sound. The car throttles forward and hit a building. Now I'm scared of the car. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | May 14, 2022 |
State | NY |
Description | Our battery continually dies if we don't drive it for 2 days. At first we thought it was just the battery but it keeps doing it. Our mechanic tried to fix it but it still happens. We had to buy a portable jumper because it happens so much. I see this also happens to outback's and other subarus. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | May 07, 2022 |
State | IL |
Description | Purchased july 2016. Battery has failed to start car several times requiring a jump-start. Battery has been replaced 4 times (09/'18, 01/'19, 06/'19 & 03/'20). Currently vehicle is in shop for extended attempt to find source(s) of "parasitic" drain. Dealer reported aware of problem with certain subaru models. A class action lawsuit has been initiated. Computer updates have over the years have not helped. This problem has the potential of stranding us when on a trip. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Apr 17, 2022 |
State | NJ |
Description | The crack at the lower right side of the windshield spontaneously appeared and grew to 12 inches in 9 days & keeps on growing. |
Category | Electrical System, Structure:body, Wheels |
Date | Apr 16, 2022 |
State | NJ |
Description | The tire pressure monitoring system module failed which also disabled the key fob remotes. I had the tpms module replaced 3 times. The first occurrence was on august 26th 2021 and was confirmed by the dealership subaru service center. During the failure and malfunction of the module, the dashboard warned about not to drive because there is problems with the tires and key fob not working. This worried me because of the potential safety to me and others if I continued to drive with defective tires. Eventually I found out my tires did not have any problems. After the module malfunctioned the second time, the service center replaced it stating that the first module was defective. Several months passed by and the module failed the third time. I started to research online and found that other subaru owners experienced similar issues and figured out that water such as from heavy rain leaked through the roof railing gasket into the area where the tpms module is kept and shorted out. When I went in to the service center the third time, I explained my investigation and eventually the associate agreed that was the cause. I think without me telling them this, they would have just replaced the module stating another defective unit. This discovery had them not only replace the tpms module, reprogram my key fobs but also replace the roof railings and it's gasket which they made me pay 0. 43. |
Category | Electrical System, Visibility/wiper |
Date | Mar 25, 2022 |
State | IA |
Description | I have a 2017 subaru forester that I bought brand new with only 5 miles on it at the time. Within the first year my battery needed replaced twice! I am still having this issue 5 years later and have purchased sometimes 2 batteries a year depending! The windshield also cracked within the first year I bought the car. I had it fixed and it cracked again this time not under warranty and the crack is in front of my eyesight sensor which makes my eyesight turn off which is very dangerous. I have seen many complaints on the windshield issue online with 2021 foresters. This is unacceptable. I am very unsatisfied with the company for not fixing this issue or making it right. I would not buy another subaru or recommend anyone to buy one until they fix these problems. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Mar 24, 2022 |
State | NY |
Description | 2nd battery in two years is dying while car is off. 1st battery did the same, and the dealership replaced it under warranty. There is a parasitic drain somewhere, that bleeds the battery while not in use. Every start is sluggish, and if a week goes by without driving the battery is totally dead. All user related electronic possibilities have been accounted for, I. E. Cabin lights, trunk latch, etc |
Category | Visibility:windshield |
Date | Mar 18, 2022 |
State | NJ |
Description | The contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated while his wife was driving approximately 50 mph, she heard an abnormal noise. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The driver was able to park and noticed a crack on the passenger side windshield going horizontal to the roofline. The contact did not notify the dealer or manufacturer. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that on another occasion while the vehicle was at a stationary in the driveway, he noticed a second crack on the driver's side windshield going horizontal to the roofline. The contact took the vehicle to local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the front windshield to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Mar 14, 2022 |
State | CO |
Description | The battery is constantly dying and the car needs to be jumped often. The battery has been replaced and the connections have been cleaned multiple times. The battery can still be completely drained even if it is started every day. |
Category | Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:disc:caliper, Steering |
Date | Mar 09, 2022 |
State | NY |
Description | On 19 january 22 while driving approx 60mph on I-95n s/o exit 92 (at that point hwy is divided 2 lanes n/b), the steering wheel suddenly froze and decelerated to 20mph, sending my vehicle leftward into passing lane in the path of tractor trailers traveling at high speeds. I don't know how but I was able to wrestle car back into r/h lane and off hwy. It was towed to a repair shop where the alignment was severely off. They also found evidence that the r front brake had locked. They replaced calipers and realigned wheels. Within 20 miles after repairs the steering again became very stiff. I had the car towed to my mechanic who found "numerous" codes indicating failure of steering control module and rack and pinion assy. Since that time it has been realigned three times but I still feel the steering is erratic with vibration of both the steering cheel and chassis. After 2 attempts, a subaru service shop seems to have eliminated the steering wheel vibration by dismounting the damaged front tires and switching the damaged outer treads onto the inside. This has now made the car feel like it wobbles under 20mph and over 55mph. They have pronounced the car safe to drive, despite my concern for the way the car feels while driving. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Mar 08, 2022 |
State | WA |
Description | The contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that the "air bag off" warning light was illuminated on the passenger's side of the instrument panel; indicating that the passenger's side air bag was deactivated. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact referenced nhtsa campaign number: 19v701000 (air bags). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 38,000. The vin was not available. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Feb 28, 2022 |
State | IN |
Description | Windshield fractured from the right wiper heater embedded into the windshield while the car was parked. The incident happened on 2/28/2022. The car is scheduled for a windshield replacement as it should not be driven. |
Category | Engine |
Date | Feb 23, 2022 |
State | CA |
Description | The exhaust pipe assembly for our 2017 non-turbo subaru forester has failed. Two other similar complaints for this model and year vehicle have been submitted to nhtsa (id#'s 11429564 and 11395158). Exhaust fumes spread within the vehicle cabin and presents a significant safety and health issue for occupants. A similar problem has been reported for turbo charge vehicles for which subaru issued a voluntary emissions recall on march 27, 2020. No such recall for non-turbo vehicles has been issued by subaru. The vehicle will be inspected by the local dealer. I request nhtsa investigate this issue and request subaru expand its voluntary emissions recall to non-turbo vehicles. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Feb 22, 2022 |
State | NY |
Description | My 2017 subaru forester has had its battery replaced twice. There is obviously either a problem with subaru batteries, or there is something inherent in the electrical system of the vehicle that drains the battery. For a senior citizen, a dead battery when travelling is not only an inconvenience, but could be a major problem, especially in the winter months. I understand there is a class action lawsuit against subaru for battery problems. I just want to add one more log to the fire. |
Category | Unknown Or Other, Visibility/wiper |
Date | Feb 16, 2022 |
State | AR |
Description | Cracked front windshield for no known reason |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Feb 07, 2022 |
State | VA |
Description | Starting our 2017 forrester has seemed sluggish recently, so we had the battery, starting system, and alternator checked. The starting system and alternator were in good working order. The battery's cold cranking amps (cca) were below 400. The rated cca for this battery is 525. It is less than 2 years old, but the check results indicated that it should be replaced. The check did reveal a "parasitic current drain" when the vehicle was turned off, which (most likely) has resulted in damage to the battery extensive enough to require replacement. To date, this has not left us stranded, but the potential for such an occurrence certainly exists. Further, there is a class action lawsuit concerning this issue currently making it's way through the court system. Originally, this lawsuit did not have any forrester owners included. I plan to contact the law firm and be added. |
Category | Power Train, Suspension |
Date | Feb 04, 2022 |
State | OR |
Description | The contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated while driving over 60 mph, the vehicle would shudder and produce a loud noise coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the lower control arm bushing and transmission pan needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Feb 03, 2022 |
State | FL |
Description | I filed a nhtsa report on 7/19/2021 about having to replace my 2017 subaru forester's battery for the 3rd time in a 4 year old vehicle. I now am submitting another complaint as now that #3 battery (all installed by subaru dealers) has failed, with #3 battery only 10 months old with approximately 6,000 miles driven with that battery. At about 8 months after the new battery install (battery #3), I brought vehicle to subaru saying problem with battery (told it was "good") to only have it fail approx. 6 weeks later. While at dealership I telephoned subaru customer care indicating that the statistical probability of 4 batteries fail in a 2017 vehicle (purchased new), is indicative of something wrong with the car. I'm exhausted of being told this happens to batteries. No, it doesn't. I bought a subaru for reliability, but this battery failure rate is unacceptable. #fixthebatteryproblemsubaru |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Jan 26, 2022 |
State | VA |
Description | Battery dies often |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Jan 24, 2022 |
State | CO |
Description | Excessive battery drain/replacement. I have had to replace the car's battery five times since purchasing the vehicle new in 2017. The newest replacement battery has lasted 3 months. The vehicle was brought to subaru dealership at least on two occasions to evaluate/diagnose the problem and subaru was unable to detect any problem with the electrical system/battery. |
Category | Lane Departure: Assist, Steering, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Jan 07, 2022 |
State | IN |
Description | When operating the vehicle at low and high speeds, the eyesight system intermittently turns off with a "check owner's manual" message and the system remains off until at least the next vehicle restart. Additionally, after the eyesight system disengages, when making turns at low speeds (turning corners), the steering shudders (quick violent turns to the left and right), the eyesight warning light disappears and then re-appears after the vehicle turn is completed. At the same time the vehicle steering shudders, some portion of the internal electrical system appears to be reset (any radio / music system turns off temporarily, and the user-selected display in the main instrument panel resets to its default setting. This puts the vehicle occupant(s) at risk as it introduces an unsafe driving condition due to the vehicle shudder, which may result in a driver panic-reacting, or the vehicle failing to remain in the intended lane. |
Category | Steering |
Date | Jan 04, 2022 |
State | PA |
Description | Backed car out of the garage and was unable to turn the wheel properly. There was no power steering and a light on the dash indicated same. Called my son, who asked me to pull front, back, and then park and turn off engine and restart. This caused the power steering to work properly. Appt w subaru found failure of gearbox. They state, warranty only covers if box is cracked due to road salt. No outside damage seen. Cost 37. 26 to me . Only 34,744 miles on the car/garage kept |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger |
Date | Dec 31, 2021 |
State | CA |
Description | Srs airbag system needs to be checked error. Airbag not going on sometimes when passenger is in seat |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Dec 30, 2021 |
State | PA |
Description | Battery will not start car. |
Category | Unknown Or Other, Visibility/wiper |
Date | Dec 29, 2021 |
State | IL |
Description | Front windshield has started cracking from the middle top by the rear view mirror and is steadily getting larger making it's way toward driver side of windshield, there is also a chip by the passenger side of windshield |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Dec 13, 2021 |
State | NY |
Description | The battery had died multiple times and we replaced it only to continue to have the problem. Dealer service says that we must be leaving the lights on or that we need to run the car more to recharge the battery. Being stranded in upstate ny with a dead battery in winter is a safety problem. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Dec 11, 2021 |
State | VA |
Description | New battery and multiple replacement batteries fail to keep the electrical system charged when the vehicle is turned off. Intermittent problem that happens unexpectedly, causing the consumer to be stranded and incur costs for alternate transportation, new battery, and roadside assistance. Multiple class action suits against the company are ongoing. |
Category | Electrical System, Unknown Or Other |
Date | Nov 09, 2021 |
State | NY |
Description | My 2017 subaru forester battery died in june 2019, leaving me stranded in a parking lot on a sunday 50 miles from my home. The battery was still under warranty & was replaced by subaru. I was told by the service manager that the batteries only last approximately 2 years. In early oct 2021, my car sat idle for 10 days in the airport parking garage at jfk int'l airport in nyc while I was away. When I returned home, the battery was dead, again stranding my approximately 50 miles from my home. I had to get a jump from a tow company who found that the red terminal on the battery was completely corroded. He advised that I would need to get a new battery when I returned home. I brought the car to subaru the next day & was told by a tech in the service department that the battery was fine & was at 100% capacity but that the issue was a defective cable connected to the battery which they replaced. I had occasion to bring my forester to subaru for service yesterday (11/8/2021) and had the battery checked. This time a more thorough check was done & although the battery again tested at 100%, when it was checked for its capacity from a "cold start", it tested as weak. Again, subaru replaced the battery. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Nov 08, 2021 |
State | IL |
Description | Subaru oem windshield glass is too weak and prone to cracking / chipping / breaking. I've owned my car for nearly three years and the windshield glass has cracked three times now. More so than any other vehicle I've owned. I think it is a design flaw which makes the glass too thin / brittle. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Nov 04, 2021 |
State | MD |
Description | When I try to turn off the vehicle, the ignition key gets stuck in the ignition switch, and does not turn to the off position; I cannot remove the key. This is a recurring problem that been happening every day for the past three weeks. According to youtube, there are many other people having this same issue, with no fix being provided by subaru. I've tried moving the steering wheel back and forth, tried spraying lubricant in the key hole, with the vehicle is in park, pulled the car up and back to park again, tried with my foot on the brake pedal and foot off the brake pedal while in park, etc., etc. ânone of these things work. I'm still having the issue of removing the key from the key hole, and cannot turn the vehicle completely off. One âfixâ being provided by consumers on youtube, is to disengage a selinoid from the key switch. This selinoid prevents the key from being turned off while the vehicle is runningâa safety feature, which is now being disengaged by people so frustrated with this problem, because there is no manufacturer documented fix. |
Category | Power Train |
Date | Nov 02, 2021 |
State | DE |
Description | Making a sharp turn going slightly uphill from a full stop, the car moves forward enough to enter the intersection and then there is no throttle response. The car does not respond at all to the accelerator peddle. The engine does not stall but rpm drop to idle speed. After a few seconds, throttle response returns. Very dangerous as you move onto a highway because the car lingers in the intersection while the car behaves as if it has totally lost power. This has happened repeatedly but at random times. |
Category | Back Over Prevention: Rearview System Braking, Back Over Prevention: Warnings, Electrical System |
Date | Nov 01, 2021 |
State | WA |
Description | As far as I know, my vehicle is performing as designed, but I am quite serious in thinking this is a safety issue - the radio cannot be muted, or turned off, or the volume decreased, when the transmission in in reverse, because of interference of its head unit with the backup camera. This is a hugely annoying distraction when trying to parallel park safely and quickly in dense urban settings. I want my backup lights on immediately, once I locate the parking spot I want, but time after time, I forget to turn off the radio before I start trying to park. I am the only owner of the car from new, and it now has about 69,000 miles on it. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Oct 27, 2021 |
State | TX |
Description | The contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph the vehicle crashed into a second vehicle causing substantial front end damage to the vehicle. During the crash no airbags in the vehicle deployed. The driver sustained chest and rib injuries and was transported to the hospital. A police report was taken at the scene and the vehicle was towed away. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were not yet notified. The failure mileage was 33,000. |
Category | Service Brakes, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Oct 14, 2021 |
State | IL |
Description | The contact owned a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 mph and making a turn, the vehicle hydroplaned as the contact lost control of the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle inadvertently accelerated while hydroplaning going across 3 lanes of oncoming traffic and hit a curve. The contact stated that the front driver's side tire detached from the vehicle. No one was injured, and a police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a local tow lot where it was deemed as a total loss. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 28,959. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Oct 13, 2021 |
State | WA |
Description | Frequently, when I put the car in park and try to turn the key to off, it gets stuck. At this point you have to move the shifter into and out of gear many times to try to get the key to go to off. Sometimes the key will not go to off so you need to leave the key in the ignition. This is dangerous because the car can still be shifted into neutral and move at this point. |
Category | Power Train |
Date | Oct 04, 2021 |
State | NY |
Description | The contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that while attempting to shift gear into reverse, the vehicle made a strange noise, then lunged forward inadvertently. The vehicle's front driver-side tire ran over the contact's daughter's upper legs. The contact's daughter received medical attention on the scene for injuries sustained to her legs and was now receiving physical therapy. A police report was filed. The vehicle was appraised by the insurance company for front-end damage and was repaired by an auto collision center. The dealer and manufacturer were not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000. The vin was not available. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Sep 28, 2021 |
State | GA |
Description | My vehicle was involved in a five car accident where is was completely destroyed and flipped upside and the two front airbags never deployed which caused head, back, and neck injuries to the two passengers that were in the two front seats. There was a recall on the the passenger front air bag which supposedly got fixed by palm springs subaru on july 13, 2020. This recall air bag never deployed during or after the major accident. I contacted the subaru of america which they supposedly did an investigation on why the two front airbags did not deployed and they stated that there was not malfunction on either airbags which is hard to believe because my car was unrepairable because of the severe damages due to the accident. I would like this to be taken into consideration. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Sep 28, 2021 |
State | PA |
Description | Parasitic drag in subaru forester caused battery to die. Managed to get it jump started minutes before a downpour. Almost left my daughter and my wife stranded. A quick google search showed this is a common enough problem amongst subaru models so I decided to file a complaint as well |
Category | Engine |
Date | Sep 18, 2021 |
State | CA |
Description | I was pulling into a parellel parking space, braking to slow to a stop when my car surged froward inspite of increased and continued braking and hit the car in front of me. The collision is what stopped the car. My subaru forester is very damaged (bumper, lights, and frame rail) and the car in front also had extensive damage. My safety and the safety of the neigbhorhood cars, pedestrians and homes was at risk given my car was unstoppable despite braking. I couldn't understand what happened so I did an internet search for acceleration while braking and many articles came up reguarding several subaru models (including mine) of "sudden unintended acceleration" issues. What was described was exactly what I experienced. There are several class action lawsuits in the works as subaru has not taken any responsibility. No dashboard warning lights came on before or after the crash. I took the car to the subaru dealer I purshased it from. At first they said there would be a 250. Dollar diagnostic fee. When I picked it up they said there was an ecm (engine control module) update and they performed it on my car. The update was designed "to address problems" like those I described. The clerk would not elaborate, was very vague and would say nothing beyond that except he didn't know if the update would fix the problem-that we would just have to wait and see. I explained that if it happened again it could have catastrophic consequences, he had nothing to say. He waived the service fee. I got the impression subaru didn't want to say much because they would be responsible. By waiving the fee they hoped I would just go away. I am left with: a severely damaged car, as is my neighbor's, an accident that looks to be my fault-when in fact it is subaru's fault, a large deductable to pay, a point on my lisence and increased insurance rates, and a car I have no faith in. This should not be on my driving record. Subaru should be found responsible. |
Category | Visibility:defroster/defogger/hvac System:condensor/evaporator |
Date | Sep 02, 2021 |
State | OR |
Description | The contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that she noticed that the air conditioner was blowing hot air. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic and was informed that the air conditioner refrigerant was empty. The contact was referred to the local dealer. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the condenser to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but continued to experience failure. The contact stated she had to replace the condenser for the third time in 2021. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 21,000. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Aug 23, 2021 |
State | NJ |
Description | The battery of our subaru forester 2017 has died three times from june 26, 2021 through august 20, 2021. Simply put, from one day to the next, the battery is suddenly drained of all its power. From july 2017 when we first leased the car through may 2021, we had no battery problems. The safety issue is one of personal safety -- that we can't depend on the car, so we hesitate to use it. We don't want to be stranded somewhere unexpectedly because the battery suddenly dies, especially after dark. Our subaru dealership ran diagnostic tests today (august 23, 2021) and claimed there is no problem, that the draw on the battery is within acceptable parameters. They will continue to test it tomorrow, but from conversations with the tech manager today, I feel certain they will claim there is no problem. The solution the technician suggested is that we drive the car more frequently. But our use of the car has been consistent since we first leased it. There must be a reason that the battery was fine for 48 months and now suddenly loses power unexpectedly and repeatedly. We understand from internet research we did today that this kind of battery problem is the subject of an ongoing lawsuit here in new jersey against subaru for several of their models from the years 2015-present. We think subaru ought to be more forthright about the issue and do what's right for their customers. Please help us. |
Category | Engine |
Date | Aug 18, 2021 |
State | PA |
Description | I started noticing exhaust fumes in the cabin while idling at a stop. I did some research and found that several foresters have had an issue with their exhaust manifold bellows cracking on a flexi pipe. So I started looking for a leak. I took the plastic underbody engine cover off and took off the heat shield and located the crack on the flexi pipe. The flexi pipe have been replaced at approximately 60k miles. It lasted for approximately a year or another 30k miles and I had to replace it again. My vehicle currently has 160k and the same issue comes back. It is very frustrating because I feel very lightheaded when driving this vehicle and replacement of this part is very expensive. 00 for the full manifold. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Aug 16, 2021 |
State | IL |
Description | I'm having trouble removing the ignition key even with the car in park and pressing on the brake pedal, on level ground. It's intermittent and both keys are involved. The steering wheel still moves freely. The car is out of warranty and I have not asked a dealer about it. I belong to a subaru forester user group and it seems to be a fairly common problem. This could endanger me if I wanted to exit the vehicle quickly and couldn't remove the key. A carjacker could still start it just fine. No notices appear on the dashboard relating to this. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Aug 14, 2021 |
State | CO |
Description | Battery drain / passive / when vehicle is parked the new battery drains passively when the car is parked. Will not start and needs a jump. This cycle has ruined a brand new battery. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Aug 12, 2021 |
State | KS |
Description | When in park, the key will not pull out of the ignition. The car is not recognizing that it is in park and shoild release the key. I was told by a subaru dealership that subaru is aware of the problem but does not intend to recall it at this time. I was told that aggressive shifting is causing a plate to bend. My car only has 18000 miles on it and I'm not a kid and I don't shift aggressively. The only way I can get the key out is to shift it back-and-forth aggressively and then it will release. Although I have onky 18000 miles on the car, it's over 3 years old so now I'm out of warranty (hich does not please me at all) this is an expensive repair for customers. This can be a safety hazard if I must leave the iey in the ignition making it possible for a child to start the engine! |
Category | Visibility:windshield |
Date | Aug 12, 2021 |
State | CA |
Description | The contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated while approaching the parked vehicle, she noticed the windshield was cracked. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer where it was diagnosed with needing the windshield to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired but was pending repairs. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000. |
Category | Engine, Power Train |
Date | Aug 10, 2021 |
State | MD |
