2010 SUBARU Forester Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
261
Complaints Reported
Complaints by Component
SEATS
73 complaints
The bracket on the front right side of the drivers seat (if you're looking at the seat from the sunroof) that connects the seat (where you sit) to the seat frame (which moves the seat forward and back) has separated from the seat frame. The two tack welds have failed so the seat can move freely up and down on the right side of the seat. This issue seems to particularly affect the 2010 model year Subaru Forester as documented by the forum thread: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Oct 24, 2023
Left front of drivers seat collapsed while driving 60mph on freeway. This caused a surprise that could have resulted in an accident. This has been reported numerous times as can be referenced here: [XXX] and appears it will be an expensive replacement at my cost for a known issue. This should be considered a major safety issue and deserving of a recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Aug 23, 2023
My 2010 Subaru Forester's driver seat does not raise up on with the power buttons. I can hear the motor but the front of the seat will not move. Last week, the right side was not moving and now both sides are not. I can physically move the front half of the seat up and down. I can see that the welds on the front arms are off of the frame of the seat rails. If I was in a collision, the whole seat might come off if it is not secured and my safety would be compromised. I called Subaru of America and received a case number. I also plan on taking the car into dealer for an inspection. No warning lights appeared. When I move the seats with the buttons, I sometimes hear a grinding noise. This collapsing seat issue with 2010 Foresters has been found on internet sites. The car was not involved in an accident and I am the primary driver and weigh under 160 lbs.
May 01, 2023
The weld on the left side of the seat broken causing the seat cushion to be loose. After quick internet searching, this seems to a be a somewhat common occurrence. I weight 170 Lbs and the car has 140K miles. This issue makes it lean far left causing an unsafe seating position and does not allow for adjustment of the seat up and down.
Mar 02, 2023
Power adjustment of Driver's seat front left corner does not raise in synch with right side. This causes the seat to be uneven, resulting in an unsafe driving position. Apparently the weld of the adjustment arm breaking is a well known and documented issue based on even a cursory internet search.
Jul 10, 2022
+ 68 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
38 complaints
Had a collision with another vehicle and my airbags never deployed. The other vehicles airbags did deploy.
Jan 09, 2025
Subaru of America refuses to authorize dealer Beyer Subaru of Alexandria Virginia to do the stipulated safety repair
Mar 12, 2024
I BROUGHT THIS VEHICLE INTO A SUBARU DEALERSHIP FOR THE AIRBAG RECALL. APPARENTLY THEY DIDN'T DO IT OR FAILED TO REGISTER THAT THEY DID THE WORK, AS I AM RECEIVING MAIL INDICATING THAT THE REPAIR NEEDS TO BE DONE. *TR
Jun 19, 2020
GALLATIN SUBARU IN BOZEMAN MONTANA REFUSES TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR ON THE AIR BAG BECAUSE I HAD A MOUSE TRAP IN MY VEHICLE. THE MANAGER REFUSED TO LET ME RECORD WHY THEY WOULD NOT IN THE END I DID SAY GREAT YOU ARE WILLING TO RISK MY F-ING LIFE IN THE PAST WE HAVE PURCHASED 3 NEW VEHICLES FROM THEM. THEY NOW HAVE ON FILE DO NOT WORK ON MY VEHICLE OR ALLOWED ON THE PROPERTY. PERSONALLY I DO NOT WANT THEM TO WORK ON MY VEHICLE NOW.
Oct 24, 2019
TAKATA RECALL. TODAY IS 23 MARCH 2019. THE FIRST DATE FOR A SERVICE APPOIONTMENT FOR A TAKATA BAG RECALL IS IN OCTOBER 2019. IS A 7 MONTH REPAIR DELAY ACCEPTABLE? THE MANUFACTURER RECOMMENDS NOT USING THE PASSENGER SEAT IN THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. 7 MONTHS IS A LONG TIME TO PUT ME OR MY WIFE IN THE REAR SEAT.
Mar 25, 2019
+ 33 more complaints for this component
ENGINE
21 complaints
The engine in my 2010 Subaru Forester (VIN: [XXX] ) suffered a sudden and complete mechanical failure on November 15, 2025. While driving, the vehicle abruptly lost power without any warning lights or messages. I was able to pull off the roadway, but the loss of power posed a significant safety risk. Had this occurred in traffic or at highway speeds, it could have caused a collision. The vehicle was inspected the next business day by Wiygul Automotive. Their technicians found no measurable oil on the dipstick and added three quarts just to restart the engine. They confirmed no external oil leaks, and diagnosed the failure as a catastrophic internal oil consumption defect that had been occurring over time. This defect resulted in oil starvation and severe internal engine damage. The engine is fully available for inspection upon request. Wiygul provided a written diagnostic report confirming the cause of failure. The dealership has been notified but has not yet performed an inspection. No manufacturer, insurance, or law enforcement inspections have occurred to date. Importantly, the vehicle had a documented pre-purchase inspection on August 7, 2025, which noted the engine oil was significantly overfilled by approximately one quart and that all diagnostic codes had recently been cleared. These findings are consistent with an existing engine issue that would not be detectable by an ordinary consumer. On August 28, 2025, a full synthetic oil service was performed and again documented no external leaks. There were no symptoms, warnings, or drivability indications prior to the sudden loss of power. The failure occurred without warning, and the underlying defect was only discovered after the breakdown. This internal oil consumption defect rendered the vehicle unsafe and unfit for use, and the sudden engine shutdown created a clear risk to my safety and the safety of others on the road. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Dec 09, 2025
The contact owns a 2010 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving, the check engine warning light had illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer who advised him that the fuel tank was rusted and needed to be repaired as well as fuel lines. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that he contacted the manufacturer who gave him a goodwill help credit to help contribute to the repair of the vehicle. The failure mileage was 99,552.
Jan 06, 2022
I bought a 2010 Subaru Forester vehicle on 05/22/2021 from AutoFair Subaru dealer at 503 Broadway, Haverhill, MA 01832. The car engine was making noises from the day 1 of this purchase. I reported this to the dealership but they denied the facts. Rather they said that I did not know how to drive and was making jokes at me. In month 3 (07/17/21), there was a warning sign on the dashboard. I took the car to them. There was a leak in the tire. It got fixed. I returned with the engine noise still in the car. In month 4 (08/21/21), again there was a safety sign on the dashboard. There was a oil leak in the engine. They charged me a huge amount of bill to repair this. Last Saturday on 10/30/2021, I was going to Walmart. I was on highway I-495 just a could of miles away from the exit, the car engine light was flashing. The engine sound gets louder. As soon as I pulled the car to the roadside, the engine stopped and the whole car was full of smoke. My life was on danger last Saturday. I called the dealer on Monday (11/01/2021). Again, they denied the facts. I demand a full refund of this purchase to avoid any life threatening car accidents in the future.
Nov 04, 2021
Head gasket suddenly failed on the highway. This is a known problem Subaru has yet to address and has been present on all their models up to 2010. This is something that Subaru should have addressed years ago but are allowing people to put the safety at risk due to negligence
Aug 28, 2021
At 90,000 miles the head gaskets need replacing (a $2600 repair) on a 2010 car that has been taken care of, all oil changes, all maintenance has been done to. Seems like a failed part. Noticed others have complained about the same issue. Just curious how long head gaskets should last under normal use?
Aug 20, 2021
+ 16 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES
18 complaints
The contact owns a 2010 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that the rear brakes were replaced by an independent mechanic. After 6 months, the contact noticed that the brakes needed to be replaced again. The mechanic stated that the automatic braking system was not releasing the brakes as needed, and the braking system needed to be replaced. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed; however, the rear brakes were replaced again however, and the failure persisted. The manufacturer was contacted and informed of the failure. The manufacturer suggested that the vehicle be taken to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 87,000.
Jun 16, 2022
MY BRAKES FAILED WHILE I WAS DRIVING BECAUSE SUBARU DID NOT PROPERLY ADDRESS RECALL WQK47 ON MY CAR IN 2018 EVEN THOUGH THEY CLAIMED IT WAS COMPLETED. MY BRAKE LINES ARE COMPLETELY CORRODED AND THEY ARE REFUSING TO HONOR THE RECALL THAT THEY IMPROPERLY ADDRESSED 2 YEARS AGO. THEY KNEW IN 2018 WHEN THEY APPLIED THE ANTI-RUST SOLUTION THAT THE BRAKE LINES WERE RUSTED BUT THEY DID NOT DO ANY REPAIRS. THUS, MY CAR IS CURRENTLY NON-FUNCTIONING.
Oct 09, 2020
MARCH OF 2019 A RECALL WAS PERFORMED FOR RUSTED BRAKE LINES...THIS YEAR THE BRAKES LINES SUDDENLY FAILED...APPARENTLY IF THE BRAKE LINES AREN'T LEAKING THE SUBARU FIX IS TO SPRAY SEALER OVER THE RUST. ONLY BY THE GRACE OF GOD WAS NO ONE INJURED AS THE CAR WAS BEING PARKED WHEN THE BRAKES LET LOOSE. AND OF COURSE SUBARU SAID THEY WOULD REPAIR THE BRAKES PROPERLY FOR $1400.00. I REMOVED THE CAR FROM THE DEALERSHIP FOR A PROPER REPAIR! *TR
Jun 16, 2020
NHTSA CAMPAIGN 14V830000 AND 14V311000: SUBARU OF AMERICA RECALL(S) WERE COMPLETED IN 2014. HOWEVER, ON JANUARY 5 2020, WHILE COMING TO A STOP ON A RURAL ROAD, THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR AND THE CAR ROLLED THROUGH THE INTERSECTION. NO OTHER CARS WERE PRESENT AND NO ACCIDENT OCCURRED. INSPECTION REVEALED THAT A BRAKE PIPE HAD RUSTED AND RUPTURED NEAR THE "4 WAY JUNCTION" AT THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE VERY JUNCTION THAT IS THE SUBJECT OF THE AFOREMENTIONED RECALLS.
Jan 07, 2020
IN FREEZING WEATHER, THE BRAKES ICE UP AND DO NOT WORK PROPERLY. WHEN I APPLY THE BRAKES IN A NORMAL FASHION, THEY DO NOT WORK. IF I PUMP THEM VERY GENTLY OVER A LONG PERIOD OF SLOWING DOWN, I CAN GET THE CAR TO STOP.
Dec 21, 2017
+ 13 more complaints for this component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
13 complaints
The contact owns a 2010 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while reversing out of a garage parking space, the vehicle suddenly experienced unintended acceleration causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle and crash into several other parked vehicles before coming to a stop. During the incident, the driver sustained a mild concussion which did not require medical attention. A police report was filed and the vehicle was towed to the local collision center. The contact was unsure if the failure occurred while in the reverse or drive position. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not yet notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 140,000.
Jan 12, 2023
MY 2010 SUBARU FORESTER SUDDENLY ACCELERATED IN REVERSE FOR THE 3RD TIME. THIS LAST TIME IT HIT ANOTHER VEHICLE DAMAGING IT AND KNOCKED DOWN A PERSON THAT REQUIRED EVALUATION AT THE ER. I WAS IN A CHURCH PARKING LOT THIS LAST TIME. I DO NOT HAVE ANY PICTURES AS I WAS CONCERNED ABOUT THE PERSON HIT.
Dec 01, 2020
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK THE VEHICLE AT A LOW SPEED WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL SLIGHTLY DEPRESSED, THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY ACCELERATED AND CRASHED INTO AN ELECTRICAL JUNCTION BOX. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT WAS NOT INJURED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTO BODY SHOP. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000.
Jul 03, 2018
WHILE PARKING MY 2010 SUBARU FORESTER SUDDENLY ACCELERATED CAUSING IT TO JUMP OVER A CURB SIDESWIPING A HEDGE JUMPING ANOTHER CURB THEN HITTING A LARGE RAM 150 TRUCK. THE WHOLE TIME I WAS STANDING ON THE BRAKES TRYING TO AVOID PARKED CARS. UPON IMPACT THE ENGINE WAS STILL RUNNING AT HIGH RPM'S. AFTER SHUTTING IT OFF I LOOKED TO SEE IF THE MATS WERE THE CAUSE AND THEY WERE NOT. COULD NOT DETERMINE WHAT THE CAUSE OF ACCELERATION. THERE WAS OVER $12.000 DAMAGE TO THE FORESTER.
