2025 SUBARU Forester Problems

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Premium Report

Complaints Reported

Complaints by Component

VISIBILITY/WIPER

9 complaints

On March 12, 2026, my 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid, owned for less than 1 month at the time and purchased on 2/14/2026, sustained a star chip to the windshield during normal driving conditions. While the physical damage itself was minor, the vehicle is equipped with Subaru EyeSight, a camera-based advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) that relies on precise optical clarity through the windshield. I'm now required to have the windshield replaced, because the manufacturer and dealer requires it. According to both Subaru and the vehicle’s owner’s manual (page 15), windshield replacement must be performed using OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) glass to ensure proper calibration and safe operation of the EyeSight system. My insurance provider is attempting to authorize the use of aftermarket (non-OEM) windshield glass despite this. This presents a serious safety concern. The EyeSight system controls or assists with critical safety functions including pre-collision braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane keep assist. Aftermarket glass can introduce optical distortion or variation that can interfere with camera calibration and system performance. Using non-OEM glass in a vehicle designed around camera-based safety systems creates a risk that these features may not function as intended, potentially increasing the likelihood of a crash. This directly impacts federally recognized vehicle safety systems. There appears to be a gap between manufacturer safety requirements and insurance replacement practices. Consumers are being placed in a position where cost-saving measures may override safety-critical specifications. I'm requesting that NHTSA open a formal safety investigation into the use of non-OEM (aftermarket) windshields in vehicles equipped with camera-based ADAS systems. I further request that NHTSA establish clear regulatory guidance or requirements ensuring that windshield replacements follow manufacturer specifications, including the use of OEM glass.

Mar 20, 2026

Windshield crack started under windshield wiper and then within 12 hours spread from center of car to the passenger side. Took it to dealer then said there was an impact spot under the wipers. Based on other automobiles I have owned this should not have happened.

Feb 12, 2026

since new, driver side mirror becomes jiggly at hwy speeds, cannot focus on detail. Hard to focus on cars zooming up from behind

Sep 20, 2025

A minor rock chip 4 weeks ago resulted in a cracked windshield with spider legs extending from the center point. My insurance carrier (USAA), two glass shops, and the Subaru service center said I should replace the windshield because the crack could extend at any moment without notice. They advised that this could compromise our safety due to obscured vision and the EyeSight system malfunctioning. Subaru parts, and the Subaru Customer Advocate departments, however advise that this part is back-ordered and there is no firm date when it will be available. It could be 6-8 weeks, or an undetermined time frame. I know that windshields are in fact available for I confirmed with Subaru dealers that this model Forester is continued to be produced on the assembly line in Gunma, Japan. All of the new vehicles have of course a windshield. The Subaru Customer Advocate department has refused to find out how to get a windshield shipped from the assembly plant to my dealer. This puts my wife and myself in continuous potential danger should the crack expand/shatter at any time.

Aug 25, 2025

Driver side door rear view mirror vibrates at highway speeds (55mph and above) rendering it unusable due to distortion. This is especially dangerous at nighttime with headlights. Dealership is aware, has heard of it from multiple customers, but states no fix available from Subaru of America.

May 25, 2025

+ 4 more complaints for this component

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

8 complaints

Vehicle: Subaru Forester 2025. Date: Saturday, March 28, 2026, between 1530 and 1630. Situation: I just completed a 3-hour drive from [XXX] , to [XXX] , arriving around 1440. There was no warning. The rear windshield spontaneously shattered while parked in a suburban neighborhood. The glass was on the street and on the car's bumper, and it had sharp edges. The neighborhood consists of families with children playing. It could have hit a child or an adult, or if they walked with no shoes or socks. I took pictures of the initial damage and of the glass after cleaning. I emailed my insurance agent. On Sunday, March 29, 2026, at 0900, I made a claim (XXX) with my insurance company. I will be going to my Subaru dealership in [XXX] , on Monday, March 30, 2026. I visited the Rivertown 1 Subaru Dealership/service center in [XXX] , on Monday, March 30, 2026, and informed them of the situation. They said that it never occurred with their cars. But there was a class-action settlement, Case No. XXX, with final approval on April 21, 2025. Plus, the service center stated that they do not work with glass. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Mar 31, 2026

While driving (vehicle NOT parked), a message advertising popped up on the in-dash display, blocking other information and not dismissible - making it impossible to use the screen. This distracted me from driving.