Description | My 2017 subaru forester has 52,000 miles driven. Recently the ignition key will not turn to start the engine. The transmission was in park and all the doors were fully closed. After 15 minutes trying several times to no avail it did finally turn to the right and the engine started. Also, previously a few times, randomly, the key would not turn all the way to to the left to turn the engine off. Again, the car was in park and I kept my foot on the brake while trying. Each time this happened I had to move the transmission from part to drive and back to park again, (while keeping my foot on the brake) and the key finally turned all the way to turn the engine off. I am now bringing the car to a subaru dealer service shop (in annapolis, maryland) to try to have them repair this problem once and for all. Thank you, [xxx]. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6). |
Category | Unknown Or Other, Visibility/wiper |
Date | Aug 10, 2021 |
State | CA |
Description | Spontaneous windshield crack occurred while car was parked (I. E., no collision or pebble impact). Crack originates at lower portion of passenger side in black-colored perimeter of windshield glass with windshield deicer and spread upward and across middle of entire windshield. Crack obstructs driving visibility and poses risk to integrity of entire window including adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning system calibration. No previous impacts to windshield. Suspect defect in windshield consistent with those found in 2015-2016 subaru outback and legacy models related to materials used in deicer area of windshields in recent class action settlement against subaru. Took to subaru dealer who confirmed origin of crack in originates in deicer region of windshield, but denies any liability for weakened material at sight of deicer as determined for other models. |
Category | Electrical System:ignition, Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever And Linkage:column Shift |
Date | Jul 26, 2021 |
State | CT |
Description | The contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that the key remained stuck in the ignition after multiple attempts to shut-off the vehicle. The contact stated that he had to restart the vehicle or move the shift lever back and forth from the park position to release the key from the ignition. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer and was informed that the failure could be related to the shifter cable or the ignition switch. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 49,000. |
Category | Visibility:windshield |
Date | Jul 22, 2021 |
State | CA |
Description | The contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated a day after purchasing the vehicle, he noticed a crack on the windshield of the vehicle while the vehicle was parked in the garage. The contact was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The dealer and manufacturer were not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 11,938. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Jul 19, 2021 |
State | FL |
Description | I've had to replace the battery three (3) times in a four (4) year old vehicle. I've had several calls to aaa for a jump start (to then get to dealer to replace battery) and I had to purchase a rapid charger which I must carry in my car all the time in case the battery dies again. The problem with the battery began within the first year of purchase and has continued two times afterwards replacing the battery now 3 times below I put the last time this happened. I've been stranded numerous times and I shouldn't have to keep jump starting my car. I've brought this concern to the dealer (sunset subaru, sarasota) and it is not taken seriously. In my opinion, this has been and continues to be a technical problem going back to the purchase of the vehicle in question. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Jul 19, 2021 |
State | IL |
Description | The issue is sudden battery drain. The risk is being stranded. Unfortunately the drain happens randomly. The battery has been been replaced twice since 2017. Last battery replaced 11/19. I noticed this is an issue with this car and there are many complaints. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Jul 15, 2021 |
State | ID |
Description | My new battery completely drained over a weekend in my garage. I had aaa jump the battery and drove to their service center to check the battery to see if it was damaged. They said it was in great condition, no problems they could detect. A few days after the battery drain I found the passenger side window will not operate from the driver side console. I have an appointment with the subaru dealership to investigate the problem. This is the second time I have had a complete battery drain on this vehicle. I am now on 2nd battery and there is only 18,867 miles on the vehicle. We could not find any reason for the drains. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Jul 15, 2021 |
State | IN |
Description | My windshield is cracked. It is available for inspection. This could cause my whole windshield to break and possibly get a ticket and crash. Nothing has been reproduced or confirmed. It happened today. I noticed it when I was got in the car to leave work. It has not been inspected by anyone. No warning lamps or messages. Just happened today. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Jul 15, 2021 |
State | OH |
Description | Since purchasing this vehicle in october, 2016, I have purchased two new batteries. It continues to die with no apparent reason. Even with a new battery that was installed this past spring, it died again on july 5th. Yes, it is available for inspection. Nobody was at risk. The mechanic who works on my car checked the battery before he replaced it a second time. He said there was nothing wrong with it; then, when he changed the oil and did some routine maintenance, it died. He replaced it a second time. This was in the spring. There were no warnings. I need to reset the automatic window feature each time this happens. I do not understand why the battery continues to be a problem. I have had to get it jumped multiple times, both in my garage as well as the parking lot at work. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Jul 13, 2021 |
State | WA |
Description | Battery drain. I've replaced the battery once around 30000 miles. |
Category | Electrical System:12v/24v/48v Battery |
Date | Jul 13, 2021 |
State | CA |
Description | The contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle would not start due to battery drainage. The contact stated that the battery had to be connected to a battery charger after each use. The contact stated that the check engine warning lights was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 22,375. |
Category | Power Train:automatic Transmission |
Date | Jul 13, 2021 |
State | IL |
Description | On july 12, 2021, I had an appointment for service at subaru because 2017 forester ac was blowing hot air. Was assured condenser would be replaced at no charge. While checking the car in, I mentioned the key sticks and cannot be removed without re-starting engine moving the car back and forth and trying again to remove key as many as 3-4 x. They were aware of the problem, but no recall on it. Shifter plate, etc., was replaced at approx. Cost of 0. The service bulletin # is 16-112-18r dated 03/15/18 and revised 11/06/18. The mileage on this vehicle is 12,717. |
Category | Power Train:automatic Transmission |
Date | Jul 13, 2021 |
State | TN |
Description | I have a 2017 subaru forrester that has 60,000 miles. At least twice a week the past month my key gets stuck in the ignition. I put the vehicle in park and turn it off and the key wont come out. I have to turn the vehicle on and off a few times in order to get the key to release. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Jul 10, 2021 |
State | VA |
Description | The battery in my 2017 subaru forester was completely drained of power in 4 days of non-operation of the vehicle. The battery in question was installed on 10/4/2020 by my subaru dealer to replace a battery that also had drained of power and would not take a charge. I presume the current battery was fully charged by my trip home to arlington, va from philadelphia, pa on july 5, 2021. I tried to start this vehicle around noon on july 10, 2021 only to find that the battery was completely dead. The electronic key did not work. All internal screens are black. No response to key in ignition; not even a rattling noise. This is two dead batteries in less than two years of ownership. The current battery is only 9 1/2 months old. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Jun 29, 2021 |
State | MO |
Description | Windshield cracked straight across. Looking to see if this is part of the class action lawsuit. We have replaced the windshield |
Category | Steering, Wheels |
Date | Jun 16, 2021 |
State | AZ |
Description | I am writing to inform you of the following problems with the steering system of my 2017 subaru forester: 1) when turning or changing car lanes, the steering wheel does not engage the wheels until the steering wheel is turned to about a 90 degree angle in the direction of the turn, left or right, 2) after making a turn, it takes more rotations of the steering wheel to come out of the turn than it took to make the turn. At other times it takes more rotations of the steering wheel to make the turn than it does to come out of the turn, 3) constant adjustments to steering have to be made in order to stay in a lane regardless of whether the lane is straight or curved. It's like trying to maneuver a boat on water or like driving on a frictionless surface. It feels like the car switches to a different control system, either void of any driver control, or delayed response to driver input, and 4) the steering wheel has to be turned to almost a 90 degree angle before it engages the wheels while the car is running and stationary. With the exception of item 4, the steering problems occur when there are other cars in the vicinity of our car. On secluded roads our car drives fine, so far. The steering issues occur during city and highway driving. The steering problems occur even when the following car assistive technologies are all set to off: automatic braking, hill assist, lane change assist, x-mode, eyesight, and cruise control. On may 4, 2021, we took the car to the subaru superstore of chandler in arizona. We showed the dealership a video of item 4 and they observed it. They described it as "egregious". The dealership stated that they could not find a reason for item 4 and they could not duplicate the other problems. They stated that they documented the problem. Having an unresponsive/delayed response steering system could prove disastrous when seconds count to avert a disaster. This has been an ongoing problem since october 2018, with no resolution from subaru. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Jun 15, 2021 |
State | CA |
Description | Windshield cracked for no good reason and the crack extended to over 12 inches long in 2 weeks time. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Jun 10, 2021 |
State | PA |
Description | I was driving down the street and the whole car shut off without warning. It was the scariest thing ever. I had to pull over the side of the road with cars driving past me. I felt like I had no control of the car. |
Category | Electrical System, Engine, Steering |
Date | Jun 09, 2021 |
State | ME |
Description | With engine running and shift lever in park (cvt transmission) driver is unable to turn the engine off or remove the ignition key from the steering wheel. This occurs sporadically/unpredictably such that driver has no forewarning and cannot take proactive steps to avoid the problem, resulting in instances where driver is forced to leave the car running in situations that present safety concerns. (examples: in a garage or enclosed area; when temporarily exiting vehicle necessitating leaving the doors unlocked; etc.). The problem is widespread in subaru vehicles and consistent with problems exhibited/described in subaru technical service bulletin (tsb) #16-112-18r for which no recall has to date been issued for corrective action by subaru. Driver was told by subaru of america that a diagnostics test is needed by a subaru dealer to verify existence of the problem (which as stated occurs unpredictably) at driver's expense (locally approximately 0), with repair coverage of defective/poorly-designed shift or electrical components not being covered by subaru beyond the standard warranty period for the affected vehicle. Estimated cost of repair for defects as listed in the tsb (per on-line sources)...0-0 depending on dealer and geographical location. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Jun 08, 2021 |
State | IL |
Description | Without any cause I found a crack on my windshield on 6/5/ 2021 . On the passenger side starting at the base . A very clean long crack without any apparent impact . When my I parked my car in my parking on friday 6/4 after work there was no crack on the windshield , when I got in my car on saturday 6/5 morning I saw the crack about 12 â long . On monday 6/7 when I got in my car to go to work , the crack was already about 2' in length. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Jun 01, 2021 |
State | MI |
Description | The vehicle does not recognize when it is park (a problem with a sensor down by the shifter) so it is nearly impossible to take the key out of the ignition. Although subaru has created a tsb 16-112-18r that nhtsa is aware of, I want to report this happening to my vehicle. I believe it is a very dangerous situation to experience especially with children as passengers in the vehicle. I've had to bypass the sensor on my own due to the cost (0+) of the repair ... |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | May 28, 2021 |
State | OH |
Description | Cracked windshield |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | May 27, 2021 |
State | CA |
Description | While driving on the highway around 65mph, the windshield was struck by a small piece of debris, no larger than a nickel in diameter. This initially produced a small crack at the base of the windshield on the driver's side, which quickly lengthened to over 12 inches over the course of the day. Especially under bright sunlight, the crack produces a sharp glare which significantly reduces driver visibility. When running my finger along the crack, I cannot feel any crack. There is no chip in the glass. The crack is internal to the windshield. (see photo included with this incident submission.) this seems to be a defect in the windshield quality that other subaru forester owners have also reported. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | May 20, 2021 |
State | NC |
Description | Vehicle was struck by a dump truck traveling approximately 50 mph that ran a red light. Impact was on the front passenger side. Although, the collision was violent and there was substantial frontend damage, no airbags deployed. Driver was only occupant. |
Category | Power Train |
Date | May 19, 2021 |
State | TN |
Description | Once vehicle is stopped, transmission shifted to park, and ignition key turned to off, ignition key will not come out of ignition. This has happened 8-19 times. Driver must start car, put in drive then back in park, turn off then key can be removed. I understand tsb 16-112-18r addresses this issue known to subaru. It has not been inspected by a mechanic. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | May 16, 2021 |
State | CO |
Description | The battery on my 2017 forester has been replaced under warranty three times after being found dead. All three times subaru has said it was a bad battery. The battery couldn't be jumped and my mechanic said it was an electrical issue if it happened more than once. Luckily it was at my house all three times so only a simple tow. If this happened 300 miles off road, it would be a massive issue. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | May 15, 2021 |
State | WI |
Description | Battery goes dead and must be replaced if not driven for several days. I have replaced the battery twice. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | May 14, 2021 |
State | ME |
Description | In nov 2019 we left the car parked for a week at the cruise terminal while stationed overseas in italy. We we came back, the car wouldn't start and had jumped. Over the next several days the car had difficulty starting and we ended up taking the car to the subaru dealership in frosinone, italy. The service technician said the battery needed to be replaced and that we were not the first forrester owners to have the battery replaced. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | May 14, 2021 |
State | CA |
Description | The vehicle's battery drains quickly when the car has been turned off, left stationary, and not in use, which renders the vehicle inoperable. |
Category | Fuel/propulsion System |
Date | Apr 28, 2021 |
State | MD |
Description | Car nearly stalls when starting from stop after sitting at light or intersection when in regular (not sport) mode. Especially occurs when having to turn from a stop and accelerate faster. Have almost been hit by oncoming traffic several times. Does not occur in the other modes. Very scary! ? Fuel pump or other defect? City and county roads. Reproducible. |
Category | Electrical System, Unknown Or Other |
Date | Apr 27, 2021 |
State | MD |
Description | Driving on the highway and the driver side window which is rolled up completely shattered. There are no cracks no indentation that the glass would have broken at time of the incident. The only issue leading up to this the window would not roll up all the way at times. Which is why I personally never rolled the window down once I knew that was an issue |
Category | Power Train, Unknown Or Other, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Apr 27, 2021 |
State | NM |
Description | I bought a certified pre-owned 2017 subaru forester on june 19 2020. I have had an intermittent safety issue with the vehicle not responding correctly when I try to accelerate since. When I press the gas pedal the car will begin to accelerate with my rpms rising normally. Then my rpms will start to drop when they would normally rise and my car stops or maintains the acceleration prior. Once they have dropped they will stay there for a little and then will shoot up suddenly and red line. I have tried a variety of things to prevent this from happening; I have taken my foot off the gas, kept the same or more pressure on the gas, and breaking. Regardless of what I do the vehicle red lines and my speed will either drop or stay the same. I have taken the vehicle to subaru dealerships on 3 separate occasions and it was returned to me without diagnosing or repairing the problem. The last time I drove my vehicle it did this again and the rpms red lining causing my engine to fail. I was accelerated from a stop at a street light and the vehicle stopped accelerating even though I was pressing the accelerator. The rpms redlined and my engine began making a terrible noise that we later discovered was from unrepairable engine damage. The vehicle has now been at the dealership for over a month to replace my engine and try to fix this issue. Every week they tell me I will get it back the next week and then something else fails or causes a set back. I bought a subaru forester because of advertisements about how "safe" and 'reliable' they are supposed to be. Instead I have had near misses when merging onto the interstate or turning across traffic in a busy denver intersection because the vehicle doesn't respond as expected. The dealership has ignored my concerns by either saying "that just happens with foresters sometimes" or "we can't fix it unless we can replicate it.' |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Apr 23, 2021 |
State | PA |
Description | 2017 subaru forester battery drains power and leaves car totally dead on several occasions since purchase (1/2017). Battery died in 2018 twice: once during summer and once in november. (one time subaru service roadside assist was used, 11/18, and one time a friend charged battery). Third time battery died was 3/19. Brought care to dealer on 4/29/19 with complaint of battery drain. Subaru tested battery and said it was all good and would not replace battery. In 1/20 battery again died and on 1/29/20 took car again to subaru dealer with complaint of battery drain. Subaru checked the charging system and updates. Battery failed testing and was replaced under warranty. On 4/22/21 battery again died. I called subaru service manager and asked to have the my car tested to see if there was something in the car that was draining the battery. The manager repeatedly told me that there was probably something left on by me while the care was turned off. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Apr 23, 2021 |
State | ME |
Description | I have now replaced my windshield a second time in a 30-day period of time. I had my windshield break while I was driving down the road and did not see anything hit the windshield before this happened. As soon as I got it replaced, 3 days past and I woke up one morning to see that my windshield was broken again. Nothing hit the windshield either time and it just sporadically cracked. I'm dreading having to pay for the third replacement. |
Category | Air Bags, Seat Belts |
Date | Apr 18, 2021 |
State | AL |
Description | While sitting in the front passenger seat, following the ods recall repair, the airbag light occasionally says on and occasionally says off. Sometimes the passenger seat belt light is lit. I am absolutely unsure when the airbag will be armed and deploy. Tried it with seat belt attached and unattached. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Apr 10, 2021 |
State | TX |
Description | My windshield has cracked and had to be replaced twice since purchasing the car with only 41,000 miles on it currently. It is a 2017 subaru forester and there are now 2 cracks in the third and current windshield. The windshields they are using are unsafe and cost roughly 00 to replace due to the eye sight system. Subaru is installing these unsafe windshields knowingly and collecting massive profits from all the replacements. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Apr 05, 2021 |
State | NJ |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated upon starting the vehicle, the key occasionally seized in the ignition. The contact believed that the issue was related to the shifter sensor or the key sensor. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 38,000.*dt |
Category | Steering |
Date | Apr 01, 2021 |
State | UT |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated while driving 25 mph and turning right onto the highway ramp, the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The contact pulled off the highway onto the shoulder, shut-off and restarted the vehicle, and the steering functionality returned. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to rhett allen/mark miller subaru southtowne (10920 state st, sandy, utah 84070, (801)553-5200 where the vehicle was diagnosed however, the mechanic was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure recurred. The manufacture was notified of the failure however, provided no assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 61,000. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Apr 01, 2021 |
State | PA |
Description | I had to get my catalytic converter replaced after discovering an exhaust leak. The shop that performed my work said he has seen numerous subaru foresters with the same exact problem. The vehicle has not sustained any damage or been in any accidents that might warrant this issue to have occurred. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Mar 31, 2021 |
State | NY |
Description | Key gets stuck in ignition when parked. Must constantly move shifter back and forth and slam into park. Subaru service bulletin 16-112-18r. Seems to be a popular problem as per forum. Constant problem at this time |
Category | Unknown Or Other, Visibility/wiper |
Date | Mar 25, 2021 |
State | TX |
Description | Forester windshield started cracking for no clear reason, spread quickly to a 20" or longer crack that continues to spread. |
Category | Fuel/propulsion System, Visibility/wiper |
Date | Mar 22, 2021 |
State | TN |
Description | Front windshield has developed two linear cracks spontaneously, one small one 5 cm long, the other across the driver's side windshield about 50 cm. This appears to have occurred spontaneously, there was no debris, etc, first noted while vehicle was in garage. There are no stellate markings, etc. |
Category | Wheels |
Date | Mar 22, 2021 |
State | FL |
Description | Vehicle shaking on front tires due to lower control arms needing replacement. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Mar 16, 2021 |
State | OR |
Description | Windshield cracked with no cause while parked at work |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Mar 16, 2021 |
State | NJ |
Description | I purchased my 2017 subaru forester in july 2017, so I've owned the vehicle for almost 4 years. One day recently I got in my vehicle and noticed a massive stress crack in the windshield. The vehicle was parked outside of my home and I had not previously seen any cracks on the windshield. The crack is around 12 inches in length, maybe longer. It starts at the base of the windshield on the driver's side and extends mostly horizontally toward the passenger side. I ran my finger end to end across the crack both outside the vehicle and inside the vehicle and I could not feel the crack. Which means the crack is on the inside of the windshield, which makes me think it is a stress crack. This is a common issue with numerous subaru vehicles of various makes, models, and years. My 2017 subaru forester is included in the list of vehicles that is affected. Subaru has a class action lawsuit against them because this issue of subaru windshields cracking is so common. Here is a news article with more information: https://www. Torquenews. Com/1084/subaru-cracked-windshield-lawsuit-update-warranty-claims-are-dismissed |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Mar 07, 2021 |
State | CA |
Description | Windshield prone to large cracks after any small chips near the edge of the front windshield. Has happened twice within 2 months. Car was stationary when cracks were noticed. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Mar 05, 2021 |
State | MS |
Description | When you shut the engine off you can't take the keys out off the ignition. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Mar 03, 2021 |
State | LA |
Description | I've been having more problems with taking my key out of the ignition. It start of happening once in awhile and now everytime I turn off my car and take the key out. I search on the problem and read alot of people having this problem. I called my bryan subaru and they said this has been happening. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Mar 02, 2021 |
State | PA |
Description | 2017 subaru forester. Consumer was in an auto accident where airbags did not deploy. *ld the consumer stated the vehicle was declared a total loss. The vehicle's front was destroyed. The consumer sustained whiplash. *js |
Category | Air Bags, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Mar 01, 2021 |
State | SC |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that while pulling into a parking space, the vehicle surged forward when the brake pedal was depressed causing the vehicle to jump the cement bumper and the bushes in front of the vehicle. The vehicle was still revving when turned off and placed in park. The air bags did not deploy. The vehicle was not towed. A police report was not filed. There were no injuries. The vehicle was taken to the dealer (crews subaru of charleston 8261 rivers ave, north charleston, sc 29406; (843) 820-4200) who were unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 46,050. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Feb 23, 2021 |
State | NY |
Description | These models have amplifier sound issues that routinely cause the amplifier to fail and cut the sound. This could definitely cause a crash by distracting the driver. The amps are extremely prone to failing and cause ear deafening tones, no sound, crackling etc. The problem is extreme and dealers have no apparent way of rectifying the issue. The internet is loaded with customers reporting this including myself. This is a manufacturing and design flaw that should fixed. Normal device failure is fine but this is over the top. My car went to the dealer roughly 4 times due to this. My vehicle produced a ear piercing sound in mid winter with the windows up and luckily I was able to pull over to gas station while attempting to protect my ears and shut off the car. I know this sounds silly but the sound system is roughly 500w and that mixed with the high pitched tones is ear damaging. I'm lucky I did not crash. The only way to operate the vehicle safely was physically unplugging the amplifier. Please help. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Feb 20, 2021 |
State | PA |
Description | This is a 2017 forrester. The battery keeps repeatedly dying. For example: had to jump in last night, drove it for 45 minutes to ensure it should be charged back up. It was in our garage last night - and today, it won't start and we can't jump it either. Awaiting a tow truck. This battery has required a jump at least 5 times in the last six months. And there is nothing wrong with the battery. Talking to multiple subaru owners reveals this is a common issue - one subaru 'solves' by putting in a new battery (at my cost) and then it will die too. |
Category | Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Feb 17, 2021 |
State | NC |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that before depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle independently accelerated without warning. The contact depressed the brake pedal to stop the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken twice to johnson subaru of cary (5010 old raleigh rd, cary, nc 27511, where an unknown software was reprogrammed. The technician informed the contact that there was a glitch in the software that caused the vehicle to launch. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that each time the failure occurred, the software was reprogrammed. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 48,000. |
Category | Electrical System, Engine, Unknown Or Other |
Date | Feb 08, 2021 |
State | OH |
