2011 SUBARU Forester Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
147
Complaints Reported
Complaints by Component
ENGINE
44 complaints
Concerned over oil being burnt up at a significant rate, have to add a quart per tank of gas. Theres distinct burnt oil smell after driving. Concerned my car needs to be included in the oil consumption recall.
Jan 08, 2025
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she observed smoke emanating from the engine compartment, and the vehicle began to fill with smoke, prompting her to immediately stop and exit the vehicle. Upon exiting the vehicle, the contact observed that the vehicle had become engulfed in flames, and local emergency services were called. Local emergency services arrived and were able to extinguish the flames. No warning lights were illuminated. A fire report was filed, but a police report was not filed. The contact was treated at an area hospital for a stress-related gastrointestinal issue. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard and deemed a total loss by the contact's insurance provider. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but did not assist. The failure mileage was 102,000.
Mar 01, 2024
We have come to learn that our 2011 Forester with 95,229 miles is now burning (internally) oil at an alarming rate. The car was making a funny noise so we had it towed to the dealership and they found it was low by 4.8 quarts of oil. The last oil change was at 91,749 and this issue was discovered at 95,229 or 3480 miles driven and 4.8 quarts of oil is "missing". The dealer advised there is no signs of leaks from under the car and where we have it parked, there are no oil spots on the pavement. I have come to learn that in August 2014 then again in April 2016 there was a service bulletin on this engine due to oil consumption. The notice indicated that they (Subaru) was extending the powertrain warranty to 8 years / 100,000 miles. Sadly, we are past the 8 years but not the 100,000 miles.
Aug 18, 2023
The contact's daughter owns a 2011 Subaru Forester. The contact stated while parking the vehicle, there was a rattling noise coming from the engine compartment. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to Findlay Subaru St. George (1453 Sunland Dr, St. George, UT 84790) where it was diagnosed that the short block assembly needed to be replaced; however, no repair was completed, and the engine oil was refilled. The contact was made aware of Technical Service Bulletin: 02-157-14R (Surface Treatment Change to Oil Control Piston Rings); however, the vehicle was not covered under the TSB. The vehicle was then taken to Subaru Sherman Oaks (5747 Van Nuys Blvd, Van Nuys, CA 91401), where it was diagnosed that the failure was related to an oil leak. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 99,600.
Jan 26, 2023
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made abnormally loud sounds. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the dealer performed an oil consumption test and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact related the failure to Technical Service Bulletin: 02-157-14R (Surface Treatment Change to Oil Control Piston Rings) however, the vehicle was not covered under the TSB. The failure mileage was approximately 102,000.
Sep 15, 2022
+ 39 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
23 complaints
I have tried to get the recall on airbag replaced to no avail, just alot of lip service and never any follow-up on repair of air bag. I am extremely ticked off that the very last current notification by mail this july 2022. I included a copy of it where it states DO NOT ALLOW ANYONE TO SIT IN FRONT-PASSENGER SEAT UNTIL THE AIRBAG RECALL REPAIR HAS BEEN PERFORMED ON YOUR VEHICAL. This say to me that Subaru is covering the butts by telling me it will be my fault if injury occurs yet subaru skirts around not repairing on Recall Code TKB19. Relieves them of no responsibilty. Also this notification clearly states alternative transportation options- loaner car, round trip towing, shuttles. I have yet had anyone call or address this issue other then telling me to text "FIX" or call 800 number which I have done quite a few times. I would appreciate that you will respond to me that you will do something other then ignoring me. You will be sure that if anything happens there will be an attorney involved. Subaru needs to honor this Recall or why even bother to send out notices constantly .
Aug 13, 2022
I have received multiple letters to fix my Subarus air bag. It was fixed once after a long wait for parts. The second required fix is proving hard to set up. I called a Subaru fix line, waited an hour while they try to schedule, then was disconnected. I called back, same long wait and they can not call you back if disconnected (I asked if they could as I was just disconnected and had to start over). I tried to explain to them in Hawaii we live on islands and cannot drive to other ones so it must be scheduled on my (Maui) island. They said they knew that (I even gave them the address of Subaru Maui). I waited on hold another 1/2 hour then got an email. I was scheduled a month later on - another island. I called back, waited again (they seemed more concerned with canceling my appointment the getting me a new one). After a very long series of transfers I was connected with Subaru Maui. They told me they (service dept) can't schedule them (only mangers can schedule air bag appointments) but they will have a manager call me back. I asked when and they said a week or two. Its been a week but I have not heard anything. I wrote Subaru with my issue and got a auto reply telling thanking me for being an owner and how great their cares are. No acknowledgment of my problem. The letters stress the importance of getting it done, but Subaru makes it very hard.
May 28, 2021
PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS RECALLED AGAIN
Jan 09, 2020
TAKATA RECALL HAVE NOT FOUND A DEALERSHIP WILLING TO REPLACE. IF THEY WILL NOT FIX WILL THEY BUY BACK MY CAR. I HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO DRIVE A PASSENGER IN MY CAR
Jul 12, 2019
TAKATA RECALL- LOCAL DEALERSHIP IS BEING DIFFICULT IN TRYING TO RESOLVE HAVING PASSENGER AIR BAG REPLACED. ALSO SUBARU OF AMERICA HAS BEEN SLOW TO STEP IN AND HELP
May 14, 2019
+ 18 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
7 complaints
As I drove into my driveway smoke started coming out of engine compartment. Behind and under vehicle was a massive leak of either oil or transmission fluid. No warning lights were observed and vehicle was running fine while we were out. The entire vehicle was quickly engulfed in flames and burned to the ground before firefighters arrived.
May 21, 2021
A FIRE STARTED IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AFTER A FEW MINUTES OF APPARENTLY NORMAL DRIVING. THE FIRE EVENTUALLY DESTROYED THE VEHICLE. THE CAUSE(S) OF THE FIRE WAS NOT DETERMINED
Oct 28, 2020
WHEN I PLAY A CD IN MY SUBARU'S CD PLAYER FOR AN HOUR, THE IGNITION KEY IS HOT TO THE TOUCH WHEN I STOP CAR AND REMOVE IT.
Jan 10, 2020
I WAS PULLING SLOWLY INTO A PARKING SPACE (BRAKING) AT A SHOPPING CENTER WHEN MY SUBARU SUDDENLY ACCELERATED RAPIDLY, TAKING MY CAR OVER THE CURB THROUGH A HEDGEROW AND INTO ANOTHER PARKED VEHICLE, AT WHICH TIME IT STOPPED. WITNESS CONFIRMED THE SUDDEN RAPID BOLTING OF THE CAR FORWARD FROM AN ALMOST STOPPED POSITION.
Jun 05, 2019
CAM CARRIER OIL SEEPAGE LEAKING ONTO MANIFOLD AND CAUSING OIL SMELL. THIS APPEARS TO BE A VERY COMMON PROBLEM IN THESE CARS STARTING WITH LITTLE MILEAGE. OIL SEEPS OUT ONTO THE MANIFOLD, AND BURN CAUSING AN OIL SMELL EVERY TIME WE COME TO A STOP, PARTICULARLY DOWNHILL. POSSIBLE FIRE HAZARD
Jan 02, 2018
+ 2 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES
7 complaints
"TAKATA RECALL" I WAS PARKING MY CAR IN A REGULAR PARKING SPACE.ALL OF A SUDDEN THE CAR JUMPED THE CURB . ONLY A TREE STOPPED THE CAR.THEIR WAS DAMAGE ON THE FRONT OF THE CAR.TWO OTHER TIMES THE CAR JUMPED WHEN I WAS PARKING BUT NOT AS BAD AS WHEN I HIT THE TREE.I AM NOW AFRAID TO DRIVE THE CAR. ALL THREE TIMES I WAS TRYING TO PARK.
Aug 07, 2018
SOFT BRAKE PEDAL THAT CONTINUES DOWN TO FLOOR AFTER PRESSURE APPLIED ; ESPECIALLY WHEN ENGINE COLD OR WHEN ON AN INCLINE. FIRST BROUGHT TO SUBARU OF NEW BERN, N.C. ON AUGUST 8, 2016 WHERE THEY REPLACED BRAKE FLUID. PROBLEM CONTINUED; ON SEPT. 13, 2016 THE MASTER CYLINDER REPLACED UNDER EXTENTED WARRANTEE. PROBLEM STILL EXISTS; SERVICE MANAGER DROVE CAR AND AGREED WITH MY COMPLAINT. HE ALSO DROVE A 2015 MODEL AND SAME THING HAPPENED. ON SEPT. 27TH, MANAGER AUTHORIZED REPLACEMENT AGAIN OF THE MASTER CYLINDER AND VACUUM BOOSTER PUMP. PARTS ORDERED. TODAY IS OCTOBER 11TH, AND NO PARTS RECEIVED YET. SUBARU OF AMERICA, CHERRY HILL, N.J. HAS BEEN NOTIFIED 9-15-16, BUT NO ACTION TAKEN YET.