Jan 06, 2026

SiriusXM add takes over the infotainment screen while the car is in drive and actively being driven. This blocks GPS, temperature control, car information, radio controls, everything on the main screen. You have to physically tap a button to get it to close taking attention off the road. There are no settings on the car to stop this from happening.

Jan 03, 2026

This is the SECOND time in less than 9 weeks that my rear window (hatch) has shattered for no reason. The first time it was when I closed the hatch and this time it was when I shut the driver side door. Both times my car was in my garage and not running. I assume that all my windows were closed, I know they were this time. This would appear to be some defect. I have NEVER had such a thing happen, needless to say TWICE.

Dec 15, 2025

Sirius XM popping up ads in the interior screen while driving is dangerous and ridiculous

Nov 30, 2025

+ 3 more complaints for this component

VISIBILITY

7 complaints

The contact owns a 2025 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that upon inspection, it was discovered that there were several dings and cracks on the front windshield of the vehicle. The contact stated that no objects had struck the windshield, and that the vehicle was mostly parked inside the garage. The cause of the failure was not yet determined, and the vehicle was not yet repaired. The local dealer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 4,000.

Sep 12, 2025

The contact owns a 2025 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30 MPH, the driver's side mirror vibrated abnormally. The failure caused the reflection in the mirror to become distorted. The contact stated that while driving faster than 40 MPH, the vibration of the mirror increased. The contact stated that the Blind Spot warning operated as needed; however, the distortion of the mirror caused visual eye strain while looking into the mirror. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer three times, and the mirror was replaced on the first visit. The vehicle was repaired; however, the vibration reoccurred and was more pronounced. The contact stated that after the last visit to the dealer, a technician wedged two pieces of rubber into the mirror. The vehicle was not repaired, and the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and advised the contact that there would be no further action taken. The failure mileage was approximately 4,000.

Aug 20, 2025

Driver side mirror and rearview mirror vibrate, visibility affected - especially at night with vibrating headlights. Confirmed by dealer. Rearview mirror replaced and continues with same vibration issue (actually a little more vibration). Driver side mirror continues to be on back order. No warning lights or such - driver notices issue.

Jul 08, 2025

The contact owns a 2025 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that when the vehicle was turned off, the contact closed the front passenger’s door and the liftgate window exploded. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 5,700.

May 14, 2025

Driver side exterior rear view mirror shakes/vibrates at highway speeds (65mph or higher) making it difficult to safely change lanes/view following traffic. The dealership inspected this and was able to replicate the issue, but said there is nothing they can be done / they’ve seen it before / it’s just how it is - “not that bad”. This is a dangerous defect and it needs to be fixed. It is especially a problem at nighttime.

Jan 27, 2025

+ 2 more complaints for this component

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

6 complaints

Significant issues with adaptive headlights having a large shadow in middle of beam as well as two smaller dark shadows at end of beam that are very distracting. It also dims very low at times severely reducing my visibility especially at different grades of the road. The headlights were so bad from the first week I tried to get the sales manager at Ciocca Subaru in Allentown to take this car back and to return my old car with no luck. I fear for safety driving this forester and I see it is a common complaint online for the 2025. Oncoming cars it shrinks the headlights significantly impairing my visibility for my side of road especially since in Pennsylvania we have a significant amount of deer that get hit and need clear visibility ahead of us. My coworker drove with me the one night and said how difficult it was for her to see at times and said I had to log a complaint because she was concerned for my safety. No car should have such significant shadows or adjusting the beam so significantly. I am afraid I will get into an accident because of the visibility of these headlights.

