2017 Subaru Forester Safety Report
2017 Subaru Forester: Strong crash ratings, but persistent airbag and ODS issues raise safety concerns.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Subaru Forester
Reliability Score
The 2017 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 2017 Subaru Forester
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Subaru Forester:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Airbag Deactivation/Ods Failure The Occupant Detection System (ODS) frequently malfunctions, causing the front passenger airbag to deactivate even when the seat is occupied, or the airbag warning light to illuminate. This issue persists for many owners even after the recall repair. |
High | Common | varied, often post-recall miles |
| Loose Driver'S Seat The driver's seat can become loose and move side-to-side while driving, often due to failed seat frame rail guides. |
Medium | Occasional | 27000+ miles |
| Eyesight System Failure The EyeSight driver-assist system can become disabled, failing to complete camera registration or calibration, often linked to code B28A0 'Vehicle Model Judgment'. |
Medium | Occasional | 118200+ miles |
| Tailgate Falling Unexpectedly The power tailgate can unexpectedly fall after being opened, posing a risk of injury. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
| Cvt Fluid Leak A leaking CVT pump seal can cause CVT fluid to leak onto the transmission, leading to a burning oil smell. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Electrical System Malfunctions/Battery Drain Intermittent electrical failures, including multiple battery drains, alternator issues, and dashboard warning lights (ABS, EyeSight) appearing, leading to steering difficulty and stalling. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Subaru Forester:
Predominantly issues with the Occupant Detection System (ODS) causing passenger airbag deactivation or warning lights, often despite recall repairs.
A high number of complaints related to visibility, including windshield cracking and wiper issues.
A significant portion of complaints fall into a general category, indicating various unspecified or miscellaneous problems.
Problems ranging from battery drains and alternator failures to various system warning lights and malfunctions.
Reports of burning oil smell, potentially linked to CVT fluid leaks, and other engine-related concerns.
Issues including CVT fluid leaks and potential transmission-related malfunctions.
Complaints about structural integrity, such as a loose driver's seat and unexpected tailgate movement.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Subaru Forester
Is the 2017 Subaru Forester safe?
The 2017 Subaru Forester received excellent crash test ratings from NHTSA, including a 5-star overall rating. However, NHTSA complaint data shows significant and persistent safety concerns, particularly with the airbag system's Occupant Detection System (ODS), which has led to 109 complaints and a recall. This issue can cause the passenger airbag to deactivate, increasing injury risk.
What are common problems with the 2017 Subaru Forester?
The most reported issues for the 2017 Subaru Forester are related to the AIR BAGS system (109 complaints), specifically the Occupant Detection System (ODS) causing passenger airbag deactivation. Other common problems include VISIBILITY/WIPER issues (93 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM malfunctions (57 complaints), and ENGINE problems (21 complaints), such as burning oil smells from CVT fluid leaks.
Was there a recall for the 2017 Subaru Forester?
Yes, there was one recall for the 2017 Subaru Forester concerning the AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION system. This recall addresses an electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) that could loosen and deactivate the airbag, increasing the risk of injury.
How does the 2017 Subaru Forester perform in crash tests?
The 2017 Subaru Forester performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, achieving a 5-star Overall Safety Rating. It received 4 stars for Frontal Crash, 5 stars for Side Crash, and 4 stars for Rollover safety.
Are the airbag issues resolved by the recall?
Based on numerous owner complaints, the airbag issues, specifically related to the Occupant Detection System (ODS), appear to persist for many 2017 Subaru Forester owners even after the recall repair has been performed. Many reports indicate the 'Passenger Airbag OFF' light still illuminates with an adult in the seat, suggesting the recall fix may not be fully effective or that other related components are failing.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Prospective buyers should be aware of the persistent airbag/ODS issues despite good crash ratings; thoroughly inspect the passenger airbag system and inquire about recall repair history and any recurring symptoms.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Subaru Forester
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Subaru Forester. The data includes 564 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 39 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 26 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 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.