Jul 01, 2016
A FAMILY MEMBER WAS RE-PARKING OUR CAR NEXT TO THE HOUSE. SHE PUT THE CAR IN REVERSE, PRESSED THE ACCELERATOR LIGHTLY, AND THE CAR SUDDENLY LURCHED BACKWARDS AND KEPT GOING EVEN AFTER SHE TOOK HER FOOT OFF THE ACCELERATOR, AND HIT THE HOUSE, CAUSING DAMAGE TO BOTH THE CAR AND THE HOUSE (AND CAUSING MY DAUGHTER A CONCUSSION). EARLIER, MY SON HAD A SIMILAR EXPERIENCE WITH THE SAME CAR. HE HAD THE CAR IN REVERSE, LIGHTLY TAPPED THE ACCELERATOR, THE CAR JOLTED BACKWARD BUT HE DID NOT HIT ANYTHING BECAUSE HE WAS NOT CLOSE TO ANY OBJECTS OR STRUCTURES.
Sep 19, 2015
+ 8 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
8 complaints
WHEN CAR IS IDLING MULTIPLE LIGHTS COME ON- CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, TRACTION CONTROL , CRUISE CONTROL (BLINK) , AWD AND AT OIL TEMP LIGHTS
Aug 29, 2020
ON QUITE A FEW OCCASIONS THE IGNITION HAS LOCKED UP. THE LAST TIME WAS YESTERDAY. EACH TIME IT GETS HARDER TO GET IT TO UNLOCK. *TR
May 28, 2020
THE DOOR LOCK MECHANISM LOCKS ITSELF IMMEDIATELY AFTER I UNLOCK THE DOOR. I CAN'T GET MY DRIVERS SIDE DOOR TO STAY UNLOCKED IN ORDER TO CLOSE THE DOOR. HAVING TO HOLD THE DOOR TIGHT WHILE DRIVING IS OBVIOUSLY NOT SAFE. I HAVE LOOKED ONLINE AND FOUND QUITE A FEW POSTS FROM PEOPLE WITH THE SAME ISSUE.
May 18, 2019
ALL THE LIGHTS ON THE DASH CAME ON AT ONCE . THE NON SKID, CHECK ENGINE , CRUISE LIGHTS WOULDN'T GO OFF . I TOOK IT TO THE SUBARU DEALERSHIP AND THEY MADE OUT LIKE IT WAS NOTHING . I TOOK IT 3 DIFFERENT TIMES THEY ENDED UP CHARGING ME $500 DOLLARS AND NEVER FIXED ANYTHING. IN A MONTHS TIME THEY CAME BACK ON. I'VE HAD THEM TURNED OFF SEVERAL TIMES FOR THEM TO COME BACK ON IN 2 DAYS TIME. I JUST RECENTLY PUT IT BACK IN THE GARAGE AND WAS TOLD THE SCANNER FOUND VARIOUS CODES. THEY CLEARED ALL CODES , BUT CODE P0057 KEPT COMING BACK FOR COMMUNICATION BETWEEN ANTILOCK BRAKES AND ECM. POSSIBLE CAUSE- WIRING, ABS MODULE,OR ECM.
Mar 21, 2017
OVER THE COURSE OF THE WEEKEND THE VDS AND ABS WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON INTERMITTENTLY. ON MONDAY, WENT TO START THE CAR FOR WORK AND HEARD A SLIGHT POPPING SOUND AND CAR WOULD NOT TURNOVER. SMELLED BURNING PLASTIC, BUT NO SMOKE. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION THAT EVENING DISCOVERED THE VINYL OF THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL WAS BURN THEN REMOVED THE SPARE TIRE COVER TO DISCOVER A SMALL FIRE HAD OCCURRED IN THE SPARE TIRE COMPARTMENT. IT APPEARS AS THOUGH THE WIRING HARNESS HAD CAUGHT ON FIRE THERE. THE CAR WAS WIRED FOR A TRAILER HITCH BY THE DEALER.
Feb 27, 2014
+ 3 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
8 complaints
MY CAR ISN'T EVEN FULLY PAID OFF AND OUT OF NO WHERE THE TRANSMISSION WENT! I BOUGHT A SUBARU BECAUSE THEY'RE SUPPOSED TO BE THE MOST RELIABLE BUT NOW I HAVE A CAR WITH LESS THAN 100,000 MILES ON IT THAT DOESN'T EVEN MOVE. NOT ONLY IS THE TRANSMISSION BROKE. BUT A GEAR IS MISSING.
Jul 08, 2019
TRYING TO PARK THE CAR IN DRIVEWAY REVERSING NOTICED SUDDEN ACCELERATION,IMMEDIATELY TRIEDTO BREAK AND PARK COULDNOT STOP THE CAR.IT STOPPED AFTER HITTING THE GARAGEWALL. BIG DAMAGE TO GARAGE WALL . IMPACT SHATTERED THE THE BACK WINDOW DAMAGED THE EXHAUST AND DENT THE REAR DRIVER SIDE ,BUMPER AND SIDE LIGHT. PRIOR TO THIS INCIDENT TWO INSTANCES NOTED SOME UNEXPECTED ACCELERATION.DIDNT THINK MUCH ABOUT IT. LOOKING BACK SOME ISSUE MAY BE THERE.
Jul 19, 2018
GLASS FROM SUNROOF SEPARATED, FLEW OFF AND SMASHED INTO PIECES ON A CLEAR, SUNNY 50 DEGREE DAY. IT WAS ON A SMALL ROUTE IN THE COUNTRY AND THERE WAS NO WIND. I WAS GOING 40-45 MPH. I HAD NOT OPENED THE WINDOW OF SUNROOF IN 5 YEARS I OWNED IT AS I HAVE HAD SKIN CANCERS. THIS WAS A BIG SAFETY ISSUE. FORTUNATELY THERE WERE NO CARS BEHIND ME OR WE COULD HAVE HAD A PILE UP WITH SERIOUS INJURIES AND DEATHS. I WILL ATTACH A PDF FILE WITH MY NOTES TO DATE. I BELIEVE WEBASTO SHOULD REPLACE THIS AT NO CHARGE AS IT WAS CLEARLY PUT IN AFTER MARKET AND WAS NOT INSTALLED SAFELY.
Mar 14, 2018
DRIVING ALONG FREEWAY WHEN CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, AS WELL AS, BLINKING CRUISE CONTROL LIGHT, TRACTION LIGHT, AND BLINKING BETWEEN BLUE AND RED ON TEMPERATURE GAUGE LIGHT. CAR STARTED TO ACCELERATE ODDLY AND MAKE CHIRPING NOISE. NOTICED SMOKE BILLOWING BEHIND ME AND GETTING WORSE TO THE POINT OF NOT BEING ABLE TO SEE BEHIND ME. SMOKE STARTED A LIGHT YELLOW, MOSTLY WHITE, BECAME WHITE AND GREY, AND IMPOSSIBLE TO SEE THROUGH. TURNED ON HAZARDS, PULLED ONTO SHOULDER, TURNED OFF VEHICLE. VEHICLE CONTINUED TO SMOKE. I GOT OUT OF THE VEHICLE SAW FLAMES UNDER THE HOOD AND MOVED A GOOD DISTANCE AWAY TO CALL 911.
Mar 07, 2018
TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE IS FAILING DUE TO RUST MAKING THE TRANSMISSION ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO SHIFT - SOON TO BRAKE - DEALERSHIP COULD NOT ESTIMATE HOW LONG IT HAD BEFORE IT BRAKES - NOT SURE WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF IT BROKE - STILL DRIVING - GETTING QUOTES TO FIX - DEALERSHIP SAID $480 PLUS TAX
Sep 01, 2016
+ 3 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
7 complaints
2010 SUBARU FORESTER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE BRAKE LINE CORROSION. *SMD THE CONSUMER HAD TO REPLACE THE BRAKE LINES TWICE, IN THE PAST 18 MONTHS. THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS RECALLED FOR THE EXACT PROBLEM HE EXPERIENCED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, WHERE THEY ONLY SPRAYED ANTI-RUST MATERIALS ON THE BRAKE LINES. *JB
Sep 29, 2014
2010 SUBARU FORESTER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO BRAKE LINE CORROSION RECALL AND SEEKS REIMBURSEMENT FOR REPAIRS. *SMD
Aug 14, 2014
AT 32,715 MILES REAR BRAKES FAILED. BOTH THE BRAKES PADS AND ROTOR HAD COMPLETELY ROTTED OR FALLEN APART. THE FRONT BRAKES AND ROTORS ALSO NEEDED TO BE REPLACES. AT 25,000 MILES I HAD A COMPLETE INSPECTION OF THE BRAKING SYSTEM WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE BRAKES WERE WORN DOWN TO ABOUT 50%. SO IN LESS THAN 8000 MILES THE THE REAR BRAKES HAD COMPLETELY FAILED, AND THE FRONT BRAKES WHERE ALMOST COMPLETELY GONE.
Feb 14, 2013
REAR BRAKES STARTED SCRAPING SLIGHTLY ON A SATURDAY (SO SLIGHTLY THAT THEY COULDN'T BE HEARD WITH THE WINDOWS UP). THAT FOLLOWING MONDAY WE TOOK IT TO OUR MECHANIC WHO TOLD US THAT THE REAR BRAKES PADS WERE COMPLETELY SHOT (METAL ON METAL WERE HIS EXACT WORDS). FRONT BRAKES NEEDED NEW PADS. IT'S REALISTIC TO REPLACE FRONT BRAKE PADS AT 32000 AS WE DO MOSTLY CITY DRIVING, HOWEVER REAR BRAKES SHOULD LAST TWICE AS LONG AS THE FRONT PADS. WE HAD NO WARNING THAT SUCH A SEVERE REAR BRAKE ISSUE EXISTED AND HAD WE NOT GONE TO THE MECHANIC AT THE FIRST SIGN OF ANY ISSUE, WE COULD HAVE HAD A SERIOUS PROBLEM RESULTING IN INJURY OR DEATH. WE BELIEVE THIS IS A DESIGN OR MANUFACTURING DEFECT ON SUBARU'S PART AND NEEDS TO BE LOOKED INTO MORE CLOSELY. *TR
Oct 17, 2011
DURING A ROUTINE STATE INSPECTION IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE REAR DISC BRAKE ROTORS AND PADS WERE NO LONGER ACCEPTABLE AND HAD TO BE REPLACED. THE BRAKES WERE STILL FUNCTIONAL AT THIS POINT BUT ONLY BARELY. THERE WAS NO WEAR INDICATOR SOUND THAT EVER EMANATED FROM THE BRAKES. THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHT ON THE DASH BOARD INDICATING A BRAKE PROBLEM. THERE WAS LONGER BRAKING DETECTED BUT ONLY THAT ASSOCIATED WITH NORMAL WEAR OF A VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO SIGNS OF ANY ISSUE WITH THE BRAKES. A ROUTINE RECENT INSPECTION OF THE FRONT BRAKES BY THE OWNER TO ASSESS THE VEHICLE PRIOR TO INSPECTION REVEALED NO ISSUES WITH NORMAL WEAR OF THE FRONT PADS AND ROTORS. THE REAR DISC BRAKES WERE NOT EXAMINED AT THE TIME AS THE ASSUMPTION WAS THAT BRAKE WEAR WOULD BE NOMINALLY THE SAME AS THE FRONT. THE YEARLY STATE INSPECTION REVEALED THE EXCESSIVE WEAR OF THE REAR BRAKES RELATIVE TO THE FRONT BRAKES. THIS INDICATES A VEHICLE FLAW, POSSIBLE DESIGN OR COMPONENT, AS THE VEHICLE ONLY HAD 25,000 MILES ON IT AND THE FRONT DISK PADS AND ROTORS INDICATE ONLY NORMAL WEAR. THE ROTORS WERE WORN TOO THIN TO BE USED. THERE WAS EXCESSIVE RUST ON THE BRAKE COMPONENTS. THE PADS WERE PAST ACCEPTABLE WEAR. THE REAR BRAKES/PADS/ROTORS WERE EITHER DEFECTIVE, IMPROPERLY WORKING, OR IMPROPERLY DESIGNED. THERE COULD HAVE BEEN A SERIOUS BRAKE FAILURE RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT AS A RESULT OF THE EXCESSIVE WEAR OF THE REAR DISC BRAKES. THIS SHOULD BE RED FLAGGED AS A SERIOUS ISSUE OF CONCERN. *TR
Oct 08, 2011
+ 2 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
6 complaints
TRANSMISSION OIL COOLING PIPING RUSTED THROUGH CAUSING SIGNIFICANT LOSS OF TRANSMISSION FLUID WITHIN MINUTES RESULTING IN A TOW TO THE SERVICE GARAGE. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE TO SUBARU AS THEY ISSUED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN - SB-10056871-1025 - ON SEPT. 2, 2014 (#16-92-14). FORTUNATELY, THIS HAPPENED WITHIN ABOUT 5 MINUTES OF MY HOME WHILE DRIVING <25 MPH AND I SAW THE PUDDLE IN MY DRIVEWAY AND A STREAM OF FLUID ON THE ROAD LEADING TO MY DRIVEWAY. THE RESULT WAS A LOT OF SPILLED FLUID AND NEARLY A $500 REPAIR BILL TO REPLACE THE COOLING LINES. MY CONCERN, HOWEVER, IS THAT THIS ISSUE IS NOT DETECTABLE WHILE DRIVING AND WOULD LIKELY RESULT IN NOT ONLY LOSS OF THE ENTIRE TRANSMISSION, BUT I SUSPECT COULD LEAD TO AN ACCIDENT AND POTENTIALLY LOSS OF LIFE. IF THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE TO SUBARU AND RESULTS IN A COMPLETE LOSS OF TRANSMISSION FLUID WITHIN PROBABLY MINUTES AND COULD LEAD TO NOT ONLY MASSIVE TRANSMISSION DAMAGE BUT ALSO AN ACCIDENT AND POTENTIALLY LOSS OF LIFE, WHY ISN'T THERE A RECALL FOR THIS?