Apr 03, 2026

After my purchase of my 2025 Subaru Forester, I finally drove it for the first time at night. I was driving on local roads which have no street lights and is very hilly and dark. My headlights were on and I was shocked to see how poorly they were operating compared to my former 2016 Subaru Forester which I never had a problem with. My headlights even had strange dark marks projected onto the road surface. My headlights in the low beam settings, appears to be too low on the road surface especially if there’s a hill up ahead. There is a very dark area above the lit road surface and you can not see if there is a road hazard there or not. It’s very scary, especially when there are many deer in my area. This leaves me to have to keep my high beams on which I never had to do on my 2016. But my vehicle has a feature where my high beams automatically go on and off during night driving. At first, I did not realize I had this feature until I saw it operating on its own one night while driving on a dark lever road surface. The high beams would go on automatically and then go off when another vehicle was approaching from the opposite direction. But when I turned off to drive on hilly local roads, that feature stopped working and I didn’t understand why. That’s when I had to use the high beams manually. Being frustrated by this, on October 15, I took my vehicle to the dealership and had one of the salesman explain to me why my high beams do not always work. He then looked at the vehicles settings and everything was in proper order. He told me that the service department could possibly raise the headlights, but he said that doesn’t always work. All in all, I feel that these headlights are a hazard when driving at night on dark hilly road surfaces. I try not to drive at night because of this, but now that it’s getting darker earlier, that’s going to be difficult.

Oct 16, 2025

I find that the headlights on my 2025 Subaru Forester pose a safety concern. When on dims there is a distinct black line above which you have no light and cannot see. There is also some black shadows in the line of sight that bounce up and down as the car moves causing a major distraction. I complained to the dealer who said there wasn’t much they could do, however they adjusted the lights on August 26, 2025. There is little improvement and now I get flashed on the dim setting all of the time. I called Subaru and registered a complaint on October 3, 2025. Subaru contacted me on October 13, 2025 and took down my information and said they would check further into the problem. They said they wanted to do some research and contact the dealer to see what can be done. They are supposed to call me back on October 20, 2025. I also have read hundreds of complaints the same as mine online. One person even said he almost hit some deer as they were not seen in the black area. I will not drive this car at night as I am afraid because of the horrible visibility issue. The car was purchased new this past February and has about 7000 miles on it. I cannot trade the car as I would lose so much money, yet I don’t feel safe driving at night.

Oct 14, 2025

Both headlights have a shadow of the light bulb at the top center of both headlights causing a distraction/confusion under certain conditions at night. I have never had a shadow show up in my line of sight in all the many vehicles I have owned in the past from my headlights. I previously owned a 2019 Subaru Forester and there was no shadow appear from the headlights beam of light. I talked to the local Subaru dealer, where I purchased the 2025 Forester, and they told me it is working as designed. .

May 30, 2025

The low beam lighting on my 2025 Subaru Forester is dangerous. The beam is set so that it is flat on top and too low. When the car dips at all the beam does not allow you see straight ahead. This is very dangerous when you cannot use the high beam as with oncoming traffic. I have taken it to the dealer and they state that the low beam is set according to Subaru specifications. Contact with Subaru America offered no correction.This is a dangerous condition and needs to be corrected.

Nov 27, 2024

+ 1 more complaint for this component

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

5 complaints

I experienced a false emergency braking event twice at the same area near my home. The vehicle falsely identified a stopped car ahead of me and slammed on the brakes, with a loud beeping noise and flashing lights. Fortunately, there was no one behind me, or they would have probably collided with my vehicle. The same series of events happened a second time at the same place. I was on [XXX] heading west, where a left turn lane appears at [XXX] . Both times there was a vehicle in front of me that turned left into the exit lane when I was using cruise control. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Apr 01, 2026

I have a 2025 Forester. The new Forester has unexpectedly thrown on its brakes in a major way three times in 24,000 miles. The last incident was on a divided highway with a sweeping curve to the right. There were orange barrels closing off the lane to the left of me in the curve for maintenance work. In the middle of the curve to the right, the eyesight system saw the orange barrels in the other lane as a threat and unexpectedly threw on the brakes. I had concerns about being rear ended. I am reporting this because internet Subaru Forester blogs and facebook groups all have owners reporting the same dangerous issue.