Description | Periodically unable to remove key from the ignition. Has been happening more frequently over the past 2 months. Key is "locked" in ignition, unable to completely "turn off" key switch and therefore unable to remove the key. Only resolution has been to turn the vehicle back on and shift the gears and reattempt to turn car off and remove key. This is also, likely, affecting being able to use the remote start for my vehicle. |
Category | Engine |
Date | Feb 08, 2021 |
State | OH |
Description | Exhaust manifold cracked and needed replaced; was first advised that the catalyt converter was bad and would need replaced by a non subaru service provider. When I took to subaru dealer, was advised I had to pay for 2 hours labor to "diagnosis" the exhaust before they could advise of issue/fix; did not do at that time. Next subaru maintenance requested to have situation diagnosed; was then advised that did not need to remove covers to diagnosis, they knew it was the exhaust manifold. Part was on backorder; ordered and then replaced; exhaust still loud and now have fumes that were not present prior to the repair |
Category | Visibility:windshield |
Date | Feb 08, 2021 |
State | NJ |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65 mph, the windshield fractured without impact. The fracture was located on the left corner of the driver's side windshield. The contact stated that the fracture started to expand. The contact contacted a certified mechanic who replaced the windshield. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 20,000. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Feb 01, 2021 |
State | NY |
Description | My windshield developed a crack after being parked for a period of 8hrs while I was at work. The crack starts from the bottom and extends vertically and then moves horizontally. I believe it to be internal as it has no exterior marks or chips from the outside. I also havent had any debris hit my vehicle during the last times I have commuted to work. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Jan 28, 2021 |
State | PA |
Description | My name is [xxx] address: [xxx] e-mail: [xxx] cell: [xxx] I am the first and the only owner of the car, subaru forester premium, 2017. Vin [xxx] purchased from reedman toll subaru, langhorne, pa, on 03/2017, as a brand new. Current mileage: 63000 my car is totaled, none of the airbags had deployed passenger side airbag was serviced by subaru reedman this spring d/t manufacturer recall. I was traveling 30 mph on major road, having the right of way. A dodge truck crossed in front of me, speeding from a cross road. My car hit right front tire of the track. My car's front was completely destroyed, front end pushed well into the engine compartment. This was a front to side impact. All liquids leaked away on the spot. Both head lites and fog lites were torn away from my car and thrown around the road. Both right doors are having dents, too. Insurance company, aaa, declared total loss. Airbags did not deploy, none of them. I sustained a whiplash injury requiring medical attention and investing in rehabilitation measures..... Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6). *tr |
Category | Visibility:windshield |
Date | Jan 27, 2021 |
State | NC |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that the passenger's side windshield fractured without impact while driving approximately 55 mph in highway traffic. On another occasion, while driving approximately 20 to 45 mph, the driver's side windshield fractured without impact. The contact stated that the windshield was replaced. The manufacturer was not contacted about the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 25,000. *bf |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Jan 19, 2021 |
State | MD |
Description | While driving straight forward on a well-maintained highway under normal road conditions my car has been hit with several rocks that have been flung from truck wheels into my lane. My car's windshield chipped and cracked in an unusually easy and violent manner. One of the cracks specifically seems like a hazard to the structural integrity of the glass, as it is easily spreading with any pressure on the windshield. I have only had this car for 6 months, and I have 7 (possibly more) visible rock chips and cracks on the windshield. My prior subaru was an older (2001) model and I never experienced a visible rock chip in 8 years of ownership. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Jan 03, 2021 |
State | MI |
Description | Windshield crack |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Jan 03, 2021 |
State | CA |
Description | Myself, wife,and son were traveling southbound on highway 99 when we heard a popping sound for no apparent reason we were startled, there was no car or truck in front of us so I know it wasn't a rock,I then noticed a small crack on the right side of my windshield, then within seconds of noticing my windshield began to crack right infront of us and continued till we got to our destination. We were shocked to see how fast it continued to crack for no apparent reason. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Jan 03, 2021 |
State | CO |
Description | After owning my certified pre-owned subaru forester for 3 months I woke up to a large spider crack starting from the top of the windshield. The vehicle was parked at my apartment complex in a patrolled lot. It went downward about 8 inches in length. No rocks were heard or visually observed to impact the windshield while driving the vehicle. The source of the crack appears to have started on the underside of the glass where it is sealed at the very top. This crack was not able to be felt with a fingernail which is how it is known to be under the glass. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Dec 31, 2020 |
State | FL |
Description | Intermittently, the key in the ignition would not go to the "off" position so that I could remove it after the car was in "park." I would have to move it (the key) back to the "on" position, then back again to the "off" position (beyond the "acc" setting). |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Dec 30, 2020 |
State | NY |
Description | There is a chip/dent in the bottom left of the windshield of unknown origin. It is my belief that this should not have occurred from regular use and that the windshield is inferior/defective. |
Category | Back Over Prevention: Warnings, Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings |
Date | Dec 18, 2020 |
State | WI |
Description | Pulling into a parking spot at a low rate of speed (since I'd not driven quickly through the parking lot - too many backing up too quickly!). Sudden acceleration and rammed into brick wall of the building. My foot must of slipped, but it was fast. No collision deterrents activated at all, which was strange since this car will stop for an obstacle 1/2 a block ahead in low light. No buzzing, beeping, warning, or stopping. Was able to slam my foot on the brake, but still hit the wall. No air bags activated. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Dec 18, 2020 |
State | WI |
Description | My windshield developed a large crack (2 feet long) beginning at the lower left edge of the windshield below the wiper extending half way up the windshield. There had been no impacts to the windshield to explain the crack, and the origin of the crack did not contain a chip to show why it started. I noticed the crack when I parked at my house, I'm not sure when it started but was sure it wasn't present when I purchased the vehicle 2. 5 weeks previously. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Nov 27, 2020 |
State | MD |
Description | The windshield seems to be chipping in multiple places and I fear it might crack while I am on the road |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Nov 27, 2020 |
State | FL |
Description | My car windshield is cracked |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Nov 27, 2020 |
State | PA |
Description | Windshield cracked. Had to get replaced. We noticed no stones or pebbles striking the windshield to cause this. It cracked on a highway. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Nov 27, 2020 |
State | IL |
Description | At the end of a drive on the highway I noticed this crack in the lower left part of the windshield (from driver's view). I don't believe any object hit my windshield. The crack looks uniform. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Nov 27, 2020 |
State | VA |
Description | Windshield has multiple chips. Currently on our second windshield after a crack across the windshield required a full replacement |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Nov 18, 2020 |
State | CA |
Description | Vehicle was traveling on highway 101 southbound. Driver heard a loud pop. Driver looked around to find a large crack in the windshield located on the passenger side. There were no vehicles within 7-8 car lengths in front of the driver. |
Category | Structure:body |
Date | Nov 17, 2020 |
State | IL |
Description | Windshield is extremely fragile. I haven't even had this car for two years yet and its already had two cracked windshields due to road debris. I've heard that subaru made the glass thinner to save weight, not sure if that is true, but it seems crazy to have the windshield crack so easily (driving on regular roads, mostly highway). Also the glass is very expensive, and since my car is equipped with eyesight, it also needs to be recalibrated each time its replaced. I've had other cars for five times longer and never had two cracked windshields in the life of the car. Maybe something is going on with the subaru oem glass that needs to be investigated? Thanks. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Nov 16, 2020 |
State | CA |
Description | I was driving about 70 miles an hour on the highway, typical speed for my area is between 65 and 80mph on highways. My wind shield was struck by gravel/rock/small or small debris. And a part of my windshield chipped while an other spot cracked and later developed a crack. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Oct 26, 2020 |
State | CO |
Description | Intermittently, I cannot remove the key after putting the vehicle into park. Restarting the car, taking it out of park, and putting it back into park (sometimes requires multiple iterations) eventually allows the key to release. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Oct 25, 2020 |
State | NY |
Description | Car check engine light went on while driving. Safety features advertised with the subaru forester such as blind spot detection, cruise control, forward accident avoidance all stopped working. Once the code was cleared from the car, these safety features returned. The check engine light was caused by failure to secure gas cap tightly. I believe that safety features should not be disabled with check engine light going onb. |
Category | Visibility:windshield |
Date | Oct 23, 2020 |
State | VA |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that while driving, the windshield was cracked by a foreign object. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the windshield replacement was in the process to be replaced. No dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure however, the contact was informed that the vin was not under recall. The failure mileage was approximately 127,800. The vin was not available. |
Category | Air Bags, Seats |
Date | Oct 18, 2020 |
State | AL |
Description | Airbag light for passenger seat comes on while seat is occupied by a 200+ lbs passenger. |
Category | Electrical System, Engine, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Oct 12, 2020 |
State | CA |
Description | The vehicle was traveling along the highway at around 65-75mph and we went up a grade (cuesta grade) along 101 freeway in california and vehicle had a sudden loss in power while climbing up the hill. Ultimately, no power was ever regained and the vehicle shut off completely and stopped. We were stuck on the side of the road and had to call 911 to have a chp offer park behind us so that we would not be hit because we were partially in the lane. The car could not move so we had to have it towed to a subaru dealership. We received a check engine light, vehicle emissions controls, hill assist, and the car was shaking. Subaru recently made a recall on models that have had a loss of power but my vehicle is not on the list but I did experience everything mentioned in the recall. Can you assist? |
Category | Power Train |
Date | Oct 08, 2020 |
State | NC |
Description | Reference subaru tsb # 16-103-16r, revision 08/29/19. I pulled screenshots, but I have a full video clip of the leak described in this bulletin and subaru is denying coverage because their dealerships are not equipped with the proper tools or do not employ trained technicians in order to properly diagnose the issue. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Oct 07, 2020 |
State | IL |
Description | Since I have gotten my vehicle, my windshield has gotten several cracks and chips (very easily) from rocks flying up off the road. For the second time in three years I am going to have to get my windshield repaired and this time a full replacement is required due to damage from a rock hitting my windshield and causing a large crack. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Oct 02, 2020 |
State | WI |
Description | Got into my car to go to work and noticed the windshield was cracked. There were no branches or other large items near the car that would've fallen on it. There was no crack when last driving the vehicle. The crack is about a foot in length and starts at the top left side of the windshield when looking at it. This happened while the car was stationary and parked at our residence. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Sep 30, 2020 |
State | IL |
Description | Windshield cracked, while the car was parked. Epicenter of the crack does not show signs of impact. Appears to have been stress induced. Crack extends from the top of the windshield to below the mirror. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Sep 27, 2020 |
State | CA |
Description | Bought the 2017 subaru forester eyesigh brand new in 2017. 2 weeks later front windshield chipped and cracked. Got it replaced. And now another chipped. This is cheap thin poorly made windshield even the dealer parts person said so. 1st time...... This is all happened freeway driving. Out of nowhere. All I heard a debris hit the windshield got to work parked. By the time I get off work..... Theres a big long cracked across the bottom windshield. And 2nd time same thing happened while going to work. Same thing happened. But this time I called the dealership. Told them what happened, and I got the windshield replacement warranty. No luck, told me they only can do repair smaller then a quarter. So I called, they said only can repair no replacement. Fill in the cracked. So. So far. This gonna be my 1st and last subaru. Nothing but headache dealing with the dealers. Windshield replacnemt is not cheap. Its about $00 |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Sep 27, 2020 |
State | CA |
Description | Two small cracks formed at the base of the windshield (cause unknown). One of those cracks has now spread to halfway up the windshield in one day. |
Category | Electrical System, Fuel/propulsion System |
Date | Sep 24, 2020 |
State | WI |
Description | First time, I was driving in the middle lane on interstate at highway speed, all of sudden the accelerator would not respond, the car panel went black, no lights or info showed. I coasted off to the side of the road, the car was in drive, ignition on. The emergency light wouldn't go on. I shut the car down and into park and waited a couple of minutes and restarted the engine without a problem. Second time, I was driving in the middle lane on interstate at highway speed, all of sudden the accelerator would not respond, the car panel went black, no lights or info showed. I coasted off to the side of the road, the car was in drive, ignition on. The emergency light wouldn't go on. I shut the car down and into park and waited a couple of minutes but car would not restart. I rocked the car side to side and the car started. I took to the dealer, they pressure tested fuel pump and found a slight pressure drop once during the test. Replaced fuel pump at 18,000 miles. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Sep 24, 2020 |
State | WI |
Description | Have a 2017 forester. At least a couple times a week, the key get stuck in the ignition. You can turn the car off, but you can't remove the key. If I start the car back up, and shift it into drive, and them slam it back into park, then I can turn the car off and remove the key |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Sep 23, 2020 |
State | OH |
Description | I had a cracked windshield after only having the car for less than a month. The dealership would cover this at the time. The windshield just cracked again for no apparent reason and I believe the car was stationary as it start out as a small crack and has grown to across the windshield.. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Sep 15, 2020 |
State | NY |
Description | After shutting engine on 2017 subaru forester, and putting gear selector in park, I was unable to remove the key from the ignition and it was locked in accessory position.. After many tries and by calling dealer, putting the shifter in neutral then park enabled me to remove it. This occurred on another occasion. The shifter plate guide had to be replaced. Cost was 2. Mileage on the car is 31,000. |
Category | Power Train, Unknown Or Other |
Date | Sep 09, 2020 |
State | RI |
Description | Have a 2017 forester. At least a couple times a week, the key get stuck in the ignition. You can turn the car off, but you can't remove the key. If I start the car back up, and shift it into drive, and them slam it back into park, then I can turn the car off and remove the key. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Sep 04, 2020 |
State | VA |
Description | Ignition key sticking. Unable to remove key after placing vehicle in park position. |
Category | Engine |
Date | Sep 04, 2020 |
State | CO |
Description | There is a problem with the engine and the fuel feed. The engine will buck, much like a backfire and fail to accelerate. This problem has been on-going since we purchased the vehicle. The date of the event is an approximation but it has been on-going since we purchased the car. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Sep 04, 2020 |
State | CA |
Description | Front windshield developed horizontal cracks while parked on street at owners location. Crack increased in length over a period of two months. Failure began on passenger side. Failure now extends nearly 50% into driver side. There is no indication that failure was caused by impact from either the outside of window or inside of window. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Sep 02, 2020 |
State | CA |
Description | My windshield just cracked for no apparent reason, for the third time in the 4 years I've owned the car. This time, on aug 28, it happened while parked in a grocery store parking lot. |
Category | Power Train |
Date | Aug 30, 2020 |
State | NY |
Description | After 20k miles, transmission hesitates more and more. Be careful and try to avoid situations where you have to accelerate quickly. The car does not move or accelerate when you hit the gas pedal quickly. Cvt slips, especially from reverse to drive. At slow speeds, it jerks the car trying to find the right gear. The problem began under 10k miles, and I took it to a local dealership, they told me that is how the car drives and told me it is normal. This is not my first forester, but definitely the worst. I called subaru america, and they said there is no known problem whit their transmission. I almost got killed in a highway stop and go situation, where I had to accelerate after a slowdown, and the car decided not to. If you own one, be careful. |
Category | Electrical System, Engine, Power Train |
Date | Aug 14, 2020 |
State | CT |
Description | My fianc and I bought this car and we were told it was not an accident, after we purchased it we found out that it had been in 2 accidents and during driving 1 night it bucked real hard and would now accelerate and it scared both of us. So the next day I took it to center subaru in torrington connecticut to get it inspected, during the trip to the dealer it had bucked three more times violently. I told them about it and they could not find any codes in the system, I spoke with the mechanic later and he said if it doesn't throw trouble codes it has serious issues in the computer. I explained that it was in a two accidents and he goes I would explain a lot, his off the books recommendation to me was get rid of the vehicle and find something else. I told him I bought it from a better way wholesale autos in naugatuck connecticut and he said to contact you. I want this car flagged so when we turn it back in someone else does not come across it the same way we did, I know the dealership will put this are back out for sale and not tell anyone. |
Category | Unknown Or Other, Visibility/wiper |
Date | Aug 14, 2020 |
State | TX |
Description | Original owner of 2017 subaru forester with eyesight. Driving on open road in clear weather. Noticed a small line above registration sticker that looked like a blade of grass. Stopped at our destination and noticed a crack that tripled in length in the 30 minutes it sat parked across the left lower section of the windshield. It proceeded to spread over the next day. Have never had a chip or impact to this windshield previously, but if there was any object that hit the car it was incredibly small as the crack is entirely in the driver's eyeline and I did not see or hear anything. |
Category | Electrical System:ignition |
Date | Aug 13, 2020 |
State | FL |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that while the transmission was in the park position, the ignition key was unable to be removed from the ignition switch. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer subaru of melbourne located at 4340 west new haven ave melbourne fl 32904, who diagnosed that the park range switch was defective inside the gear select lever assembly. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but, no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 26,000. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Aug 11, 2020 |
State | CA |
Description | My windshield got a spontaneous crack while driving, not behind any work trucks, and then as the days got hotter, it began to spider. I paid for the replacement through safelight in march 2018. I also paid for the required calibration for a total of just over 2. About a week later, I got another crack in the windshield for no apparent reason. I put sealant into it and it is starting to spread. The second time the car was parked in my driveway which is in a quiet residential neighborhood with no construction. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Aug 04, 2020 |
State | CO |
Description | Key remains in ignition and will not disengage from ignition with radio and all dash lights still on. It has happened 12 times since purchased in the middle of june. The car was parked moved several , turned on and off with no result . Car was in park at all times. After several times of moving car , turning on and off several key finally relased |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Jul 27, 2020 |
State | AE |
Description | I am locating in vilseck, germany on dod us army military official order from may 2018 to present. Now! I am schedule to pcs from germany back to san antonio, texas. With this recall I will have problem of shipping my car back home and I can't get it fix due to subaru, germany is not available to get it done due to lacks of service contact with subaru usa. |
Category | Electrical System, Power Train |
Date | Jul 22, 2020 |
State | IN |
Description | When shifting vehicle from reverse to park, then turning vehicle off, the key cannot be fully taken out of the car. The only way to get it out is to restart the vehicle, take it out of park and slam it back into park. Supposedly a switch within the shifter that prevents a solenoid in the steering column from opening. This is all covered on tsb 16-112-18 and there are a lot of people complaining about the issue online. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Jul 21, 2020 |
State | NY |
Description | After parking and turning off the engine, the key can't be removed from the ignition. The key will only move to the accessory position and no further. Eventually by restarting the engine, driving back and forth and sometimes turning the wheels a little I've been able to remove the key from the ignition. I brought my car in to a subaru service center and left it there for it to be checked tomorrow. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Jul 06, 2020 |
State | MD |
Description | After driving the car and placing it in "park", the key could not be extracted from the ignition. Putting the car into different gears was of no help, sometimes able to restart the car and then extract the key. Has happened multiple times in past month. Luckily, by shifting gears or straightening out the wheel, or driving a bit more I was able to remove key. By slowly removing key. I have been able to remove key. However, afraid that one time key wont be removed using these methods. |
Category | Power Train, Service Brakes, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Jun 29, 2020 |
State | NJ |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that while applying the brakes at speeds slower than 5 mph, the vehicle surged forward. The contact stated that extra effort was needed while depressing the brake pedal to slow and stop the vehicle. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed nor repaired. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer were notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 23,000. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Jun 26, 2020 |
State | WA |
Description | I just purchased my 2017 subaru forester on 6/13/20 and while driving on the highway on 6/25/20 the windshield was hit by a small rock from a semi truck in front of me. I did not see any visible damage at the time but the next day a very large crack appeared on my windshield almost a foot and a half long. In speaking with other subaru owners I had not realized what a massive and well known issue this is for subaru windshields. I've never seen this type of damage occur this instantly on a windshield from such a minor impact. *tr |
Category | Electrical System, Unknown Or Other |
Date | Jun 24, 2020 |
State | GA |
Description | After driving the car and placing it in "park", the key could not be extracted from the ignition. Putting the car into different gears was of no help. I was sometimes able to restart the car and then extract the key, but not every time. My choices were to return home or leave my car in the parking lot with the key in it while draining the battery while this may seem more an inconvenience than a safety issue, on some occasions this resulted in my battery becoming so weak that my car wouldn't crank leaving me stranded until I could find someone to help me jump off my car. After three of these incidents, I began disconnecting the battery cables when I couldn't remove the key. I looked online and found that many people were having the same issue with their subarus of various models. They said that the guide plate in the shifter assembly was faulty. The dealership stated that this was a common problem and they kept those parts in stock. They did replace the guide plate which corrected the issue. My question is: if so many people have the same issue (with a correction cost of 0) why isn't there a recall? I personally have an extended warranty which covered all but 0 of the repair, but people who don't have the extended warranty will have to pay the full 0 just to get a key out of the ignition. It is my understanding that subaru now uses a different guide plate in the latest models. Subaru knows this is a problem in the cars that are 2-3 years old. They need to be honest with consumers so that they don't risk being stranded due to a weakened battery because of faulty guide plates and they need to correct the problem free of charge as it is a safety concern. *tr |
Category | Engine, Unknown Or Other |
Date | Jun 24, 2020 |
State | AZ |
Description | Smell of gasoline at startup. The car has only 30000 miles on it and seems to be a widely reported problem/issue with subarus of all makes/models. This was not in cold weather. This is a major safety issue! *tr |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Jun 22, 2020 |
State | IL |
Description | While driving my 2017 subaru forester in july 2017 on m22 located in michigan my windshield began cracking. *tr |
Category | Electrical System, Unknown Or Other |
Date | Jun 15, 2020 |
State | WA |
Description | The key fob gets stuck in the ignition and can't be taken out. I have to play with the center console drive shifter to go in and out of park position until it finally turns and comes out. Please reference tsb 16-112-18r. *tr |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Jun 10, 2020 |
State | NY |
Description | Spontaneous rear windshield shattering. Car was parked in driveway. *tr |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Jun 03, 2020 |
State | TN |
Description | Srs warning light came on and the passenger airbag is off. Vehicle was stationary with no other problem. *tr |
Category | Service Brakes |
Date | Jun 02, 2020 |
State | MD |
Description | With car stopped and engine running brake pedal sinks to the floor if steady pressure is applied. Dealer saw this but told me "they all do that". If that is true than subaru has a problem and it could be dangerous. *tr |
Category | Engine, Steering |
Date | May 27, 2020 |
State | AL |
Description | After attempting to turn off the car and remove the key from the ignition, the key will not remove. After some manhandling of the shifter and turning the car on and off, eventually, I am able to get the key out of the ignition. This is occurring 80% of the time now. The vehicle has about 37,000 miles and is less than 4 years old. *tr |