Oct 11, 2016
AS I WAS PULLING INTO A HEAD ON PARKING SPACE, I BEGAN TO APPLY MY BRAKES AND MY CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. LUCKILY, I WAS ABLE TO PUMP MY BRAKES AND STOP THE CAR. A WITNESS WHO WAS SITTING ON A BENCH NEARBY SAID HE HEARD MY CARBURETOR REV. I AM NOW SCARED TO DEATH TO DRIVE MY VEHICLE.
Jun 21, 2015
I AM THE CARE TAKER AND SON OF THIS CAR'S ELDERLY OWNER AND DRIVER, AND I JUST GOT A SECOND RECALL NOTICE (14V-830) THAT SAYS, "DUE TO INCOMPLETE REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED TO OUR RETAILERS, YOUR VEHICLE MAY NOT HAVE BEEN TREATED WITH THE PROPER AMOUNT OF ANTI-CORROSION MATERIAL" (REFERRING TO FIRST RECALL REPAIR).THE RECALL ALSO SAYS TO CONTACT YOUR WEBSITE "IF YOU BELIEVE THE SUBARU RETAILER HAS FAILED OR IS UNABLE TO REMEDY YOUR VEHICLE WITHOUT CHARGE WITHIN A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME." IT WILL NOT BE WITHOUT A CHARGE, THAT IS, COST TO ME. LIKE RECALL ONE I WILL HAVE TO TAKE OFF WORK AND LOSE PAY AND SPEND THE TIME AND EXPENSE TO DRIVE THE CAR TO AND FROM THE DEALER, ALL BECAUSE OF SUBARU'S IMPROPER MANUFACTURING (RECALL ONE) AND POOR EXECUTION OF THE SUPPOSED REPAIR (RECALL TWO). THEREFORE SUBARU CORP SHOULD PAY ME OR MY MOTHER, OR PAY THE DEALER TO PAY ME FOR THE EXPENSES I WILL INCUR FOR THE "WITHOUT CHARGE" REPAIR. AMOUNT REQUESTED IS $50. *TR
Feb 04, 2015
I CALLED BOARDMAN SUBARU REGARDING RECALL ISSUED ON BRAKE LINE AND SPOKE TO THEIR SERVICE DEPT. MANAGER. HE SAID THEY ARE NOT RECALLING SUBARU'S BECAUSE OF THE BRAKE LINE ISSUE THAT THIS IS JUST THE NATIONAL SAFETY AND THEY AREN'T DOING ANYTHING TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM AT THIS DATE!!!HE TOLD ME MY CAR WAS SAFE. I AM VERY CONCERNED. *TR
Jul 14, 2014
+ 2 more complaints for this component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
6 complaints
unintended sudden acceleration defects without warning without driver input. I could kill & be killed. It can happen again! I backed up a little in an angle moving away from parking. Suddenly, without any warning, the car took off and frantically flew backward, passing a stop sign (offense), crossing the main road 4 lanes, perpendicular to the marked lanes (offense), mounted on the sidewalk and landed on a private property breaking bushes. It happened sooo fast! I could not figure out what happened! If a car was travelling in the main road, both of us might have been seriously injured or died! The police gave me a citation for two civil offenses and “negligently operating MV” which is a criminal offense. The Police demanded to suspend my license! I am scheduled by the police for a court hearing, demanding to issue a criminal claim against me, arraign me as a criminal and stand a criminal trial! I few days ago I backed up in an angle out of my driveway to Rte-9 which is a major Road/highway as I have been doing for years with no problem. The same phenomena happened: the car accelerated frantically, turned in a circle and stopped by hitting a telephone pole! If the car approaching did not stop I found out that numerous complaints and more than one law-suit filed against Subaru 2012-2018. Mine is 2011. Thousands of dollars in legal fees, being sued for property damages, getting driving points, increased insurance for years, badly damaging my car. This might happen! Should I even touch this car again?
Sep 29, 2023
Driving a 2011 Subaru Forester, about 5mph in traffic on city street when car suddenly and unexpectedly accelerated at full gas and rammed into truck in front of me, with no pressure on the gas pedal. Slamming on brakes and pulling on hand brake was not enough to override the unexpected and unasked-for acceleration. I can only imagine what would have happened if there were pedestrians or if I'd been going faster. Subaru should be absolutely ashamed - in researching this, I've learned that they KNOW that this happens, but refuse to create a recall. Shame on you, Subaru.
Jun 06, 2022
THIS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING THROUGH COLORADO, FROM CRESTED BUTTE TO TELLURIDE. I WAS DRIVING WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ACTIVE. AS THE CAR WENT UP HILLS IT WOULD AUTOMATICALLY SHIFT DOWN, CAUSING THE ENGINE TO REV INTO THE 4,000 RPM RANGE, WHICH IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE SUSTAINED. IN ORDER TO COMBAT THIS I USED THE MANU-MATIC SYSTEM TO HOLD THE TRANSMISSION IN THE HIGHER GEAR. AFTER A WHILE MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. CONCURRENTLY, THE TRACTION CONTROL INDICATOR LIGHT CAME ON, AND THE CRUISE CONTROL LIGHT BEGAN BLINKING. THINKING IT WAS AN OVERHEATING ISSUE, I STOPPED THE CAR AND WAITED A WHILE. AFTER A FEW CYCLES OF DRIVE/STOP/DRIVE/STOP, THE LIGHTS TURNED OFF. THINKING THE ISSUE WAS RESOLVED, WE CONTINUED ON TO TELLURIDE. LEAVING TELLURIDE, HOWEVER, WITH THE SAME DRIVING BEHAVIOR, THE ISSUE RETURNED, ONLY WORSE NOW. WHEN THE LIGHTS CAME ON THE ACCELERATOR STOPPED RESPONDING. WE WERE HEADED UPHILL AT 65MPH ON A NARROW TWO LANE ROAD, WITH A STEEP DROP OFF THE SIDE, AND MULTIPLE CARS BEHIND US. I PRESSED THE ACCELERATOR ALL THE WAY DOWN AND THE CAR DID NOT RESPOND AT ALL. THIS CAUSED US TO BEGIN RAPIDLY DECELERATING, WHICH WAS EXTREMELY UNSAFE GIVEN THE CONDITIONS. WE PULLED OVER AND TURNED OFF THE CAR. AFTER A SHORT WHILE OF SITTING ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, I TURNED THE CAR BACK ON AND THE ISSUE HAD CEASED. THE INTERMITTENT NATURE OF THIS ISSUE IS SCARY - AT ANY MOMENT THE ACCELERATOR MAY CEASE TO RESPOND, POTENTIALLY CAUSING A LIFE THREATENING SCENARIO. UPON REACHING OUR DESTINATION, A FRIEND HAD A CODE SCANNER AND PULLED CODE "P2138 - THROTTLE PEDAL POSITION SENSOR SWITCH D E VOLTAGE CORRELATION." THERE'S NO OFFICIAL DOCUMENTATION FROM SUBARU, THAT I COULD FIND, ON THE ISSUE, AND BROWSING VARIOUS SUBARU FORUMS TURNS UP A LOT MORE QUESTIONS THAN ANSWERS.
Feb 21, 2021
DRIVER (ADULT FEMALE) WAS BACKING UP TO PARK WHEN THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. DRIVER LIFTED FOOT OFF THE ACCELERATOR AND HIT THE BRAKE. VEHICLE ACCELERATED EVEN MORE. CRASHED INTO A GUY WIRE ON AN ELECTRIC POLE, SNAPPING OFF THE TOP OF THE POLE. SEVERAL DAYS LATER THE SECOND DRIVER (ADULT MALE) WAS BACKING UP IN THE DRIVEWAY TO TURN AROUND. CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. SECOND DRIVER NOW A BELIEVER. *TR
Jul 02, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN BRAKING WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ACTIVATED, THE VEHICLE WOULD ABNORMALLY ACCELERATE. ON ONE OCCASION WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK THE VEHICLE, THERE WAS AN OCCURRENCE OF ABNORMAL ACCELERATION AND THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO THE FOUNDATION OF A BUILDING. THE CONTACT WAS NOT INJURED. THE POLICE WERE CONTACTED AND THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND THEY OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 11,000.
Oct 04, 2011
+ 1 more complaint for this component
POWER TRAIN
4 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS CONSUMING AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF ENGINE OIL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A. CRIVELLI SUBARU (768 ALLEGHENY BLVD, FRANKLIN, PA 16323) AND AN OIL CONSUMPTION TEST WAS PERFORMED. THE RESULT CONFIRMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS CONSUMING AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF ENGINE OIL. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE SHORT BLOCK ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND OFFERED TO PARTIALLY COVER THE COST OF THE REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT YET REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
Mar 30, 2021
THE IGNITION KEY STARTS THE CAR, BUT STICKS IN THE IGNITION AFTER DRIVING TO DESTINATION AND PUTTING IT IN PARK. THE PROBLEM IS PERSISTENT BUT INTERMITTENT. IT TYPICALLY REPEATS IN THE MORNING AFTER THE FIRST DRIVE OF THE DAY. CAN'T ALWAYS GET THE KEY OUT AND HAVE TO RETURN HOME. AFTER DRIVING AND MUCH JIGGLING THE KEY WILL EVENTUALLY COME OUT. THE DEALER HAS REPLACED A PART IN THE TRANSMISSION THAT HE CALL THE "SHIFTER PLATE," TO THE TUNE OF $550, BUT THE PROBLEM PERSISTS. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR SEVERAL MONTHS.