Nov 25, 2025

Vehicle suddenly lurched forward while vehicle was pulling into a parking space, causing a collision with a building.

Oct 23, 2025

Crash: 1

My sight turn off when out side temperature in cold, or raining hard, fog on wind shield. Sony when the weather seem perfect all safety systems turn off. I have told my dealer about this event with no real positive answer. The pit system on compute and said it was working as designed so best auto and most reliable on road does not seem to be true

Aug 04, 2025

My Subaru issues, false warnings to “KEEP HANDS ON STEERING WHEEL” while both hands are holding the steering wheel. The warnings are inconsistent and follow varying sequences. In most cases, the warning begins with a yellow outlined warning, on the instrument panel, to keep hands on the steering wheel with the accompanying beep tones. In most cases, with no change in hand position, the light will go out. In other cases, the outline on the warning will change to red and then go out. In still other cases, the warning will proceed to the CID and be displayed in red with audio. In all of these cases there has been no change in hand position. Usually the light will go out in a few seconds with no change in hand position. In the opposite case, if hands are completely removed from the steering wheel, no warning is given for approximately 12 seconds. In all cases, these false warnings are a distraction to my driving. I consider that a safety issue. In only one case so far has automatic breaking been applied with no reason. My previous car was a 2020 Subaru Forrester and I experienced none of these false warnings with that car. It is not clear to me if the false warnings I am experiencing in my car are unique to my particular car or if it is a generic defect in all Subaru. It is my understanding that my current car originated in Asheville, North Carolina which experienced hurricanes, Helene and Milton. I wonder if exposure to those hurricanes compromised the electrical system in my car.

Feb 20, 2025

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

4 complaints

Dealer says initial batch of repair parts was used on vehicles in inventory, not on vehicles already sold to consumers. Supposedly Subaru instructions to dealer. That is a foolish policy decision that doesn't protect drivers of cars already sold and on the road. NHTSA should consider ordering to the contrary. NHTSA should also considering ordering all manufacturers to use capless fuel filler technology. Please respond.

Apr 13, 2026

I purchased a 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid VIN [XXX] on July 26, 2025 from Schumacher Subaru, 3031 Okeechobee Blvd. West Palm Beach, Florida 33409. On March 11, 2026 I filled the gas tank to 100% capacity. The ambient temperature was 72 degrees Fahrenheit. I parked the vehicle in our garage with the door closed. Two hours later my wife notified me that there was a strong smell of gasoline throughout our four bedroom home. I opened the door to the gas filler recess and verified that the gas cap was correctly closed. Gas was spilled into and over the recess area below the gas cap, down the right side of the right back quarter panel and in a large puddle on the garage floor. I backed the Subaru out of the garage and onto the front driveway. Using multiple sheets of paper towels we mopped up the spilled gasoline from the vehicle and garage floor. I placed all the soiled paper towels in a sealed double garage bag and put it in our garden away from the house. I called Schumacher Subaru and talked with Dylan Wagner who sold us the car. I was shocked to hear that he knew of the gas cap defect and also knew that we should not fill the tank more than 50%. I asked him why he didn't notify us and he said that Subaru was going to notify us at the end on March 2026. In my view this is clear cut negligence on the part of Schumacher Subaru of West Palm Beach, Florida. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Mar 13, 2026

I have a urgent fire safety recall regarding the fuel tank exploding due to sone gasket leak. Inwas told to park outside of my garage with half tank minimum. I just bought my car, and now I don’t know if my car is going to blow up? I mean I get a chip issue takes a minute but when a car can implode shouldn’t tbe manufacturer immediately allow for a loaner? Especially if there is a disable person being driven in it? I called the dealer when it first was announced and they said they will call me and weeks later crickets. Not even a hi we are working on it. I called and told them my husband is a paraplegic and if there is any type of fire. I wouldn’t be able to help him as fast as it would be needed to help him out or what if I am deceased and he needs to get out. I asked for a loaner from them and the dealership said they don’t have loaners approved yet. I heard when this happened with Chevy Bolt/Volt Chevy had loaners within 2 weeks. I understand I am not the only one however I have a paraplegic spouse. Is there any assistance we may get? I have to use the car to go to work and being a single income couple, I can’t pay almost 1000 a month for a car and pay for a rental too.