Category | Service Brakes, Unknown Or Other |
Date | May 17, 2020 |
State | IA |
Description | I was driving straight at a speed of 35 mph in town. I was approaching a red light, as I went to break the car did not slow down but seemed to speed up. It took a lot of force on the break to stop completely. |
Category | Service Brakes, Unknown Or Other, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | May 16, 2020 |
State | CA |
Description | When in motion coming to a stop on local street, hitting brakes, forester makes sounds on both front wheels but more on front right wheel area needing to brake harder. Wife and son were on freeway in motion, hitting brakes made click click sound and having to brake harder coming to a full stop wife *tr |
Category | Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | May 16, 2020 |
State | MN |
Description | Traveling on a highway, no cruise control set. Maintaining 70-73 mph. All of a sudden I felt my car surge, speed up on its own. I took my foot off the gas pedal briefly and the car continued to surge. I heard the engine make acceleration sound like I was speeding off a ramp to get on to a highway. Confused as to what was going on, I stepped on my brake twice. I then noticed I had control again of the speed. I wasn't really sure what happened. *tr |
Category | Engine |
Date | May 13, 2020 |
State | AK |
Description | We have a 2017 subaru forester xt touring model 2. 0 turbo engine with approximately 20,000 miles. Wife and son were traveling to a wedding when check engine light came on no sooner did light come on heavy smoke filled inside of car from air vents heavy smoke was coming out from under hood also waited for smoke to clear noticed oil all over engine had vehicle towed to subaru dealership service manager called and said there was a hole in engine block I asked him how could happen he said it could be faulty engine this vehicle is a fire hazard my family could of been seriously been injured if vehicle caught fire while they were driving or passed out due to heavy smoke inside vehicle was in motion traveling on paved black surface road this vehicle should be recalled completely. *tr |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | May 05, 2020 |
State | NV |
Description | Continuous battery drainage issues. Over the past half a year I've had 3 battery replacements. My car was under warranty when the first battery replacement happened but has since then lapsed. In all of the cases, the battery would die after 2-3 days of not starting the car. Dealership insists that this is normal. *tr |
Category | Power Train |
Date | Apr 26, 2020 |
State | ID |
Description | Cvt transmission failed after 24000 miles. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Apr 16, 2020 |
State | IL |
Description | After putting the vehicle in park and shutting off engine unable to turn key all the way back to remove. Have to make several attempts at it. Subaru has a tsb 16-112-18r for this. It's becoming more numerous. My brother has a subaru with same problem. Can happen anytime you drive it. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Apr 16, 2020 |
State | PA |
Description | Windshield cracked from left to right towards bottom near dash. Nothing was detected that would have cause glass to crack. Owned car since brand new and have had this same type of crack happen in two windshields. |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification, Electrical System |
Date | Apr 04, 2020 |
State | NJ |
Description | Passenger air bag off light began displaying |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Apr 01, 2020 |
State | ND |
Description | Windsheild cracked in the upper right hand corner and the crack led all the way town to the lower left corner |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Mar 30, 2020 |
State | WA |
Description | My windshield got cracked last month. It was so easy to get cracked. It costed my almost 0 to replace it. It never happened to my old car (different brand) before. I have talked to my friend who also was driving 2019 subaru outback about it and he claimed that his windshield had broken twice. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Mar 23, 2020 |
State | MN |
Description | Windshield is horribly chipped and has one crack with less than 50,000 miles. Will need new windshield soon due to how unsafe it is when sun hits it. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Mar 16, 2020 |
State | VA |
Description | My windshield cracked in december 2019. I parked the car overnight in my family's driveway and in the morning there was a 6 inch crack from the bottom left side. The crack eventually became much larger, encompassing half the winshield. No pictures were taken but I replaced the windshield for 5 in january 2020. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Mar 16, 2020 |
State | CA |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that there was a crack on the front windshield that started at the top then expanded downward. The insurance company authorized safelight auto glass to replace the windshield. The eyesight system was recalibrated which added to the cost of the replacement. Maita subaru located at (2912 auburn blvd, sacramento, ca 95821 916-486-8500), stated that the crack may have been caused by a rock. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 23,586. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Mar 15, 2020 |
State | WA |
Description | Windshield cracked without any type of foreign object contact and without warning within one year of purchase. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Mar 15, 2020 |
State | NJ |
Description | I was driving down the highway , and nothing hit my windshield but then a large crack start across the top 1/3 of my windshield and continued to grow larger. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Mar 14, 2020 |
State | ME |
Description | Cracked windshield |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Mar 14, 2020 |
State | OR |
Description | My windshield cracked shortly after purchase and has had several cracks since then. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Mar 09, 2020 |
State | VA |
Description | My windshield was cracked 3 times in the span of 2. 5 years of ownership. I've had to completely replace it twice and patch the crack once. The first and third time it happened I was on a highway going ~60mph but the second time was on a 35mph road. I don't tailgate other cars and I've never had so much as a small star crack on my previous vehicle. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Mar 03, 2020 |
State | MT |
Description | Windshield cracked without cause. This happened with the original windshield in august 2017. The windshield was replaced with genuine subaru parts at a servicer directed by the subaru dealership and it happened again in april 2018. The windshield was replaced yet again with genuine subaru parts at a servicer directed by the subaru dealership. The windshield cracked a third time without cause in may 2019. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Mar 02, 2020 |
State | IN |
Description | Cracked windshield occured while driving on the highway. Nothing in front of me |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Feb 28, 2020 |
State | CO |
Description | I was in motion and within the few months of owning my vehicle I received a crack in the windshield, which I later paid to have fixed. I have since then had 2 more, plus one of the cracks, has splintered (after being fixed) and the whole windshield will need to be replaced. Crack fixed: 10/25/17, 6/4/18, 6/24/19 |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Feb 27, 2020 |
State | GA |
Description | Windshield cracked and had to be replaced after being hit by a very small pebble from the roadway. |
Category | Electrical System, Engine |
Date | Feb 26, 2020 |
State | PA |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. While driving approximately 70 mph the vehicle suddenly stalled. The dealer was unable to diagnose the cause of the failure. The contact was concerned that the vehicle was unsafe. The contact stated that the vehicle would not accelerate when pressing the accelerator pedal. While driving, the speed was suddenly reduced. After turning the vehicle off and restarting the engine, the vehicle operated as normal. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer reedman toll subaru (1700 east lincoln hwy, langhorne pa) who was unable to duplicate the failure or determine the cause of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 90,000. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Feb 26, 2020 |
State | FL |
Description | Black foam insulation keeps falling out of my windshield. They have already replaced my windshield previously and had the same problem. They previously put me in a loaner while windshield was on back order. It was a safety concern that the windshield might blow out. They are now telling me this time that this is a known problem problem with the forester. The service advisor told me to just push it back in with a ruler or just pull it out. How can this be a safe solution. What if I have no insulation left ? Is my windshield going to blow out ? Is it loose now ? I have a brand new grandson, should I be putting him in my car with a fear of the windshield blowing out ? They keep telling me that some guy named liam from nj will be calling me back. He hasn't called yet and it is almost a week now. Can you please get me some answers about the foam insulation falling out. The dealership keeps telling me to get a ruler and push back in or just pull it out. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Feb 25, 2020 |
State | CO |
Description | I have had to have my windshield replace 3 times in my 2017 subaru forester. Seems to me to be a lot. In 45 years of driving, I've not had to have that many windshields replaced, total. One time the damage was definitely from a rock hit. Recently I've had a chip repaired from a rock hit. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Feb 25, 2020 |
State | CO |
Description | My 2017 subaru forester was sitting in my driveway and when I got in to start it and leave for work, the windshield cracked in the middle base above the dashboard seemingly for no apparent reason. It has since spread throughout the entire windshield. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Feb 25, 2020 |
State | PA |
Description | My windshield cracked while parked and required replacement. This also entailed calibrating the devices associated with eye sight. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Feb 25, 2020 |
State | DC |
Description | Windshield developed multiple chips in it from normal use. No heavy construction, debris, hail, or gravel |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Feb 24, 2020 |
State | OR |
Description | While driving on I-5 from portland to vancouver , bc, my windshield cracked. There was no cause for this. It was 4:30am and raining. I was in seattle when it became apparent. Upon examining the crack, it shows no star or any indication for debris damagin the windsheild. As the day progressed, it is just a crack became an 'n' on my windshield. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Feb 24, 2020 |
State | AR |
Description | Windshield spontaneously cracked, all the way from the top to the bottom. No previous cracks or chips. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Feb 23, 2020 |
State | OH |
Description | Windshield cracked for no apparent reason. Got into my vehicle following memorial day parade and started driving down the road (a small town road with speed limit of 35) and noticed a crack starting at the top edge of the windshield, about in the center. The crack eventually traveled into the driver's viewing area and I had to replace the windshield. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Feb 23, 2020 |
State | NY |
Description | My windshield developed a crack for no apparent reason and I had to replace it. |
Category | Structure:body, Visibility/wiper |
Date | Feb 22, 2020 |
State | WA |
Description | The 2017 forester was parked and had been parked for a week. While parked the temperature fell to 30 degrees f and the windshield cracked from the bottom up. This is in mason county washington state noticed feb 21 2020 |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Feb 07, 2020 |
State | CA |
Description | Cracked windshield on my 2017 subaru forester. Unknown source of how it happened. Not from any type of debris. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Feb 03, 2020 |
State | CA |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated while driving at 15 mph, the vehicle stalled without warning. The contact was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to lithia subaru of fresno located at 5200 n blackstone ave, fresno, ca 93710 (559) 540-7189, where the technician was unable to duplicate the failure or retrieve a fault code. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 18,440. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Feb 03, 2020 |
State | GA |
Description | While driving on I-75 south near lake city, fl a small pebble struck and cracked the passenger side of my windshield. The year, make, and model of my vehicle have a well known history of weakness as well as fragility and class action suit for the subaru outback of same vintage has reached settlement. Unfortunately, the forester has the same problem. I had the crack repaired the same day to prevent it from getting bigger. I am attaching a receipt for repair and a post repair photo of the defect. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Jan 26, 2020 |
State | CA |
Description | Crack in windshield resulting in loss of cameras (eye sight) |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Jan 24, 2020 |
State | OR |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that at start up and while the vehicle was driven, the air bag warning light illuminated and remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to subaru of bend located at bend 2060 ne hwy 20, bend, or 97701, to be repaired. The contact referenced the failure to nhtsa campaign number: 19v701000 (air bags) as a possible cause for the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 28,199. |
Category | Power Train, Service Brakes |
Date | Jan 24, 2020 |
State | NY |
Description | When breaking, the car acellerated on a city street and a second time in a very busy parking lot! Fortuately there was no accident> had the car towed to the dealer who later reported that they found nothing wrong with the car. I will not drive this car untill more is investigated. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Jan 15, 2020 |
State | VA |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that a recall notification was received for nhtsa campaign 19v701000 (air bags) and called the manufacturer. The manufacturer called first team auto mall dealer, (6520 peters creek rd, roanoke, va 24019, (540) 362-4800) and was informed that the part was not available for the repair. The information provided to the manufacturer from the dealer was provided to the contact about the part not available for the repair. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer. The contact had not experienced a failure. Part distribution disconnects. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Jan 08, 2020 |
State | OH |
Description | The key keeps getting stuck in the ignition after you turn the car off. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Jan 06, 2020 |
State | TX |
Description | Passenger side air bag came on with no passenger in the seat. It would happen with the vehicle stationary or moving. Sometimes it would reset on its own but after a few days the complete airbag system warning has come on and won't go away. Found out online that it is common problem with the subaru forester and the manufacturer needs to put to task as they are definitely not doing enough and are playing with the lives of people. When I contacted a local dealership (subaru of grapevine) they outright wanted money for diagnosing a problem they knew was preexisting. This clearly reflects the attitude of the dealership and the manufacturer towards this serious issue. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Jan 03, 2020 |
State | WA |
Description | Small chip driving aug 2017after parking turned into long cracks july 2018 small chip driving turned into long crack after parking |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Dec 30, 2019 |
State | MN |
Description | 2017 subaru forester. Consumer writes in regards to airbag safety recall. *ld the consumer stated the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time completing the recall repair. *js |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Dec 30, 2019 |
State | PA |
Description | Windshield presented with large crack of unknown origin on 4/3/18. Was replaced by safe lite repair with oem glass. Cracked again shortly thereafter and was replaced by local auto body. |
Category | Fuel/propulsion System, Power Train, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Dec 29, 2019 |
State | WA |
Description | I was driving on the high way for about 2 hours, 70 mph, gas was at about 1/8 full, but low gas light on. The gear shifter remained in d and the indicator on the dash said d. The engine revved as if it were in neutral and would not provide power to the wheels. The check engine, traction control, and cruise control lights came on, along with possibly others. The car began to slow since it was just revving in what appeared to be neutral while the gas pedal was pressed. Eventually I made it to the shoulder. I turned the car off for about 15 seconds then started it again. It struggled to start for a moment like the battery was low or it was cold outside, but still started on the first try. I shifted into d and began to move on the shoulder, but when the car when over about 10 or 15 mph, it would rev and not provide power to the wheels. I had the car towed to the dealer where they added gas, test drove it, said there was nothing wrong, and nothing that they could do. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Dec 27, 2019 |
State | MO |
Description | Windshield is extremely brittle and will crack across with impacts that other cars can sustain. 3 windshield replacements required in 18 months. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Dec 26, 2019 |
State | PA |
Description | 12/11/19 2pm driving at 55mph south on route 321 between kane, pa and wilcox, pa. No oncoming traffic, no stone chips. Noticed 6" l shaped crack in windshield. Defroster was on. Next morning the crack was about 14" and growing. |
Category | Electrical System, Power Train, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Dec 24, 2019 |
State | CA |
Description | Since I have bought the car I've been having electrical issues with it it's always saying that a key is not detected even though the keys right next to it or underneath that they already has been a transmission leakage also the balance of the car has been off-balance so I had to take it back to them when the air conditioner was on when it was summer is there making a weird noise I recorded the noise I showed it to the dealer and they said that they couldn't find anything wrong with that even though I have proof that there was something wrong with it but I just didn't know where was coming from alsoalso a little crack on the windshield randomly came out like about three weeks ago and never had an issue with that until now and when I start out my car and I had to do it at the first break at a stop sign my car started shaking and then it stopped shaking and then that's the only time does the shakiness I've had so many issues with this forrester 2017 they try to fix it issues but when they fix it something new always comes up. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Dec 23, 2019 |
State | MD |
Description | The windshield cracked along the top center without any evidence of being hit by anything. The subaru dealer arranged for a third party to replace the windshield at my expense and then charged me 0 to readjust the safety vision through the new windshield. This was done through my insurance which caused my insurance to go up. At no time did anyone tell me that there have been multiple complaints of these windshields breaking spontaneously because they are defective. I have the service invoice from 16 april 2019. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Dec 23, 2019 |
State | NY |
Description | Windshield had cracks develop twice over the course of ownership |
Category | Engine, Unknown Or Other |
Date | Dec 21, 2019 |
State | CA |
Description | My car stole in the middle off highway on a very busy traffic time,, I can hear the engine but the car did not move, finally it moved very slowly and stop again, I almost got hit many times since vehicles were speeding over 65miles and no one will allow me to move to the shoulder, finally after 10 minutes the car engine accelerated and I was able to drive away, very scary situacin |
Category | Power Train, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Dec 19, 2019 |
State | TN |
Description | On a long trips (200 miles of interstate driving) the car loses it's ability to maintain highway speed. The accelerator peddle does not work and vehicle slows down to idle. You have to pull off the road and stop. Put the car in park and then back in to drive. It works after that. During the failure you lose all ability to maintain speed. It has happened about 3 times in the past year. The dealer checked out the car and not codes are shown. Thanks, [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).' *pm |
Category | Electronic Stability Control, Fuel/propulsion System, Power Train |
Date | Dec 17, 2019 |
State | MA |
Description | On three separate occasions thus far, while driving approximately 70 mph on interstate 93 in massachusetts and new hampshire, my 2017 subaru forester touring (with 21k miles) lost power and completely shutdown. All three times, I was luckily able to steer the vehicle to safety while avoiding other motor vehicles and neither myself, my passengers nor anyone else around us was hurt. When the vehicle decides to shutdown, it feels like the car drops itself into neutral, the rpms shoot up to about 4500-5000 and all of the lights on the dashboard light up. There is about a five second window to steer the vehicle to safety from when you first detect that the issue is occurring. After waiting for about 45 minutes after the incident, I am able to start the car back up and drive it. This is a serious safety concern of mine (and it is terrifying when it happens) and I have already contacted subaru of america asking for a solution. I am now currently only using the car on short trips and if I have to get on the highway, I stick to the right lane and do not go over 60 mph. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Dec 12, 2019 |
State | IL |
Description | Battery drains so that car won't start. After having a new battery installed, the battery is still so weak that the car will not start, and the electrical power is completely drained. Even the clock has to be reset. This started around 35,000 miles. I stopped for gas after driving for an hour, and the car won't start without a jump. |
Category | Electrical System, Steering |
Date | Dec 10, 2019 |
State | MI |
Description | While stationary, the key will get stuck. It will not allow you to turn the car off. In case of an emergency, I would have a problem. It has happen twice , I m sure it will happen again. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Dec 09, 2019 |
State | CA |
Description | Twice today when car was off, in park, with park brake applied, ignition would not allow key to release. 'fix' was to restart car, put it in drive, then back to park one or more times until key could finally be removed. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Dec 05, 2019 |
State | WI |
Description | Recall notice via us mail, also read about another recall that will be coming, I believe the boxer engine. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Dec 05, 2019 |
State | MI |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. While driving approximately 35 mph, the front passenger air bag warning indicator illuminated for approximately one week. The contact stated that the failure occurred after a passenger was seated on the front passenger seat. The contact called dunning subaru (3771 jackson rd, ann arbor, mi 48103) to schedule an appointment; however, it was cancelled because the warning indicator turned off. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact also received a recall notification for nhtsa campaign number: 19v701000 (air bags). The approximate failure mileage was 24,000. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Dec 03, 2019 |
State | NY |
Description | The original windshield of my forester suddenly cracked while parked a few months ago. My insurance fully covered the repair. The replacement aftermarket windshield from safelite only lasted a few more months before it too got chipped from a small pebble hit and needed repair. The third windshield was defective and finally, the fourth time, I got an oem windshield installed which is still intact. I incurred no costs due to insurance but this is very aggravating! It's hard to get a reliable replacement glass on the aftermarket, which is all insurance pays for unless you have multiple problems like I did, only then will you get oem. And I wonder how long it will last! The glass seems brittle - there is an obvious design problem here. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Dec 02, 2019 |
State | NY |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact received a recall notice for nhtsa campaign number: 19v701000 (air bags). The contact called nhtsa and was informed that the parts were pending and were not available. The dealer and manufacturer were not notified. The contact had not experienced a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available. Consumer states that vehicle was repaired on 01/13/2020. *dl |
Category | Air Bags, Electrical System, Electronic Stability Control |
Date | Dec 01, 2019 |
State | MI |
Description | On october 4, 2019 my car was parked and the passenger rear bumper was hit and damaged by a school bus. My car has been in the shop 4 times to get fixed and it is still not fixed. The bsd/rcta sensors are not working. The dealership has "fixed" this issue 4 times now and I am taking it back to the dealership for a 5th time. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Nov 27, 2019 |
State | MD |
Description | I purchase my 2017 forester from the annapolis dealer as a used loaner car with less than 7000 miles with the original and extended warranty coverage. After reading about windshield problems I started checking the windshield on my forester. There are a number of hairline cracks that are difficult to see and best seen in low sunlight with the light is refracted by the cracks. I have not reported this problem to the dealer but will at the next service appointment. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Nov 24, 2019 |
State | PA |
Description | Windshield exhibited sparkling type fault that compromised ability to see clearly thru the windshield. Especially severe in night driving or direct sunlight. Subaru replaced windshield as a "courtesy" to me. The same condition is now prevalent in the replacement windshield. I know the dealer will tell me it is another fault, not the manufacturing of the windshield. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Nov 18, 2019 |
State | NC |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 19v701000 (air bags). The contact called parkway subaru of jacksonville (910-968-0758, located at 2400 n marine blvd, jacksonville, nc 28546) and was informed that the parts were not available. 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. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Nov 07, 2019 |
State | TN |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. While driving approximately 25 mph, a tractor trailer collided into the passenger side of the contact's vehicle. As a result, the contact's vehicle rolled down a hill several times and the front end was severely damaged. The driver and passenger side air bags did not deploy. The contact stated that only the passenger and driver side curtain air bags deployed. The driver sustained an injured left hand and left leg as well as shoulder injuries. The front passenger sustained head, right hand, and facial lacerations. The vehicle was towed and a police report was filed. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer and dealer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 75,000. *dt *tr*jb |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Nov 06, 2019 |
State | FL |
Description | Called dealer about recall. They stated no fix was available. When I asked when it would be they said they would have more information in late december (recall date was oct 3). At that point the fix would not be available but they could tell me if and when it might be. This does not seem timely for a life threatening situation. Note dealer was professional. My issue is with subaru corporation. Nhtsa recall number is 19v701000. Manufacturer recall number is wum98. Recall is for non functioning airbag for passenger side. |
Category | Electrical System |
Date | Nov 04, 2019 |
State | MA |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that the key was stuck and failed to release from the ignition switch while in park. There were no warning indicators illuminated. The vehicle was taken to mastria subaru (1255 new state hwy, raynham, ma 02767) where it was diagnosed that there was a faulty shift plate. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 65,900.*dt consumer stated problem has been resolved.*jb |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Nov 01, 2019 |
State | WA |
Description | Windshield crack |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Oct 30, 2019 |
State | NC |
Description | My windshield has cracked twice in the past 3 years that I've had it. I've needed to use safelite to seal the cracks but I also have several chips and scratches. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Oct 29, 2019 |