Sep 13, 2019
SHIFT LINKAGE CORRODES CAUSING LOSS OF SHIFTING ABILITY, INCLUDING PUTTING INTO PARK AND DRIVE. THEY ALREADY HAD A RECALL ON THE SAME PROBLEM CAUSING CORROSION TO THE BRAKE LINES. THIS SAME ISSUE IS HAPPENING TO THE SHIFT CABLE LINKAGE
Jan 22, 2019
CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE AT 60,000 MILES WAS DUE TO VALVE SPRING FAILURE. THE VALVE SPRING FAILED DUE TO FATIGUE. FATIGUE INITIATED AT A HIGH STRESS LOCATION NEAR A SUBSURFACE NON-METALLIC SLAG PARTICLE. SURFACE CRACKING WAS NOTED ON THE VALVE SPRING AT LOCATIONS NEAR THE FRACTURE ORIGIN.
Mar 21, 2018
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
4 complaints
WHILE TAKING A RIGHT TURN APPROX 10-15 MPH, THE ENGINE SHUT OFF, BUT NO OTHER SYSTEMS WERE EFFECTED. THE RADIO NEVER TURNED OFF, THE CAR NEVER STUTTERED , I DIDN'T KNOW THE VEHICLE TURNED OFF UNTILL THE POWER STEERING WENT OUT. IMMEDIATELY AFTER REALIZING THE ENGINE WAS OFF I LOOKED AT DASH PANEL AND ALL SYSTEM LIGHTS WERE ON AS IF KEY WAS IN ACCESSORY MODE. I PUT VEHICLE IN NEUTRAL AND TURNED IGNITION AND CAR STARTED UP WITH NO ISSUES AS IF NOTHING WAS WRONG. I DROVE ANOTHER 15 MINS TO WORK MAKING LEFT AND RIGHT TURNS WITH NO ISSUES.
Jun 25, 2019
THE REMOTE STARTER STARTS THE IGNITION AFTER ONE, TWO, THREE, OR 4 PRESSES. VEHICLE IS STATIONARY. THIS HAS HAPPENED ON MANY OCCASIONS.
Sep 21, 2017
2011 SUBARU FORESTER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO BATTERY REPLACEMENT AND KEY REPROGRAMMING REPAIR COSTS. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WOULD CRANK AND THEN STOP. *JB
Mar 30, 2015
MY WIFE'S CAR LOCKED ITSELF WITH KEYS AND BABY INSIDE ON TWO OCCASIONS. THE FIRST TIME WAS IN WINTER (DON'T REMEMBER THE DATE) AND OUR BABY WAS LOCKED IN THE COLD CAR FOR MORE THAN AN HOUR WHILE WE WAITED FOR AAA. MY WIFE THOUGHT SHE HAD SOMEHOW KNEELED ON THE KEY/REMOTE IN HER HANDBAG WHILE PUTTING THE BABY IN HIS CAR SEAT. SINCE THEN SHE HAS TAKEN CARE NOT TO TOUCH THE KEY (AND REMOTE) BEFORE SHE GETS IN THE CAR TO DRIVE. TODAY SHE PLACED THE KEY/REMOTE ON THE FRONT SEAT, THEN PUT THE BABY IN THE CAR SEAT (IN BACK), CLOSED THE BACK DOOR, AND THE CAR LOCKED ITSELF WITH HER OUTSIDE AND THE BABY INSIDE. AAA ARRIVED QUICKLY AND OPENED THE CAR. THE AAA GUY SAID HE HAS HAD MORE SUBARUS WITH DRIVERS LOCKED OUT THAN ANY OTHER MAKE. I ALSO SPOKE TO THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT OF THE SUBARU DEALER WHO SOLD US THE CAR ABOUT THIS INCIDENT, AND I WAS TOLD THAT THIS MODEL YEAR HAD EXPERIENCED THIS PROBLEM FAIRLY OFTEN, AND THAT THE PROBLEM HAD BEEN FIXED IN SUBSEQUENT MODELS. I HAVE REPORTED THIS INCIDENT TO SUBARU CORP CUSTOMER SERVICE--THEIR CASE NUMBER IS [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Apr 02, 2014
SEATS
3 complaints
Front right side of driver’s seat has collapsed. Possibly due to a broken bracket or weld.
Nov 13, 2021
DRIVERS SEAT WELD BROKE CAUSING LEFT SIDE OF SEAT FRAME TO COLLAPSE.
Nov 14, 2016
DRIVERS SIDE BOTTOM LEFT SIDE OF SEAT IS NOT SUPPORTED. BRACKET IS BROKEN.
Jul 27, 2016
VISIBILITY/WIPER
3 complaints
THE WIPERS CLOG WITH ICE AND DO NOT CLEAR THE WINDSHIELD WELL. THEY FREEZE INTO THE WELL BETWEEN THE HOOD AND THE WINDSHIELD. I HAVE TO PHYSICALLY CHOP THEM LOOSE WITH AN ICE SCRAPER IN VERY COLD WEATHER. CHUNKS OF ICE STICK TO THE BLADES AND DO NOT RELEASE, RESULTING IN BLADES THAT DO NOT MAKE FULL CONTACT WITH THE GLASS. I HAVE TRIED SEVERAL DIFFERENT TYPES OF BLADES INCLUDING WHATEVER THEY SELL AT THE DEALERSHIP AND WINTER ICE BLADES. THEY DRAG AND SMEAR DURING RAIN OR SNOW, MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE TO SEE CLEARLY. I THINK THE WIPER BODY IS NOT STIFF ENOUGH TO CLEAR THE WINDSHIELD EFFECTIVELY, EVEN WHEN THERE IS ONLY RAIN AND NO SNOW OR ICE. I COMPLAINED TO THE DEALER (SUBARU OF WATERVILLE, ME) AND WAS OFFERED NEW BLADES, AND HAD IT SUGGESTED THAT I USE ''QUALITY" WIPER FLUID.
Feb 21, 2020
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUN VISOR FRACTURED AND DISTRACTED THE DRIVER BRIEFLY. THE FAILURE WAS PERSISTENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT REMOVED THE SUN VISOR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 67,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Jun 02, 2016
WINDSHIELD WIPERS BECOME INOPERABLE IN FREEZING TEMPERATURES AND SNOWSTORMS. WIPER BLADES FREEZE AND WILL NOT CLEAR THE WINDSHIELD. SNOW AND ICE GATHER IN THE TROUGH WHERE THE BLADES REST AND BLOCK FLUID. WARMING FEATURE WILL NOT CLEAR THIS PROBLEM AS THE SNOW AND ICE CONTINUE TO ACCUMULATE IN THIS AREA. SALT CANNOT BE CLEARED FROM THE WINDSHIELD EVEN THOUGH THE VEHICLE IS FULLY WARMED UP AND THE WIPER WARMING FEATURE IS ACTIVATED. THE REAR WIPER ASSEMBLY ALSO FREEZES AND ACCUMULATES LARGE ICE CHUNKS. MY VISIBILITY BECOMES IMPAIRED BY OVER 75% CAUSING AN EXTREME HAZARD. *TR
Jan 07, 2015
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
3 complaints
WHILE PARKING IN A STORE'S LOT WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE, MY VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. I KEPT APPLYING THE BRAKES BUT THE CAR WOULDN'T STOP I ENDED UP CRASHING THROUGH A FENCE AND FALLING DOWN A 10 FOOT EMBANKMENT. *DT *TR
Sep 03, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER:14V311000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED AT A DEALER, BUT THE REMEDY WAS NOT EFFECTIVE. WHILE AT A STOP LIGHT, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WHILE THE CONTACT'S FOOT WAS DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT THE DIAGNOSTIC RESULTS WERE UNKNOWN. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Feb 05, 2015
WHILE BACKING UP (CAR IN REVERSE) AT ABOUT 5 MPH, ACCELERATION OCCURRED MAKING THE CAR GO BACKWARDS VERY FAST. PRESSING THE BRAKE PAD TO THE GROUND HAD NO AFFECT. THE CAR, REVERSING OUT OF CONTROL, SIDE-SWIPED ANOTHER VEHICLE AND A PIECE OF EQUIPMENT. CAR FINALLY BACKED UP INTO A HUGE FORKLIFT WHICH WENT THROUGH THE REAR WINDOW AND STOPPED THE CAR. LUCKILY NO ONE WAS HURT BUT THE SUBARU FORESTER WAS TOTALED. *TR
Nov 03, 2014
STRUCTURE
3 complaints
I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE FROM AN ESTATE AND HAD TO WAIT 3 MONTHS TO GET THE PROPER DOCUMENTATION FOR THE DMV. I PUT IT ON THE ROAD 1/31/19. I WENT THROUGH THE CAR TO VERIFY THE SPARE TIRE AND JACK WERE IN GOOD ORDER. THE SPARE TIRE WELL LOCATED IN THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE UNDER THE FLOOR MAT HAD 3 INCHES OF WATER IN IT. I REMOVED THE TIRE AND WET VACUUMED THEN DRIED OUT THE WELL. I NOTICED SOME RUST ON THE BOTTOM OF THE WELL AS WELL AS THE RIM OF THE SPARE LEADING ME TO THE CONCLUSION IT HAS BEEN A PERSISTENT PROBLEM. I GOOGLED IT TO FIND THAT MANY OWNERS OF THIS VEHICLE ARE HAVING THE SAME ISSUE WITH DETAILED NOTES OF TRYING TO FIGURE OUT THE ISSUE. WITH TODAY'S RAIN AS I DROVE TO WORK, I LOOKED IN THE WELL TO FIND ANOTHER INCH OF WATER IN IT.