Sep 22, 2018
2010 SUBARU FORRESTER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO SUBARU OF AMERICA FAILING TO PROPERLY DIAGNOSING VEHICLE ISSUES. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE TRANSMISSION LINES NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE VEHICLE STALLED AFTER REACHING 40MPH. ALL OF THE WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO REIMBURSED. *JS
Jan 22, 2018
ON NOVEMBER 2ND I STARTED MY CAR AND BEGAN PULLING OUT OF MY DRIVEWAY WHEN MY CAR STALLED OUT, AS IF I HAD STALLED A MANUAL. THE BRAKE LOCKED UP AND THE CAR WAS STILL ON BUT WOULDN'T MOVE. I TURNED THE CAR OFF AND TURNED IT BACK ON AND IT STARTED WORKING FINE SO I DROVE IT BACK TO MY HOUSE. MY DAD SAID IT PROBABLY HAPPENED BECAUSE IT WAS COLD OUT AND I DIDN'T LET MY CAR WARM UP ENOUGH. I LET IT WARM UP FOR ABOUT 30 MINUTES AND WHEN I LEFT I DIDN'T HAVE ANY ISSUES. WHEN I LEFT MY STUDIO LATER THAT DAY, MY CAR STALLED OUT AS I WAS PULLING OUT ONTO THE MAIN HIGHWAY WHICH IS MORE LIKE AN INTERSTATE. I TURNED THE CAR OFF AND TURNED IT BACK ON AND IT WORKED FINE AND I DROVE STRAIGHT HOME. I TRIED TO DRIVE MY CAR TODAY NOVEMBER 4TH, AND MY CAR ACTED LIKE THE CLUTCH WENT OUT. MY CAR WILL NOT GO FORWARD IN ANY GEAR, IT ACTS LIKE IT IS IN NEUTRAL. I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP TODAY AND THEY SAID MY WARRANTY EXPIRED 1 MONTH AND 2 DAYS AGO. MY CAR HAS JUST OVER 99,000 MILES ON IT AND THERE WERE NO PRIOR SIGNS TO ANY TRANSMISSION ISSUES. THERE ARE NO RECALLS ON MY VEHICLE FOR THIS ISSUE, HOWEVER, I FOUND AN ARTICLE ON FORBES THAT DESCRIBES THE ISSUE WITH STALLING OUT. SEVERAL VEHICLES HAVE BEEN GIVEN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY BY SUBARU BUT MY VEHICLE IS NOT ONE OF THEM.
Nov 04, 2017
TRANSMISSION LINES RUST OUT PREMATURELY, RESULTING IN MAJOR LOSS OF TRANSMISSION FLUID.
Jan 09, 2017
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, CRUISE CONTROL LIGHT AND OIL LIGHT CAME ON 10 MILES OUTSIDE OF MY DESTINATION TO BALTIMORE,MD (65 MILE FROM HOME TO DESTINATION) HAD VEHICLE TOWED TO A DEALERSHIP. I WAS INFORMED THAT MY TRANS COOLER LINE HAD RUSTED OUT AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED.($707.86). PICKED UP VEHICLE ON 9/15/2015 AND DRIVE APPROXIMATELY 10 MILES AND ISSUES REOCCURRED AND I RETURNED THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP, WHERE THEY RAN A SECOND SCAN OF THE VEHICLE AND TOLD ME THAT THE 3 AND 4TH GEAR HAD GONE OUT AND THAT I NEEDED A NEW TRANSMISSION ($7000.00) AND THAT MAY NOT FIX THE ISSUE.
Sep 17, 2015
+ 1 more complaint for this component
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
5 complaints
Fuel pump failed (connection wiring harness burned up) inside the fuel tank. If this had happened a little later, we would have been in the middle of the interstate and could have been in a horrific wreck. Or if there had been any oxygen in the fuel tank, the car would have burned up completely. The fuel pump failure was found by my mechanic, and when I called Subaru to let them know that this occurred and that I felt unsafe, they said, well parts fail, your car has lots of miles on it and is fairly old, we can't do anything for you unless a recall is issued. I was driving and pulled up to get on to a highway (55MPH) and in construction there is a stop sign. When I stopped and then tried to pull out, my 2010 Subaru Forester died immediately. No gas pressure, no nothing. All the lights flashed and then the car stopped. I was in the middle of a big intersection and had to direct cars around me, push the car off the highway interchange and have it towed home. There were no lights/warning or anything that came on before the car failed. Australia has recalled this specific thing for subarus there, but despite many other people having this same issue, Subaru of America is not offering to back up the safety of their cars -- even tho they are 'supposidely the safest on the road, in collision or driving'. I urge you all do recall this. I cannot imagine if we had been 10 yards further in our drive and this happened, both myself and my passenger would be dead.
Aug 23, 2021
WE NOTICED GAS LEAKING FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO SUBARU AND WE WERE TOLD THE GAS TANK IS ROTTING AWAY AND THERE IS A HOLE AT THE SEAM OF THE TANK. VEHICLE IS 7 YEARS OLD WITH 67,000 MILES. THE VEHICLE WAS NEVER IN AN ACCIDENT OR FLOOD DAMAGED AND WE ARE THE ORGINAL OWNER'S.
Aug 11, 2017
THE FUEL TANK DOOR JAMS AND REFUSES TO OPEN. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR ABOUT 5 MONTHS. I HAD TO ASK A GAS STATION ATTENDANT TO OPEN IT AND HE HAD TO USE A SCREWDRIVER. TOOK CAR TO DEALER ON MAY 3RD. DID NOT FIX IT. I READ ONLINE THIS HAS HAPPENED TO MANY OTHERS. I CALLED SUBARU CUSTOMER SERVICE NUMBER AND SHE SAID THAT SHE NEVER HEARD OF THIS HAPPENING.. I BELIEVE THEY SHOULD HAVE A RECALL .
May 12, 2017
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER PARKING IN THE GARAGE, HE NOTICED THAT THERE WAS A FUEL LEAK. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 124,516.
Feb 23, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE, A FUEL SMELL EMITTED. THE CONTACT MOVED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED THAT THERE WAS A PUDDLE OF FUEL ON THE GROUND. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR INSPECTION AND THEY STATED THAT A RODENT CRAWLED INTO THE VEHICLE AND ATE THE GAS LINE AND THE LINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED BUT DID NOT RESPOND. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,000.
Feb 13, 2013
VISIBILITY/WIPER
4 complaints
INTERIOR REAR VIEW MIRROR IS NOT WELL SECURED TO WINDSHIELD. IT WOBBLES AND FALLS OFF AFTER A PERIOD OF TIME. THE SCREW IS IN POTMETAL WHICH WEARS OUT AND WILL NOT SECURE THE MIRROR. THE INTERNET HAS MANY CASES OF THE SAME OCCURANCE.
Jun 08, 2018
AS I WAS DRIVING, THE DRIVER'S SUN VISOR DROPPED INTO MY FOREHEAD CREATING A SHOCKING REACTION. I ATTEMPTED TO PLACE IT BACK UP, BUT IT KEPT FALLING DOWN. I THEN LEFT IT IN A DOWN POSITION THAT YOU WOULD PLACE IT IF SUN WAS IN YOUR EYES. I WENT OVER TO THE LOCAL DEALER AND THEY SAID IT HAS BEEN HAPPENING TO QUITE A FEW OF THE FORESTER CARS. I ASKED IF IT WAS A RECALL AND HE SAID HE CHECKED AND IT WASN'T. BECAUSE THE CAR WAS OVER 3 YEARS OLD, IT WAS OUT OF WARRANTY AND IT WOULD BE A CHARGE OF AROUND $125.00 OR SO TO BE REPAIRED. I EXPLAINED THAT THE CAR HAS NOT BEEN ABUSED AND IF I PROBABLY HAD NOT USED THE VISOR MORE THAN A DOZEN TIMES. HE INDICATED MAYBE THE ORIGINAL DEALER WOULD HONOR FIXING IT BECAUSE OF SUCH LOW MILEAGE. I DID GO BACK TO THE ORIGINAL DEALER AND UNFORTUNATELY THEY WOULD NOT HONOR IT AND WOULD BE HAPPY TO REPAIR IT FOR AROUND THE SAME PRICE. HE ALSO TOLD ME TO BUY VELCRO AND IT SHOULD HOLD IT UP. I INVESTED IN MANY STRENGTHS OF VELCRO TO FIND OUT THAT IT WOULD NOT ADHERE TO THE CEILING MATERIAL OF THE CAR AND REPEATEDLY FLOPS DOWN IN THE SAME FASHION AS IT DID INITIALLY. MY COMPLAINT IS THAT THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL AS CLEARLY IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE. I CANNOT DRIVE THE CAR SAFELY IN A DOWN POSITION AS IT INTERFERES WITH VISIBILITY. I AM SO DISAPPOINTED WITH SUBARU'S REACTION TO MY PROBLEM. THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP. *TR
May 23, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS IN INCLEMENT WEATHER, THE WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID FROZE CAUSING THE DRIVER'S VISIBILITY TO BE OBSCURED. THE CONTACT HAD TO CONSTANTLY STOP TO CLEAN THE WINDSHIELD SO THAT SHE COULD SEE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED BY A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 15,000.UPDATED 4/15/13 *CN THE CONSUMER STATED THE TUBE WHICH LEAD TO THE NOZZLE WAS FROZEN, DUE TO A DESIGN FLW.
Feb 25, 2013
I WAS DRIVING BACK HOME ON US6 AT APPROXIMATELY 1PM LAST FRIDAY WHEN THE GLASS OF BACK WINDSHIELD COMPLETELY SHATTERED FOR NO REASON, IT EXPLODED MAKING A LOUD NOISE THAT FIRST SHOCKED ME THOUGHT I MANAGED TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. AFTER I CALMED DOWN I LOOKED AROUND TO SEE WHAT HAD HAPPENED AND THEN I NOTICED THAT THE GLASS IN THE BACK SHIELD WAS REDUCED TO TINY PIECES ALL OVER TO THE POINT IN WHICH THE REAR VISION WAS OBSTRUCTED. I REPORTED THE INCIDENT TO SUBARU, (SR#1-2037476585), AND THEY TOLD ME TO TAKE IT TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. I REQUESTED AN APPOINTMENT WITH GROOVE SUBARU IN LITTLETON AND TOOK THE VEHICLE IN TODAY AT 7AM ONLY TO BE TOLD THAT THEY ARE NOT EXPERTS IN FORENSICS AND COULD NOT DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE INCIDENT, BUT THAT COULD HAVE BEEN A ROCK (WE ARE FAMILIAR WITH ROCKS HITTING CARS HERE INN CO, SO I DO NOT THINK IT WAS THE REASON FOR THE INCIDENT) AND TO CALL ABRA TO HAVE THE GLASS REPLACED. *TR
Jul 16, 2012
VISIBILITY
4 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS FAILED TO ACTIVATE. THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 68,000.