State | NJ |
Description | Cracked windshield in front of vehicle while stationary at home. |
Category | Unknown Or Other, Visibility/wiper |
Date | Oct 29, 2019 |
State | CO |
Description | I am reporting to separate incidences. Both incidences are because of a small rock hitting my windshield, creating a bullet-sized crack in my windshield. One occurred while driving on the highway and one occurred while driving on county roads. The first bullet hole crack has since spread into a crack that covers the entire length of my windshield period the more recent bullet hole crack will most likely do the same. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Oct 28, 2019 |
State | NY |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact received a recall notice for nhtsa campaign number: 19v701000(air bags) and stated that it exceeded a reasonable amount of time for repair. The contact received the recall notification on october 3, 2019. Bill kolb jr. Subaru (252 ny-303, orangeburg, ny 10962, (845) 359-7777) stated that parts were unavailable for the repair. The manufacturer was also contacted and confirmed that the parts were unavailable, and did not know when the parts would be available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available. |
Category | Visibility |
Date | Oct 28, 2019 |
State | CO |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. While at a stop light, the front windshield defroster was activated and, moments later, the front windshield suddenly cracked. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not notified. The vin was not available. The failure mileage was 50,000. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Oct 28, 2019 |
State | NY |
Description | While driving at about 60 miles I noticed that the windshield was cracking |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Oct 28, 2019 |
State | WA |
Description | Without apparent cause the windshield cracked. This occurred while the vehicle was parked. The vehicle was not struck by anything and was never in a collision, but the windshield cracked approximately 14 inches in length beginning at the bottom edge about 1 foot from the lower right hand corner and angling up and leftward. The vehicle required an expensive (5) replacement as the crack was too long for repair. This vehicle is equipped with lane departure and collision avoidance, which the repair shop cited as the reason for the very high price. Notable at the shop was that the car before mine and after mine were the same make, model and year. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Oct 28, 2019 |
State | NY |
Description | While parked, the windshield on the passenger side of 2017 subaru forester suddenly cracked. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Oct 28, 2019 |
State | MD |
Description | A small rock from the highway hit the windshield and it cracked immediately. The crack required replacement of the entire windshield. We have had other card be hit by rocks, ones that have been a lot bigger and have harder impacts that did not crack or chip the windshield. The car was about 2 months old at the time of the incident. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Oct 28, 2019 |
State | WA |
Description | My 2. 5 year old 2017 subaru forester has already has the windshield chipped 2x while driving on the highway by seattle. Both times I have had it repaired by safelite. Each time it was a tiny thing that had apparently hit the windshield. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Oct 27, 2019 |
State | IL |
Description | Pebble thrown to window and started as a lil chip and within trip home entire crack through windshield from top to bottom of glass. I was driving entire time of crack spreading! |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Oct 27, 2019 |
State | PA |
Description | Windshield shattered after hitting a deer. Replacement windshield cracked with no apparent reason while car was parked. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Oct 27, 2019 |
State | TN |
Description | Windshield cracked in several places for no reason. Had to be replaced. |
Category | Seat Belts |
Date | Oct 12, 2019 |
State | NY |
Description | The center rear shoulder belt that pulls down from the ceiling is too short for average sized people. It easily switches to child lock mode or does not fit an adult passenger properly due to its awkward design. |
Category | Structure:body |
Date | Oct 12, 2019 |
State | NY |
Description | Accidentally placed my hand near the edge of the rear power lift gate when it was closing. Closed on my finger and did not auto reverse. Kept applying force until I managed to pull my finger out! Dangerous design |
Category | Electrical System, Exterior Lighting, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Oct 11, 2019 |
State | CA |
Description | There is intermittent surging upon initial acceleration and while driving at higher speeds. The back interior light will intermittently turn on while all doors are closed. The passenger side seatbelt sign comes on intermittently while there's nothing in the seat. The battery will die if the hazard lights are on for 5 minutes or 15 and others will be just fine. The camera in the back of the car is a bit obstructed by the rear bumper. |
Category | Engine, Power Train, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Oct 11, 2019 |
State | MO |
Description | While on driving 65mph on the highway during the evening rush hour and suddenly my accelerator was unresponsive in that the rpms just revved (as if the transmission was shifted to neutral). I have two small, children 2 year old and 6 months, and had to quickly coast over to the shoulder and was able to exit the highway. The vehicle shut off while exiting the ramp and I had to call 911 and request an emergency vehicle to park behind me for my safety as I was unable to pull completely over before the vehicle stopped. I attempted to restart the vehicle but was unsuccessful. I had the vehicle towed and am still researching how to repair. I had a 3 year 36k mile warranty that has recently expired since I'm currently at 46k miles. This is a serious concern as I'm finding that my model has not been included in any transmission recalls. For a car manufacturer that prides itself in the highest of safety, this has to be the unsafest I've ever felt driving a vehicle. I'm basically at a loss on what to do at this point because I am confident that the dealership is going to rack up a bill for repair and diagnostics to repair my issue and I'm going to responsible for the outrageous cost of their guessing game of repairs. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Oct 11, 2019 |
State | IL |
Description | Small object hit the windshield while driving on interstate. Crack developed later that day. |
Category | Structure:body |
Date | Oct 10, 2019 |
State | OR |
Description | I've noticed the windshield glass is extremely susceptible to rock chipping from very small stones, as if the glass is extremely brittle. The chipping, mostly tiny pockets about 1/16" max in the surface of the outer glass, occurs during normal highway driving and especially on "freeways". Although my report date is 10/10/19, the chipping has been going on for at least two years. |
Category | Air Bags, Seats |
Date | Oct 09, 2019 |
State | CA |
Description | There is an issue with my subraru forester 2017 front passenger seat occupant detection system (ods) malfunctions same as in model year (my) 2016 through 2018 subaru forester vehicles. These vehicles use a capacitive type ods, which is intended to classify the occupant of the passenger seat as either full-sized, small stature, a child seat or other object. The complaints report the ods failed to operate properly, the srs (supplemental restraint system) warning light illuminated, and/or the ods incorrectly suppressed (turned off) the front passenger air bag when the seat was occupied by a full-sized passenger. In a frontal crash sufficient to warrant deployment, a suppressed air bag may increase the risk of injury to the occupant of the seat. Odi opended this investigation to assess the scope, frequency, and consequences of the alleged defect in the subject vehicles. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Oct 05, 2019 |
State | MA |
Description | The airbag fault light comes on steadily. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Oct 04, 2019 |
State | MD |
Description | I understand the nhtsa is investigating possible passenger airbag defects in 2016-2018 subaru foresters. The passenger airbag sensor in our 2017 forester is not working on a consistent basis and has been defective since we bought the car.. My wife needs a seat cushion for her bad back and many times, when my wife sits in the seat, the air bag stays in the "off" status. We also found that the same issue comes up when she does not use the cushion. Also, when she is wearing a winter coat and not using her cushion, the sensor stays in the "airbag off" position. Also, we find that the air bag stays "off" if the car is running before she gets into the seat. If she gets into the seat before the car is turned on, we find that the airbag sensor seems to work (not always, but some of the time). The dealer has looked at this issue several times and cannot fix the sensor. I understand that the sensor is in the lower seat back and not in the flat part of the seat so my wife needs to adjust her sitting posture for 5-10 minutes before the airbag "off" light goes off. My wife does not have any issues when she is driving with her seat cushion - we assume the drivers airbag is always on. Once we are moving and the "off" light is gone, we have no issues while driving until the next time the car is turned off/on. Again - sometimes it works -- sometimes it doesn't. Not safe !!! *dt the consumer stated the vehicle has yet to be repaired. *tr |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Oct 03, 2019 |
State | MD |
Description | Purchased our 2017 subaru forester on 09/24/16. On 09/05/17 the warning light on dashboard came on warning that the passenger airbags were not functioning. This happened when a passenger was in the passenger seat and the car was on a highway. The warning light has come on 40-50 times when the car is on the road and a passenger is in the passenger seat. The car was brought into dealer and I was told multiple times codes were not there so no problem. We were told do not place anything electronic near the seat. Told we had spilled liquid on seat and seat dirty. Nothing has ever been spilled on the seats. I find it troubling that a major safety system of a vehicle is malfunctioning on a regular basis and the subaru is not actively trying to fix the vehicles. I went into dealer today on 3 oct 2019 to again have the problem looked at only to be told that the car is no longer under warranty and they can order part. I have searched online and it is interesting to see that so many other subaru forester owners have the same problem and there are law groups lining up class action suits. I would just like subaru to take ownership of the problem and fix the airbag systems before someone is injured or killed. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Oct 03, 2019 |
State | OH |
Description | The passenger air-bag is malfunctioning as the gel layer in the seat is malfunctioning. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Oct 02, 2019 |
State | NY |
Description | While parking the car in a parking lot going at 10 mph, the car suddenly accelerated at top speed went over a curb and hit a tree. The car then went in reverse at full speed in a circle approximately six times until the key could finally be removed. The brakes were working but would not stop the car. |
Category | Air Bags, Structure:body |
Date | Oct 01, 2019 |
State | IN |
Description | Involved in a car accident that was where the subaru was t-boned on the passenger side, resulting in extensive damage. Both front and rear door and all paneling on the passenger side had to be replaced. The side airbags failed to deploy upon impact. My vehicle was moving at 40mph and the vehicle that hit me was going 20-30mph and accelerating. *dt *tr |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Sep 30, 2019 |
State | IA |
Description | The passenger side air bag sensor does not always know when an adult is seated in the front passenger seat. The passenger side airbag will remain off even when an adult is seated with the seat belt on. The airbag light will light up on the dash randomly but clears once the vehicle is shut off. This occurs while the vehicle is in motion and is concerning as the front passenger airbag would not deploy in a crash. |
Category | Air Bags, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Sep 30, 2019 |
State | NY |
Description | 2017 subaru forester. Consumer writes in regards to unintended acceleration. *ld the consumer stated while attempting to park the vehicle, it accelerated in reverse. The vehicle drove over a curb and crashed into a tree. The brakes were inoperable. The key was removed from the ignition in order to bring the vehicle to a stop. The airbag did not deploy. *js |
Category | Electrical System, Electronic Stability Control, Steering |
Date | Sep 29, 2019 |
State | CA |
Description | I was driving my forrester 2019, notice that it would slowly move once I stopped at a stop sign. But then it would jerk into a faster pace. Yesterday as I was driving, I stop at a bank atm. When I went back to the vehicle I put my key in the ignition and nothing happened. Not a sound. So tried it several more times with the same results. I had to call for roadside service. They came and gave me a jump. The vehicle started with no problem. I did as the service person told me to let the vehicle run for at least 30 minutes so the cells can build up in the battery, so I did as I was told. As I would turn the corners on the streets-the steering became very difficult, (in both directions). Especially after turning at a stop sign, so as I were driving I notice the dash board would keep blinking. I took a photo of the gages on the dashboard. The eyesight light stayed, but the others kept blinking off and on. I drove the vehicle home and tried to parallel park in front of my house but the wheels would not allow me to do so. So I parked the car across the street where their were a lot more space and I parked there. I set there for another 30 minute before turning off the engine. Once I turned the engine off and tried to start the engine again it fell to turn over. No sound or anything just like earlier. In 2018 they replace my battery, because I was having to call for roadside service up to 3-4 times a week because the battery would die out on me. All this took place in a period of 3-4 months. Now this battery is approximately 10-12 months old. When I took it in for the new battery, I was told the battery was to small for the car. So now I am stuck at home without a vehicle until the subaru shop opens on monday and hopefully they can fix the problem. I've never had a 2 year old vehicle that's given me this many problems. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Sep 28, 2019 |
State | UT |
Description | 2017 subaru forester with 45,000 miles - air bag sensor went out unexpectedly (as shown by a red airbag light on the dashboard) air bag would not deploy if the car were to get into an accident even when there was a person in the passenger seat of the car. Light would indicate that there was an issue while driving at any speed. Light would turn off on occasion and then turn back on, even with no change in weight on the seat, indicating that the sensor was faulty. Nothing was spilled on the seat where the sensor is located nor should there be any other reason that the sensor should stop working at only 45,000 miles. This was purely an equipment malfunction. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Sep 28, 2019 |
State | MD |
Description | Often I cannot initially remove the key from the ignition after I have put the transmission in park, after I have stopped the car and am ready to shut off the engine. I then have to move the automatic transmission to drive and then back to park at least one more time before the key will finally move to the far left and allow me to remove it and shut off the engine. This has started happening about 2 weeks ago (the car has 41k miles and most recently yesterday after parking it in my garage on level ground! |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Sep 25, 2019 |
State | NM |
Description | The srs airbag system warning light began to occasionally alert and turn off the passenger airbag at about 25,000 miles in both of our 2 year old 2017 subaru foresters. Now the passenger airbag turns off when just about anything is put into the front seat. This happens both when the car is running while it is stationary or when it is in motion. Neither car has been involved in an incident/accident. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Sep 25, 2019 |
State | NM |
Description | This is the second car referenced under complaint 11258187. The srs airbag system warning light began to occasionally alert and turn off the passenger airbag at about 25,000 miles in both of our 2 year old 2017 subaru foresters. Now the passenger airbag turns off when just about anything is put into the front seat. This happens both when the car is running while it is stationary or when it is in motion. Neither car has been involved in an incident/accident. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Sep 25, 2019 |
State | WI |
Description | My sms manual airbag warning came on and told me to refer to the manual. I saw my passenger airbag was no longer on, even though I had a passenger in the front seat belted in. I noticed this seems to be a common issue, one that is being investigated. For a 2017 vehicle, this should not be happening. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Sep 25, 2019 |
State | NJ |
Description | My subaru forrester 2017 airbag sensor came on for friday and saturday september 20 and 21 while driving and stationery in my driveway. Took it to the dealer and no one was available to perform a diagnostic test. Schedule this monday 23 and the sensor required to one. Cost 1. 00. Called subaru headquarters and asked about my extended warranty and does not cover. However since this was not my fault, they will do the repairs at no charge. Awaiting for parts to be delivered so that I can bring my car in for repairs. |
Category | Engine, Power Train |
Date | Sep 25, 2019 |
State | CO |
Description | Our defective, now discontinued model, new 2017 subaru forester xt touring has broken down while accelerating on the highway twice due to a faulty piston thus leading to our engine being replaced. The first time the car was moving east on I-70 in colorado and luckily my husband was able to veer in the median of an exit ramp. The second time we were traveling east on I-70 again and luckily were able to pull off on the side of the freeway. This all began at 22,352 miles and to-date the "market value" of repairs has accumulated to ,100. 00. This same engine issue has happened two years in a row, yet a subaru representative [verbally, not written] mentioned to us that it is cheaper for subaru to fix vehicle by vehicle that comes in instead of issuing a nation-wide recall on our model. We were told our forester xt [mini suv] has the same engine that is in an impreza [four door sedan] which is not safe and is not right to the consumer. |
Category | Air Bags, Seats |
Date | Sep 20, 2019 |
State | CT |
Description | While operating my subaru forester an icon appeared on the dash indicating there was an issue with the airbags, at the same time the warning light indicating that the passenger airbag was off even though my wife was seated in the passenger seat. I contacted the dealership and had the car examined and was told that the passenger occupancy sensor was failing and needed to be replaced. The vehicle is less than 3 years old but has 52643 miles on it as I travel throughout new england on business, most of those miles the passenger seat is unoccupied. They also told me the extended warranty we had purchased would not cover the repairs even though at the time of purchase we were told it was the best way to pay for any expensive electrical repairs that might pop up. I had the defective sensor replaced for Who are we? We are Lemberg Law, a Consumer Law Firm Lemberg Law is a consumer law firm helping victims of bad manufacturing and run-arounds from auto companies. We are ranked A+ by the BBB. Call our Helpline today! There is no charge unless we win. |
Category | Air Bags, Seats |
Date | Sep 19, 2019 |
State | TN |
Description | Passenger airbag warning light comes on/ goes off intermittently. The light warns us that the airbag is off despite having a passenger in the seat. I have seen online that many people are having this problem so I wanted to log our issue with nhtsa as well. The vehicle has never deployed it airbags nor been in a front end collision. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Sep 19, 2019 |
State | TN |
Description | Red srs airbag warning light on solid above the speedometer. 'srs airbag system needs to be checked' message on multi-function screen. Amber " passenger airbag off" indicator lit while an adult passenger is present in the front passenger seat. Happens randomly, while vehicle in motion or stationary. Happens during routine driving. Indicators may or may not clear next time the vehicle is started. Took the vehicle to dealership and was informed a seat cushion pad needs to be replaced. Part not in stock, driving the vehicle in the meantime. Ticket open at dealership, so no hardcopy evidence until part is replaced. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Sep 18, 2019 |
State | VA |
Description | On several occasions since august 2019-present the passenger side airbag warning light comes on regularly without cause regardless of a passenger being present in the car. |
Category | Air Bags, Seats |
Date | Sep 18, 2019 |
State | OK |
Description | While traveling at any speed, the passenger air bag will switch to off. An error message will appear indicating that the srs airbag system needs checked. Issues appears to be located with the occupant detection system in the passenger seat. *dt *as |
Category | Air Bags, Electrical System, Seats |
Date | Sep 17, 2019 |
State | VA |
Description | Usually while driving, the passenger airbag sensor will turn off and put an error code out that says not on even with an adult in the seat. Resetting the code can get it to go off but it returns. Has turned off on its own before and come back. Turning car off and on does not reset it. *dt *dt *as |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Sep 16, 2019 |
State | VA |
Description | A/c failed during the guarantee of the car - faulty condenser - first time they add freon - then car blow hot air again - then they tried to put died and finally determine that condenser was the proble, after that it works fine . I want to point that customer service is well aware of the problems of each model but they expect the guarantee to expire ... |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Sep 11, 2019 |
State | OR |
Description | Passenger airbag sensor indicated off, when it should've been on. There was an adult in the passenger seat. The indicator was on after starting the car. I was able to reset by turning car off and turning ignition back on and off. The indicator came back on. It turned off on subsequent starting of automobile. I received email from subaru starlink the next day too. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Sep 09, 2019 |
State | MD |
Description | Airbag light stays on stating that the airbags are not functioning on the passenger side. Was told that this was my fault due to damage to the sensor? Not so. Only normal use, no damage, rarely anyone sitting there. 0 plus labor to replace. Said warranty would not cover it due to a small grease stain on seat. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Sep 09, 2019 |
State | MI |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that the passenger side air bag and air bag on/off warning indicators illuminated. 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 air bag sensors might need to be replaced. The failure mileage was 98,000. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Sep 06, 2019 |
State | NJ |
Description | Without warning, and without apparent cause, the airbag warning light is illuminating. Vehicle telematics report nothing wrong with any systems. Vehicle was stationary and parked. The light turned on after starting. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Sep 06, 2019 |
State | MA |
Description | Passenger airbag turns off randomly. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Aug 27, 2019 |
State | NJ |
Description | Passenger air bag warning light came on when driving on a highway at 65 miles per hour with a passenger seating in the passenger seat. Her weight, approx. 130 lbs and the seat was dry. Brought the car to subaru dealer. Tech found srs light on. Tech scanned codes and found a occupant detection sensor mat system fault. Had to replace passenger front seat bottom. I feel this is a safety issue with the air bag system and should be recalled without the owner having to pay for the replacement bad sensor. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Aug 23, 2019 |
State | IA |
Description | Passenger side airbags are intermittently being disabled when a passenger sits in the seat in a proper seating position. Instrument cluster displays warning message when this happens and airbag off display light comes on. Red srs airbag warning light in the driver's console also comes on. This seems to happen only during longer commutes as I've noticed the warning lights do not come on when driving short driving distances and the warning lights often disappear when car gets turned off or after a day passes. This started happening in june of 2019. Took vehicle to local subaru dealer on 06/12/2019. They checked for stored codes and it came back with code b1760 was stored in occupant detection system and code b1650 stored in airbag control system. They checked for any damage/loose connections/moisture as dealer stated those things may cause the lights to come on but no problems were found. They cleared the codes and stated they could not determine what was wrong and the light did not come on while the car was at the dealer but they didnt even drive the car which is why the problem could not be replicated. I was charged 5. 95 by the dealer for their time. I told them that I researched the matter online and that many subaru forester owners are experiencing the same intermittent problem. I was told by the dealer that until subaru issues a recall they can't help me and won't reimburse me for my charges. |
Category | Air Bags, Seats |
Date | Aug 22, 2019 |
State | VA |
Description | The passenger side airbags are intermittently being disabled when a passenger sits in the seat. I am alerted to this by my instrument cluster. It typically happens when within 30 seconds of starting the car and is usually still stationary. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Aug 21, 2019 |
State | WA |
Description | Passenger airbag intermittently goes off when there's an adult passenger properly seated in the seat while vehicle is in motion on the highway. The light in the center console goes from on to off, and the red srs airbag warning light in the driver's console comes on. The srs light can stay on for a couple days with vehicle stationary or in motion, then returns to normal. I've notified my local subaru dealer by email on aug 16, 2019, but have not yet had a reply. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Aug 16, 2019 |
State | PA |
Description | The passenger airbag sensor is defective. Often, when there is someone sitting in the passenger seat, the light will show that the airbag is off. There is also a warning light telling us to get the airbag checked. In contrast, the sensor will say that the airbag is on when there is no one sitting in the passenger seat. We took the car to the subaru dealership on 8. 8. 19 and were told they could not find anything wrong. We were advised to just assume that the airbag works correctly, even though the car is telling us there is a problem. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Aug 13, 2019 |
State | IA |
Description | The lights indicating an air bag malfunction come on intermittently. It appears that the air bags are both off. We took it into the dealer when this first started happening, and at that time the lights did not indicate a problem. They said they could find nothing wrong. The lights came on again this morning indicating a problem with the air bags. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Aug 13, 2019 |
State | MI |
Description | My wife has been using a seat cushion, for her back problem, for over a month. Starting 4 days ago the passenger seat air bag sensor indicates off. The air bag indicator only goes back on when the seat cushion is removed. I brought the vehicle into my subaru dealer and they indicated that there were no error codes. I asked them to replace the sensor and the problem persists. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Aug 13, 2019 |
State | MI |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that the passenger side air bag sensor would turn off when the front passenger seat was occupied. The failure was intermittent. The vehicle was taken to sellers subaru (23651 hall rd, mccomb, mi) where it was diagnosed that the air bag sensor in the front passenger seat was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired and the failure was remedied. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 20,000. The vin was unknown. |
Category | Service Brakes |
Date | Aug 13, 2019 |