Mar 11, 2026

My gas tank leaks out the top when filled. Currently, all check engine lights are on and all of the safety features of the vehicle have been disabled. When I took it to Subaru, they said there is an open recall with no remedy. This is ridiculous. My car has every check engine light on! How am I supposed to know if there is an actual problem with the car?

Mar 03, 2026

POWER TRAIN

2 complaints

The vehicle will move from park to drive and reverse while the engine is off. It moves an good distance and only flashes a red light on the dash with a sound that the engine is not on. It is a huge safety concern and has happened multiple times. Also when moving it into park and taking your foot off the gas, shutting the car engine off, it has moved forward.

Mar 19, 2026

Paddle shifter does not work appropriately—when shifting rapidly using paddle shifters, right shifter (up-shift) occasionally commands transmission to shift down.

Sep 20, 2024

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

2 complaints

The contact owns a 2025 Subaru Forester. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V106000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had 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.

Mar 13, 2026

The contact owns a 2025 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact became aware there were paint bubbles near the fuel cap and near the bumper below, where the paint was also tarnished. Additionally, there was condensation found under the fuel tank. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, but was not diagnosed; however, the contact was informed that the vehicle was under recall. There were no parts available for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 2,750.

Mar 09, 2026

EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER

2 complaints

Driving at night , headlights low beam were weak and did not project far enough for me to see objects, the headlights cut off with complete darkness above a certain height I feel the car is unsafe to drive at night in low light situations , also raining conditions make the weak headlights worse

Sep 07, 2025

The head lights are seriously defective in low beam. In low beam the car is not road worthy. It is dangerous! It is available for inspection upon request. We did not drive the car after dark until a week after taking delivery. We were at risk as was any other vehicle on the road at that time. We have not driven the car after dark since. The dealer who sold the car to us has been made aware of the problem. No one has inspected the car. There were on warnings or symptoms.

Sep 02, 2024

AIR BAGS

2 complaints

I was involved in an accident. My car was moving at less than 10 MPH and the other driver hit the front drivers side, at the driver side wheel area, at about a 90 degree (t bone direction) angle while traveling an estimated 30-35 MPH. The front end of my automobile was obliterated, grill was gone, and my vehicle was turned 90 degrees to the right after impact. The passenger front door could barely be opened due to the bend in the hood and front end, but no airbags deployed. Emergency response was quite surprised the airbags did not deploy due to the high rate of speed and area of impact. The accident just occurred and my car hasn't been looked at by insurance adjusters but it seems that airbags likely should have deployed and/or the car's Starlink system should have registered the impact. I'm highly concerned there may have been some kind of malfunction as my car is a 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid - available for sale only for the last handful of months.

Jul 27, 2025

Crash: 1

I recently purchased a 2025 Subaru Forester. My wife is a petite woman, about 93-97 pounds and 5 feet 4 inches tall. When she sits in the front passenger seat the airbag light stays in the "airbag off" position. She is not heavy enough to activate the "airbag on" light. The dealer inspected the passenger seat and said that the airbag on/off function is working properly and works as expected for persons about 100 pounds or more. They confirmed that the "airbag on" light does not come on for my wife. Your website indicates that you have used dummies for airbag deployment for children and small stature women. Is it safer for a small stature woman to have the airbag not deploy in a frontal collision than to deploy? We checked a 2025 Honda CR-V and the "airbag on" light is activated when she sits in the front passenger seat. We were given information that a weight of about 65 pounds is required to activate the airbag. Subaru has not told us what weight is required. It seems strange that the airbag activation requirements would vary from on vehicle to another. We are wondering whether it would be safer for us to keep the Subaru vehicle (where the airbag would not deploy) or replace it with the Honda CR-V, for which the airbag would deploy. Does your research indicate which option may be safer?. Subaru Customer Service said the airbag system is operating as it was intended and would not buy the car back. The dealer has offered to buy the car at a reduced price if we want to sell it and replace it with the Honda CR-V. Can you please provide some guidance for us based upon your crash research studies. Thank you.