Dec 02, 2014
I AM WRITING TO FILE A COMPLAINT REGARDING MY 2010 SUBARU FORESTER WHICH WAS PURCHASED IN APRIL, 2010. I HAVE DRIVEN THE VEHICLE MYSELF FOR ONLY 5,371 MILES AND ONLY IN THE CITY. ABOUT A WEEK AGO, I NOTED A SMALL, SMOOTH-SURFACED CRACK ABOUT 2 INCHES LONG THAT ORIGINATED AT THE TOP EDGE OF THE FRONT WINDSHIELD. THE APPEARANCE OF THE CRACK WAS NOT ASSOCIATED WITH ANY IMPACT. IN LESS THAN 48 HOURS, THE SMALL CRACK ELONGATED TO MORE THAN 8 INCHES. I BROUGH THE VEHICLE TO THE LOCAL SUBARU SERVICE DEPARTMENT ON FEBRUARY 8 FOR INSPECTION. THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT REPRESENTATIVE INFORMED ME THAT THE CRACK WAS NOT A "STRESS FRACTURE" BUT DUE TO AN IMPACT. HE STATED THAT THE CRACK WAS NOT COVERED BY EITHER MY SUBARU WARRANTY NOR MY EXTENDED SERVICE WARRANTY BECAUSE IT WAS NOT A "STRESS FRACTURE". HOWEVER, IN MY JUDGEMENT, THIS CRACK ORIGINATED AS A SMOOTH-SURFACED CRACK AKIN TO A DESCRIPTION OF A "STRESS FRACTURE". I ALSO NOTE THAT A NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS HAVE PREVIOUSLY BEEN REPORTED BY CONSUMERS ABOUT THE HIGH INCIDENCE OF WINDSHIELD STRESS CRACKS IN SUBARU VEHICLES, INCLUDING THE FORESTER. REPLACEMENT OF MY WINDSHIELD ON MY RELATIVELY NEW VEHICLE WILL COST ABOUT $820 FOR PARTS AND INSTALLATION. I BOUGHT A SUBARU FOR THE FIRST TIME WITH THE EXPECTATION THAT I WOULD RECEIVE A QUALITY PRODUCT WITH EXCELLENT DURABILITY. THIS EXPERIENCE LEADS ME TO BELIEVE OTHERWISE. *TR
Feb 08, 2011
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED, THE CONTACT TURNED ON THE HEATER/AIR CONDITIONER/FAN SHE SMELLED A TOXIC, NAUSEATING ODOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHO STATED THAT IT WAS A NEW VEHICLE ODOR. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER WHO STATED THAT THE ODOR WAS PROBABLY MORE NOTICEABLE IN COLD WEATHER. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 4,834.
Jan 04, 2011
I BOUGHT A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER IN SEPT. OF 2009. AFTER PURCHASE I NOTICED THAT THE LEFT OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR HAD A DISTORTION IN THE GLASS WHICH MADE IT DIFFICULT IN PASSING AND BACKING UP. THE BEST WAY I CAN DESCRIBE IT IS LIKE LOOKING INTO A "FUN HOUSE MIRROR" AT AN AMUSEMENT PARK. I TOOK MY FORESTER BACK TO THE DEALER AND THE SERVICE MANAGER SAID THAT HE NOTICED THE DEFECT ALSO AND HE HAD ME COME IN TO HAVE THE MIRROR REPLACED. AFTER THE REPLACEMENT THE DEFECT IS STILL THERE, AND THE SERVICE MANAGER TOLD ME THAT THIS IS A PROBLEM THAT SUBARU IS HAVING WITH THEIR MIRRORS AND THERE IS NO FIX FOR IT AT THIS TIME. I CONTACTED SUBARU CUSTOMER SERVICE WEB SITE AND AFTER SOME CONVERSATIONS BACK AND FORTH I'VE BEEN TOLD IT'S MY PROBLEM NOW THAT THERE IS NO FIX FOR THE PROBLEM, AND THAT THERE IS NO PROBLEM WITH THE MIRROR. IF THERE IS NO PROBLEM THEN WHY DID THEY REPLACE IT TO TRY TO FIX THE PROBLEM? IN MY OPINION IT IS A SERIOUS DEFECT BECAUSE IT IS VERY DIFFICULT AND UNSAFE WHEN TRYING TO PASS ANOTHER VEHICLE ON THE HIGHWAY OR WHEN TRYING TO BACKUP USING A MIRROR THAT YOU CAN'T SEE A GOOD VIEW TO THE REAR. AFTER A FEW EMAILS BACK AND FORTH ABOUT THIS PROBLEM WITH SUBARU CUSTOMER SERVICE AND REQUESTING THEM TO LOOK AT THIS FORUM SINCE THEY SAID THERE IS NO PROBLEM, THEY BECAME RUDE AND NOW, ME AND ALOT OF OTHER SUBARU OWNERS ARE STUCK WITH A DEFECTIVE AND UNSAFE MIRROR. I WILL GIVE YOU A WEB SITE FORUM WITH OTHER SUBARU OWNERS WITH THE SAME COMPLAINT.: WWW.SUBARUFORESTER.ORG/VBULLETIN/F88/2010-LIGHT-ASSEMBLY-CONDENSATIONN-MIRROR-67147/ THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME. *TR
Apr 25, 2010
SEAT BELTS
4 complaints
REAR SEAT BELT FRAYING- THIS WAS A RECALL -HAD SUBARU CHECK BELT SAID DOG WAS CHEWING ON BELT. NO TEETH MARKS NOW FRONT SEAT BELT FRAYING- MY DOG DOES NOT DRIVE. CALLED SUBARU X2 WITH SAME COMPLAINT SPOKE WITH [XXX] 7/3 AND [XXX] 7/31. [XXX] SAID DEFECT LISTED AS DOG CHEWING ON A RECALL AND IT IS NOT REPAIRED AS YET I AM STILL WAITING FOR THEM TO CALL BACK. THE TECH WHO EXAMINED THE BELT JUST LOOKED AT IT. I SAID IT IS FRAYING FROM THE CLIP THAT SECURES BELT. CAR AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION OR I CAN SEND PICTURES INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Aug 03, 2014
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 12V099000 SUBARU'S RECALL CAMPAIGN NUMBER IS WQA-37. I HAD THIS RECALL DONE AND WANT TO INFORM YOU ABOUT THIS NEW SAFETY ISSUE. SUBARU HAS THIS RECALL ON REAR SEAT BELTS BUCKLES. PER THE SUBARU MECHANIC, THEY ARE EXCHANGING TWO BUCKLES AND TWISTING THE NEW ONES TOGETHER DURING THE INSTALLATION. THE NEW INSTALLED BUCKLES ARE SHORTER! IN ADDITION, THEY ARE TWISTING THEM TOGETHER WHICH IS UNSAFE AND MAKES THEM EVEN SHORTER! THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE! NEW BUCKLES BEING SHORTER DO NOT COME OUT OF THE SEAT MAKING IT EXTREMELY HARD IF NOT IMPOSSIBLE TO BUCKLE ANY ONE OR ALL THREE REAL BELTS WHEN A PERSON SITS IN THERE LET ALONE WHEN YOU HAVE A CHILD SEAT IN PLACE. BECAUSE THE BUCKLES ARE SO SHORT AND EXTREMELY HARD TO REACH AND WORK WITH, MANY TIMES UNKNOWINGLY YOU DON?T LOCK THE SEAT BELT IN THE BUCKLE BECAUSE IT STAYS IN, WHICH CREATES FALSE FEELING OF SECURITY AND A SAFETY ISSUE. SUBARU MECHANIC TOLD ME THEY HAVE RECEIVED MULTIPLE COMPLAINS FROM FORESTER OWNERS ABOUT THIS ISSUE. 2010 SUBARU FORESTER, X (BASE) MODEL. *JS
Jun 08, 2012
SUBARU WAS SLOWING TO A STOP BEHIND A CHEVROLET SUBURBAN WHEN IT WAS STRUCK FROM BEHIND BY A MERCEDES SUV. THE MERCEDES WAS TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 30 - 35 MPH. THE SUBARU WAS DRIVEN INTO THE REAR OF THE SUBURBAN CAUSING THE SUBARU'S AIRBAG TO DEPLOY. THE IMPACT SITE OF THE AIRBAG WAS IN THE CHEST AREA AND NOT THE FACE. UPON ARRIVAL, THE MEDICS AND FIREMEN NOTED THAT THE SEAT BELT WAS TOTALLY DEPLOYED AND WERE UNABLE TO RETRACT IT INTO THE PILLAR. BRUISING WAS NOTED ACROSS THE SUBARU DRIVER'S CHEST AND UPPER THIGH AREA WHICH WAS ASSOCIATED WITH THE PATTERN OF A SEAT BELT. I SUSTAINED A MODERATE CONCUSSION AND MODERATE TO SEVERE NECK STRAIN. *TR
Dec 06, 2011
THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT BELT STORAGE SPOOL WILL NOT RELEASE. THE SHOULDER PART OF THE BELT WAS ACROSS THE FRONT SIDE OF THE BACK REST AND THE LAP PART OF THE BELT WAS FLIPPED TO THE BACK SIDE OF THE BACK REST AND THEN BUCKLED TO KEEP THE WARNING LIGHT FROM FLASHING WHILE MY DOG WAS RIDING IN THE SEAT. THE BELT WAS LEFT IN THIS POSITION AFTER THE DOG VACATED THE SEAT. LATER, MY FATHER SAT IN THE SEAT , UNBUCKLED IT, AND SLIPPED UNDER THE SHOULDER PART OF THE BELT ONLY AS THE LAP PART WAS STILL AROUND THE BACK OF THE SEAT. HE THEN BUCKLED IT. AFTER A SHORT DRIVE HE RELEASED THE BUCKLE TO GET OUT OF THE CAR. THE RATCHETING SPOOL FOR THE SEAT BELT WOULD NOT RELEASE ANY STORED BELT. HE TRIED MOVING THE SEAT FORWARD AND BACK.ALSO TRIED MOVING THE BACK REST UP AND DOWN. THE BELT ONLY TIGHTENED. EVENTUALLY HE GOT OUT FROM UNDER THE BELT . I THEN TRIED TO GET THE STORAGE SPOOL TO RELEASE. STILL IT ONLY WOULD TIGHTEN.. I TOOK IT TO SUBARU SANTA MONICA WHERE THEY INFORMED ME IT WAS NOT COVERED BY THE LIFETIME WARRANTY BUT THAT I COULD PROBABLY FIX IT MYSELF BY REMOVING A COUPLE OF BOLTS. THE BELT IS CURRENTLY STUCK VERY TIGHTLY AROUND THE SEAT REST. *TR
Nov 18, 2009
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
4 complaints
ENGINE OIL WAS BELOW DIP STICK AFTER 5500 MILES ODOMETER AT 23566. SUBARU DID AN OIL CONSUMPTION TEST, USES 1/2 PINT PER 1000 MILES ON CLEAN OIL. SUBARU MECHANIC SAID THAT 1 QT PER 1000 MILES ON ENGINE IS NORMAL. OIL CHANGE RECOMMENDATION IS 7500 MILES. ENGINE HAS LESS THAN 29000 MILES AND IS IN DANGER OF SEIZING UP IF OIL IS NOT KEPT UP. SUBARU IS AWARE OF PROBLEM IN ENGINE, BUT REFUSES TO FIX THE OIL CONSUMPTION PROBLEM. *TR
Nov 05, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, SHE NOTICED THAT THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE WAS DISPLAYING A HIGH READING AND THE TEMPERATURE LIGHT BEGAN TO ILLUMINATE ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT COULD ALSO SMELL A BURNING ODOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER, WHERE THE TECHNICIANS STATED THAT A BOLT CAME LOOSE IN THE ENGINE WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING MANUFACTURED. AS A RESULT, THE ENGINE OVERHEATED. ALSO, THERE WAS AN ENGINE COOLANT LEAK. THE TECHNICIANS REPLACED THE ENGINE SHORT BLOCK. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,412. UPDATED 09/08/11*LJ THE DEALER REPLACED THE SHORT BLOCK. UPDATED 01/20/12
Jul 21, 2011
A/C COMPRESSOR HAS FAILED ON 2010 FORESTER. BOUGHT IN JULY 2009 AND HAS 43000 MILES. *TR
Jul 09, 2011
I HAVE A NEW 2020 SUBARU FORESTER THAT IS ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO START----I HAVE HAD IT TO THE DEALER 2 TIMES AND THEY TELL ME THIS IS THE WAY IT IS SUPPOSED TO START DUE TO THE NEW EMISSIONS ON THE CAR--I HAD A FORESTER BEFORE AND NEVER HAD A PROBLEM--BUYER BEWARE--I CALLED THE HEAD OFFICE AND THEY PROMISED TO RETURN MY CALL--AS USUAL NO ONE CALLED--I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP AND LEFT 4 MESSAGES AND NO ONE CALLED. *TR
Jul 14, 2009
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
3 complaints
WHILE DRIVING, "CHECK ENGINE" LIGHT, CRUISE LIGHT & TRACTION LIGHT BEGAN FLASHING. DEALER SAID CATALYTIC CONVERTER HAD TO BE REPLACED. REPAIR DONE & DEALER SAID, "IF IT DOESN'T 'TAKE,' WE'LL KNOW SOON." THREE WEEKS LATER, SAME THING HAPPENED. THIS REPAIR IS ON TOP OF A MAJOR GASKET REPLACEMENT DONE JUST A FEW MONTHS EARLIER BECAUSE THE GASKETS WERE LEAKING. CAR HAS ABOUT 115,000 MILES & HAS BEEN SERVICED REGULARLY.