State | OH |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. While reversing from the driveway, the brake pedal failed to respond and the vehicle crashed into another parked vehicle. A police report was filed and there were no injuries reported. The damaged was to the passenger side rear bumper. The vehicle was towed to a dealer yark auto group (6039 central ave, toledo, oh 43615 (419) 877-7725) but the brake failure was unable to be determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and offered the contact 00 for a trade in. The contact does not want to drive the vehicle because he felt that the manufacturer made these vehicles was a design flaw. The failure mileage was 23,000. Correction: owner requested quote for cost of replacing entire brake system. Quoted price was ,500. 00 at owner's expense. Repairs were declined. Owner picked up car after approximately 30 days and has driven with no issues... Yet.*jb |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Aug 13, 2019 |
State | MI |
Description | My 2017 subaru forester blows hot air from a/c. It is not acceptable for the new car like that. Checked with repair shop, the air compressor is bad. I have suffered this in the hot summer. Subaru needs recall this. This is the known issue for every subaru user. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Aug 13, 2019 |
State | MI |
Description | My air condition blows hot air in the summer. The air compressor is broken. It is amazing that the new car has this kind of problem. The design defects caused me the hot summer! |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Aug 12, 2019 |
State | NJ |
Description | Passenger airbag sensor malfunction of some sort causes airbag system to be switched to "off" even when a passenger is in the vehicle. I had taken it to the dealer the first time, and the code was "reset" in the memory and I was instructed to bring the vehicle back if it happened again. It did happen again, and this time they said "the code wasn't in the memory" and that "when it happens, bring the car right in while the light is still on." that however, is impossible as it was random and had been happening on a long drive. They kept the car overnight in this case, and tried to reproduce the problem. I myself drove around with the weights on the seat and seatbelt engaged for about 1 month in an attempt to reproduce the problem to no avail. This has not recurred since the 2nd instance described above, however I have experienced what seems to be an extremely sensitive sensor of which even the weight of a cell phone on the passenger seat could set off the occupancy detection system. The first occasion happened at about 30,000 miles, with the 2nd happening at about 35,000 miles. It has not recurred over the course of 10,000 miles since then. The news of the recent nhtsa investigation into this exact issue prompted me to submit my own complaint in an effort to be on record. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Aug 12, 2019 |
State | DE |
Description | Seat bottom occupant detection system failed to work. Notice that the air bag system needed to be serviced appeared on dash message. Notice occurred both when stationary and when moving. Dealer replaced seat bottom sensor under a b1760 code. Part(s) used:64139sg140vh. This is a leased vehicle (private). |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Aug 12, 2019 |
State | CT |
Description | At random times the front passenger airbag would turn off even though it was occupied by an adult. This happened while the vehicle was in motion on the highway. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Aug 12, 2019 |
State | MN |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. While driving various speeds, the srs warning indicator randomly illuminated. The vehicle was taken to r&g subaru (1140 highway 59 s, detroit lake, mn) to be diagnosed, but the cause of the failure has been repaired and resolved. The manufacturer was not notified. The failure mileage was 12,606. *bf*jb |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Aug 12, 2019 |
State | MA |
Description | Srs airbag light came on while driving with a passenger in the front passenger seat. At the same time, the passenger airbag turned off. This happened twice, 4 days apart. Took car to the dealer and they told me the sensor must have gotten wet. I don't believe the sensor was ever wet. Happen again twice in the next 2 weeks while driving. I had also previously had the passenger seatbelt like come on when there was no passenger in the seat while driving. Went back to the dealer and they replace the passenger seat due to a bad sensor. |
Category | Air Bags, Seats |
Date | Aug 11, 2019 |
State | CA |
Description | The srs airbag system warning light turned on while the vehicle was in motion, without a passenger sitting on the front passenger seat. After parked the vehicle at a safe place, I turned off the engine and then re-started it, the warning light was still on. Also tested with a person sitting on the front passenger seat, and srs airbag system warning light and passenger air bag is off. This srs airbag warning light kept on since then, the passenger air bag is always off no matter whether there is a front passenger. This vehicle is 2-year old with 2,3000 miles. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Aug 11, 2019 |
State | WV |
Description | The passenger air bag light comes on showing that it is turned off when someone is riding in the passenger seat. This has occurred several times. Sometimes it will go off if you check the connections under the seat to the unit. It has also occurred when no one is riding in the vehicle. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Aug 10, 2019 |
State | MO |
Description | Front passenger seat occupancy sensor not turning on the air bag. |
Category | Air Bags, Seats |
Date | Jul 16, 2019 |
State | PA |
Description | Previously the passenger occupancy sensor was overly sensitive. Sometimes even an ipad on the front passenger seat would be detected as a "passenger". But recently it's just gone to the opposite extreme. The passenger air bag light will still be "off" even if a real passenger sits there. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Jul 04, 2019 |
State | PA |
Description | Air conditioning is blowing ambient air. Purchased august 1, 2016. Has 47,900 miles and suddenly started blowing warm on july 3, 2019. I have read there is a known issue with the compressors in this model and have an appointment with my dealership july 18, 2019. The issue is independent of being stationary, moving, in gear, or parked. As a known problem I am hoping for a recall to fix the issue, but have not yet seen one in spite of numerous complaints filed. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Jul 03, 2019 |
State | CA |
Description | When a passenger is sitting in the front passenger seat, the airbag will turn off on it's own saying that the system need to be checked. The vehicle is less than 2 years old and has 40,000 miles. This happens when the vehicle is in motion intermittently. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Jun 24, 2019 |
State | NY |
Description | I went to dealership because my air conditioning was not working and they said there was no freon and did sniffer and could not find a leak. They added freon then took it home on a friday and by monday it was blowing warm on drivers side and tepid on passenger side. I brought it back to dealership and in fact it was as I said in the beginning the compressor was broken. If I would have been after 36k I would have had to pay for it. Also my siriusxm channels did not work and they had to update at dealership. Again if not within 36 k I would have had to pay for repair. Every person in waiting room have had similar repair issues within first two years. It was ridiculous when we compared notes. The warranty covered but it took time. |
Category | Air Bags, Seats |
Date | Jun 19, 2019 |
State | MA |
Description | While 2017 forester in motion (both instances occurred at highway speed) srs red warning light in drivers dashboard comes on. Also airbag indicator at middle top information section changes from passenger airbag on to passenger airbag off. This happens even though there is a passenger in the seat. This event has occurred on two occasions - nov 2018, and jun 2019. In both instances the issue resolved after a few days but before subaru service could be scheduled to review the issue. Subaru service dept said the issue was caused by electrical interference from a cell phone on the seat. However, no electronic devices were on the seat at the time of incidents. The seat have never gotten wet either. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Jun 19, 2019 |
State | NY |
Description | Damaged windshield from a tiny pebble resulting in a 2 inch spider webbed crack. Driving on highway on a paved road without any construction. Very small pebble struck windshield and left a large crack. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Jun 18, 2019 |
State | CO |
Description | The airbag light warning keeps going off randomly stating that the air bag is off when there are passengers in the car. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Jun 18, 2019 |
State | IA |
Description | The passenger air bag systems shuts off when a passenger is in the seat on our 2017 subaru forester. We've tried several things to getting out of the vehicle and back in, shutting the car off and starting it back up to see if the air bag system would reset itself. It does not work. We have not gone to the dealership yet as this just started. Will be calling them soon. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Jun 13, 2019 |
State | WA |
Description | Small object hit edge of windshield while driving on interstate. Horizontal crack developed later that day. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Jun 13, 2019 |
State | WA |
Description | Windshield got small star chip on passenger side after getting dinged with a rock while driving on the interstate. Commercial windshield repair was attempted. The repair failed and the windshield produced a large horizontal crack along passenger side, originating from initial chip/repair site. |
Category | Service Brakes, Steering, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Jun 10, 2019 |
State | AZ |
Description | I am writing in regard to fbi alert number 1-031716-psa. My husband and I believe that our 2017 subaru forester is being remotely exploited. Sep. 29, 2018 we purchased our forester from tucson subaru (4901 n. Oracle road tucson, az 85704). Oct. 3, 2018 we took car to tucson subaru because car was braking when the brakes were not applied, and there was a diagnostic code in the power-train system. Dealer kept car and returned it to us oct. 4, 2018 stating that they could not duplicate the problem. The brake problem increased after receivng our car back. The following anomalous vehicle behavior began to occur, intermittently and now daily. 1)car accelerates on its own and when brake is lightly pressed. 2) when turning, car stops momentarily and at other times accelerates into the turn from the rear wheels causing the car to almost fishtail. 3)car self accelerates from the rear like it's being pushed. 4)car brakes when no brakes are applied, and when gas pedal is lightly pressed. 5)speed does not register correctly on speedometer when car self accelerates and self brakes. 6)wheels lose traction at random times making it like driving a boat on water. It feels like all manual controls disengage. 7)during anomalies, something in car causes difficulty in concentration to near passing out. Exiting car decreases symptoms. 8)something at front floor in car causes feet to heat up, vibrate, go numb, swell, and form small blood clots beneath the skin surface making it difficult to hold on the brake or gas. 9)the anomalies occur when a car tails us or stays a specific distance behind our car. All anomalies have occurred when there are other cars in the vicinity of our car, during city and highway driving (cruise control is off). Nov. 17, 2018 and apr. 23, 2019, we took the car to tucson subaru. Dealership stated that they could not duplicate these anomalies. |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification |
Date | May 20, 2019 |
State | NC |
Description | 2017 forester srs airbag sensor defective two years after purchase, the srs airbag warning light appeared. This light flickers on and off, at random, whether or not a passenger is in the seat. (no passenger will be driving with me until this is repaired.) my subaru dealership service manager told me that there was a recall (he misspoke, perhaps he meant 'should be') and said that he "sees this all the time". He immediately knew (prior to testing it) that they would be replacing the passenger seat bottom, for a new sensor pad. He said they are usually backordered. Backordered indicates to me that there is a high demand to correct this error in this critical safety system. At this point, I have subaru corporate involved; I've emailed and spoken at length with kris drechsel, a supervisor in customer service, and charles hosier, a customer service advocate. While they both were superb in their interactions with me, I learned nothing about what subaru is doing or intends to do about this reprehensible situation, other than pass along my complaint. I was emailed that they are "not aware of any trending issue with the passenger side seat sensor". Subaru is clearly aware there is a problem and is neglectful in not being fully transparent with owners that there is the potential that an airbag may not deploy in a collision due to this sensor defect. Subaru noted that they rely on customer feedback and that the appropriate protocol will be followed for such complaints. Considering the gravity of this issue, I assume, then, that I am the only customer who has provided this complaint and that they are now going to discover the 'trend' and provide notice of this srs airbag defect to the public. There are 25 complaints on this site alone (of how many that "may appear"?), countless online forums, and apparently law suits pending. Is a death what's prerequisite here? |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification |
Date | May 02, 2019 |
State | KS |
Description | Passenger air bag switches to "off" despite passenger sitting in seat. Subaru dealership diagnosed faulty sensor. Air bag light switches to "off" at random times even when passenger is seated in seat. On the dashboard, next to the odometer, a red square with a lower case "I" appeared and below to the left the red airbag indicator lit. The system says to check srs airbag and bring to dealership. This often occurs when car is stopped/parked and passenger gets out while car is still running. Dealership agreed to replacing sensor but the part has been unavailable for 6 months now. We keep being told "it's on order, can't say when it will arrive. " vehicle is unsafe to drive with a passenger as a result. See more complaints here: http://www. Carproblemzoo. Com/subaru/forester/air-bag-on-off-switch-problems. Php |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification |
Date | Apr 17, 2019 |
State | NM |
Description | My 2017 forester began having the passenger airbag light switch off when there was a passenger in the seat and the vehicle was in motion. On the dashboard, next to the odometer, a red square with a lower case "I" appeared and below to the left the red airbag indicator lit. Also on the upper dash, the passenger airbag on light switched to off. In order to rectify this, I had to pull over, shut off the engine and restart it. This happened several various times during normal city street driving. Returning from a 1200 mile trip recently, it occurred near the end of my trip about every 40 miles. Very distressing! Took to dealer and they said no codes were in the computer showing any problems. Said the seat might have had something spilled on it which never happened! They said that the red square with the white "I" in it meant the eyesight was malfunctioning which was ridiculous!! Why would the airbag light make the eyesight malfunction? I have never had a problem with the eyesight and I use it all the time. When I looked online, I discovered that there were many people who had the exact same problem with exact same symptoms!! Surprised that subaru has not had a recall for this. Are they waiting until someone dies in an accident before they do anything? I recently had a person turn in front of my my 2015 forester and all the airbags deployed reducing injuries. If my 2017 forester airbags are not working in an accident, my passenger could be severely injured and subaru would be responsible!! They need to fix this problem now!!! |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Apr 11, 2019 |
State | NY |
Description | The windshield on my vehicle developed dozens of chips after only 40k miles of driving. My previous vehicles driven in the same manner in the same places had no such problem. The other the day factory windshield developed a large crack and had to be replaced. Please look at other owner complaints at subaruforester. Org about the quality of the forester windshield. There is a trend of broken windshields on this model. This is definitely a safety issue that subaru needs to resolve. The factory windshield is too weak. |
Category | Engine, Power Train |
Date | Apr 10, 2019 |
State | TX |
Description | after full stop engine or drive train lost power on sharp left turn. Resumed power in 2-3 seconds. Engine did not stall and did not require restarting. Has occured 5-7 times. |
Category | Electrical System, Electronic Stability Control |
Date | Apr 03, 2019 |
State | CA |
Description | The vehicle's eyesight system experienced multiple malfunctions. This happened often during foggy and raining days. |
Category | Engine |
Date | Mar 25, 2019 |
State | NJ |
Description | While driving my vehicle wants to stall and I have to floor the gas pedal and it slowly starts to accelerate. I'm afraid that one of these days it will not accelerate and will cause a fatal accident. I brought it in to pine belt subaru in lakewood, nj for service and they said the software needs updating and they updated it. However, it's still stalling. This stalling happens many times. The last time was on 03/22/2019. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Mar 21, 2019 |
State | CA |
Description | Got into vehicle, looked up and the windshield had a massive crack from the top edge down and across. No impact of any sort. Filed insurance claim and took to subaru dealership for replacement with oem subaru windshield and calibration of eyesight system. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Mar 21, 2019 |
State | CA |
Description | Windshield cracked all by itself a second time. Got into the car, looked up, massive crack from the top edge down and across. There was no impact. Filed insurance claim, took to dealership, had windshield replaced with another oem subaru windshield, had eyesight system calibrated. Car sat at dealership undriveable for 4 months because windshield was on national backorder. |
Category | Wheels |
Date | Mar 09, 2019 |
State | PA |
Description | Three passenger front tire studs sheared, properly hand torqued prior, two lug nuts with studs retrieved in driveway, 20 deg f. Pulling out of garage lh turn, 3 mph. Failed and remaining two studs retained when replaced. Possible nil ductility temp. Google revealed other recent. Failures |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger |
Date | Mar 07, 2019 |
State | OH |
Description | The upper dashboard passenger air bag warning light above the steering wheel is going off and on weather there is a passenger in the seat or not. It may stay on after starting the engine and continue during driving. The last 45 minute trip I took it stayed on the entire time. Other times it has come on while a passenger was in the seat in the middle of a trip @ 45mph. The dealer on 2/28/19 says it's a "b1650 occupant detection system malfunction" and that the passenger seat bottom needs replaced but there is no replacement available at this time. Said they would call when it was available, but don't hold my breath. This is a safety issue as the air bag will not deploy in a crash if the light is on. I find many complaints about this issue online but no recalls. Why not. How many people will need to be killed before this safety issue is quickly resolved? This vehicle has 25,437 mile on it. |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger, Electrical System |
Date | Mar 06, 2019 |
State | AZ |
Description | Passenger air bag switches to "off" despite passenger sitting in seat. Subaru dealership diagnosed faulty sensor, suspected cause being seat covers. Removed seat cover, sensor is still faulty. Air bag light switches to "off" at random times even when passenger is seated in seat. Dealership agreed to replacing sensor but the part has been unavailable since sept. 2018 (6 months now). We keep being told "it's on order, can't say when it will arrive." vehicle is unsafe to drive as a result. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Mar 05, 2019 |
State | MN |
Description | The front passenger airbag sensor system is defective. I was informed on 9/1/18 that parts would need to be replaced and it was recommended that no one use that seat. I have been waiting over 6 months now for the replacement parts. The subaru dealership says they have no way to determine when the parts will be in. I have had several other issues with this car as well. They have made multiple attempts to resolve a rattle sound in the dashboard, had the air conditioning knob replaced, and a loud squeak in the driver's seat requiring a part to be replaced. This is my first subaru and I have not been impressed! |
Category | Electrical System, Engine, Power Train |
Date | Feb 27, 2019 |
State | CA |
Description | Driving in the freeway around 20-30mph, some traffic. On the way to dropping daughters off to school. On the freeway switched lanes then car lost power and decelerated on its own quickly from 20mph to about 1mph, pressing the didn't do anything. Almost got hit by the rear driver behind me. Managed to move to right lane. Pressing the gas pedal did nothing, several lights on the dashboard appeared which included check engine light, traction control, oil light. Turned off the car to find the number for towing about 15 minutes later turned on the car and this time pressing the gas pedal made the car go, dashboard lights still on. Took the car directly to the dealership. Dealer claimed it was a bad cell on the battery that caused the problem, and also reprogrammed the computer. Bad cell on battery will not cause this to happen. Dealer also failed to write the details of the incident. Initial paperwork stated check engine light. Advice dealer to properly document incident. |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification |
Date | Feb 26, 2019 |
State | TN |
Description | The front passenger air bag sensor is defective in the seat cushion. Light on the dash shows passenger air bag is turned off even when someone is sitting in the seat. The problem occurs intermittently while driving. There is no predicting when the light will turn on or off. The problem began in july of 2018 when the forrester was one year old. The seat has not been wet. The problem began in july 2018. The new seat cushion was ordered in august 2018. The new seat cushion did not arrive until february 2019. 5 1/2 months later. Does it take this long for subaru to replace safety equipment under warranty ? Kelly subaru, in chattanooga,tn. Scheduled the repair to be done 2/22/2019. We live approximately 75 miles from kelly subaru. The appointment was scheduled for 10:00am eastern time. At around 9:45 am ben carter ( service representative) called stating the service department was "swamped". The appointment was cancelled and now is scheduled for march 4th. My wife had driven from our home in mcminnville tn., and was within 5 minutes of the dealership when the appointment was canceled. This is apparently a fairly common problem with foresters per carcomplaints. Com. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Feb 11, 2019 |
State | OH |
Description | Takata recall notice was received |
Category | Power Train, Steering |
Date | Feb 11, 2019 |
State | NC |
Description | The power failed in traffic on city streets without warning while driving and almost caused an accident. It first happened when my wife was driving in traffic and it happened to me also in traffic who was about to make a turn. The car is very dangerous to drive. Took it to a dealership and they are trying to find the problem. |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger |
Date | Feb 03, 2019 |
State | NC |
Description | This car has suffered a persistent failure of the passenger seat occupant detection system. It happens at random with or without a passenger in the seat, and there is no specific trigger for it that I can discover. The dealer diagnosed this issue after several failures on january 7, 2019 and on the dealer's advice, we gave the car to the dealer for service on january 9, 2019, and we have been in a loaner since then. The last we have heard from the dealer is that the parts to repair this issue are currently not available and they won't be available until april, 2019. This is not an isolated incident and we have seen on the internet numerous other subaru owners with this issue |
Category | Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Jan 31, 2019 |
State | CT |
Description | Tl* the contact owned a 2017 subaru forester. While parking the vehicle, it accelerated forward on its own. The contact engaged the parking brake, but the vehicle finally stopped after crashing into another vehicle. The air bags deployed. There were no warning indicators illuminated. The vehicle was destroyed and towed away. The contact was injured and taken to the hospital for medical attention. A police report was filed. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The cause of the failure was not determined. The dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 20,000. The vin was unknown. |
Category | Suspension |
Date | Jan 29, 2019 |
State | NC |
Description | The vehicle is vibrating violently and loudly when the vehicles reaches 50-60 mph. A mechanic diagnosed the issue as the failure of the front bushing on the lower control arm assembly on the right side of the vehicle. This issue is addressed in subaru service bulletin number 05-63-18r dated 06/20/18 and revised on 07/10/18. It effects 2014 to 2018 model year foresters and the 2015 model year for the crosstrek hybrid model. New bushings were recently incorporated into production. Subaru will not make the repair because I have over 36000 miles on my vehicle (actually mileage is just over 56k). My vehicle is not safe to drive in this condition. I need two hands on the wheel to control it. The issue started one week ago and is getting worse each day, but subaru is not taking any responsibility. I am afraid that if it continues to worsen it could result in an accident with the vehicle. |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger |
Date | Jan 28, 2019 |
State | NJ |
Description | Passenger airbag off warning is given in hot weather. Dealer says new sensor is needed. We have been waiting since august 2018 for the part to be received by our dealer so repair can be made. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Jan 21, 2019 |
State | FL |
Description | My wife tried to remove sd card so we could update maps via the internet. The sd card flew out of the dash, barely missing her face & is lost in the forester. 4 people searched for many hours. I created another micro-sd card from a copy of its data I save in 2017 to get updates. Gps would not recognize the new micro-sd card with subaru's data. Subaru maps are old >year later. My wife was almost injured when micro-sd card went missing, flying past her head. Called to get replacement - >0 & almost 0. This safety issue needs to be addressed. We now have no gps that costs $thousands with a forester package (only way to get gps). At a loss for old maps & now no micro-sd card to even use gps when their equipment lost it, not us. Car was in garage & not started. Gps has many flaws & people need to know garmin & nono gpss are better - passenger cannot make changes or set gps when car is driving (must pull off road & stop to do anything); maps are very old (subaru indicates they may be 9 months old while you only have limited time to update); gps directs you to wrong place & doesn't even guide you home when asked; cannot request directions to businesses, points of interest & etc like portable gpss; etc. Safety concern is a real issue as a micro-sd card must never go flying by a persons face or even do more than release the sd card to remove it. Subaru will gladly order a new sd car for the price mentioned even though their equipment lost it. Poor company to trust to do the right thing. |
Category | Engine |
Date | Jan 15, 2019 |
State | FL |
Description | I did my first oil change at 1500 miles, then the next two changes at about 3000 mile intervals. Then I decided to stretch them to the 5k miles recommended by subaru. I was about 4k miles into this change interval when my oil level light came on. I checked the dip stick and it was bone dry. I wouldn't have noticed oil consumption on the first few changes because I was doing them more frequently than needed and therefore the engine didn't have time to consume enough oil to trip the low oil light. I went to subaru for an oil consumption test, which it "passed". I documented everything and took photos of the dip stick before and after the test. Subaru fills your oil to the top line of the dip stick. The mechanic informed me this is standard procedure. I was told that the amount of oil between the 2 lines is a quart. After the 1200 miles of the oil consumption test, the oil level was down about 20% between the two lines. Taking that out to a full 5-6k mile interval, that means it burns about a quart or more in between changes. I spoke with the mechanic who said that this is completely within spec of subaru's standards. I told him I thought this was a lot, but he said this is normal for subarus in his experience. A car with only 16k miles should not require over a quart of oil to be added between oil changes. When my oil light came on again, within the same oil change interval as the oil consumption test (about 4k miles into the interval), I took the car back to subaru for a second oil consumption test. Instead of performing this, they opted to replace my short block, a very extensive repair. I am still waiting for this repair to occur under factory warranty. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Jan 02, 2019 |