Feb 01, 2025

SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaints

The contact owns a 2025 Subaru Forester. The contact stated while the contact's wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed, however the vehicle failed to stop. The vehicle crashed into a nearby residential garage. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the local tow yard. The vehicle was condemned as a total loss by the insurance company. The contact's wife was the only occupant in the vehicle. The contact's wife was taken to the local hospital in a personal vehicle. The contact's wife sustained injuries to her pelvic area and right shoulder rotator cuff. A police report was filed. The contact stated that the damage to the residential garage had not yet been determined by the insurance company. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. In addition, the contact stated awaiting inspection of the vehicle. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline and report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 2,800.

Jun 20, 2025

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

The vehicle, which has less then 1k miles, had the rubber "pad" on top of the brake pedal dislocate while driving. Did not know until I tried to brake to pull into driveway, pad obstructed the break. Had to put full weight on brake to make the vehicle stop, and was able to put in park. Could have easily caused collision.

Jan 02, 2025

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

On 12/4/25, I was pulling into a space in a parking deck, was approximately one quarter of the way into the spot and the vehicle suddenly accelerated and struck a cement wall. I did not have my feet on the pedals at the time and was going at approximately 5 miles per hour. The airbags did not deploy, and no automatic braking or warning systems engaged. As a result of the accident, I sustained three fractured ribs and a partially collapsed lung. Immediately following the impact, the Starlink system dialed 911 and a police report was filed. I contacted the dealership who directed me to Subaru of America to report the incident. Their customer advocacy and quality assurance department reviewed telematics data and have refused to physically inspect my vehicle even though I have requested it as a customer because I do not feel safe driving this vehicle. Since I purchased my vehicle many of my safety sensor and warning systems will temporarily disable without any obvious cause.

Mar 24, 2026

Crash: 1

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1 complaint

Navigation system gives incorrect directions including wrong freeway exits and and incorrect home location ( off by about 300-500 feet ) . This creates a safety hazard while driving. Vehicle has been taken for repair about six times , but the issue remains unsolved. Dealer com bined multiple visits into fewer repair orders.

Mar 23, 2026

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

Exhaust gas smell from the engine compartment when parked after driving. Garage smells like exhaust gases when left in enclosed garage - ongoing problem. Smell dissipates overnight. It has been inspected by Subaru dealers in Albuquerque and Santa Fe New Mexico. They report no error codes and so no problem. Have not had this issue on any other vehicle we've ever owned. There are no warning lamps or messages.

Mar 19, 2026

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER

1 complaint

I am submitting this complaint to report a potential safety defect with the windshield glass on my 2025 Subaru Forester. Since purchasing the vehicle in May 2025, I have experienced repeated windshield damage that seems excessive and abnormal for a new vehicle. Within the first two months of ownership, the windshield developed a rock chip. Approximately three months later, I experienced another rock chip that spread into a larger crack when I attempted to have it professionally repaired. Then, approximately two months after that, the windshield developed a large crack that is not repairable and requires full replacement. In total, my windshield has failed three times in less than one year of ownership under normal driving conditions. I have never experienced this frequency or severity of windshield damage with the cars I have owned in the past. This pattern suggests that the windshield glass may be unusually fragile or improperly designed for normal road conditions. The windshield is a critical safety component that supports the vehicle’s structural integrity and ensures proper airbag deployment. Repeated cracking raises serious concerns about occupant safety, visibility while driving, and the vehicle’s crashworthiness. I believe this may indicate a manufacturing or design defect in the windshield glass used in the 2025 Subaru Forester and warrants investigation before more drivers are affected.