Feb 07, 2019
INSIDE REAR VIEW MIRROR CAME LOOSE AND DANGLED FROM THE ELECTRIC CORD IN FRONT OF THE DRIVER'S VISION. THIS HAPPENED AFTER THE MIRROR WAS REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY.
Sep 12, 2016
ON JUNE 8 2015 I ATTENDED A MEETING. WHEN THE MEETING ENDED AT 8 PM, IT WAS RAINING HARD. I HURRIED TO THE CAR, OPENED THE DRIVER?S DOOR WITH MY LEFT HAND AND SMACKED THE CORNER OF THE DOOR INTO MY LEFT EYEBROW. THE BLEEDING WAS SUBSTANTIAL, DRIPPING LARGE DROPS ONTO THE GROUND AND ONTO MY DRESS. A STRANGER STOPPED, ADVISING ME TO KEEP CONTINUAL PRESSURE ON THE WOUND UNTIL IT STOPPED BLEEDING. EVENTUALLY IT DID SO AND I DROVE HOME ONE-HANDED WITH THE OTHER KEEPING PRESSURE ON MY FOREHEAD. SINCE THE BLEEDING HAD ENDED, A PRESSURE BANDAGE KEPT IT STOPPED FOR THE NIGHT. THE BLACK EYE HAS FADED. THERE IS NO PERMANENT DAMAGE EXCEPT FOR A 5/8" SCAR ACROSS MY EYEBROW AND A RUINED DRESS. INSPECTING THE DOOR THE NEXT MORNING, I REALIZED THE CORNER OF THE DOOR COMES TO AN ACUTE ANGLE. THE DOOR ITSELF IS WEATHERSTRIPPED AND HAS A RUBBER GASKET. BUT THE EXPOSED METAL CORNER OF THE DOOR HAS NO PROTECTION. IT IS TOTALLY EXPOSED! I HAVE THE MISFORTUNE OF BEING A 5?8? FEMALE WHOSE EYE HEIGHT MEETS THE CORNER OF THE DOOR. I ALSO HAVE THE MISFORTUNE OF BEING LEFT-HANDED SO I OPEN THE DOOR WITH MY PRIMARY HAND. (OPENING A DRIVER?S DOOR WITH THE RIGHT HAND OFFERS SOME PROTECTION BECAUSE OF THE LOCATION OF THE ARM.) SUBSEQUENT TO THIS EVENT, I WROTE SUBARU CORPORATE AS WELL AS THE LOCAL DEALER. THEIR REPLY THANKED ME FOR SUGGESTING A DESIGN CONCEPT (I THINK THAT WAS THE PHRASE). A 'GOODY BOX' FROM SUBARU ARRIVED SHORTLY THEREAFTER.
Jul 19, 2015
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
2 complaints
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that she noticed an abnormal odor coming from the exhaust. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the seals needed to be replaced. Additionally, the spark plug gaskets and gasket rocker needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the dealer removed the engine and replaced both cam carrier covers. The contact stated that she drove the vehicle for the next three years and experienced a recurrence of the odor from the exhaust. Additionally, the "check engine oil" warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the dealer who diagnosed the failure as a failed oil consumption test and recommended that all the seals be replaced yet again. The contact stated that the vehicle was not repaired but was pending repairs. The vehicle was driven back to her residence. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,400.
Feb 02, 2022
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE'S OIL CONSUMPTION WAS EXCESSIVE AND THAT THE ENGINE OIL WOULD BE DEPLETED MULTIPLE TIMES PER WEEK. THE FAILURE OCCURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE OIL CONSUMPTION WAS NORMAL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Feb 05, 2015
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
ON TWO OCCASIONS WHEN BRAKING TO A STOP THE ENGINE HAS SURGED ACCELERATING THE CAR AGAINST THE BRAKING. THIS SURGING HAS CAUSED THE CAR TO ALMOST HIT THE CAR IN FRONT AND ON THE OTHER OCCASION CAUSED THE CAR TO CHANGE PATH OF TRAVEL WHILE APPROACHING THE GARAGE.
Jan 06, 2021
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT NOTICED A STRONG FUEL ODOR INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO SIERRA SUBARU OF MONROVIA (735 E CENTRAL AVE, MONROVIA, CA 91016, (800)-351-3188) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL LINE WAS LEAKING FUEL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND OFFERED TO PAY $1,000 TOWARDS THE REPAIR COST SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 58,000.
Sep 05, 2018
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
2 complaints
OUR FORESTER HAS BEEN BURNING AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF OIL. THOUGHT IT WAS LEAKS AT FIRST AND HAVE SPENT ABOUT 2500 FIXING THOSE. KEEPS LOSING OIL SO MUST BE BURNING IT. TOOK AN OIL CONSUMPTION TEST AT DEALER WHICH LASTS 1200 MILES. FAILED BECAUSE IT DIDN'T MAKE IT 650 MILES BEFORE IT RAN OUT OF OIL. SUBARU DID NOTHING TO HELP WITH THIS PROBLEM. SOON AFTER IT IS NOW STARTING TO THROW CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS. TWICE NOW THE ENGINE HAS ALSO DIED WHILE I AM IN THE MIDDLE OF DRIVING. ONCE WAS ON THE HIGHWAY AND THE OTHER WAS LUCKILY BEFORE TURNING INTO A PARKING LOT
Mar 21, 2019
SENSOR LIGHT ISSUE. CHECK ENGINE, SKID CONTROL, CRUISE CONTROL WARNING LIGHTS REPEATEDLY COME ON. I HAVE REPAIRED IT 3 TIMES TO NO AVAIL. ON LINE THERE ARE 7 YEARS OF COMPLAINTS REGARDING THIS ISSUE. MY CRUISE CONTROL, SKID CONTROL ARE NON FUNCTIONING.
Jan 27, 2019
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
2 complaints
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V358000 (AIR BAGS) AND 12V099000 (SEAT BELTS). THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Sep 26, 2016
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V358000 (AIR BAGS) AND 12V099000 (SEAT BELTS). THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME FRAME TO SCHEDULE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER DID NOT GIVE A SPECIFIC DATE FOR WHEN THE PART WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER COULD NOT PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED DATE FOR WHEN THE VEHICLE WOULD RECEIVE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT WAS NOT EXPERIENCING A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Aug 02, 2016
SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
I have a single-owner 2011 automatic-transmission Subaru Forester [145k miles]. In a parking lot, I started the car as usual and shifted into reverse. I immediately noticed another car was approaching behind me and reflexively pushed on the brake to give the oncoming vehicle the right of way. As I pushed on the brake, the car suddenly and without warning surged backwards as the engine revved and "stuck" at a high rpm level. Surprised by the sudden loss of control and to stop the lunge backwards, I immediately released the brake pedal and shifted into neutral. I believe this reflexive action was solely attributable to my long history driving manual transmissions which "teaches" your brain that as an alternative to using the brake you can clutch [or if necessary "pop"] to neutral to disengage the engine from the wheels to control the vehicle. People without manual transmission experience would probably keep pressing the brake as their only option to regain control. The car stopped but the engine continued to rev at high rpms for a few moments then returned to normal rpms. No damages. This has never happened before and I was unable to duplicate the sequence of events which I tried to do immediately after the incident. I thought the gas pedal might be mechanically compromised ... for example by the floor mat ... but found no evidence of that. The incident remains a mystery mechanically, so all I can surmise is some electrical issue.
Nov 11, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
My car randomly turns off when reducing speed. It caused an accident a few days ago. I have had multiple mechanics try to figure out the problem but the only thing that comes up on the diagnostic tool is it needed 1 coil replaced. They have all been replaced and still won't go away. The Che k engine light is on. And the car uses about a quart or more of oil everytime I fill up but has no leaks. When I reduce speed the car in traffic, around corners or to stop it constantly turns itself off. Starting it it sometimes turns itself off if I don't give it some gas at the same time. It smells like burning oil constantly.
