2026 Subaru Forester Safety Report
2026 Subaru Forester shows excellent crash test performance but has a new model recall for a rear hatch support bracket.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2026 Subaru Forester
Reliability Score
The 2026 Subaru Forester receives a reliability score of 70 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
Known Issues for the 2026 Subaru Forester
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2026 Subaru Forester:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rear Hatch Support Bracket Detachment A recall has been issued for certain 2026 Forester vehicles due to an incorrect or incorrectly oriented rear hatch support bracket. This can cause the rear hatch to fall unexpectedly, increasing injury risk. |
Medium | Rare | new-unknown miles |
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Subaru Forester
Is the 2026 Subaru Forester safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2026 Subaru Forester has an excellent 5-star overall safety rating, with 5 stars in frontal and side crash tests, and 4 stars in rollover. However, it has one recall for a rear hatch support bracket issue, which should be addressed by the dealer.
What are common problems?
As a new model year, there are currently 0 reported NHTSA complaints, so no common problems have emerged from consumer data yet. The only known issue is related to a recall for the rear hatch support bracket.
What is the recall history for the 2026 Subaru Forester?
The 2026 Subaru Forester has one recall (NHTSA ID: 24V-XXX, specific ID not provided in prompt) concerning the 'STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS'. This recall addresses an incorrect or incorrectly oriented rear hatch support bracket that could cause the hatch to fall unexpectedly.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given its excellent crash test ratings and new model status, the 2026 Subaru Forester appears safe, but ensure the single recall for the rear hatch support bracket is addressed before or at purchase.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2026 Subaru Forester
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2026 Subaru Forester. The data includes 0 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2026 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.