Feb 01, 2026

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

I bought a Subaru Forrester 2025 in March of 2025. I drove this car for almost 9 months to the day. On 12-19 -25 I was driving down the aisle in the Walmart parking lot at less than 10 mph. I turned right into a handicap parking lot and applied my brake as I was settling into the parking space. I was driving less than 5 mph as one normally would when parking and coming to a stop. My car accelerated quickly and with great speed and since my front wheels were still turned toward the right, my car sped toward the cement encased parking sign at a high rate of speed. I was in disbelief. I backed up to be in the proper space and got out and surveyed the damages. Thankfully I was alone in the car and due to the handicapped parking signs ahead and to the right of the parking spot I did not cross the marked lot lines and no other vehicles were involved. The car was not driveable so I had the it towed to the dealership and found they did not have a body shop. Then engaged a body shop to repair. Estimate of damages is $6,820. My car is still there today. It is now Jan 25 and we are waiting on a few replacement parts. At first I thought I might have stepped on the gas instead of the brake as I was parking that night. But all common sense tells me that my foot was properly on the brake as I was finishing up my parking maneuver at a very slow rate of speed. I looked around the internet and see that these same circumstances were replicated by other drivers esp. on the 2012-2020 models of Forresters. I had no prior knowledge of what I consider to be a significant fault in this vehicle. I did receive widespread bruising to my chest from the seatbelt. Once my car is repaired I will take it back to the dealer to have several systems checked for errors. I am leery of driving it again. I am really not in a position to buy a different vehicle but it may come to that. Altho the police report states that I may have hit the gas, upon further reflection I don’t feel that is true

Jan 25, 2026

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS

1 complaint

8/25/25: Seat Heater came on by itself on a hot day this Summer, it got so hot it burned my Right thigh. Seat Heaters are burning people. I drove directly to Subaru Dealership Service and the Service person, Dave confirmed the Seat heater was off and felt that the seat was hot and getting hotter as the heat began going up into the back of the seat. The service personnel inspected my car and could not duplicate the incident and everything tested "normal" ~ I requested they unplug the heater and they said they could NOT as it will effect the computer. Subaru Corporate connected me with a Customer Advocate who arranged inspection by a corporate service person. Scheduled 11/25/25: He did NOT drive my car -I dont know what he did besides remove my car seat covers, he left a message for me that everything tested normal he couldn't duplicate the issue and the seat covers were not allowed (Subaru sells the same type covers for my Forester :/ finding this odd I began researching and found others are getting burn by the SAME issue!! ) There were NO lights on- the Seat heater was in the OFF position ~Subaru Service personnel can confirm. I am requesting an emergency "Kill Switch" be installed in all vehicles with Seat Heaters to prevent further injury. Thank you

Nov 28, 2025

Injuries: 1

CHILD SEAT

1 complaint

The contact owns a Chicco Keyfit 360 Convertible child seat installed in a 2025 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that the harness strap had detached from the T-bar in the rear of the child seat. The contact stated that the child was in the seat during the failure. The contact was unable to reattach the strap after speaking to the manufacturer. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that a replacement chest clip would be sent for the repair. The cause of the failure was not yet determined; however, the contact stated that the child seat manufacturer had not sent a replacement child seat. The VIN was not available.

Nov 05, 2025

SEAT BELTS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

While there were no reported incidents, it appears there may be manufacturing defects with this vehicle. The rear seat safety belts are reportedly quite difficult to fasten, as the receptacle is positioned deeply within the seats, sometimes making it impossible to secure the belt. This then triggers an alarm, which can be quite bothersome for the driver. Furthermore, there seems to be an issue with the fuel gauge, as it may display an inaccurate reading. For instance, upon filling the tank, the meter might show 470 ml, but while still at the gas station, it could indicate 330 ml. Additionally, the reading can fluctuate after a trip. Finally, the air conditioning vent on the driver's side does not seem to be functioning correctly. In one instance, despite a minor road hazard that was not immediately noticed, the left rear tire was completely damaged. Despite multiple attempts to address these issues at the showroom and contacting Subaru headquarters, the problems persist. Note the purchase of vehicle forced upon me ,in addition Hallmark Subaru refuse to address the issues with vehicle. I have reported the matter to AL state Attorney general. Still no response made by state AG. Thank you.