Oct 23, 2023
STEERING,ENGINE
1 complaint
I bought my vehicle new from Oakland Subaru. From the beginning I had to add about a quart of oil every month and a half to two months. I thought this was normal. When my vehicle had approximately 73,800miles, I went to Fremont Subaru for a regular motor oil change. I was asked about the oil consumption. After I reported how much oil I had been replacing on a regular basis, they asked me to return after 1,200 miles to see how much oil my car had consumed. They found out that my vehicle had oil leaks and the engine had to be replaced at 75,000 miles. Subaru paid for the service to be done. Today I took my vehicle to Fremont Subaru for a regular motor oil change which I usually do. My vehicle currently has 134,605 miles. The service representative, Devon Devlugt, informed me that my vehicle is unsafe to operate due to several oil leaks from the engine. The engine has less than 60,000 miles since it was replaced. This is the second time my vehicle becomes inoperable due to engine oil leaks. Fremont Subaru dealership will repair the engine for $4,687. Kelly Blue Book estimates my vehicle to be worth $4,700. Subaru must be held accountable for the vehicles they sell to consumers. My vehicle has had this problem since I bought it. There have been enough vehicles presenting this problem that Subaru paid for my vehicle’s engine to be replaced. Please hold Subaru responsible for engine failures/malfunctions.
Jun 20, 2023
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, she depressed the brake pedal however, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact stated that his wife used the parking brake to stop vehicle. The service brake warning light was illuminated prior to the failure. The contact then stated that upon inspecting under the hood of the vehicle, he noticed a brake fluid leak. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the brake line was rusted and needed to be replaced. The contact then stated that he was informed of Manufacturer Recall Number: WQK-47 and NHTSA Campaign Number 14V311000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was provided a case number. The failure mileage was approximately 108,000.
Jan 26, 2023
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
Thousands of Subarus are developing leaking cam carriers which can cause the vehicles to stall due to oil loss. There are online threads with many, many owners reporting their vehicles developed this problem - many with low mileage. My vehicle developed the problem with about 40,000 miles on the odometer. This vehicle should be recalled. Dealerships are making a fortune fixing these vehicles, often charging close to $3,000.
Mar 28, 2022
AIR BAGS,ENGINE
1 complaint
2011 SUBARU FORESTER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO SEVERAL RECALL NOTICES RECEIVED FOR VEHICLE. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME COMPLETING THE RECALL REPAIRS. *JS
Sep 16, 2020
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
WHEN MY HEAD LIGHTS GOT TURNED ON NONE OF MY TAILLIGHTS OR MY DASH LIGHTS CAME IN 1200 DOLLAR REPAIR. ALSO MY HEAD GASKET WENT WITH 1500 DOLLAR REPAIR WHICH SUBARU IN KNOWN FOR IF YOU DO YOUR RESEARCH. *TR
May 08, 2020
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SEATS
1 complaint
THIS IS AN OLDER CAR BUT STILL SERVICEABLE. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT COMES ON SOMETIMES ACCOMPANIED BY A SEATBELT WARMING, WHENEVER A PASSENGER IS SEATED AND THE CAR IS MOVING. ALSO A MESSAGE LIGHT INDICATES THE PASSENGER AIRBAG IS OFF. WE TOOK THE CAR TO A SUBARU DEALER TO SEE WHAT COULD BE DONE. THE ONLY REMEDY OFFERED WAS TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE SEAT AT A COST EXCEEDING $2000. NOT COST EFFECTIVE FOR WHAT AMOUNTS TO DEFECTIVE WEIGHT SENSORS. WE HAVE NOTED THAT NEWER SUBAR'S HAVE HAD THE SENSORS RECALLED. WE REQUEST THAT THE RECALL BE EXTENDED TO ALL AFFECTED SUBARU VEHICLES.
Jan 24, 2020
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 19V008000 (AIR BAGS) AND 14V830000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. JOHN HOWARD SUBARU (1730 MILEGROUND RD, MORGANTOWN, WV 26505, (866) 219-7316) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Feb 27, 2019
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
THE VEHICLE STALLS IN TRAFFIC AND AT A STOPS, PROBLEM BEGAN IN DECEMBER 2017 AND THE BATTERY WAS REPLACED IMMEDIATELY. IN JANUARY 2018 IT WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED SUBARU DEALER FOR REPAIRS. THE 60000 MILE SERVICE WAS PERFORMED, IT CONTINUED TO STALL AND WAS RETURNED TO THE DEALER. THE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS WERE REPLACED AND IT STALLED IN TRAFFIC WHEN IT WAS PICKED UP FROM THE DEALERSHIP, IT WAS RETURNED. THE WIRING HARNESS IS NOW BEING REPLACED. SUBARU FIELD TECHNICIANS AND DEALERSHIP TECHNICIANS HAVE TRIED TO DIAGNOSE THE ISSUE.
Mar 13, 2018
SEAT BELTS,ENGINE
1 complaint
AFTER 1 YR PURCHASING CAR NEW NOTICED HIGH OIL CONSUMPTION. I WAS TOLD NORMAL WEAR BY DEALER. NOW CATALYTIC CONVERTOR IS GONE DUE TO BURNING OIL. OVER $1500.00 TO BE REPLACED. I HAVE TO REPLACE THE RINGS SO I WON'T HAVE TO REPLACE THE CAT NEXT YEAR. I AM GOING THROUGH 2 + QTS. OF OIL PER 1000 MILES .
Feb 17, 2018
STRUCTURE,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE
1 complaint
WHEN I PARKING MY CAR INTO THE PARKING PLACE, THE CAR SUDDENLY GAVE A ROAR AND RUSHED INTO SOMEONE'S BACKYARD. ALTHOUGH I PUSHED THE BRAKE PEDAL AS DEEP AS POSSIBLE, THE CAR RUSHED AROUND 10 METERS(?) AND FULLY STOPPED AFTER THE CAR HIT THE RODS OF WOOD STAIRCASE(TWO OF THE RODS OF STAIRCASE WAS BOKEN BY MY CAR). AT THAT MOMENT I JUST WANT SHIFT THE CAR FROM "D" TO "R" (BUT NOT YET), THE UNINTENDED ACCELERATION HAPPENED TO THIS CAR. TIME: IT HAPPENED BETWEEN 2:30 TO 3:00 PM ON NOV 30, 2017. PLACE: RUSHED INTO THE BACKYARDS OF 8352 KAVANAGH RD, DUNDALK MD 21222, THIS BACKYARDS LOCATED ON SANDY PLAINS ROAD. CONSEQUENCE: 1. SCRATCHS TO FRONT BUMPER. 2. FRONT BUMPER BECAME LOOSE AFTER COLLISION HAPPENED TO THE ROD OF STAIRCASE. 3. I HAVE STIFF MUSCLES ON BOTH THIGHS FOR TWO DAYS AFTER THIS ACCIDENT.
