Subaru Forester real model years: 2015-2026. Compare NHTSA complaints, recalls, safety ratings, and unsupported searched years.
The Subaru Forester has been tracked across 12 model years in the NHTSA database, accumulating a total of 3901 consumer complaints and 20 safety recalls. Understanding the recall and complaint history of any vehicle is a critical step in the car-buying process, whether you are shopping for a used Subaru Forester or already own one and want to stay informed about potential safety risks.
Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Subaru Forester stands out as the model year with the most reported issues, logging 828 complaints and 3 recalls. In contrast, the 2026 model year is the cleanest on record with just 0 complaints. The average across all tracked years is approximately 325 complaints per model year.
When evaluating a used Subaru Forester, pay close attention to the model years with higher complaint counts listed in the table below. A higher number of complaints does not always indicate a dangerous vehicle, but it does suggest more frequent owner-reported problems that could affect reliability, repair costs, or resale value. Always cross-reference complaint data with recall information and, when possible, have a qualified mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection.
The table below lists every Subaru Forester model year in the NHTSA database along with complaint counts, recall counts, and safety ratings where available. Click on any year to view the full AI-generated safety report for that specific model, including detailed component breakdowns, known issues, and owner-reported problems. You can also compare the Subaru Forester against competing models using our comparison tool, or explore our buying guide to determine which years are the best to purchase.
The Subaru Forester safety graph covers 12 real model years with 3901 owner complaints, 20 recalls, 257 crash reports, 44 fire reports, and 40 service bulletin signals. Use this as the one-stop model view before drilling into a specific year.
| Path | Vehicle Year | Complaint Signal |
|---|---|---|
| Inspect carefully | 2019 Subaru Forester | 828 complaints, 3 recalls |
| Inspect carefully | 2015 Subaru Forester | 604 complaints, 3 recalls |
| Inspect carefully | 2020 Subaru Forester | 588 complaints, 0 recalls |
| Compare as cleaner year | 2026 Subaru Forester | 0 complaints, 1 recalls |
| Compare as cleaner year | 2024 Subaru Forester | 26 complaints, 2 recalls |
| Compare as cleaner year | 2025 Subaru Forester | 59 complaints, 2 recalls |
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 0 | 1 | ★★★★★ |
| 2025 | 59 | 2 | ★★★★★ |
| 2024 | 26 | 2 | ★★★★★ |
| 2023 | 64 | 1 | ★★★★★ |
| 2022 | 91 | 1 | ★★★★★ |
| 2021 | 197 | 0 | ★★★★★ |
| 2020 | 588 | 0 | ★★★★★ |
| 2019 | 828 | 3 | ★★★★★ |
| 2018 | 480 | 3 | ★★★★★ |
| 2017 | 564 | 1 | ★★★★★ |
| 2016 | 400 | 3 | ★★★★★ |
| 2015 | 604 | 3 | ★★★★★ |
Yes, the Subaru Forester has 20 recalls across 12 model years tracked in the NHTSA database. Select a specific model year below to see the full recall details.
The Subaru Forester has accumulated 3901 consumer complaints across 12 model years. The complaint count varies significantly by year — click any year in the table to see its specific issues.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2026 Subaru Forester has the fewest reported issues with 0 complaints. The 2019 model year has the most with 828 complaints.
Safety varies by model year. Review the NHTSA safety ratings, recall history, and complaint data for each Subaru Forester model year in the table below. Vehicles with 4-5 star NHTSA ratings and low complaint counts generally indicate better safety records.
This page shows all 12 model years of the Subaru Forester with recall counts and safety ratings. Click any year for the complete recall list including campaign numbers, affected components, and manufacturer remedies. You can also check by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.