May 09, 2019
ON ROUTINE OIL VISIT CHANGE, DEALERSHIP INFORMED ME THE HEAD GASKETS WERE LEAKING SLIGHTLY BUT DIDN'T NEED IMMEDIATE REPAIR. I HAD NOTICED NO SYMPTOMS. ON NEXT VISIT FOR AN UNRELATED PROBLEM, WAS TOLD THEY NEEDED IMMEDIATE REPAIR AT A COST OF MORE THAN $2,000. A QUICK ONLINE SEARCH CONFIRMED THAT THIS IS A COMMON COMPLAINT AMONG FORESTER OWNERS. I LET THE DEALER MAKE THE REPAIR BUT COMPLAINED TO SUBARU CORPORATE, WHICH WROTE OFF SOME OF THE COST BUT STILL COST ME HUNDREDS TO FIX.
Apr 15, 2019
WHEN DRIVING THE CAR STARTS TO JERK AND HESITATE ALOT WHEN ACCELERATING HAPPENS QUITE FREQUENTLY WHICH CAUSES THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT TO COME ON SO THEN YOU TAKE IT GET IT PLUGGED IN ON LITTLE MACHINE TELLS YOU SOMETHING SO YOU FIX THAT ISSUE THINKING IT'S ALL BETTER BUT NOPE STILL CONTINUES TO HAPPEN MIGHT BE GOOD FOR A FEW WEEKS TO A MONTH BUT ALWAYS CONTINUES TO HAPPEN AND MAKES IT IMPOSSIBLE TO GO UP HILLS OR ANYTHING BECAUSE THERE IS BARELY ANY ACCELERATION.
Nov 16, 2018
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaints
NHTSA RECALL NO 14V-830 (BRAKE LINES) AND RECALL TKC19 (PASSENGER AIR BAGS) DAVE WRIGHT SUBARU WILL NOT RETURN CALLS FOR ME TO SCHEDULE REPAIRS FOR THE BRAKE LINE RECALL
Mar 28, 2019
TAMARA RECALL: I RECENTLY CALLED A NEARBY DEALERSHIP IN ATLANTA GA ABOUT RECEIVING A NOTICE ABOUT THE AIRBAG RECALL. I GAVE THEM MY VIN BUT THEY SAID THAT MY PARTICULAR CAR DOES NOT HAVE AN ACTIVE RECALL FOR THE AIRBAG. HOWEVER, WHEN I CHECK ONLINE AT AIRBAGRECALL.COM, I HAVE THE RECALL LISTED. THE DEALERSHIP SAID INSTEAD, I HAVE A BRAKE LINE CORROSION UP FOR RECALL. I WANTED TO MAKE SURE THIS IS TRUE.
Nov 01, 2017
STRUCTURE,SEATS
2 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S SEAT COLLAPSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT CALLED AN UNKNOWN DEALER, BUT NO REPAIR APPOINTMENT WAS SCHEDULED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 35,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Dec 04, 2017
THE DRIVERS SEAT CAUSES PAIN IN MY BACK, HIP, ANKLE AND FOOT ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS MY RIGHT LEG HAS GONE NUMB OR CRAMPED UP AND I HAVE TO PULL OVER SO THAT I CAN WALK OFF THE CRAMPS AND NUMBNESS. MY HUSBAND AVOIDS DRIVING THE SUBARU BECAUSE OF THE PAIN HE EXPERIENCES. EVEN FOLKS IN THEIR 20'S THAT HAVE DRIVEN MY SUBARU EXPERIENCE PAIN IN SOME PART OF THEIR LOWER BODY. *TR
Oct 13, 2012
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
2 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING WITH THE HEADLIGHTS ACTIVATED, THE LIGHTS WOULD NOT PROJECT BRIGHT ENOUGH TO THE SEE THE ROAD AHEAD. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE HEAD LAMPS WERE REALIGNED AND THE LIGHT BULBS WERE CHANGED, BUT THE FAILURE CONTINUED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50.
Jan 30, 2017
I HAVE A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER AND THE REAR TAIL LIGHTS FOG UP CONSTANTLY. I HAVE ONLY HAD THE VEHICLE 3 WEEKS AND LESS THAN ONE HUNDRED MILES. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN BACK TWICE SINCE I PURCHASED IT, ONLY BECAUSE OF WORK OTHERWISE IT WOULD HAVE BEEN BACK EVERY DAY. ON THE LAST VISIT THE SERVICE MANAGER SAID THERE WAS A SERVICE BULLETIN ISSUED ON 12/17/2007 DUE TO A DESIGN CHANGE THE HEAD LENS AND TAIL LENS FOG UP AND WILL NOT BE COVERED UNDER WARRANTY ,AND WON'T BE FIXED. THE BULLETIN DOES NOT MENTION YEAR 2010. *TR
Dec 14, 2009
WHEELS
2 complaints
WHEN SWITCHING TO WINTER TIRES AND WHEELS, COST IS EXCESSIVE TO BUY NEW TPMS SENSORS AND HAVE THEM REPROGRAMMED TWICE A YEAR. DEALERS WILL NOT DO THE SWITCH BECAUSE IT WOULD BE DISABLING A SAFETY SYSTEM. ALTHOUGH THE ORIGINAL FEDERAL REQUIREMENT WAS INTENDED TO INCREASE SAFETY, IT ACTUALLY MAY DECREASE SAFETY FOR THOSE IN SNOW AREAS DUE TO DISCOURAGEMENT OF USE OF PROPER WINTER TIRES. I HAVE RESEARCHED THE ORIGINAL RULEMAKING. IT APPEARS THAT THE COSTS WERE LOWBALLED (MUCH LESS THAN ACTUAL), AND THE WINTER TIRE ISSUE WAS NOT ANALYZED AT ALL. THE NHTSA SHOULD PROVIDE SOME RELIEF.
Sep 11, 2016
THE ORIGINAL FACTORY ALUMINUM WHEELS ARE EXHIBITING PRONOUNCED CORROSION AND PITTING STEMMING AT THE CENTER OF THE WHEEL AND MOVING RADIALLY OUTWARD. ALL FOUR WHEELS SHOW CORROSION. CORROSION IN UNSEEN PORTIONS OF THE WHEEL IS UNKNOWN. THE CONCERN IS THE CORROSION IS AFFECTING THE STRUCTURAL PORTIONS OF THE WHEEL. *TR
Nov 07, 2014
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
2 complaints
WHILE IN MY DRIVEWAY, I STARTED THE ENGINE, STEPPED ON THE BRAKE, PUT THE VEHICLE IN DRIVE AND IT ACCELERATED. I SWERVED TO MISS A TRAILER PARKED IN FRONT OF ME, PUSHED HARDER ON THE BRAKE, THE VEHICLE STOPPED, THE ENGINE RACED FOR A FEW SECONDS AND THEN IDLED NORMALLY. I GOT OUT, LOOKED AT THE FLOOR MAT AND IT WASN'T TOUCHING THE ACCELERATOR. IT HASN'T HAPPENED SINCE, BUT THE CAR DOESN'T GET DRIVEN MUCH. *TR
Jul 09, 2014
SUDDEN ACCELERATION INCIDENT. PARKED AT THE COUNTY RECYCLING CENTER, WHEN PLACED INTO DRIVE (FULL BRAKE PRESSURE REQUIRED TO SHIFT OUT OF PARK), THE ENGINE ACCELERATED TO MAXIMUM POWER CAUSING THE CAR TO DRIVE AWAY UNCONTROLLABLY AND OVERRIDING THE PREVIOUSLY APPLIED BRAKE. IMMEDIATELY SHIFTING TO NEUTRAL, THE CAR WAS BROUGHT UNDER CONTROL AND THEN FUNCTIONED NORMALLY. DRIVER AND PASSENGER WERE WITNESSES AND UNHARMED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR INSPECTION. NO CAUSE WAS FOUND. *TR
Dec 10, 2013
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
2 complaints
FUEL TANK DESIGN OF SUBARU FORESTER ALLOWS RODENTS TO CONSTRUCT NESTS ATOP THE TANK AND CHEW THROUGH PLASTIC FUEL LINES. LEAKING FUEL MAY PRODUCE EXPLOSIVE VAPOR ATMOSPHERES IN CLOSED GARAGES, WHICH COULD IGNITE. *TR
Jun 24, 2011
WHEN I START MY 2010 SUBARU FORESTER 2.5L NON-TURBO IN THE MORNING, THERE IS A DISTINCT SMELL OF GAS. IT ONLY HAPPENS AFTER THE CAR HAS BEEN SITTING OVERNIGHT. I CALLED THE DEALER TO ASK ABOUT THIS AND HE SAID THAT THERE HAD BEEN SEVERAL PEOPLE ASKING ABOUT IT. HE SAID THAT IT WAS DUE TO THE COLD WEATHER WHICH AFFECTED THE METAL FUEL LINE TO ALLOW A SMALL AMOUNT OF VAPOR TO BE RELEASED, AND I SHOULDN'T WORRY ABOUT IT UNLESS IT GETS WORSE THE MORE I THOUGHT ABOUT IT, THE MORE I REALIZED THAT I HAD NEVER EXPERIENCED THAT IN ANY OTHER CAR I HAD OWNED, EXCEPT WHEN THERE WAS SOME LEAK IN THE FUEL SYSTEM. HAVE YOU HAD ANY SIMILAR COMPLAINTS FROM SUBARU OWNERS? IF SO, WHAT WAS THE SOLUTION RECOMMENDED TO THEM? *CN
Feb 06, 2010
STRUCTURE
2 complaints
WHEN WASHING MY CAR ONE DAY, I NOTICED A PAINT IMPERFECTION ON THE HOOD MY 2010 SUBARU FORESTER XT. WHEN I TOOK TO DEALERSHIP, THEY SAID IT WAS DUE TO BIRD DROPPINGS. THEY TOOK PICTURES (WITH A CELL PHONE CAMERA) AND SUBMITTED TO SUBARU AS PART OF A WARRANTY CLAIM. I HAVE SINCE NOTICED PAINT IMPERFECTIONS (LOOKS LIKE BLADES OF GRASS UNDERNEATH PAINT, BUBBLING UP) ON EVERY SINGLE PANEL OF THE CAR, FRONT TO BACK. FOR INSURANCE PURPOSES, I TOOK THE CAR TO 3 SEPARATE AUTO BODY SHOPS, WHO ALL CLAIM THE ISSUE IS A PAINT DEFECT AND SUBARU'S RESPONSIBILITY. SUBARU RECENTLY DENIED MY WARRANTY CLAIM. *TR
Mar 16, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORRESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT BIRD DROPPINGS WERE EATING A HOLE IN THE CLEAR COATING PAINT ON THE TOP AND HOOD OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT THEY WOULD PERFORM A ONE TIME COURTESY SPRAY AND RE-COAT THE TOP AND HOOD OF THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CALLED AND STATED THAT BIRD DROPPINGS WERE NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY AND OFFERED NO FURTHER OTHER ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 10,600.