Dec 05, 2017
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
1 complaint
MY WIFE AND I CURRENTLY OWN A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER WE PURCHASED NEW FROM HATFIELD SUBARU IN COLUMBUS, OHIO. WE HAVE ALWAYS HAD IT SERVICED AT BYERS DUBLIN SUBARU IN COLUMBUS OHIO. AT THE 25,000 MILE MARK BOTH HEAD GASKETS WERE LEAKING SO THE MECHANICS AT BYERS PULLED THE MOTOR AND REPLACED THEM. JUST RECENTLY AT THE 33,000 MILE MARK I BROUGHT IN MY VEHICLE TO BYERS FOR MY 30,000 MAINTENANCE CHECK ALSO COMPLAINING OF A STRANGE NOISE. THEY INFORMED ME THE HEAD GASKET WAS LEAKING AGAIN AND THE NOISE WE HEARD WAS THE TRANSMISSION RUNNING LOW ON FLUID. THEY AGAIN PULLED THE MOTOR AND MADE REPAIRS, HOWEVER, WHEN PLACING THE MOTOR BACK IN THE CAR A STRANGE NOISE DEVELOPED IN THE ENGINE, THEY AGAIN PULLED THE MOTOR ADJUSTING THE TENSIONING ON THE TIMING CHAIN YET THE NOISE WAS STILL PRESENT. THEY THEN CONTACTED SUBARU TECHNICAL SUPPORT ASKING FOR ASSISTANCE. THEY ARE CURRENTLY PULLING THE MOTOR FOR THE FOURTH TIME WITH THE INTENTION ON REPLACING THE CYLINDER HEADS AND CAM SHAFT. UP UNTIL NOW I HAVE BEEN IN CONTACT WITH BOTH DEALERSHIPS EXPRESSING MY CONCERNS. I HAVE ALSO SPOKEN WITH CUSTOMER SERVICE, A SUPERVISOR, AND A MANAGER AT SUBARU OF AMERICA. THE MANAGER AT SUBARU HEADQUARTERS SAID THEY COULD ONLY OFFER ME 2500.00 TOWARDS THE PURCHASE OF A NEW VEHICLE THE MANAGER AT HATFIELD WHERE I PURCHASED MY VEHICLE FROM PASSED ME OFF TO A SALES ASSOCIATE WHO ONLY WANTED TO SELL ME A NEW SUBARU AT FULL PRICE TO MEET HIS END OF THE MONTH FEBRUARY SALES QUOTA. THE MANAGER AT BYERS WHERE MY CAR IS BEING SERVICED HAS BEEN LESS THEN FORTH COMING AS TO THE TRUE STATUS OF MY VEHICLE AND I HAVE NOT HEARD FROM HIM AS TO THE STATUS OF MY VEHICLE AS PROMISED IN THE LAST FOUR BUSINESS DAYS. WHAT CONCERNS ME THE MOST IS MY WIFE AND I NOW OWN A SUBARU WITH A LONG LIST OF ENGINE PROBLEMS SO EARLY IN ITS LIFE AND A TRANSMISSION WHICH HAS BEEN EX
Mar 09, 2017
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
WHEN THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT (CEL) IS ACTIVATED BY AN EMISSION CONTROL FAILURE SUBARU HAS PROGRAMMED A SHUT DOWN OF THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (AS WELL AS SHUT DOWN OF CRUISE CONTROL). THIS ABS SHUT DOWN COULD OCCUR FOR A SIMPLE LOOSE GAS CAP WHICH IS COMMON CAUSE OF CEL FAILURE. THE SECTION 3-16 ON CEL WARNING LIGHT/MALFUNCTION INDICATOR DOES NOT INFORM THE OWNER THAT A CEL EVENT WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY THE DISABLING OF THE ABS. THE DRIVER FINDS THIS OUT ONLY BECAUSE THE CEL IS ACCOMPANIED BY BLINKING CRUISE LIGHT AND STEADILY ILLUMINATED ABS LIGHT. PER OWNER MANUAL SECTION 7-23 FOR 2011 FORESTER WHEN THE ABS IS DISABLED THE CAR/DRIVER/PASSENGERS ARE A RISK OF LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND DIRECTIONAL STABILITY. THREE CEL EVENTS OCCURRED FROM JUNE 2013 TO DECEMBER 2014 FOR SAME PROBLEM BECAUSE THERMOSTAT WAS NOT TO BE REPLACED PER SERVICE BULLETIN 09-56-13/10/21/13 UNTIL ECM RE-PROGRAMMING OCCURRED. THEREFORE I WAS FORCED TO DRIVE WITHOUT ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM 3 TIMES 6/13; 8/14 AND 12/14 UNTIL REPAIRS COULD BE SCHEDULED. I AM REQUESTING THAT SUBARU NOT BE ALLOWED TO DISABLE THE ABS FOR CEL/EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM PROBLEMS. THIS IS BECAUSE I HAVE HAD MULTIPLE UNPREDICTABLE CEL EVENTS SOME DURING WEATHER CONDITIONS FOR WHICH ABS FUNCTION WAS CRITICAL. THE THERMOSTAT AND GASKET ASSEMBLY WEE REPLACED.
Dec 14, 2014
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
PASSENGER LOW BEAM LIGHT CONTINUES TO BURN OUT. *TR
Nov 02, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
MY CAR WAS STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT BEHIND AT LEAST 2 OTHER CARS AT AROUND 4:45 P.M. ON 9-8-14. MY ENGINE SUDDENLY STARTED RACING AND PULLING MY CAR TOWARD THE CAR SITTING IN FRONT OF MINE. I ALREADY HAD MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE BECAUSE I WAS STOPPED. I PRESSED EVEN HARDER ON THE BRAKE AS THE CAR TOOK OFF OUT OF MY CONTROL. THE BRAKES STOPPED WORKING AND MY CAR CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF MINE. *TR
Sep 09, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING DOWN TO QUEENS TO SEE MY WIFE'S FAMILY AND AS SOON AS I PASSED A TRUCK I HEARD SOMETHING HIT MY CAR. AS SOON AS I GOT INTO LONG ISLAND, I HEARD THE ENGINE REVVING AS IF IT WERE A DIESEL ENGINE. I STOPPED AT A SHOP AND THEY LISTENED TO IT AND SAID THAT IT IS AN INTERNAL ISSUE IN THE ENGINE AND NOT TO DRIVE IT. THEY HELPED ME OUT BY FINDING THE CLOSEST DEALERSHIP AND THEY CALLED. THE GUY FROM THE SHOP CALLED SUBARU AND THEY TOLD HIM TO CALL THE TOW TRUCK TO GET THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THEIR SHOP. THAT WAS MESSED UP, HAVE A NON PARTY CALL FOR A TOW?? THEN THE GUY TAKING MY ORDER, DIDN'T GIVE ME A RECEIPT NOR MY COPIES OF THE SERVICES FROM THE PAST. I HAVE EXTENDED WARRANTY WHICH I AM ENTITLED TO A RENTAL CAR BUT WAS STUCK WITHOUT A VEHICLE AND NEEDED A VEHICLE TO GET BACK TO WORK WHICH I LIVE 3-1/2 HOURS AWAY FROM THE SHOP AND NOW I AM STUCK PAYING FOR TOLLS AND HAVE A HOLD ON MY CREDIT CARD BECAUSE OF SUBARU. ON FRIDAY I WAS TOLD THAT THEY WOULD CALL, I HAD TO CALL BECAUSE THEY NEVER CALLED ME BACK. THEN THEY TELL ME THAT IT IS THE ENGINE AND THEY HAVE TO DROP THE OIL PAN ON MONDAY. THE WORST THING IS THAT I HAD REPORTED ENGINE PROBLEMS AT 47,000 MILES WHICH I HAVE IT DOCUMENTED FROM THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY SAID THAT IT WAS NOTHING.... JUST LIKE ALL OF THE ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS I HAD WITH MY WINDOW IN THE PAST... AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMING ON IN THE PAST.... NOW AFTER THIS MAJOR ISSUE THEY WANT MORE PAPERWORK... THIS IS JUST MESSED UP. *TR
Aug 17, 2014
SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
EVERY TIME I GET MY OIL CHANGED THE DEALER INFORMS ME I AM DOWN A QUART OF OIL WHICH THEY SAY IS NORMAL. I HAVE OWNED 20 CARS AND THIS HAS NEVER HAPPENED BEFORE AND I THINK I AM GETTING THE RUN-AROUND. CAN YOU HELP? *TR
Jun 27, 2014
STRUCTURE,ENGINE
1 complaint
CAR WAS BROUGHT TO DEALERSHIP ON JUNE 3RD FOR KNOCKING SOUND,I WAS TOLD IT NEEDED A NEW ENGINE WHICH WAS REPLACED, CAR PICKED UP JUNE 10 AFTER REPAIR WAS COMPLETED. WHILE DRIVING ON JUNE 10TH IN THE EVENING, THE CAR BEGAN TO BUCK AND KICK AND NOT RESPOND TO PUSHING ON GAS PEDAL, AT ONE POINT STARTED TO ACCELERATE AND THEN SLOWED DOWN, PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND NOTED THAT BLACK SMOKE AND FLAMES WERE SEEN COMING OUT FROM HOOD. CAR BURNED SIGNIFICANTLY WHILE FIREFIGHTERS TRIED TO PUT IT OUT. *TR
Jun 19, 2014
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
BRAKE SWITCH WENT BAD. NO TAIL LIGHTS, BRAKE LIGHTS, OR 4 WAYS. DURING A 300 MILE TRIP, PART OF WHICH WAS IN THE DARK. WAS STOPPED BY STATE POLICE AND TOWED TO DEALERSHIP (TOYOTA OF SCRANTON) WHERE I PURCHASED THE CAR. *TR
Mar 10, 2014
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
MY HUSBAND PURCHASED A NEW SUBARU FORESTER IN MAY OF 2011 FOR ME WITH AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR 7 YEARS. IT WAS A BIG INVESTMENT FOR US AND I HAD HOPED TO DRIVE MY NEW SUBARU FORESTER 2011 FOR SEVERAL YEARS DOWN THE ROAD. SHORTLY AFTER PURCHASING IT, I NOTICED THE BRAKES TO BE DEFECTIVE AND WOULD NOT STOP THE VEHICLE IN A TIMELY FASHION OR QUICKLY ENOUGH. I TOLD MY HUSBAND ALL THE TIME, WHO ALSO HAPPENS TO DRIVE MY CAR, ALSO COMPLAINED ABOUT ITS BRAKES. I HAD MY VEHICLE REGULARLY SERVICED AS PER THE COMPANIES WARRANTY REQUIREMENTS AND AT ONLY AUTHORIZED SUBARU SERVICE & DEALERSHIP CENTERS. I RECENTLY TOLD THE SERVICE DEPT AT MY 30,000 MILE SERVICING ABOUT THE BRAKES ISSUES I HAD AGAIN, TO THEIR ATTENTION BUT THEY SAID THAT- 'THAT WAS THE WAY THE FORESTER'S BRAKES WERE AND THAT I HAD TO PUSH THE PEDAL HARD TO THE FLOOR(PUMP THE BRAKES) TO STOP IT QUICKLY ENOUGH" AND MY BRAKES WERE FINE ACCORDING 30,000 MILE SERVICING, AND I WAS DISAPPOINTED WITH THEIR RESPONSE I WAS DRIVING ON A LOCAL ROAD 25 MPH WHEN ANOTHER VEHICLE SUDDENLY APPEARED IN FRONT OF ME TO STOP TO MAKE A LEFT TURN. I PUSHED THE BRAKES BUT MY VEHICLE JUST WOULD NOT STOP QUICKLY ENOUGH. I WAS INVOLVED IN A ACCIDENT HITTING THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. TO DISCOVER THAT MY FRONT BUMPER NOW HAD A HUGE CRACK IN IT. I DO NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING A VEHICLE WHOSE BRAKES ARE SO BAD THAT IT WILL NOT STOP THE VEHICLE QUICKLY ENOUGH AND NEEDS TO BE PUMPED TO STOP IT SOONER(WHICH MAY NOT BE POSSIBLE IN MANY CIRCUMSTANCES SUCH AS THE ONE ABOVE) , .AFTER THE CAR CAME OUT FROM THE BODY SHOP I HAD A RECENT OCCURENCE BUT THIS TIME IT WAS A RAINY DAY I STARTED TO SLOW DOWN PRESSING THE BRAKE TO TURN TO MY ROAD WHICH I HAD THE SAME ISSUE, INSTEAD OF STOPPING OR SLOWING DOWN THE BRAKES ARE ACCELERATING. PLEASE INVESTIGATE THE BRAKES AT THE VERY LEAST TO PREVENT FUTURE ACCIDENTS. I AM DETERMINED TO TRADE IN MY VEHICLE FOR SAFE CAR.
