2021 Subaru Forester: recalls and problems
No recalls and 215 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is visibility/wiper.
Recalls
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 2021 Subaru Forester. Individual cars can still have open manufacturer campaigns, so check your VIN.
Check recalls for your exact VINMost common problems
What owners report
When coming to a stop, the auto start/stop system shuts the engine off and it fails to restart. all dashboard warning lights illuminate. the vehicle must be shifted to park and restarted manually with the start button. the component that failed is the auto start/stop system; the exact cause is unknown. the vehicle is available for inspection upon request. this put safety at risk because the vehicle was left immobile
Component failed & inspection availability: the vehicle suffered a sudden, catastrophic mechanical engine block failure at 74,000 miles. the dealership teardown confirmed a failed/spun lifter bearing and a fractured connecting rod cap, requiring a complete engine replacement. this sudden oil pressure failure/blockage occurred while the engine oil pan was verified completely full. this sudden mechanical failure is dir
The contact owns a 2021 subaru forester. the contact stated that while driving and accelerating from a stop, the vehicle started bucking and hesitating. the vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the transmission control valve body was inoperable and needed to be replaced. the transmission control valve body was replaced and the vehicle was repaired. the manufacturer was not
I was stopped at a red light. when the light changed to green i put my foot on the gas and the car totally stalled out. there were no lights, fans or radio on just total silence. i tried to restart the car putting it is park and depressing the brake while pushing the start button and nothing. it didn't even try to turn over. silent, dead. i tried several times with no luck. i got out of the car to signal to the
Crash-test ratings
| Version | Overall | Frontal | Side | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 Subaru Forester SUV AWD |
Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering Forester. Last refreshed 2026-11-08.