Nov 08, 2010
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
In brief: I purchased a used 2010 Subaru Forester in Nov. 2022. Because the vehicle gave me many problems, I decided to purchase another vehicle. In June 2025 I went to Fred Beans in Mechanicsburg, PA. They ran a Car Fax on my 2010 Subaru & found, among other things, the odometer of my 2010 Subaru had potentially been rolled back (mileage going from approx. 171,000 to 91,000) prior to my purchase. I filed a report July 03, 2025 with the PSP in Carlisle, PA: Trooper Stevens, badge 12980, Case [XXX]. I am filing this complaint with NHTSA as part of the initial report. Please refer to the PSP Case [XXX] for more details & information regarding the ongoing investigation (which includes NJ). The exact date of the rollback/tampering is unknown to me. Documented Titles or Certificate of Ownership Previously Issued To: [XXX] [XXX] DND Group Sales (NJ) Harrisburg Auction (?) Alpine Auto Sales INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Jul 14, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
On 5/24/2023 while driving with a front passenger, the passenger seat belt warning light, chime and airbag warning came on for no reason. Stopped the car at a red traffic light and turned ignition off and then on to hopefully clear the warning. There was no power to any system. The ignition switch did not work and I could not get the transmission out of park to push the car off the road. Could not activated anything on the dash including the hazard warning. Being in a single lane road, traffic was traveling around us on both sides. We could have been rear ended. I opened the driver's door and all power to the dash came back. It took 4 attempts to start before the engine started. All settings and radio had to be reprogrammed. Stopped at the dealer and they ask if this was the first occurence. (It was) They said if it happened again to bring the car in. The car has been normal since.
May 25, 2023
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
The Subaru Bracket for the Sun Visor and the Rod on the Sun visor itself are made very poorly and will break very often, I had to replace my driver side once a year because I went to use it when the sun was glaring in my face on the highway and it just fell off onto my hands and other time in my face. This event of having something unexpected distract my focus and trigger a startled response while driving at a time the requires focus, attention, and awareness is altered in a way my and other lives are serioulsy at risk. II have almost been I near serious accidents each time this happens; I have gotten really lucky and that's only because im always on guard bc of my anxiety, cant say anyone else would be as lucky as me. The issue is the brace uses cheap plastic and also instead of making the piece that is known to break thicker they made it as thin as possible to save money most likely. the bracket should be completely metal in my professional option considering how much force the sun visor rod that plugged into it requires. No ones life should be a risk like this, nor should any customer have to pay $100 for a new retail cost of one that is unjust for a company to make a customer pay for a defective flawed part of there vehicle that should have been recalled long ago and never was. the first one was replaced under warranty when the Subaru dealer I went to was part of Nissan, then I bought one from the new store a year later, and then from the Rafferty store, and again this week from the new Concordville part store. (I dont have my invoice from the current part I just ordered) There is more then one day of incident, one in 2017, one in 2018, 2019, 2020, and again this year 12/10/2021. cant find other invoiced. The date of incident for the previous would be same day or next day for invoice dates for new visor. Video of Flaw parts: (with audio) https://www.dropbox.com/s/yxgi9qge3q487q6/Live%20Demo%20of%20flaw.mp4?dl=0
Dec 11, 2021
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2010 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that as she attempted to park her vehicle, the vehicle independently accelerated forward at a high rate of speed without warning. The contact stated that the vehicle stopped on its own before hitting another vehicle. The contact was able to drive the vehicle home but had not driven the vehicle since the failure. The contact called the manufacturer and they informed her to tow the vehicle to a dealer for an inspection. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it remained in their possession and was not yet diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 73,000.
Nov 01, 2021
WHEELS,ENGINE
1 complaint
I purchased this 2010 Subaru Forester from a private party in 2/2021. It had about 98500 miles, ran smoothly, had service records and was up to date in maintenance. It stalled out in traffic due to low fuel and oil issues. There was oil showing on the dipstick but also oil leaking under the engine when checked at a Subaru service dept. I now found that oil leaks and problems are common according to articles on line. It will cost thousands to either replace the seals or the engine!! For a vehicle of this caliber I expected years of services not immediate oil issues. This is a potential seizing of the engine issue. It consumes too much oil due to the leaks. Is there any pending lawsuits I can join to cover these repairs? Secondly the low tire light is on at all times. Air pressure has been triple checked to no avail.
Jul 13, 2021
SEATS,ENGINE
1 complaint
BOTH HEAD GASKETS ARE LEAKING. 110,000 MILES DRIVER ELECTRIC SEAT NO LONGER GOES UP/DOWN IN HEIGHT
Mar 12, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
AT HIGHWAY SPEED ABOVE 60 MPH SUDDENLY SEVERAL DASH WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATE. TRACTION CONTROL, CRUISE, TRANSMISSION OVERHEAT, CHECK ENGINE ALL BECAME ILLUMINATED. NO AFFECTS TO THE OPERATION OF THE VEHICLE. DISCONNECT THE BATTERY OVERNIGHT RESOLVES THE PROBLEM FOR A DAY OR TWO. SITUATION REPEATS ON DRY OR WET ROADWAYS FOR NO APPARENT REASON. ONLINE GOOGLE-YAHOO CHAT ROOMS HAS HUNDREDS OF SIMILAR ISSUES DISCUSSED WITH NO FIXES FROM DEALER OR CORPORATE SUBARU. ITS A BIT UNNERVING WHEN AT HIGHWAY SPEED ALL OR MOST OF THE WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATE. ANY ASSISTANCE IS MOST APPRECIATED.
Mar 04, 2020
STRUCTURE,WHEELS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
ON AUGUST 2019 I PURCHASED A VEHICLE FROM AN AUTO DEALERSHIP CALLED MOTOR CAR CONCEPT IN COLONIAL DRIVE IN ORLANDO, FL. THEY SCAM ME INTO BUYING A VEHICLE THAT THEY KNEW WAS NOT GOING TO BE RUNNING OR IN GOOD CONDITIONS WITHIN 6 MONTHS. I TRIED TO HAVE THEM FIX THE CAR WITHIN A DAY OF BUYING THE VEHICLE AS THE CHECK ENGINE TURNED ON. THEY WILL GIVE ME DAYS TO COME IN AND THEN I WILL SHOW UP AND NOTHING WILL BE DONE, TURNING ME DOWN AS THEY WHERE "TO BUSY". ON NOVEMBER I WAS PUT INTO A POSITION OF VOLUNTARY DOING A REPOSSESSION AS I WAS PAYING INSURANCE AND A CAR LOAN FOR A VEHICLE THAT COULD NOT BE USED. THE WHOLE PART OF THE THE BOTTOM OF THE CAR IS MOLDY AND RUSTY AND IT NEEDS TO BE FULLY REPLACED. I WENT TO GET AN ESTIMATE FOR REPAIRS AND THE TOTAL WAS OVER $7,000. THE CAR WAS SOLD TO ME FOR $13,000. IS A COMPLETE SCAM. BELOW PLEASE FIND THE PICTURES OF THE DAMAGES OF THE VEHICLE. VIN # FOR THIS CAR IS (XXXXX) REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Nov 17, 2019
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. AFTER REVERSING FROM THE DRIVEWAY, THE CONTACT PLACED THE VEHICLE IN DRIVE TO TRAVEL DOWN A HILL AT 5-10 MPH. WHEN THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO TURN LEFT, THE STEERING WHEEL FELT STIFF AND VEERED TO THE RIGHT. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE CRASH INTO A CURB AND TURNED COUNTER-CLOCKWISE. THE VEHICLE THEN ROLLED BACKWARDS AT A STEEP INCLINE. THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD. THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL NUMEROUS TIMES, BUT THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ROLL AWAY. THE VEHICLE CAME TO A STOP AFTER THE REAR END CRASHED INTO A TREE. POLICE REPORT NUMBER: 31-19-031911 WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE NECK AND BACK, A BRUISED ARM, AND A FRACTURED NOSE. THE CONTACT WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL VIA AMBULANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AWAY BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY AND DEEMED TOTALED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND A CASE WAS OPENED; HOWEVER, THEY WOULD NOT MOVE FORWARD UNTIL A POLICE REPORT WAS PROVIDED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 59,000.
Sep 19, 2019
STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
I JUST WANT TO KNOW IF ANYTHING NEEDS TO BE TAKEN CARE OF ON MY SUBARU??? TURNING HAS BEEN HARD AND I DON'T KNOW IF IT'S A RECALL OR NOT. I JUST HAD ALL MY STRUTS REPLACE, AND I HEARD THAT SUSPENSION WAS RECALLED????
Nov 20, 2018
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
WHILE BACKING SLOWLY INTO A PARKING SPACE (2-3 MPH) IN MY APARTMENT PARKING LOT. CAR ACCELERATED RAPIDLY OUT OF CONTROL. BRAKES FAILED. CAR ACCELERATED FTOM 3MP TO 20-35 MPH JUMPED A CURB AND HIT CAR PARKED IN STREET (IMPACT SO HIGH THAT THE CAR ENDED UP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE STREET). IMPACT WAS THE ONLY THING THAT STOPPED THE CAR.
Apr 27, 2018
SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
I HAD PULLED INTO MY COMPANY PARKING LOT AND WAS BACKING INTO MY PARKING SPACE. I PULLED FORWARD, APPLIED THE BRAKE TO SHIFT INTO REVERSE. AS SOON AS I TOOK MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE CAR ZOOMED BACKWARD. I JUMPED A CURB, WENT THROUGH VERY THICK BUSHES AND LANDED ON TOP OF A SMALL AUDI PARKED IN THE LOT BEHIND OURS. I HAD TO TURN OFF THE CAR TO STOP THE ENGINE. I WAS TOO IN SHOCK TO TAKE PHOTOS BUT OTHERS DID AND I CAN ADD LATER, WITH THE POLICE REPORT WHEN IT'S COMPLETED, IF THAT'S POSSIBLE. I HAVE NO IDEA HOW FAST THE CAR WAS GOING. MUCH TOO FAST TO BE BACKING INTO A PARKING SPACE. AUTO BODY SHOP ACROSS THE STREET HELPED TO DISENGAGE THE CARS. NO TOWING NEC.
Nov 18, 2017
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE
1 complaint
DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS (TRACTION CONTROL, CRUISE CONTROL AND ENGINE LIGHT) ARE LIT BECAUSE OF A PROBLEM WITH THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. IT IS VERY COSTLY TO FIX THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. BECAUSE WE CANNOT AFFORD TO FIX THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER, WE ARE LEFT WITH NO TRACTION CONTROL OR CRUISE CONTROL. ALSO, IF SOMETHING HORRIBLE HAPPENS TO THE CAR, WE WILL NOT BE WARNED ABOUT IT SINCE THE ENGINE LIGHT IS ON FOR THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. I AM NOT ALONE. SO MANY PEOPLE HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM - JUST LOOK AT THE HUNDREDS AND HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE ON THE ONLINE SUBARU FORUM. THIS IS TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE. WHEN SO MANY PEOPLE ARE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM THROUGH NO FAULT OF THEIR OWN, THEN IT IS THE MANUFACTURER'S RESPONSIBILITY TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM. I AM REQUESTING FOR THIS PROBLEM TO BE ADDRESSED IN A RECALL OF THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER FOR THE 2010 SUBARU FORESTER.