Feb 27, 2014
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
1 complaint
I PULLED INTO A PARKING SPACE, APPLIED MY BRAKES AND WAS ABOUT TO PUT MY 2011 SUBARU FORESTER INTO PARK WHEN IT SUDDENLY ACCELERATED FORWARD AND DROVE INTO A STORE FRONT. THE CAR TRAVELED APPROXIMATELY 20 FEET BEFORE HITTING THE WALL AND PLATE GLASS WINDOW. MY DRIVER'S SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED. THE CAR WAS TOTALED. *TR
Feb 17, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
PULLED INTO A PARKING SPACE AT A LOCAL TRAIN STATION. CAR WAS STOPPED AND SHUT OFF. NOT SURE IF KEYS WERE IN IGNITION OR NOT. WHEN REACHING OVER TO GET HANDBAG AND TOTE I HEARD THE ENGINE REV UP VERY SUDDENLY AND LOUDLY, CAR JUMPED 6" CURB AND PROPELLED FORWARD ABOUT TWO FEET WHEN RIGHT FRONT BUMPER HIT TREE AND CAR STOPPED. AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND I WAS NOT INJURED. BEFORE I EVEN KNEW ABOUT THIS WEBSITE I TOLD THE ADJUSTER AND THE DEALERSHIP THAT THE CAR TOOK OFF ON ITS OWN. THE ONLY REACTION I GOT WAS STRANGE LOOKS. TOLD BY BODY SHOP THAT CAR WAS "TOTALLY FIXABLE" WITHIN TWO WEEKS. $7,000 IN BODY WORK 3 WEEKS LATER WAS TOLD ENGINE WAS "RUNNING ROUGH" AND IT WAS SENT TO SUBARU DEALER WHERE PURCHASED. TOLD THAT ENGINE HAD TO BE REBUILT - MACHINING HEAD; VALVE REPLACEMENT; NEW GASKETS ETC. FIVE WEEKS LATER SUBARU STILL HAS MY CAR. ABOUT 3 WEEKS AGO PRIOR TO KNOWING ABOUT THIS WEBSITE AND SEEING HOW MANY OTHER PEOPLE HAVE REPORTED THIS PROBLEM I ORDERED A NEW SUBARU USING THIS ONE AS A TRADE IN. SUBARU WON'T GIVE ME A TRADE IN VALUE UNTIL CAR IS FIXED AND THEY HAVE HAD THE CAR FIVE WEEKS AND STILL HAVEN'T FIXED IT. I LIVE IN THE SUBURBS AM 62 YEARS OLD AND I'VE BEEN TAKING TRAINS, BUSES, MY BIKE AND WALKING TO GET TO WORK AND TO DO EVERYDAY ERRANDS. NO OFFER OF A LOANER FROM SUBARU ALTHOUGH I'VE ASKED TWICE. CONTACTED CORPORATE SUBARU AND REPORTED WHAT I READ ON THIS WEBSITE AND MY OWN EXPERIENCE AND WAS TOLD THAT IT WOULD BE HARD TO PROVE. LAST WEEK CORPORATE SAID THEY WOULD TRY TO OFFER ASSISTANCE WITH THE PURCHASE OF THE NEW CAR IN THE WAY OF LOYALTY INCENTIVE. AS OF TODAY I HAVE NO CAR, NO IDEA WHEN OR IF THE OLD ONE WILL BE FIXED, HOW MUCH IT WILL BE WORTH AS A TRADE IN, A NEW CAR THAT I CAN'T HAVE AND THAT HAS NO DEFINITIVE PRICE, AND A LOT OF TALK BUT NO ACTION FROM THE DEALERSHIP AND CORPORATE SUBARU. *TR
Jul 09, 2013
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
PULLING OUT OF A PARKING SPACE AT THE CVS DRUG STORE, PINE ISLAND RD AND DEL PRADO BLVD IN CAPE CORAL FL., PUT THE CAR INTO DRIVE AND THE CAR ACCELERATED ON ITS ON ACROSS THE PARKING LOT, HITTING A PARKED CAR HEAD ON. MY AIR BAG DEPLOYED AND MY CAR HIT THE PARKED CAR SO HARD IT DROVE IT OVER A CONCRETE BARRIER OUT OF THE LOT. THE DAMAGE TO MY CAR ALONE WAS $10,000. THE OTHER CAR WAS DESTROYED. I HAVE HAD SUBARU CARS FOR 33 YEARS. THIS FORESTER WAS MY 8TH SUBARU. WHEN THE CAR ACCELERATED, I WAS THROWN BACK, MY FOOT WAS NOT ON THE BRAKE OR GAS PEDAL. THE CAR KEPT RUNNING AFTER THE ACCIDENT UNTIL I TURNED IT OFF. STATE FARM INSURANCE SENT A SAFETY DIRECTOR OVER TO CHECK THE CAR (AFTER IT WAS FIXED), THE BODY SHOP ALSO HAD AN INSPECTOR CHECK THE CODES ON THE COMPUTER. I GOT RID OF THE CAR EVEN THOUGH IT HAD IT HAVE 11 MONTHS ON THE LEASE BECAUSE I DID NOT TRUST IT. *TR
Feb 07, 2013
SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
I HAD PURCHASED A NEW SUBARU FORESTER IN AUGUST OF 2011 WITH AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR 7 YEARS. IT WAS A BIG INVESTMENT FOR ME AND I HAD HOPED TO DRIVE MY NEW SUBARU FORESTER 2011 FOR SEVERAL YEARS DOWN THE ROAD. SHORTLY AFTER PURCHASING IT, I NOTICED THE BRAKES TO BE DEFECTIVE AND WOULD NOT STOP THE VEHICLE IN A TIMELY FASHION OR QUICKLY ENOUGH. MY WIFE, WHO ALSO HAPPENS TO DRIVE MY CAR, ALSO COMPLAINED ABOUT ITS BRAKES. I HAD MY VEHICLE REGULARLY SERVICED AS PER THE COMPANIES WARRANTY REQUIREMENTS AND AT ONLY AUTHORIZED SUBARU SERVICE & DEALERSHIP CENTERS. I BROUGHT THE DEFECTIVE BRAKES TO THEIR ATTENTION BUT THEY SAID THAT- 'THAT WAS THE WAY THE FORESTER'S BRAKES WERE AND THAT I HAD TO PUSH THE PEDAL HARD TO THE FLOOR(PUMP THE BRAKES) TO STOP IT QUICKLY ENOUGH.' I WAS GREATLY DISAPPOINTED WITH THEIR RESPONSE TO MY CONCERNS AND AS A PRECAUTION I BEGAN TO KEEP AN EVEN GREATER DISTANCE FROM ALL OF THE CARS IN FRONT OF ME. RECENTLY, I WAS ENTERING A PARKING LOT AT ABOUT 10-15MPH WHEN ANOTHER VEHICLE SUDDENLY APPEARED IN FRONT OF ME. I PUSHED THE BRAKES BUT MY VEHICLE JUST WOULD NOT STOP QUICKLY ENOUGH. IF I WOULD LET GO OF THE BRAKE AND THEN PUSH IT AGAIN HARDER AND FASTER TO THE FLOOR( PUMP THE BRAKE) AS THE SERVICE CENTRE HAD PREVIOUSLY ADVISED ME THEN I WOULD HAVE HIT THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. SO I SWAYED MY CARS STEERING WHEEL AND AVOIDED MEETING WITH AN ACCIDENT BUT MY VEHICLE ONLY STOPPED WHEN IT TOUCHED THE RAILING AT ABOUT 5MPH ONLY TO DISCOVER THAT MY FRONT BUMPER NOW HAD A HUGE CRACK IN IT. I DO NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING A VEHICLE WHOSE BRAKES ARE SO BAD THAT IT WILL NOT STOP THE VEHICLE QUICKLY ENOUGH AND NEEDS TO BE PUMPED TO STOP IT SOONER(WHICH MAY NOT BE POSSIBLE IN MANY CIRCUMSTANCES SUCH AS THE ONE ABOVE) , HAS DEFECTIVE BUMPERS AND ALSO HAS A REAR CENTER CHILD SAFETY SEAT SEATBELT WITH A RECALL ON IT .PLEASE INVESTIGATE THE BRAKES AT THE VERY LEAST. *TR
Jan 26, 2013
SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
MY VEHICLE WAS RECALLED AND THE REAR SEATBELTS WERE REPLACED ON 1/5/2013. HOWEVER, THE NEW SEATBELT LATCHES ARE TOO FLUSH TO THE SEAT AND ARE DIFFICULT TO BUCKLE/UNBUCKLE. ADDITIONALLY, THE NEW MIDDLE SEATBELT LATCH AND STRAP INTERFERS AND BLOCKS BUCKLING THE SIDE SEATBELTS. *TR
Jan 09, 2013
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,CHILD SEAT
1 complaint