State | NY |
Description | Windshield cracks at very little impact and cracks spread rapidly through windshield. I had windshield replacement twice in 2018 and it cracked again on 01-01-2019. It happened on the same road I commute for 20 years and never had windshield cracks with my previous vehicles. |
Category | Engine |
Date | Dec 06, 2018 |
State | CO |
Description | 2. 5 manual, burns oil at excessive rate. Check engine oil light turned twice so far, once at 2k miles on a car and next time at 16k miles. Both lights were well within the oil change schedule and the car has not been subdued to any unusual use. Unable to travel in the car long distances without having 2 quarts of oil in a trunk due to possible engine failure for lack of oil. Both times the low oil lights went up when traveling on roads and sunaru dealer had to add oil (still under warranty). |
Category | Power Train |
Date | Nov 30, 2018 |
State | CA |
Description | I have owned many subaru`s and have not had any issues with the transmissions. My new 2017 forester has an issue shifting gears. Although it has only happened once, the time it happened was pretty scary. As I was slowing down at a red light the light changed to green before I made a complete stop. At this point I then accelerated the car but the transmission would not switch gear. I then thought I had the car in manual mode but it wasn't. I had to slow all the way down to get the transmission to shift again. This all happened while turning. The driver behind us had to swerve around our car to avoid hitting us because I was going to slow when the light was green. This issue put my family and myself in danger when driving on the road. I spoke with subaru but they said given that the car was no longer experiencing it, they couldn't do anything. I was wondering if subaru will be issuing a recall on their cvt transmissions. I don`t want this to happen to me again and next time it does turn into a crash. Please let me know what can be done. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).'- *pm |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification, Seats |
Date | Nov 29, 2018 |
State | CA |
Description | Subaru forester 2017, bought new. The dashboard monitor information signal read there was no airbag on for the passenger while one was seated there and the car was in motion. This had occurred earlier in june when I was driving from pa to ca but no passenger was seated there. I assumed it was just an oddity - and it did not occur regularly. July 16 (2018) I took it for repair which subaru determined was an electrical problem in the passenger seat. They expected the part in late july, then late august or early september, on september 11 I called and asked more specific questions to learn that no airbags would work while driving that car, and they agreed on september 12 to loan me a car while I waited for the part and repair. It is now november 29 and the part and repair have not occurred. Subaru national customer service can barely do more than say "sorry" and gave me a repair date of december 4, which as of november 26 was moved to "some time in december". First: this is a serious problem that I was not fully informed of: with this problem the airbags will not activate. Second: I have been repeatedly assured of the part's arrival and repair but it continues to be delayed as if safety is not a priority at subaru. I have learned through a comment made by subaru customer service person that there may be others having the same problem. For the safety of us all, I think this situation deserves investigation. |
Category | Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Nov 27, 2018 |
State | CA |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. While driving 5 mph, the brake pedal was depressed and the vehicle accelerated independently without warning. As a result, the vehicle crashed into a cement divider. The vehicle then lunged forward and crashed into a tree three times and a parked vehicle. The contact sustained head injuries that did not require medical attention. It was unknown if a police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot and later towed to mckenna subaru (located at 1880 beach blvd, huntington beach, ca 92648, (888) 685-1421). The dealer was unable to locate a failure code. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and provided case number: sr1-36575883866. The approximate failure mileage was 11,000. |
Category | Electrical System, Engine, Unknown Or Other |
Date | Nov 10, 2018 |
State | NY |
Description | Screen blacked out everything went off, no lights, no radio, no dash board vision. This happened 3 times before I took it to the dealer. I was told it was an electrical issues and electrical cables were replaced, however, just this week my vehicle, while waiting at a light, turned completely off. It was so scary, good thing there was no one else behind me. A few minutes later I was able to turn the car on and continue my journey. Now, I do not feel safe when I use my vehicle. |
Category | Steering, Unknown Or Other |
Date | Nov 10, 2018 |
State | NY |
Description | Steering wheel completely locked, unable to turn on vehicle, wheel straight, took me many tries and lots of turning and banging before I was able to turn the key to start vehicle. Also, on going problem with the bluetooth with late pick up connection. Connection will start after one is half way into conversation making the purpose of having a bluetooth useless. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Nov 05, 2018 |
State | VA |
Description | Our windshield cracked while sitting in garage overnight. We were told that replacement has to be oem glass and calibrated due to the eyesight safety sensors. After two months on back order we were informed that there is a soa backorder of over 2,000 windshields. Upon checking forums, there are a plethora of complaints about repeated windshield cracks and long waits similar to ours. Design defect? |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification |
Date | Oct 23, 2018 |
State | OR |
Description | Front passenger airbag warning light started coming on during may 2018. Dealer determined fault is in passenger seat cushion and ordered part which was back ordered to mid october. On 10/23/18 the dealer says the part isn't expected until november 15. The warning light remains on most of the time while driving with a passenger. |
Category | Service Brakes |
Date | Oct 20, 2018 |
State | CA |
Description | 9/24/2017 pressing on brakes to slow down the car speeded up, I tried parking in front of a cement planter hoping the pre-collision brakes would stop me, it didn't it lunged after hitting the cement divider in the parking space, I turned the car off and put it in park, the wheels turned in the dirt hitting a tree, the car bounced back then went forward hitting the tree again, the car ran on it's own turned off, until it came to a stop. |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger |
Date | Oct 18, 2018 |
State | MD |
Description | The passenger airbag will stop working while the passenger is seated in the front passenger seat. Two alerts show up in different areas on the dash lights indicating a problem with the passenger air bag advising to have it check immediately by the dealer. When I took the vehicle to the dealer they first advised me that the airbag light was do to the seat being wet, placing a cell phone or lap top on the seat. None of those things have caused the malfunction light to go on in my vehicle. The light would randomly come on advising me that the passenger seat airbag was not on. When this occurred the vehicle was in motion every time. The dealer claimed that my problem was caused by a stain on my seat, they claimed the mechanic cleaned the seat and they were going to release the vehicle to me. I insisted however that my seat was never wet nor stained. The service advisor then spoke to a manager and they then informed me that the problem was the airbag sensor in the seat. They said it would take 2 days to get the part. Two days later they told me it was a national back order on the part. My vehicle has been at the dealer since 09/11/2018 and I am still waiting for the part which they keep calling me and telling me it is on backorder. They have provided me with a loaner. Corporate subaru personnel have also contacted me concerned about this issue. As of today 10/18/18 subaru as not corrected the issue. |
Category | Service Brakes, Unknown Or Other, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Oct 17, 2018 |
State | CA |
Description | Accident 9/24/2017, 2017 subaru forester, 11,000. Miles. Driving slowly in a shopping parking lot, on a dry sunny morning, around 10 am, after pushing on the brakes my car accelerated. My car ran on it's own when turned off, then I put it in park, it lunged over a cement planter, on off and put in park, it hit a tree a few times before it stopped itself. There was bumper damage. Geico my insurer advised me to take it to prestige auto, in mission viejo, ca the brakes and cause of car acceleration was not worked on, the insurance company acted unethically, they didn't care if I got into another accident, they withheld information and urged me to take the car. I had it towed to the dealership I bought it from, they checked and would not take responsibility, I contacted subaru of america, and I am waiting on them to inspect the manufacturer defect. |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger |
Date | Oct 16, 2018 |
State | KY |
Description | Less than one year after purchase of a new 2017 subaru forester I noted periodically the passenger airbag failure light would turn on and stay on when a passenger was in the passenger seat. This did not occur immediately on seating of the passenger and was sporadic. It occurred both in motion and while the vehicle was not in motion. Once lit it remained so until 2 or 3 new restarts. Taken to dealer they found a code verifying the complaint. Told it was due to a cellphone on the seat. Cellphone removed. Same problem. Took it back to dealer held for a couple of days and told a specialist in codes indicated that it was due to usb cell phone wire. This was not an acceptable explanation. This resulted in their specialist reviewing their code reading again. They indicated a sensor failure and that the part would take about a month to obtain. I could drive the car in the interim including with a passenger.. I therefore requested written certification of the safety of the passenger seat regarding the airbag. This resulted in a rental car which I have had for 7 weeks. Called 2 weeks ago with the response that they were waiting for a new airbag. I want to be certain that the ntsb is aware that there may be a problem with subaru airbags in the 2017 forester. How this potential problem is dealt with is also a concern. Is a recall in order? *js the consumer stated the manufacturer offered a new vehicle as a settlement. *js *js |
Category | Electrical System, Engine, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Oct 01, 2018 |
State | WA |
Description | On 9/29/18, 1:35 pm while in the process of parking the vehicle and initiating a turn to the right the car suddenly accelerated from idle to full throttle unintentionally and launched itself towards a 12' x 20' wood framed outbuilding on our property which has an attached deck. Before the vehicle could be shut off it had jumped up onto the deck and smashed into and partially penetrated the front of the outbuilding. Forward progress was halted when the rear portion of the car had become high centered on the edge of the deck. Presently the car is still on the deck and partially in the building. The right rear wheel is I" off the ground. The left rear wheel dug itself 3" down into the gravel. - no one was injured during this accident. The car was occupied by only the driver. - the airbag did not deploy even though the car experienced two (2) significant impact events. 1st when it hit a temporary wood step and the edge of the deck (18" above grade) and 2nd when it struck the building. Most of the bumper was torn off the car when it hit the deck and is now pinned under the car. The impact shifted the building approx. 3/8" on it's post & pier foundation. - this report was written & submitted on 10/1/18. - a wrecker is scheduled to extricate the car from the outbuilding on 10/2/18. - the driveway and parking area where this occurred is crushed rock/gravel. - the distance from where the car instantly accelerated to the edge of the deck was approximately 22 feet. The face of the outbuilding is 8 feet from the edge of the deck. The distance covered by the car during this accident was approx. 30 plus feet. - during this event an attempt was made to control/stop the car with extreme application of the foot brake and handbrake and ultimately the stop button. - it was a dry, sunny, early fall day in the west side of the cascade mountains in washington state. |
Category | Electrical System, Power Train |
Date | Sep 26, 2018 |
State | CO |
Description | Vehicles battery has slow cranking power, since new currant miles are 47,800 today vehicles slow to start ,once started all engine warning lights illuminate and stay on and vehicle will not drive in forward or reverse, replaced battery with new and vehicle started normal and strong, put into drive and vehicle drove normal, put into reverse and again vehicle will not drive forward or reverses, vehicle in in dealership repair facilities at this time, problem unknown, |
Category | Engine |
Date | Sep 25, 2018 |
State | DE |
Description | Vehicle hesitates during acceleration, worse if ac is on. Engine nearly stalls, losing power. Initially happened during left turn and while vehicle is in middle of intersection in front of oncoming traffic. This is repeated issue over several months |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Sep 23, 2018 |
State | OH |
Description | Windshield issues. Starting 2/11/2017 first stone ding - kings subaru recommended windshield replacement. Part was ordered and installed by a mel's auto-glass. I pay 0. 00 deductible for repair. 7/28/2017 - same issue, stone ding - same dealer recommends glass replacement. Getting a new windshield much more difficult this time. One month later I seek a second opinion from safelite. They are able to fix windshield and do so at no cost to me. I cancel windshield order from kings subaru and cancel insurance claim since repair was done at no cost to me. 4/4/2018. Stone ding - safelite repairs glass - I pay 4. 40 7/13/2018 - vehicle is parked - hot day. Now has cracked glass from right side towards left side. No evidence of hit. I drive to kings subaru, they take pictures and forward to subaru for a possible claim - I am denied assistance so I file another insurance claim and have a glass ordered thru safelite. I learn about a national back order on subaru that affects windshield delivery. Subaru customer support agrees to expedite delivery and ships windshield to kings subaru. They sell windshield to another customer. 8/30/2018 re-order windshield thru safelite - they use a different dealer they have a good relationship with. Still waiting for glass to arrive and get installed. I realize subaru does not manufacture glass but there must be something wrong quality wise with the vehicle or the glass to have this many issues. I am unaware of any recalls on this vehicle involving windshields - documentaion attached. |
Category | Latches/locks/linkages |
Date | Sep 19, 2018 |
State | UT |
Description | 2017 subaru forester. Consumer writes in regards to problems with the door handle locks * ld the consumer stated the door handles should not require a separate interior mechanical action to unlock the doors, such as driver's use of an electrical control or, locking tab next to the handle. The consumer stated the audible chime used to alert drivers has to high a frequency and not enough volume.*js |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger |
Date | Sep 04, 2018 |
State | CO |
Description | Within the last two months while driving with my wife in the passenger seat the passenger air bag system has disengaged several times and we receive three warning lights. A red srs light in the lower dash. A white "I" on a red background next to the trip odometer letter, and the srs indicator in the middle of the dash next to the time indicator comes on sayinf the srs is off. Took to dealer on 8/24/2018 and they sad they got codes b1650 and b1760 which they reset. They could not duplicate the problem and said water must have gotten on the seat, which has never happened. This weekend, 9/2/2018, we started having the same exact problems while driving. Restarted the car and the lights went off after a short drive and then came back on while driving. The lights only come on when there is a passenger in the front seat. |
Category | Power Train |
Date | Aug 17, 2018 |
State | CA |
Description | Vehicle often shudders violently at low speeds coming to a stop - stalling itself once. When merging onto freeway or overtaking on the highway the vehicle occasionally makes loud clicking noise and automatic transmission acts as if it is disengaged (like a fully depressed clutch pedal in a manual, and engine still revs). Took to subaru dealer multiple times and received the "we can't replicate it so there is no problem" feedback - dealer also claims there are no error codes. Contacted subaru of america (soa) directly and was instructed by soa to trust dealer's diagnosis. Online forums and independent mechanics believe my issue is a bad torque converter or some issue with the automatic cvt transmission - a similar issue consumer groups have accused subaru for on previous generations of my vehicle. (see forbes article describing similar issue: https://www. Forbes. Com/sites/jensen/2017/09/07/consumer-groups-subaru-should-recall-transmissions-not-just-extend-warranty/#352e23e0ab27) |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification, Seats |
Date | Jul 10, 2018 |
State | AZ |
Description | 29 june wife and I are on the highway driving when the passenger airbag light goes to off and the fault code appears on the heads up display tell us to take into service immediately. Well we car off and we don't hear anything back for a few days. We called them back on the 5th of july because of the holliday. They told my wife on the phone they were going to replace seat cushion because that seemed to be the issue. Fast forward to 9 july my wife recieves a call telling her the car is ready for pickup. My wife asks what did you end up doing to the vehicle? He said we functional tested the seat it's good to go. So I call the service department and speak to the service manager. I said so let me get this staight you had our car for 10 days and you did a test and hand my wife back the keys? Where is the new seat cushion? He said to me sir I want to help you but corporate won't release the parts they instructed me to do the functional check and if it passed they would not release the parts. So I ask what if it happens again what then? Well sir we would need to submit the service history problem with the next request to escalate the issue. So I call the wife tell her to go pick up the car but ask the service manager to take a little ride in the passenger seat to ensure it works.... So my wife starts the car then goes at sits in the passenger seat. Boom air bag fault light come on immediately with the service manager standing there. Service manager turns red. My wife's smiles and says I can't take this car home it's not safe. So they keep the car to try and order the seat cushion again. The service maanger call me back to (10 july) to let me know they hack escalated the problem to subaru corporate and the cushion is now on order. However turns out 73 cushoins are on back order for pretty much the same issue. This may require a recall. |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger |
Date | Jul 09, 2018 |
State | MD |
Description | Passenger air bag light remains off when passenger seat is occupied, or turns off after seat has been occupied for several minutes. This results in srs airbag error light on dash illuminating. Dealer claims "seat was wet" and it will resolve itself when seat is dry. Seat has never been wet - no spills, no wet swimsuits, nothing. Problem started intermittently 1-2 months ago and now occurs nearly every time car is started. Dealer "fixed" before 500 mile interstate trip only to have problem return mid-trip. |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification, Seat Belts, Seats |
Date | Jul 08, 2018 |
State | PA |
Description | Front passenger airbag warning light comes on intermittently, either on start up or while driving, stays on for hours or days at a time, unrelated to whether the seat is occupied or not. When it is on, passenger seat belt light indicates it is not fastened even if it is. The seat has never had spills, rain or otherwise wet. This has been going on for at least 6 months. Subaru dealer states past error code b1760 which they reset and say there is nothing they can do because they can not find an immediate problem. Dealer admits that when warning light is on, the airbag will not deploy. This is so unsafe I hesitate to transport any front passengers. It is a large safety issue that is being ignored! Can you do anything? |
Category | Engine, Power Train |
Date | Jul 08, 2018 |
State | NC |
Description | After any driving in hot weather, smell of coolant in right side of engine compartment |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Jun 22, 2018 |
State | MO |
Description | We have a 2017 forester subaru 2. 5i with 12,548 miles. The suv will randomly jerk, jump and has stalled in hwy & city traffic twice. Other times it will hesitate and seem to shift out of gear for 30 or more seconds. It seems to occur within a couple of miles after driving. Mostly after making a turn. Also we can feel hesitations, transmission shifting when driving at speeds of 40 to 65 miles. This has been a minor problem the last four months until the suv stopped twice in traffic. Until it stopped in traffic online research "problems with 2017 subaru" (please check this out) indicates this is a cvs transmission problem. Numerous complaints verify that it is most likely a transmission glitch . I took the suv to the dealer's service dept. Their tests did not indicate the problem. We drive our grandchildren to numerous activities. We will not do so as we do not want to risk their safety, having the car stop while driving in traffic could result in a serious accident. We no longer feel safe driving the car until this issue can be found. Please look into this as it may put others in harms way. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Jun 20, 2018 |
State | VA |
Description | Srs airbag system light comes on intermittently since may 2018. Occurs while the car is in motion with or without front passenger. Light will turn on several hours into the drive or after several minutes. Usually when I start the car the light is not on. By the time I could get to the dealer the light was no longer on. Dealer advised this can happen if the seat gets wet. Occurred when there was no rain, my clothing wasn't wet, no spilled drinks. Still not resolved and I do not feel safe driving my car knowing that airbags are off. I chose subaru due to their safety record. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Jun 18, 2018 |
State | WI |
Description | When I put my key in to start it wont turn over it takes 3-5 minutes with working it to turn over. This a year old car and it does 3 times a month |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Jun 10, 2018 |
State | OH |
Description | There is an intermittent problem where the passenger air bag is disabled. I have had the dealership look at the problem and they claim subaru knows about it and it is caused by a sensor getting wet in some fashion. The front passenger seat is never wet when the problem occurs. Most recently, today, june 10th 2018 the front passenger airbag disabled light came on while driving in dry conditions and no beverage or moisture of any kind was in the car. This is always the case. After I park the car, turn it off, have the passenger exit the vehicle and get back in the system is fine again. I find it incredulous that I have a 16 month old car that this happens repeatedly in. I have made the dealer aware twice and they simply list my subaru maintenance records as routine and never show the detailed reason my car was taken in. I am afraid there will come a time when the system will stay disabled and I will have to have my wife ride in the back seat. The problem is there are only 2 of us in our family and I sometimes have the rear seats folded down and the cargo area is full. There would be no safe place left for her to be seated in the vehicle. If the nhtsa requires airbags it should require the manufacturer to make sure the system is not defective. I have the subaru starlink system and received an email today that they were notified of the airbag system issue. The vehicle is always in motion when this occurs and is either on a city street or highway. It has occurred no less than 8 times and the dealership has been made aware twice prior to today. |
Category | Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Jun 05, 2018 |
State | MA |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. While driving 5 mph, the vehicle inadvertently accelerated rapidly after the brake pedal was depressed. As a result, the vehicle was involved in a crash and struck two vehicles. The air bags did not deploy. A police report was not filed. There were no injuries sustained. Planet subaru in hanover, massachusetts was made aware of the failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was 30,000. |
Category | Electrical System, Engine |
Date | May 29, 2018 |
State | CT |
Description | I have a total of electrical power lost for 7 times. 2 times while driving I experience all electrical lost while driving on the highway. I was able to pull over to the side and was able to jump started the car with a jumper battery 5 minutes later. Other 5 times it happened when I try to start the car and I did not get any electrical power at all. I took the car to the dealer twice and they change/fix the car ground the first time that I lost electrical power. Then they change the battery after 5 electrical power failures. I am about to bring it in for the 7th time for them to look at it. I am totally lost confident and no longer feel comfortable or feel safe driving my two boys on this car. |
Category | Engine, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | May 28, 2018 |
State | NY |
Description | Extreme hesitation from standing stop going straight ahead and turning. At 5 separate instances the car came to a complete rolling stop with no acceleration. After 5 to 7 seconds the car finally accelerated . When turning with plenty of room, for them, oncoming cars blared their horns, missing me by a few feet. Someone is shurely headed for a hospital or funeral home on this problem. Both nhtsa and subaru have been warned numerous times with no result for recall,repair or replacement. Dealers are saying they can't find a problem. This problem has been ongoing for years now. Maybe everyone's first stop should be at your state attorney generals office if we don't get results from either of you soon. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | May 25, 2018 |
State | MA |
Description | Air conditioning lines/condenser is defective in 2017 forrester. Firm should be conducting a recall, but has not. Dealership indicated that this is known problem with this make and model. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | May 08, 2018 |
State | CA |
Description | On april 22, 2018, my 2017 forester with 22,000 miles on it stalled in the carpool lane of a busy la freeway (the 405 southbound near lax) at 4:20 p. M. Traffic in the lane had come to a complete stop and when it picked up again, the engine stalled. I immediately called 911. Chp arrived 20 minutes later and pushed me to the side of the road. A tow truck then towed my vehicle 47 miles to irvine subaru where the following day I was advised that their mechanics found nothing wrong with the car in spite of the loss of power which jeopardized my safety and that of my passenger. It should be mentioned that when this event occurred, my low fuel light had not alerted me to the fact that my fuel level was low; my on-board computer indicated I still had 80 miles until empty and the fuel gauge displayed one bar. In addition, I can state with 100% certainty that my tank was not empty as the tow truck driver was able to restart the engine and in fact drove it up on the flatbed of his truck when he loaded it there. As a result of this incident, I have lost faith in the safety of my vehicle and am leery of driving it long distances from home; a result that is unacceptable to me given that this vehicle is only a year-and-a-half old. The only photo I have is one of my vehicle loaded on the tow truck at the time of towing. |
Category | Unknown Or Other, Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | May 07, 2018 |
State | GA |
Description | After backing up, I removed my foot from the brake, put the car in drive and lightly touched the accelerator (I was in a small parking lot). The accelerator left my foot and fully depressed by itself which caused an accident. |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger |
Date | May 02, 2018 |
State | MO |