Nov 01, 2017
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
HELLO- I AM EXPERIENCING CONTINUED ISSUES AFTER RECALL: 16V-738. I BEGAN ATTEMPTING TO RESOLVE THIS ISSUE IN SEPTEMBER OF 2016. THE ISSUE IMPACTS THE SECONDARY AIR SYSTEM AND MY VEHICLE WOULD NOT PASS CA SMOG. I HAVE TO HAVE A PASSING SMOG TO RENEW MY CA REGISTRATION. I FAILED SMOG AND SENT THE VEHICLE TO MY MECHANIC. MY MECHANIC PERFORMED DIAGNOSIS AND DETERMINED STORED P2441 AND P2443 CODES (SECONDARY AIR VALVES OPEN). AROUND THE SAME TIME, OCTOBER 2016, SUBARU RELEASED RECALL: 16V-738. THIS ADDRESSES A SINGLE RELAY IN THE SECONDARY AIR SERIES. I PROCEEDED TO SCHEDULE AND TAKE MY VEHICLE INTO RANCHO GRANDE SUBARU IN SAN LUIS OBISPO. I ALSO OPENED A CLAIM WITH SUBARU CORPORATE CUSTOMER SUPPORT SR #:1-19856672948). SUBARU BEGAN WORKING ON MY VEHICLE MID OCTOBER 2016 AND PLACED ME IN A RENTAL SUV. I DID NOT RECEIVE ANY COMMUNICATION FROM SUBARU, SO I FOLLOWED UP. THE TECH INFORMED ME THE VEHICLE IS READY TO BE PICKED UP MID NOVEMBER. I VISITED, PICKED UP THE VEHICLE, DROVE IT 3 MILES AND HEARD A LOUD SCREECH FROM THE SECONDARY AIR PUMP. I RETURNED THE VEHICLE, INFORMED THE TECH AND HE RUDELY RESPONDED "WAS THAT NOISE HAPPENING WHEN YOU DROPPED IT OFF". NO, I RESPONDED AND THEY RESISTED PLACING ME IN A RENTAL FOR ANOTHER 3 WEEKS. LATE DECEMBER, I FOLLOWED UP ONCE AGAIN DUE TO LACK OF COMMUNICATION AND THE VEHICLE WAS READY 3 DAYS LATER. I DROVE THE VEHICLE 200 MILES AND NOW THE SAME CHECK ENGINE LIGHT IS ON, TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT IS FLASHING AND VEHICLE INTERMITTENTLY ACCELERATED. I CHECKED THE CODES AND THE SAME CODES REMAIN. I FEEL THE SCOPE OF COMPONENTS REQUIRES ALL COMPONENTS IN THE SECONDARY AIR SYSTEM TO BE REPLACED. THE FAULTY RELAY WAS ON THE ON POSITION AND HAS EXHAUSTED ALL THE COMPONENTS IN THE SERIES. THIS IS A NATION WIDE ISSUE DO HTTP://WWW.SUBARUFORESTER.ORG/VBULLETIN/F87/SECONDARY-AIR-VALVES-P2443-P2441-63347/. T
Jan 04, 2017
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,ENGINE
1 complaint
AFTER WORK, I GOT IN MY CAR AND STARTED IT UP. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, FOLLOWED BY TRACTION CONTROL AND TIRE PRESSURE LIGHTS. THIS WAS ODD BECAUSE THESE LIGHTS HAD NEVER BEEN ON BEFORE. I STARTED TO DRIVE HOME--IT WAS TOO LATE TO BRING THE CAR TO HAVE IT CHECKED OUT. I LIVE A MINUTE AND A HALF FROM WORK. THE CRUISE CONTROL LIGHT THEN CAME ON AND FLICKERED IN NO PARTICULAR PATTERN. THEN, ABOUT 45 SECONDS INTO MY 90 SECOND DRIVE, THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE LIGHT CAME ON. THE WEATHER WAS ABOUT 50 DEGREES AND RAINY. WHEN I GOT HOME THE ENGINE FAN WAS SPINNING REALLY FAST. I POPPED THE HOOD. NO SMOKE OR ANYTHING VISIBLY WRONG. AT ROUGHLY 2:10AM THERE WAS NO WAY I COULD BRING IT TO GET THE ISSUES LOOKED INTO. SO I LEFT THE HOOD OPEN TO LET SOME HEAT OUT AND WHEN THE FAN SLOWED AND THEN STOPPED, I CLOSED THE HOOD AND WENT INSIDE. ABOUT 10-15 MINUTES LATER, DURING WHICH TIME THE CAR HAD BEEN STATIONARY AND THE ENGINE HAD BEEN SHUT OFF, I HEARD A POP SOUND. IT WAS A STRANGE NOISE AND I GOT UP TO CHECK IT OUT. IT WAS A MASSIVE ENGINE FIRE. IT TOASTED THE ENGINE AND MELTED A GOOD PORTION OF THE FRONT END. THE FIRE DEPT SHATTERED THE WINDOWS AND PEELED THE HOOD BACK. THE CAR IS TOTALED. THE FIRE WAS JUST FEET AWAY FROM MY HOUSE ON ONE SIDE, AND THE NEIGHBOR ON THE OTHER SIDE. HAD I BEEN ASLEEP THE FIRE COULD HAVE SPREAD TO MY HOUSE OR MY NEIGHBOR'S, POTENTIALLY KILLING PEOPLE. IT WAS ONE OF THE SCARIEST THINGS I'VE EVER EXPERIENCED. THERE IS A VIDEO ON YOUTUBE WITH SOMETHING SIMILAR (SEARCH SUBARU ENGINE FIRE). THE CAR IS A 2010 FORESTER XT, COMPLETELY STOCK. IT HAS BEEN VERY WELL MAINTAINED AND HAS ABOUT 85,000 MILES ON IT. MY MOTHER ORIGINALLY OWNED IT. SHE BOUGHT IT BRAND NEW FROM THE SUBARU DEALERSHIP AND I BOUGHT IT FROM HER.
Oct 06, 2015
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
BRAKE WARMING LIGHT CAME ON WILL DRIVING AT 35 MPH. AFTER THE BRAKE LIGHT CAM ON I DROVE 2.5 MILES TO MY HOME ADDRESS. AFTER I PARKED THE CAR I NOTICED BRAKE FLUID ON THE GARAGE FLOOR UNDER THE LEFT (DRIVER SIDE) REAR TIRE. I CHECKED THE GOVERNMENT WEBSITE ON RECALLS AND FOUND NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V311000 INDICATING SALT WATER COULD SPLASH ON THE BRAKE LINES THROUGH A GAP IN THE FUEL TANK PROTECTOR, RESULTING IN EXCESSIVE CORROSION OF THE BRAKE LINES. THE CONSEQUENCE: BRAKE LINE CORROSION MAY RESULT IN BRAKE FLUID LEAKAGE. FLUID LEAKAGE MAY RESULT IN LONGER DISTANCES BEING REQUIRED TO SLOW OR STOP THE VEHICLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH. I HAD RECEIVED A RECALL LETTER IN JULY THAT INDICATED AN ISSUE AND I WOULD BE CONTRACTED WHEN PARTS BECAME AVAILABLE. RECALL CAMPAIGN WQK-47 NHTSA RECALL NO. 14V-311. *TR
Aug 22, 2014
STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
BESIDES CORROSION OF BRAKES IN RECENT RECALL, BODY PAINT BEHIND EACH WHEEL IS CORRODING SINCE 2013. FURTHERMORE, SUBARU ISSUED THE BRAKE CORROSION RECALL LETTER #1 TO A COMPANY THAT IS NOT THE REGISTERED OWNER!!! *JS
Jul 28, 2014
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
AT 40 MPH FRONT LEFT BRAKES " SELF-APPLIED" AT MAXIMUM FORCE. ABS PREVENTED COMPLETE SKIDDING OF THE TIRE, SO NO FLAT SPOT ON TIRE. THE VEHICLE LURCHED INTO A " NOSEDIVE" ONTO THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL. AFTER INCIDENT STEERING WHEEL COCKED TO LEFT AT ABOUT THE "10:00" POSITION. FLATBED TO DEALER. DEALER SHOWED ME BENT TIE ROD END, ANTI SWAY BAR AND LOWER CONTROL ARM. VEHICLE 100% FINE BEFORE INCIDENT. I BELIEVE THE SUDDEN VIOLENT WEIGHT TRANSFER ONTO FRONT LEFT CAUSED DAMAGES. DEALER UNABLE TO ROAD TEST CAR WITH BENT COMPONENTS. PARTS ON ORDER TO DEALER. WILL ROAD TEST AFTER REPAIRS GOT CASE # FROM SUBARU OF AMERICA. WAITING TO HEAR FROM THEM. *TR
Apr 04, 2014
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
SUDDEN ACCELERATION FROM FULL STOP. THE VEHICLE HAD EXHIBITED SUDDEN ACCELERATION 3 WEEKS PRIOR BUT THE DEALER DID NOT FIND ANY PROBLEM. FROM A FULL STOP, THE VEHICLE WAS PLACED INTO REVERSE AT WHICH TIME THE ENGINE REVVED TO FULL THROTTLE, OVERRIDING THE BRAKES, RESULTING IN THE VEHICLE BACKING UNCONTROLLABLY AND STOPPING ON TOP OF A BOULDER WITH THE BACK WHEELS OFF THE GROUND APPROXIMATELY 4 FEET. THE INCIDENT WAS WITNESSED BY A BYSTANDER. THE VEHICLE UNDERCARRIAGE SEVERELY DAMAGED AND NOT DRIVE-ABLE. PHOTOS AND A POLICE REPORT WERE SUBMITTED. *TR
Dec 10, 2013
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
ON 2/24/12 MY BRAKES STARTED TO RUB AND SQUEAK SO I TOOK IT IN TO BE CHECKED. TO MY SURPRISE IT WAS MY REAR BRAKES AND THEY HAD COMPLETELY DENIGRATED. THE DEALER COULDN'T EXPLAIN TO ME WHY THIS HAPPENED SO THEY JUST WENT AHEAD AND REPLACED THEM UNDER WARRANTY. ON 6/21/13 (20,000 MILES LATER) SAME THING HAPPENED. BACK BRAKES DENIGRATED SO THE DEALER REPLACED THEM AGAIN WITH NO EXPLANATION. 5 DAYS LATER I HAD THE BRAKES INSPECTED BY FIRESTONE (STILL SQUEAKING) AND THEY INFORMED ME THAT THE BACK BRAKE PADS WERE DOWN TO 8MM AND ONE OF THE ROTORS HAD BEEN SHAVED "WAY DOWN". INQUIRED ABOUT THIS TO MY DEALER AND APPARENTLY THEY REPLACED ONLY THE PADS AND SAID THIS WAS STANDARD PRACTICE. IN THE 3 YEARS I HAVE HAD THIS CAR I HAVE REPLACED THE BRAKES 3X (REAR 2X AND FRONT 1X), MOTOR IN SUNROOF, HEATING UNIT, RADIO CONNECTIONS, REPLACED FRONT LIGHT BULBS 4-5 TIMES AND HAVE HAD AT LEAST 2 RECALLS. I HAVE CONTACTED SUBARU CORPORATE BUT THEY KEEP DIRECTING ME BACK TO THE DEALER. MY BIG CONCERN IS THAT THE REAR BRAKES ARE NOT OPERATING PROPERLY AND I DRIVE AROUND WITH A 4 YEAR OLD IN MY CAR EVERYDAY. MY UNDERSTANDING FROM ASKING AROUND AT THE DEALER IS THAT I AM NOT THE ONLY CUSTOMER WHO HAS COME IN WITH REAR BRAKE ISSUES ON THE 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CAR FEELS LIKE IT IS DRAGGING WHEN I DRIVE IT AND SOMETIMES IT FEELS LIKE THE BRAKES ARE RUBBING WHEN I AM DRIVING. *TR
Jul 23, 2013
SUSPENSION
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR STRUTS FAILED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A VIBRATION COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE AND THE STRUTS WERE OPERATING PROPERLY. THE CONTACT THEN TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A MECHANIC AND THEY DETERMINED THAT THE STRUTS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED BECAUSE THEY WERE LEAKING. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 41,951 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 44,000. *TR
Apr 29, 2013
AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE, IT ERRONEOUSLY ACCELERATED WHILE STILL IN PARK. THE VEHICLE THEN CRASHED INTO A BUILDING. UPON IMPACT, THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 22,000.