LATCH SYSTEM IN A 2.5X BASE MODEL IS INAPPROPRIATELY PLACED FOR AT LEAST TWO DIFFERENT COMMON CAR SEAT BASES. UNABLE TO USE LOWER LATCH ANCHORS WITH A GRACO SNUGRIDE 30 OR 35 BASE. IN ADDITION, THE SUBARU FORESTER DOG GUARD ACCESSORY WHICH INSTALLS BETWEEN THE CARGO AREA AND THE REAR SEAT INAPPROPRIATELY USES BOTH OUTSIDE UPPER LATCH ANCHORS. *JS
Apr 18, 2012
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
I AM BEING TOLD BY THE MANUFACTURER THAT THE ENGINE FAILED DUE TO LACK OF OIL CHANGES. I CHANGED THE OIL ON 7/6/11 AT 10,639 MILES. THE ENGINE THEN FAILED AT 22241 ON 2/1/12. THE ENGINE HOLDS 5.5 QUARTS OF OIL BUT PER THE MANUFACTURER HAD NONE IN IT AT THE ENGINE FAILURE. HOW DOES A NEW VEHICLE BURN 5.5 QUARTS OF OIL IN 11602 MILES? THERE WAS ALSO NO WARNING LIGHT OF ANY KIND TO TELL ME THAT THE ENGINE OIL WAS LOW. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE OIL LEVEL HAD TO BE LOWER THAN 2 P.S.I FOR THE LIGHT TO GO OFF AND WARN ME AND AT THAT POINT THE ENGINE WOULD ALREADY BE DAMAGED. I GOT NO ADVANCE WARNING THAT THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH MY ENGINE OR THE OIL LEVEL. THE ENGINE SIMPLY STOPPED WORKING. I AM BEING TOLD THAT I HAVE TO FOOT THE BILL IN EXCESS OF $9500.00 FOR A NEW ENGINE. HOW CAN A MANUFACTURER HAVE AN ENGINE THAT DOES NOT WARN THE CONSUMER THAT THERE MAY BE A PROBLEM? I AM VERY PUZZLED BY THIS AND THE FACT THE SUBARU DEALERSHIP WHO SAID THE WARRANTY WAS VOIDED IS THE SAME DEALERSHIP CHARGING ME EXORBITANT RATES FOR A NEW MOTOR? PLEASE HELP OR GIVE ME A SUGGESTION. *TR
Mar 06, 2012
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE APPLIED THE BRAKES AT 20 MPH AND THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED AN INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STOPPED APPROXIMATELY FIVE FEET BEYOND WHERE SHE INTENDED TO STOP. THE FAILURE RECURRED APPROXIMATELY TWO MONTHS LATER WHILE DRIVING AT A LOW SPEED. DURING THE SECOND FAILURE, THERE WAS AN INCREASE IN THE ENGINE RPMS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER AND THEY WERE UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 300 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 2,500. THE CONSUMER STATED THE VIN WE HAVE IS INCORRECT. HOWEVER, SHE SUPPLIED THE CORRECT VIN TWICE, BUT IN ONCE CASE, THERE ARE TOO MANY NUMBERS AND THE SECOND CASE, THERE ARE NOT ENOUGH NUMBERS. UPDATED 02/06/12
Nov 22, 2011
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
ON 5/24/11, WHILE DRIVING THROUGH AN INTERSECTION, MY FORESTER WAS HIT BROADSIDE BY ANOTHER VEHICLE THAT RAN A RED LIGHT. THE IMPACT OF THE SPEEDING VEHICLE CAUSED THE FORESTER TO SPIN 360 DEGREES AND FLIP-OVER ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE. I WAS LEFT TRAPPED INSIDE THE FORESTER AND WITNESSES POINTED OUT THAT THE ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION CONTINUED TO RUN AFTER THE FORESTER FLIPPED OVER. APPARENTLY THERE IS NO ENGINE OR TRANSMISSION KILL SWITCH. FURTHERMORE, THERE IS NO INTERIOR RELEASE OF THE REAR HATCH. AS A RESULT I REMAINED TRAPPED INSIDE THE VEHICLE AND CONCERNED ABOUT A GASOLINE LEAK AND POSSIBLE EXPLOSION. I WAS EVENTUALLY REMOVED FROM THE VEHICLE BY EMTS AND BROUGHT TO THE HOSPITAL. MY CONCERN IS THAT IF SIMILAR ACCIDENT OCCURRED IN A REMOTE AREA OR IF THE DRIVER WAS MORE SERIOUSLY INJURED, MORE SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES COULD HAVE RESULTED. *TR
Oct 15, 2011
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 complaint
2011 SUBARU FORESTER. CONSUMER STATES FUEL FILLER NECK IS RUSTED AND THERE IS NO FLAPPER ON TOP OF THE NECK *TGW THE CONSUMER RETURNED THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER TO HAVE THE FUEL FILLER NECK REPLACED. IT WAS SOON DISCOVERED, THE REPLACEMENT NECK HAD THE SAME DEFECT AS THE OLD ONE. THE CONSUMER REPORTED THE DEFECT TO SUBARU AND THE REPRESENTATIVES INFORMED THE CONSUMER THE DISCLORATION ON THE NECK WAS NOT RUST AND THEY HAD NO IDEA WHY IT WAS DESIGNED THAT WAY. SUBARU REFUSED TO OFFER ANY KIND OF FULL EXTENDED WARRANTY BECAUSE THAT WAS THE DESIGN FOR THE 2011 MODELS. *JB
Sep 20, 2011
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AFTER DRIVING THE CAR ABOUT 472 MILES. CALLED DEALER REPAIR, WHICH INSTATED THAT IT WAS JUST THE GAS CAP LOOSE, WHICH HE HAD US REMOVE AND RETIGHTEN. WE WERE ADVISED TO KEEP DRIVING IT AND THAT THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WOULD EVENTUALLY GO OUT. WE DROVE IT FOR A FEW MORE DAYS AND THEN HAD TWO DIFFERENT LOCAL MECHANICS SHOPS CHECK THE CODE ON THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. BOTH SAID THAT THE ENGINE WAS MISFIRING, EITHER RANDOM MISFIRE, OR MISFIRE ON CYLINDERS 3 AND 4. WE CALLED THE DEALER AGAIN, WHO SAID THAT THE MECHANICS DIDN'T KNOW WHAT THEY WERE DOING AND WERE WRONG, BUT THAT WE SHOULD BRING THE CAR IN NEXT WEEK. WE BROUGHT THE CAR IN ON 8/30/11, WITH ABOUT 872 MILES NOW ON IT AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STILL ON. THE DEALER CHECKED THE CAR AND SAID THE SOME CAM SHAFT ADJUSTERS WERE NOT SET PROPERLY AT THE FACTORY AND THAT THEY WOULD HAVE TO ADD A SHIM KIT TO CORRECT THIS! (ON A NEW CAR!) THE NEXT DAY, CAR STILL DIDN'T WORK, THEY HAD TO CALLED SUBARU MANUFACTURER AND TRIED AT LEAST 5 OTHER PROCEDURES AND CAR STILL DOESN'T WORK. THE CAR IS DEFECTIVE AND SHOULD NOT HAVE BEEN SOLD AS A NEW CAR. THEY HAVE HAD THE COVER OVER 10 DAYS NOW AND STILL NOT FIXED. WE JUST WANT A NEW CAR, AND GET OUT OF THAT ONE. PLEASE HELP. *TR
Sep 08, 2011
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2011 SUBARU Forester have?
The 2011 SUBARU Forester currently has 147 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 2011 SUBARU Forester?
The most common problems reported for the 2011 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 2011 SUBARU Forester problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2011 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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