2020 Subaru Forester Safety Report
2020 Subaru Forester: Excellent Crash Ratings Mask Significant Stalling and Electrical System Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Subaru Forester
Reliability Score
The 2020 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 2020 Subaru Forester
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Subaru Forester:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Stalling/Auto Start-Stop Malfunction Numerous reports of the engine stalling at stop lights or low speeds, often related to the auto start-stop feature failing to restart the engine, leading to dangerous situations in traffic. This is a recurring theme in the 'ENGINE' and 'POWER TRAIN' complaints. |
High | Common | 20000-50000 miles |
| Visibility/Headlight Glare Many owners report that their low beam headlights are perceived as high beams by other drivers, leading to frequent flashing. This is a significant portion of the 234 'VISIBILITY/WIPER' complaints. |
Medium | Common | new-30000 miles |
| Electrical System Malfunctions (Eyesight, Dash Lights) Complaints detail various electrical issues, including sudden illumination of multiple dash warning lights, EyeSight system deactivation, and electronic parking brake engagement while driving, as seen in the 44 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' complaints. |
Medium | Occasional | 20000-40000 miles |
| Windshield Cracking Several reports of windshields cracking unexpectedly or from minor impacts, with some instances causing visibility issues due to glare, contributing to 'VISIBILITY/WIPER' complaints. |
Low | Occasional | 10000-30000 miles |
| Parasitic Battery Drain Owners report issues with batteries draining prematurely, often leading to difficulty starting the vehicle, which aligns with 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' complaints. |
Medium | Occasional | 20000-40000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2020 Subaru Forester:
The most frequent complaint category, with 234 reports, largely concerning headlight glare issues where low beams are mistaken for high beams by other drivers, and some instances of unexpected windshield cracking.
67 complaints fall into this category, often detailing various unclassified issues or general vehicle malfunctions that don't fit neatly into other categories, sometimes related to the auto start-stop system.
44 complaints specifically about the electrical system, including issues with warning lights, EyeSight system failures, and parasitic battery drain.
15 complaints directly about the engine, primarily related to stalling at low speeds or when the auto start-stop feature is engaged, leading to loss of power.
9 complaints related to the power train, often intertwined with engine stalling issues and the vehicle's inability to restart or accelerate after a stop.
6 complaints regarding the forward collision avoidance system, including instances of unintended braking or system deactivation.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Subaru Forester
Is the 2020 Subaru Forester safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 Subaru Forester received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall, frontal, and side, 4-star rollover). However, it has accumulated 588 complaints, including 25 crashes and 16 injuries, with recurring issues like engine stalling and electrical malfunctions that could compromise real-world safety despite strong crashworthiness.
What are common problems with the 2020 Subaru Forester?
The most reported issues for the 2020 Subaru Forester are related to VISIBILITY/WIPER (234 complaints), primarily concerning headlight glare and windshield cracking. Other significant problems include engine stalling, often linked to the auto start-stop feature, and various ELECTRICAL SYSTEM malfunctions, such as dash warning lights and EyeSight system failures.
Are there any recalls for the 2020 Subaru Forester?
According to NHTSA data, there are no recalls issued for the 2020 Subaru Forester. This is notable given the volume and nature of the complaints, particularly those related to engine stalling and electrical systems.
How does the 2020 Subaru Forester perform in crash tests?
The 2020 Subaru Forester performed exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, achieving a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 5 stars for both frontal and side crash protection, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
Should I be concerned about the auto start-stop feature?
Yes, the auto start-stop feature is a significant concern for the 2020 Subaru Forester, as numerous complaints describe the engine stalling and failing to restart after the system engages, leading to dangerous situations in traffic. This issue is frequently mentioned in ENGINE and POWER TRAIN complaints.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2020 Subaru Forester offers strong crash protection, potential buyers should be aware of widespread complaints regarding engine stalling, electrical system issues, and headlight glare; a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on these areas is highly recommended.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Subaru Forester
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Subaru Forester. The data includes 588 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 25 reported crashes, 7 fire incidents, 16 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2020 Subaru Forester an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 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.