2015 Subaru Forester Safety Report
2015 Subaru Forester: Strong crash ratings, but persistent airbag and engine issues raise real-world safety concerns.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2015 Subaru Forester
Reliability Score
The 2015 Subaru Forester receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2015 Subaru Forester
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2015 Subaru Forester:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Airbag Deactivation/Failure The Occupant Detection System (ODS) frequently malfunctions, causing the passenger airbag to deactivate even when the seat is occupied, or to incorrectly detect an occupant. This is a known issue addressed by recall 19V-701, but complaints indicate recurrence. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Engine Stalling/Loss Of Power Vehicles, particularly 2.0XT models, have experienced sudden engine stalls or loss of forward power while driving, increasing the risk of a crash. This was addressed by recall 15V-701. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Unintended Acceleration Reports of the vehicle accelerating rapidly without driver input, even at low speeds or on highways, posing a significant crash risk. |
High | Rare | variable miles |
| Brake Light Switch Malfunction Brake lights may not illuminate properly, failing to alert other drivers of slowing or stopping, increasing crash risk. This was addressed by recall 19V-149. |
Medium | Occasional | variable miles |
| Transmission/Shifter Issues Vehicles getting stuck in 'Park' due to shifter plate/parking range switch defects, and reports of differential noise in the transmission. |
Medium | Occasional | variable miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2015 Subaru Forester:
Frequent complaints about engine stalling, loss of power, and unintended acceleration, affecting 62 reports.
62 complaints related to suspension components, including issues like premature wheel bearing failure and control arm breaks.
61 complaints specifically about airbag system malfunctions, primarily concerning the passenger occupant detection system and airbag deactivation.
37 complaints, including issues with the vehicle getting stuck in 'Park' and transmission noises.
38 complaints, likely related to various electrical failures, potentially including those impacting the airbag system.
24 complaints, often linked to unintended acceleration or hesitation issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2015 Subaru Forester
Is the 2015 Subaru Forester safe?
The 2015 Subaru Forester received excellent NHTSA crash test ratings (5-star overall), indicating good performance in controlled crash scenarios. However, it has 604 total complaints, including 52 crashes and 33 injuries, with recurring issues like passenger airbag deactivation and engine stalling, which are significant safety concerns in real-world driving.
What are common problems with the 2015 Subaru Forester?
The most reported issues for the 2015 Subaru Forester are related to the ENGINE (62 complaints), SUSPENSION (62 complaints), and AIR BAGS (61 complaints). Specific problems include passenger airbag sensor failures, engine stalling or unintended acceleration, and issues with the power train such as the vehicle getting stuck in 'Park'.
Has the 2015 Subaru Forester been recalled?
Yes, the 2015 Subaru Forester has had 3 recalls. These include recalls for the Occupant Detection System (airbags, 19V-701), the brake light switch (19V-149), and an engine stall issue for 2.0XT models (15V-701).
Are the airbag issues resolved by the recall?
While recall 19V-701 was issued to address the occupant detection system, numerous complaints indicate that the passenger airbag deactivation issue persists for some owners even after the recall remedy, suggesting it may not be fully resolved in all affected vehicles.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2015 Subaru Forester?
When considering a used 2015 Subaru Forester, pay close attention to the functionality of the passenger airbag system, ensure all recalls (especially 19V-701, 19V-149, and 15V-701) have been completed, and check for any signs of engine hesitation, stalling, or unusual transmission noises. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the strong crash ratings but persistent, safety-critical complaints regarding airbags and engine issues, a thorough pre-purchase inspection and verification of all recall completions are essential for any potential buyer.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2015 Subaru Forester
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2015 Subaru Forester. The data includes 604 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 52 reported crashes, 7 fire incidents, 33 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2015 Subaru Forester an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.