Feb 19, 2013
SEAT BELTS,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
I TOOK MY 2010 SUBARU FORESTER THIS MORNING TO FARRISH SUBARU OF FAIRFAX, VIRGINIA TO HAVE THE CENTER SEAT BELT REPLACED PER THE ABOVE RECALL. FARRISH SUBARU REPLACED THE DEFECTIVE CENTER SEATBELT. WHEN I RETURNED HOME, I INSERTED ALL MALE HANDLES INTO THE FEMALE BUCKLES. SINCE I HAD NEVER RIDDEN IN THE REAR SEAT, I DID NOT REALIZE THAT ALL REAR SEAT BELTS HAD BEEN INSTALLED IN AN UNSAFE MANNER. IN THIS SITUATION THE TWO CENTER FEMALE BUCKLES WERE TOWARD THE OUTSIDE REAR DOORS, WHILE THE RIGHT AND LEFT FEMALE SEAT BUCKLES WERE ON THE INSIDE CENTER POSITION. I RETURNED TO FARRISH SUBARU WHERE SERVICE CONSULTANT JACK LINDEMAN FOUND THAT MY REAR SEAT BELTS WERE IN AN IMPROPER ORDER. HE CALLED IT A "BIRTH DEFECT", MEANING THAT THE INSTALLATION HAD BEEN DONE IMPROPERLY AT THE FACTORY. LINDEMAN AGREED WITH MY ASSESSMENT THAT WHEN ALL THREE SEAT BELTS WERE BUCKLED, THE STRAPS CROSSED OVER THE RED RELEASE BUTTONS. THIS MADE IT IMPOSSIBLE TO REACH THE BUTTONS TO RELEASE THE BELTS FROM THE BUCKLES. I ASKED LINDEMAN TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. FARRISH SUBARU PLACED THE BUCKLES IN THE CORRECT ORDER WITH BOTH FEMALE CENTER BUCKLES IN THE CENTER AND THE RIGHT AND LEFT FEMALE BUCKLES TOWARD THEIR RESPECTIVE OUTWARD POSITIONS. HOWEVER, WHEN I TRIED TO INSERT THE MALE CENTER HANDLE INTO ITS RESPECTIVE FEMALE BUCKLE, THE FEMALE CENTER BUCKLE FELL BELOW THE SEAT CUSHION. NEITHER I NOR LINDEMAN WAS ABLE TO RAISE THE FEMALE BUCKLE ABOVE THE CUSHION TO ITS PROPER HEIGHT EXCEPT WITH GREAT DIFFICULTY. THIS IS A DANGEROUS SITUATION BECAUSE THE MALE HANDLE CANNOT BE INSERTED INTO THE FEMALE BUCKLE WHILE THAT BUCKLE IS BELOW THE SEAT CUSHION. WHEN I ASKED SERVICE CONSULTANT LINDEMAN TO FIX THE SINKING SEATBELT PROBLEM, HE SAID HE WAS UNWILLING TO DO ANYTHING FURTHER. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION. FOR THE MOMENT I HAVE TAPED THE FEMALE BUCKLES TOGETHER TO PREVENT THEM FROM FALLING BELOW THE SEAT CUSHIONS. IF THERE IS A PERMANENT SOLUTION, I WOULD APPRECIATE LEARNING ABOUT IT. *TR
Oct 10, 2012
STEERING,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
SELF CANCELING TURN SIGNALS DO NOT CANCEL WHEN MAKING A PARTIAL LEFT OR RIGHT TURN. SELF CANCELING SIGNALS DO CANCEL PROPERLY WHEN MAKING A FULL TURN. SUBARU TECHNICIANS REPORT INDICATES TURN SIGNALS ARE CANCELING AS DESIGNED AND NO ADDITIONAL ADJUSTMENTS CAN BE MADE. *TR
Jul 19, 2012
TIRES
1 complaint
2010 SUBARU FORESTER. CONSUMER STATES PROBLEMS WITH VEHICLE TIRES *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED THE RIGHT REAR TIRE WENT FLAT. HE WAS INFORMED BY THE SERVICE COMPANY WHO REPLACED THE TIRE, THERE WAS A SPLIT ON THE SIDEWALL AND COULD NOT BE REPAIRED. THE CONSUMER HAD TO PURCHASE ANOTHER TIRE EXACTLY THE SAME AS THE DEFECTIVE TIRE FOR A TOTAL OF $269.13.
Dec 28, 2011
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT SHIFTED INTO REVERSE AND THE VEHICLE ABNORMALLY ACCELERATED BACKWARD, CRASHING INTO A BUILDING. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND A BYSTANDER WAS REPORTED AS INJURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THEY WERE UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP WHERE THE BODY DAMAGE WAS REPAIRED. APPROXIMATELY ONE MONTH LATER THE FAILURE RECURRED, AGAIN UPON SHIFTING THE VEHICLE INTO REVERSE. THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE BACKWARD UNTIL HEAVY PRESSURE WAS APPLIED TO THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE IGNITION WAS TURNED OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO HAVE THE FAILURE DIAGNOSED BECAUSE THE AUTHORIZED DEALER REFUSED TO EXAMINE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THERE WERE NO FLOOR MATS PRESENT IN THE VEHICLE DURING EITHER FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5,800 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 5,900. UPDATED 06/06/11 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALER NOTIFIED HER TO COME IN TO HAVE THE ECM REPROGRAMMED#WVU31. UPDATED 09/23/11 UPDATED 01/13/2012 *LN *TR
Feb 25, 2011
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
THE VEHICLE IS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. WHEN STEPPING ON THE GAS PEDAL TO BACK UP, THE CAR ACCELERATED AS IF THE ACCELERATOR HAD BEEN FLOORED. THE CAR SHOT UP A SNOW BANK AND RESTED ON A GUARD RAIL STILL RUNNING FAST. THE CAR WAS TURNED OFF AND THE WINTER MAT THAT CAME WITH THE CAR WAS ON THE LOWER PART OF THE ACCELERATOR. WE DO NOT KNOW IF THE MAT CAUSED THE RAPID ACCELERATION OR THERE WAS A MALFUNCTION WITH THE CAR. IF THIS HAD HAPPENED IN A BUSY PARKING LOT SOMEONE COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED. THE MAT HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM THE CAR. THERE WAS DAMAGE TO THE UNDER SIDE OF THE CAR AND FENDER. *TR
Dec 13, 2010
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,TIRES
1 complaint
AT LOW SPEEDS NEAR INTERSECTIONS WITH LIGHT SNOW OR SLUSH ON THE ROAD VEHICLE'S ABS SYSTEM CAUSES LOSS OF STOPPING ABILITY AND LOSS OF DIRECTIONAL CONTROL. PARTIAL OR COMPLETE LOSS OF BRAKING AND/OR DIRECTIONAL CONTROL AT STOP SIGNS AND ON SLICK ROADS. PREMATURE ACTIVATION OF ABS SYSTEM IN SNOWY AND SLUSHY CONDITIONS. POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES INCLUDE STRIKING PEDESTRIANS, LEAVING THE ROAD UNEXPECTEDLY AND STOPPING IN NOT BEFORE AN INTERSECTION. DEALER INSPECTED BRAKING SYSTEM AND STATED THAT IT IS PERFORMING AS INTENDED. DEALER FURTHER DOCUMENTED THAT OEM TIRES HAD LOW TRACTION RATING CAUSING ABS SYSTEM TO OPERATE INCORRECTLY IN CERTAIN DRIVING CONDITIONS. IN PARTICULAR ABS CAUSES DRASTICALLY INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCE WITH LOSS OF DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WITH OEM BRIDGESTONE DUELLER H/T 687 TIRES WITH 7/32 TREAD DEPTH AND CORRECT INFLATION PRESSURE. DEALER STATES THAT TIRES SHOULD BE CHANGED TO IMPROVE DRIVABILITY AND ABS FUNCTION IN SNOW AND ICE CONDITIONS. BRIDGESTONE DUELLER H/T 687 TIRES WILL BE REPLACED WITH A DIFFERENT BRAND. THESE TIRES WILL BE PUT IN STORAGE AND WILL BE AVAILABLE. *TR
Dec 13, 2010
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
WE EXPERIENCED BRAKE FAILURE TWICE ON A TRIP 11/4/10 - 11/6/10. THE FIRST INCIDENT OCCURRED ON 11/4 WHILE USING CRUISE CONTROL. TO SLOW FOR A VEHICLE IN FRONT OF US, I HIT THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE BRAKES WERE NOT RESPONSIVE AND THE CRUISE CONTROL REMAINED ACTIVE. PUMPING THE BRAKE PEDAL IN A FEW SECONDS DEACTIVATED THE CRUISE CONTROL AND THE BRAKES RETURNED. THIS OCCURRED WITH A NOTICEABLE JERK. THE SECOND INCIDENT OCCURRED 11/6 WHILE ON HEADING EAST ON RT 30 COMING DOWN SIDLING HILL. THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS NOT IN USE. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO BRAKE TO REDUCE SPEED GOING DOWN THE HILL, THE BRAKES COMPLETELY FAILED. REPEATED ATTEMPTS TO USE THE BRAKE PEDAL FAILED TO PROVIDE ANY BRAKING. I USED THE PARKING BRAKE TO SLOW US DOWN; HOWEVER, THE PARKING BRAKE DID NOT SEEM VERY EFFECTIVE. IT TOOK A CONSIDERABLE DISTANCE TO COME TO A STOP. I PROCEEDED DOWN THE HILL IN A LOWER GEAR AND AT SOME POINT THE BRAKES RETURNED TO USE. THERE DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE ANY REASON AS TO WHY THEY FAILED OR HOW OR WHY THEY RETURNED. THE CAR HAS OVER 20,000 MILES ON IT AND THIS WAS THE FIRST INCIDENT OF BRAKE FAILURE; ALTHOUGH THE SITUATION WITH THE CRUISE NOT DEACTIVATING HAD OCCURRED ONCE BEFORE. THE CAR WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER ON 11/7. THE DEALER CHECKED BOTH THE CRUISE AND THE BRAKING SYSTEM AND FOUND NO PROBLEMS. THE DEALER REPORTED CONSULTING WITH SUBARU ON THE PROBLEM AS WELL. ON 11/12 AT THE SUGGESTION OF THE DEALER, I CONTACTED SUBARU CUSTOMER SERVICE (REF#1-1157948155). SUBARU'S FOLLOW UP WAS THAT THE CAR WAS CHECKED AND FOUND TO BE OK AND WE SHOULD DRIVE IT AND SEE IF IT HAPPENS AGAIN. THIS WAS NOT ACCEPTABLE AND WE OPTED FOR A REPLACEMENT VEHICLE AT CONSIDERABLE OUT OF POCKET EXPENSE. THIS VEHICLE SHOULD NOT BE SOLD TO SOMEONE ELSE. IT SHOULD BE RETURNED TO SUBARU TO DETERMINE WHAT CAUSED THE FAILURES DESCRIBED. *TR
Nov 26, 2010
STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaint
I HAVE A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. THE VEHICLE HAS AN ISSUE WITH (1) THE STEERING PULLS TO THE RIGHT, (2) THE ENGINE LOSES POWER INTERMITTENTLY AND (3) THE CAR SHAKES AND SHIMMIES WHEN DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. ALL THREE OF THE ISSUES HAVE BEEN WITH THE CAR SINCE I PURCHASED IT AT 6 MILES ON THE ODOMETER. THE STEERING ISSUE IS DANGEROUS BECAUSE IT MAKES IT HARD TO KEEP THE CAR ON THE ROAD. I HAVE TAKEN THE CAR IN 2 TIMES FOR AN ALIGNMENT AND THE ISSUE PERSISTS STILL AT 2750 MILES. THE ENGINE ISSUE HAS BEEN WITH THE CAR SINCE THE BEGINNING. WHILE DRIVING, THE DRIVER HEARS A CLICK SOUND COME FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND THE CAR WILL MOMENTARILY LOSE POWER. THE ISSUE HAPPENS AS FREQUENTLY AS 6 TIMES A MINUTE AND SOMETIMES EVERY OTHER MINUTE OF DRIVING. IT HAPPENS WHEN THE AIR CONDITIONER IS TURNED ON OR OFF, BUT EXACERBATED WHEN DRIVING IN 3RD GEAR AND WHEN THE AIR CONDITIONER COMPRESSOR IS ENGAGED. THE DEALER HAS TRIED TO SAY THAT THIS IS A NORMAL FEATURE OF THE CAR. I HAVE OWNED OTHER SUBARU FORESTERS AND DRIVEN MANY OTHER 2010 SUBARU FORESTER'S AND THIS ISSUE DOES NOT HAPPEN. I HAVE TAKEN THE CAR INTO THE DEALERSHIP FOR THE STEERING ISSUE AND THE SHAKING ISSUE. THE DEALER HAS BALANCED THE TIRES THREE TIMES NOW AND RE-ALIGNED THE TIRES TWICE. THIS HAS DONE NOTHING TO CORRECT THE ISSUE. THE ISSUE REMAINS. CONCERNING THE ENGINE ISSUE, I HAVE TAKEN THE CAR IN THREE TIMES NOW AND THE DEALER HAS CHECK THE CAR AND STATED THAT THE ISSUE IR NORMAL. THE ISSUE IS NOT NORMAL WHEN COMPARED TO OTHER VEHICLES FROM THE MANUFACTURER OF THE SAME MAKE AND MODEL. *TR
Oct 13, 2010
STEERING
1 complaint
STEERING WHEEL OFF CENTER, 2 DIFFERENT DEALERS SAID THEY WOULD ADJUST TIRE PRESSURE TO CORRECT. TIRE PRESSURE DOES NOT CORRECT ISSUE. OFF CENTER STEERING WHEEL CAN LEAD TO A CRASH. *TR
Sep 01, 2010
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2010 SUBARU Forester have?
The 2010 SUBARU Forester currently has 261 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 2010 SUBARU Forester?
The most common problems reported for the 2010 SUBARU Forester are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 2010 SUBARU Forester problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2010 SUBARU Forester comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
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