2023 Subaru Forester
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1998 | 101 |
| 1999 | 131 |
| 2000 | 75 |
| 2001 | 139 |
| 2002 | 88 |
| 2003 | 189 |
| 2004 | 219 |
| 2005 | 93 |
| 2006 | 88 |
| 2007 | 72 |
| 2008 | 50 |
| 2009 | 178 |
| 2010 | 262 |
| 2011 | 147 |
| 2012 | 105 |
| 2013 | 77 |
| 2014 | 403 |
| 2015 | 613 |
| 2016 | 411 |
| 2017 | 586 |
| 2018 | 493 |
| 2019 | 832 |
| 2020 | 600 |
| 2021 | 207 |
| 2022 | 98 |
| 2023 | 73 |
| 2024 | 29 |
| 2025 | 93 |
| 2026 | 20 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
22% of complaints: forward collision avoidance — 16 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing automatic emergency braking and warnings.
CRASH FIREShow complaint excerpts
The contact owned a 2023 Subaru Forester.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260710
15% of complaints: visibility/wiper — 11 distinct reports on file.
10% of complaints: electrical system — 7 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing software.
FIRE10% of complaints: air bags — 7 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing front passenger.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
I purchased a new Subaru Forester on February 3, 2023 from Cross Creek Subaru in Fayetteville NC. I noticed that the passenger air bag was off at times with my wife in the passenger seat.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230424
10% of complaints: lane departure — 7 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing assist and warning.
CRASH INJURYSAFETY TIMELINE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Crosstrek, Impreza, 2023-2024 Forester, and 2023 WRX vehicles. The front driveshaft assemblies' outer race may develop cracks and break.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the left and right front driveshafts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614.
Campaign 23V754000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2023 Subaru Forester — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for forward collision avoidance issues (16 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for visibility/wiper issues (11 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (7 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 23V754000 (power train) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2023 Subaru Forester reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2023 Subaru Forester is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Subaru Forester?
The most-reported component is forward collision avoidance, accounting for 22% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2023 Subaru Forester have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.