Description | Srs airbag system needs to be checked light is on and passage air bag off indicator shows off. The dealership ordered replacement part which has been on back order since sept. 9, 2017. Problem started in sept. 2017, occasionally when a passenger was in the front seat and vehicle hit a bump, the srs showed warning indicator and passenger airbag turned off. System would reset when vehicle was restarted, but would occasionally duplicate the problem. Took vehicle to dealership on sept. 9, they said they ordered part and would call me when part arrived. I didn't hear back from dealership, so called them on oct. 26. They said part would be in and I dropped vehicle off for scheduled service for oct. 31. On nov. 3 after not hearing from dealer, I called to see why service not completed yet, and was told part was still on back order, should be in sometime in dec. The srs airbag system worked fine and no problem until the end of feb, 2018. The random srs warning indicator when passenger was in the front seat and hitting a bump started reoccurring again. I have called the dealership again numerous times, and part is still on backorder. Now the srs airbag system needs to be check indicator is on all the time, regardless if a passenger is in the seat or not. I called the dealership on april 24 and they were going to escalate the part order and get back to me. As of may 2 I have not heard back, and srs airbag system is not working. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Apr 19, 2018 |
State | VT |
Description | I have experienced multiple issues with now 2 replacement windows on my 2017 forester for what I believe to be related to low quality glass that subaru is using. Glass damage - 1. 7. 18 - small chip while vehicle was moving from road debris. Driving on I-25 south in co - repaired / chip filled by safelite glass damage - 2. 5. 18 - small chip near center top that expanded into a 2 foot crack. Chip / crack occured while vehicle was in motion. Was driving on route 6 east. Safelite replaced the glass with an oem / subaru part glass damage - 3. 31. 18 - small chip the size of the head of a pin, occured while vehicle was in motion. Driving on I-25 in co left lane, no vehicles in front, only one vehicle to my right. Resulted in overnight cracking of over a foot long while vehicle was parked requiring my windshield to be replaced for a 2nd time. Also replaced by safelite there were several additional small chips in between the 1. 7. 18 and 2. 5. 18 incident prior to the windshield being replaced. |
Category | Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Apr 09, 2018 |
State | CA |
Description | Tl* the contact owned a 2017 subaru forester. While attempting to pull the vehicle into a parking space, it suddenly experienced unintended acceleration. The driver lost control and crashed into a parked vehicle. The vehicle was destroyed and towed to an undisclosed location. A police report was filed. The driver sustained injuries to the left wrist, which required medical attention. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vin was not available. The failure mileage was 20,120. *tt *tr |
Category | Air Bags, Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification |
Date | Apr 06, 2018 |
State | MI |
Description | The passenger airbag periodically turns off without notice. The airbag indicator light shows that there is an issue and subaru has contacted us about the issue. When we talked to the dealer they said it was a known interference issue related to cell phones and other devices and that if it continues to happen we should bring it in to have the passenger seat replaced. It has continued to happen periodically. Once the warning light indicates that the airbag is off, it remains that way until the vehicle is turned back on. Sometimes it is on when you start the car; sometimes it comes on quickly, and other times we drive for a long time and even go weeks without noticing it. Based on the fact that the company knows about this and that it is a safety system that is affected, it seems like it should be a recall. |
Category | Electrical System, Power Train |
Date | Apr 03, 2018 |
State | WA |
Description | Cannot turn off distraction of a noisy stereo while gear selector is in reverse. I believe this is an intentional design feature that always happens. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Mar 31, 2018 |
State | FL |
Description | Passenger side air bag warning light indicates that the air bag is off when we are driving with the passenger seat occupied by an adult passenger. Our starlink system is constantly alerting the dealership of the problem. We have brought the car in for service 3 times. They tell us they cant find the problem. Although the warning light indicates that the problem still exists. Thank you bill |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Mar 21, 2018 |
State | FL |
Description | Own a 2017 subaru forester, we have less than 11,000 miles and less than one year of ownership. A small stone hitting the windshield, quickly ends up in a 24" to 30" long linear crack unlike my other two vehicles. We are in process of replacing 3rd windshield glass in less than one year. It appears that there may be an oem defect. This long crack creates danger vision problem. Every windshield replacement requires re-calibration of eyesight too. This is an additional burden on insurance as well as owners and should be addressed asap. Manufacturer has not yet acknowledge the existence of defective windshield. We request that consumer product recall investigate this issue asap. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Feb 22, 2018 |
State | FL |
Description | While driving subaru forester 2017, a small rock hit the windshield and small crack quickly turned into 24" to 30" long linear crack and as a result ended up replacing wind shield glass and re-calibration of eyesight. This happened twice in last 8 months. It appears to be an oem issue. Unlike my other two vehicles, they had similar issue however the crack was shield by professionals and never developed linear crack. |
Category | Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Feb 21, 2018 |
State | GA |
Description | After backing up in a gas station, I put the car in drive and lightly put my foot on the gas petal with the intention of merging onto a highway. I felt the gas petal go all the way down all by itself - the car took off! I hit a landscape box truck. |
Category | Visibility/wiper |
Date | Feb 10, 2018 |
State | WA |
Description | The windshield spontaneously cracked, middle passenger side (not aware when it happened. One time came out into the garage and noticed it was cracked). It also was severely chipped one time before (2500 miles). So it has had to be replaced 2 times within 16,000 miles and less than one year ownership. |
Category | Engine |
Date | Dec 12, 2017 |
State | VA |
Description | Upon starting, rpm surged to over 4500, and there was loud grinding noise, sounded as if the engine was destroying itself. Sounded like severe metal to metal slapping with vibration that stopped when key turned off ignition. Subsequent start appeared normal. Vehicle had been sitting for approximately an hour at 30f, date of occurance 11/22/2017, 4930 miles since new. Car was in a parking lot and was stationary. Factory approved dealer service result "no problem found at this time". I feel as if its dependability has been compromised. |
Category | Electrical System, Engine |
Date | Nov 20, 2017 |
State | FL |
Description | I was merging on I-95 at 4pm and it was raining, I was accelerating into the traffic pattern in the right lane when suddenly the accelerator would not respond, the car panel went black,no lights or info showed. I coasted off to the side of the road,the car was in drive,ignition on. The emergency light wouldn't go on, nor the bluetooth or sos call line. I shut the car down and into park and waited a couple of minutes and restarted the engine without a problem. If I had been in the middle lane or no where to pull off it would have been catastrophic . I took it to the subaru dealer the next day and they couldn't find a problem. Told me it was probably a glitch, you can't afford to have a glitch at 70 mph. I no longer feel safe in this car, especially when I have my grandkids in the car. |
Category | Power Train, Unknown Or Other |
Date | Nov 06, 2017 |
State | OR |
Description | Car stalls, mostly in intersections when we turn either left or right, mid-turn. Also, the steering wheel, plastic, is dangerously-slippery, expecially during those stalls in heavy traffic when panic sets in. |
Category | Structure:body |
Date | Oct 16, 2017 |
State | MO |
Description | Bought new forester in may 2017. Windshield cracked @ july 2017. Replacement cracked october 2017. Subaru denied coverage both times. First windshield I was moving on highway but unaware of being struck by anything. It was nearly 100 degrees outside and ac was on nice 68 degrees. Second windshield appeared to crack while parked in garage. Second windshield leaked. Crack is near where leak was "fixed." |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Oct 05, 2017 |
State | TX |
Description | I purchased my car in july 2017 with 8800 miles. One week after delivery, my srs airbag system warning light came on. Per the owners manual, I took it in for service the next morning. The service dept. Said there is something faulty in the seat cushion & a new one is on order, but with no delivery time provided. It's already been two months since the order was placed - not sure what the real issue is. The warning light was random at first but, now it's on continuously. I just hope everyone is protected in my car, if I get in an accident. I have recently contacted subaru's customer service to see if I can get any additional answers. |
Category | Air Bags |
Date | Sep 25, 2017 |
State | CA |
Description | My air bag (srs) warning light has come on repeatedly since the car was new. It was mentioned at the 5000 mile service, but no action was taken. I august 2017 it began staying on most of the time. I took the car to timmons subaru in long beach, ca, where I was told a passenger seat cushion had to be ordered due to a defective sensor. The car has been there three weeks with no progress, and they are saying they have multiple vehicles in for the same issue but there is no recall. |
Category | Steering |
Date | Sep 13, 2017 |
State | NJ |
Description | I was on the new york state thruway, route 90, in new york state heading east on august 8, 2017, going approximately 65-70 mph. I was going straight in the right hand lane. I reached over with right hand to adjust volume knob on radio and noticed vehicle drifting slightly to right. I pulled steering wheel to left to adjust car and vehicle veered sharply into adjoining lane (on left side of travelling lane) and then I could not it steer back into the travelling lane. It seemed that the vehicle did not respond to the steering: it felt as though I had lost control of the car. My husband grabbed the steering wheel, steadied it, and I regained control of the car. There have been no further incidents. Luckily, there was no car in the adjoining lane when the my car veered into it. This was reported to national subaru on september 11, 2017. |
Category | Electrical System, Engine |
Date | Aug 14, 2017 |
State | LA |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. While driving various speeds, the vehicle lost power without warning. The vehicle was able to restart itself after a few minutes. The contact mentioned that the failure occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to profile subaru (1323 nh-16, conway, nh 03818 (603) 447-3845), but the failure could not be duplicated. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 1,500. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Aug 14, 2017 |
State | NY |
Description | 07/03/17 first oil change. Several days after car hesitates upon acceleration. 07/14 car stalls while merging into roundabout. Restart car & it runs ok. 07/15 car stalls multiple times while entering intersection. Turn off eyesight & car runs. Do not drive car for several days. Bring car to dealer 07/20. 07/26 pick up car. No satisfactory resolution. Stalling perhaps due to mouse's nest or an oil overfill. 08/02 car stalls multiple times while pulling into traffic. Won't run with or without eyesight. Car towed to dealer. Problems reported to subaru main office. 08/14 car still at dealer with no resolution yet. Unless a specific cause & fix to this problem is found I will not feel safe driving this car again. I have a word document with all the details but am unable to attach it to this form. |
Category | Seats |
Date | Jul 12, 2017 |
State | NY |
Description | Takata recall I am a fitness instructor and in the health field for very long time. Subaru along with other car companies are using the new mandated forward -head rest . It should mandated that the head rest also come with 2 or 3 (forward and back adjustment options) all you can do is move up or down. I am tiny. I have to sit close to the wheel--and this headrest juts me forward and has caused me horrible neck pain for the first time in my life. I am 39 years old. I know this was tested on dummies and it for prevention of whiplash-- but can car companies --make them adjustable??????????? Forward and back ??????? Not just up and down. Forward head posture is also leading to horrible posture problems, arthritis, neuromuscular diseases from the spinal cord being squeezed from forward head which is already happening from texting and computer use... I do not understand how this got passed ? I have to play in so many ways and turn the headrest backwards and have tried to use the back seat headrest .... Nhtsa... May read this and go----whiplash etc.. But this is so upsetting and distressing ---for me to drive with.... My neck is in terrible spasm ... Change head rest settings |
Category | Steering |
Date | Jul 04, 2017 |
State | CO |
Description | Steering sticks while in a turn and resists the drivers input to straighten the wheel, causing either failure to straighten on demand or over-steering to opposite side while attempting to straighten. This is an intermittent issue and varies in both frequency and severity, and typically occurs during each use of the vehicle. The malfunction seems to occur more frequently during sustained left turns, and is most problematic on curvy roads where failure to straighten wheels or over-steering to opposite side could be catastrophic. The malfunction occurs while in a turning motion on city streets and on curvy highways, usually when wheel is turned more than ~20 degrees and sustained briefly. The issue was reported to the subaru dealer. They drove and inspected the car and were unable to fix or diagnose the problem. The car is new and was received on 06/09/2017. |
Category | Engine |
Date | Jun 02, 2017 |
State | CA |
Description | Car stalls when making hard left turn with less than 1/4 tank of gas car was stopped and lurked left. Could eaily repeat the problem in an empty parking lot. Filled gas tank and problem dissapeared. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | May 22, 2017 |
State | CO |
Description | When closing rear power lift gate, a stroller fell partly out of the trunk. I instinctively grabbed it, and the gate hit the back of my head and started to slam me into the car before I could pull my head out. The door did not stop closing. According to the subaru instruction manual, the rear gate can cause serious personal injury by entrapment. The door did not stop when encountering resistance (my head). The dealer says that I cannot change this to a manual control rear hatch without destroying the struts that hold the door up. I can close it manually as long as I remember to take the height control off with a button on the front dash every time I use the car outside the garage. When height control is on, which is the only way to stop the rear door before it opens fully and therefore must be used in our garage, you cannot close it manually. Since it closes slowly (8 seconds -- long for closing a door), you have to be very aware of children's movements, which are often rapid, and suppress your own reactions if something starts to fall out. The door should stop readily if it encounters an object even as small as a finger or else it should be manual and you should be able to stop it at different heights when opening it manually. |
Category | Air Bags, Seat Belts, Seats |
Date | May 16, 2017 |
State | MA |
Description | Driver's subaru was struck from behind by a box truck while stationary on a highway (driver had stopped just short of a multi-car collision but the box truck behind her was unable to stop); box truck pushed the subaru into the car in front. Driver's seatbelt was on, but driver's chest struck the steering wheel and her head possibly hit the side window. Airbags did not deploy and seatbelt did not stop driver from striking steering wheel. Also, the empty front passenger seat rocketed forward on its rails all the way to the front, and at least three hinges flew off the passenger seat rail mechanism. |
Category | Electronic Stability Control, Engine, Power Train |
Date | Mar 10, 2017 |
State | NC |
Description | Forester - 500 miles - consistent and continuing problems: car lurches forward on its own in first gear. - in motion engine not only has excessive (can last 5 seconds or more) "rev-hangs" shifting up from any gear but actually increases by 700-900 rpms. This has caused difficulty in slowing down (reducing speed with downshift). When using brake to reduce speed when this occurs, the engine will begin to race, increasing up to 1500 or more rpms, difficult to control vehicle. - in motion 4th gear - stick shift vibrates excessively - so much so it is visible to the eye and seems like it will have to wear out from the friction, - in motion (intermittent) when vehicle dynamics control engages on upward incline a very loud (multiple) banging occurs at the rea car lurches . - turning, in motion. Engine noise is extremely loud compared to other 2017 foresters I have driven. Can sound like it is ready to throw a rod in the near future - in motion and stationary subaru states all is normal. Service manage at dealer states loud engine is definitely not normal for the 2017 model and he experience the excessive rev-hang but doesn't know what to do these things because subaru says this is normal are normal. |
Category | Structure:body |
Date | Mar 05, 2017 |
State | PA |
Description | On march 1, 2017 I was stopped at an intersection. After proceeding straight through the intersection and reaching a speed of approximately 10-15 mph I heard an alert in my car, and simultaneously heard cars behind me sounding their horns. I quickly looked up into the rear view mirror and saw that the tailgate of my car had opened without warning while I was in motion, causing my dog to fall out of the back. This occurred after traveling for approximately 6-8 miles without ever receiving a dashboard alert that the tailgate was open. There have been electronic issues with the car since I purchased it new. Sometimes the car won't recognize the key fob and the doors won't unlock, or the car won't start and I get an alert that there is no key detected (when it is in the cup holder mere inches from the push-button ignition start.) twice the fasten seat belt alert has lighted and chimed, when the driver has the seat-belt fastened and there are no other passengers in the car. Oftentimes the tailgate won't open with the key fob or by utilizing the outside button - on this particular day it took me several minutes of fussing with all the controls before I could get the tailgate to open at all. This was the first time the tailgate opened on its own. The only other thing that I recall about what happened that day is that as I was going through the intersection my right front wheel dipped into a pothole with a significant jarring. |
Category | Exterior Lighting |
Date | Feb 23, 2017 |
State | CA |
Description | Subaru of america does not currently offer automatic headlights as an option on its forester premium trim. Subaru of america's parts department (parts. Subaru. Com), lists the automatic light sensor and switch as compatible with the forester premium and gives consumers details on official dealerships where these parts can be purchased. Subaru of america customer service, however, claims that these parts are not compatible with the 2017 forester premium, that they should not be installed, and that the only way to get automatic headlights is to upgrade to the much more expensive limited trim. I don't know whether the parts department is intentionally misleading customers to drive parts sales, or whether customer service is intentionally misleading customers in the hopes of selling cars with higher msrp; either way, subaru of america is misleading consumers about spare/replacement parts for a safety critical vehicle system. |
Category | Fuel/propulsion System |
Date | Feb 10, 2017 |
State | MI |
Description | Engine low level oil light came on a few times when I drove up my driveway or over a few inches of snow. Manually inspected oil levels the first few times and restarted engine. The warning light would go away. Warning light never came on when driving on a flat surface and always went away when parked on flat surface and restarted vehicle. There was no loud engine sound, knocking sound or smoke. Page 3-19 of the owners manual stated that the warning light might illuminate temporarily when driving on inclined surface. One day 15 minutes into my commute on a freeway I heard a rattling noise and then heard server knocking , smoke and then the whole engine caught fire. The entire vehicle then caught fire in a few minutes. I have talked to subaru and formally filed a complaint. Insurance has determined it is a manufacturing issue. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Feb 10, 2017 |
State | NJ |
Description | While driving on the highway yesterday 2/9/17, the car was severely vibrating at the speed of about 60- 65. It was unbearable. My whole body was shaking and stuff on the passenger seat was almost falling down. Fuel vs mileage gauage on digital screen was visibly shaking. Steering wheel was so severely vibrating that my hands and arms remained shaking even after I arrived my destination. It was about 30minute drive on the higyway. I felt I was in vibrating massage chair all the way. It was snow day but the highway was perfectly cleared of snow. I was not speeding. I bought this car 8/6/17. It started giving me problem since september, first air conditional didn't work at 1000miles then I received a recall letter saying transmission fluid might not be filled enough on october. Of course they found it wasn't filled enough when I brought it to the service. They sold defective car and called it great product. |
Category | Vehicle Speed Control |
Date | Feb 06, 2017 |
State | MT |
Description | My 2017 subaru forester has a 6-speed manual transmission. Whenever I attempt to slow the vehicle by downshifting, the vehicle will often continue to accelerate. This unwanted acceleration is most noticeable when driving down a grade, however it also frequently happens on flat ground. For example, if I am going 35 mph in 4th gear and am anticipating a stop light ahead, I would typically release my right foot from the accelerator pedal and downshift to 3rd gear, then 2nd gear while lightly braking to decelerate the vehicle. Instead, downshifting has minimal affect on the speed of the vehicle, while downshifting merely increases engine rpm, not assist in braking the vehicle. There have been scenarios when the speed of the vehicle has actually increased on flat ground (without driver acceleration input) despite downshifting. This particular scenario happened once on icy roads and caused me to almost lose control of the vehicle. As a frame of reference, I have driven a manual transmission as a primary vehicle for all of my driving life (nearly 22 years). I have never previously experienced a manual transmission that accelerates without driver input on flat ground. It seems that this issue of unwanted acceleration could eventually lead to an accident that would have otherwise been avoided. Thanks. |
Category | Seats |
Date | Jan 25, 2017 |
State | VA |
Description | I have caught the back of my right shoe 4 times( since buying the car in august) when getting out of the car. It catches on the hard plastic on the front left of the driver's seat. The first three times I was exiting the car in town and could have fallen into passing traffic had I not been holding onto the door. The last time my sister was standing in front of me and caught me. I have tried to locate seat covers to cover the piece of hard plastic with no luck. Any suggestions would be helpful. The design certainly needs to be changed. |
Category | Power Train |
Date | Jan 07, 2017 |
State | CO |
Description | On vehicles equipped with 6-speed manual transmission: when shifting gears, engine speed increases to 4000-4500 rpm while clutch is depressed, despite having foot entirely off the accelerator pedal. Rpm remains elevated for 5 to 10 seconds before slowly returning to normal idle. On other occasions, engine speed will increase to approximately 2500 rpm while sitting with the clutch depressed and foot off accelerator (for example, while waiting for a traffic light). Does not seem to be a "runaway" condition: the engine speed never approaches redline, but increases smoothly to the "target" rpm, stays constant for awhile, then smoothly returns to idle. Note: other 2017 forester owners have reported similar behavior. Subaru is investigating, but at present is saying, "it's not a bug, it's a feature." after 50 years of driving scores of vehicles with manual transmissions, I disagree. |
Category | Power Train |
Date | Nov 29, 2016 |
State | FL |
Description | 11/23/16 - as I was slowly rolling into a front parking spot the car accelerated on it's own - I turned the wheel to the left so I wouldn't crash full on into the building - trying to control the car - I went over a curb that was jetting out - defining the parking spaces - my right front and back tires went over the curb - just missing a tree - finally coming to a stop - if there was anyone there - I would have hit them - that day I took the car to the subaru dealer and told them what happened - and on my paperwork it stated "customer states subaru seems to accelerate on its own - tech found no codes. Tech drove vehicle and could not duplicate" |
Category | Steering |
Date | Nov 22, 2016 |
State | MI |
Description | The steering gets locked and the key will not turn. The wheels are not turned in and are straight. Dealer claims"this is normal" can not start the car without fighting with the steering and the key. Very scary and dangerous. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Nov 02, 2016 |
State | AZ |
Description | Since purchase the" radio/computer" hands-free phone communication system has not worked. Hands-free phone communication is not possible. You can call from the car but the person on the other end cannot hear what is said. It was checked and it is not the microphone that is the problem. The entire system needs to be replaced. Replacement system is not currently available from the manufacturer. |
Category | Steering |
Date | Oct 27, 2016 |
State | PA |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. While attempting to turn the vehicle into an intersection, the steering wheel locked and the vehicle crashed into a pole. The vehicle was towed and received front end damage. The contact received neck and back injuries. The contact did not receive medical attention. A police report was filed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 1,000. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Oct 21, 2016 |
State | NJ |
Description | Cvt transmission fluid was not filled with the specific amount from the factory. This is the second issue with this brand new car. First they didn't fill enough freon for ac so it started blowing off hot air at 1400miles a month after I bought. And at two months not enough transmission fluid. I'm worried what else they did not put enough or is thei quality checking good enough to put the cars like mine on the market |
Category | Electrical System, Structure |
Date | Oct 17, 2016 |
State | CA |
Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2017 subaru forester. The contact stated that the control module screen reflected light onto her face while driving. The contact's vision was impaired. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was 1,200. |
Category | Unknown Or Other |
Date | Sep 15, 2016 |
State | NJ |
Description | Driver side vents are blowing warm air when air conditioner is turned on. Only 1400 miles on since I bought a brand new last month 8/6/16. |
Who are we? We are Lemberg Law, a Consumer Law Firm
Lemberg Law is a consumer law firm helping victims of bad manufacturing and run-arounds from auto companies. We are ranked A+ by the BBB. Call our Helpline today! There is no charge unless we win.
Share your story
Does this ring a bell? Have you had a bad experience too? Sound off and share your experience with other visitors in the comment box below.
My 2017 Subaru Forester has 69K miles on it. I have taken it to the dealer multiple times for what seems to be a slipping transmission. I have the extended 80K mile warranty on it and was told that it is under the CVT warranty. Within the last couple of months, the problem has happened more often. I was at a stop sign and tried to accelerate, and the transmission would not engage. In this instance, the engine revved to about 3,000 rpm before things kicked in. This happened again a few weeks later out of a right turn from a stoplight up a slight hill trying to accelerate to 40 mph. Here, the engine revved to 4,000 rpm before anything caught. At that point, I requested an appointment from the dealer. The day before my appointment, I was making the same right hand turn and the car decelerated. I pressed the gas pedal and the car made a high pitched whirring sound as the rpm jumped to 5,000. I was on a hands-free call, and it was so loud that the person on the other end heard. Cars had to drive around me to keep from wrecking. Reported this to the dealer service who kept my car over the weekend only to tell me they couldn’t replicate the problem and that the thing I reported with the transmission not engaging was only a small stutter based on the computer read out. The vehicle is still there because we demanded that they try harder to diagnose the issue.
My 2017 suburu Forester has 64K miles on it. When we went to get new tires out on, they told us the control arms are bad. In researching thus issue, I have found several others with the exact same situation. There are no control arm replacement parts available in our area. ETA of new parts cannot be determined. Extended warranty will not cover after market control arms. Fortunately the dealership has provided us with a loaner vehicle until the car can be fixed.