Oct 08, 2025

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

[XXX] our 2025 Subaru Forester's eye sight stopped working. The screen went completely blue, no rearview camera of course and loss of the eye sight safety system, including radio. We only have approximately 4k miles on our vehicle. I tried a reset by holding the radio on and off button for 15 seconds (didn't work). I also removed the ground wire from the battery for a few minutes (approximately 5).....didn't work. SO I started doing research on this and it seems it's there is a lawsuit against Subaru that entails this. I believe it has been happening for about 10 years now. Having eye sight shut down and not having the safety options that we paid for is a terrible thing to happen on the road. Our dealership is taking care of it with a loaner tomorrow and hopefully fixing it forever, but my question is......WHY have they not been shut down until this is fixed? Ten years is a long time for this serious safety issue. Thank you for letting me vent. Sincerely, [XXX] & [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Sep 22, 2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,BACK OVER PREVENTION

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid. The contact stated that the hatchback had opened independently while the vehicle was parked. The contact stated that the doors had opened unintendedly while the vehicle was being washed at the car wash. The contact stated that the door required to be slammed to close and to latch securely. Additionally, the contact stated that while reversing out of a 2-15 percent sloped driveway, the Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system's beeping sound engaged while there were no vehicles or objects in the proximity of the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle stopped abruptly, causing the driver's side seat headrest to hit the contact's head violently. The contact stated that the vehicle became inoperable. The contact exited and inspected the surroundings of the vehicle. The contact verified that the vehicle had not collided with an object. The contact returned inside the vehicle, and the vehicle responded as needed. The contact pulled into the driveway. The contact contacted the Doctor's office weeks later, and was referred to the ER. The contact went to the ER, where a CT scan, and other tests were performed, but internal bleeding was not found. The contact sustained a concussion and persistent headaches. Additionally, the contact underwent an MRI and was waiting for the neurologist to interpret the MRI test results. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was advised to deactivate the reverse automatic braking(RAB) system. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and sent a field technician who inspected and test-drove the vehicle. The manufacturer later informed the contact that the vehicle had operated as designed while reversing on the sloped driveway. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 100.

Sep 22, 2025

Injuries: 1

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

The contact stated that while pulling into a parking spot with the brake pedal pressed, the vehicle displayed unintended acceleration, crashing into the wall of the building in front of the parking space. The air bags did not deploy. The contact immediately placed the vehicle in reverse, with the brake pedal still pressed, and the vehicle accelerated at approximately 20 mph in reverse on its own. The vehicle suddenly came to a stop before crashing into a nearby tree. The contact immediately turned the vehicle off and exited the vehicle. The contact received no injuries, and no medical attention was needed. The police came and filed a police report. The vehicle was towed to an auto body shop. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 2,000.

Jul 18, 2025

Crash: 1

SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,WHEELS

1 complaint

I purchased a brand new 2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness and immediately noticed a persistent vibration in the steering wheel, seat, and footwell area. The vibration is present at all times — while driving at various speeds and even while idling. It is very distracting and uncomfortable. This ongoing vibration creates a constant sensation of movement that affects my comfort and ability to stay fully focused on the road. I have arthritis in both hands, and the steering wheel vibration causes physical discomfort, pain, and fatigue, especially on longer drives. I previously owned a 2024 Subaru [same model], which did not have this issue. I have also spoken with other owners of the 2025 model who are not experiencing this problem, so I do not believe this is typical for the vehicle. Subaru of America sent an engineer to inspect the vehicle, but the evaluation was limited to measuring vibration levels. He did not place the vehicle on a lift or inspect any physical components, such as the suspension, wheels, or drivetrain. Despite this limited assessment, he concluded the vibration was “normal.” I respectfully disagree with this conclusion, as the vibration significantly affects the drivability, comfort, and confidence I feel while operating the vehicle. I am reporting this issue because I believe it may indicate a defect that deserves further investigation.

Jun 09, 2025

STEERING,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

Bought 2025 Subaru Forester in January 2025. Within 300 miles of driving brought it back to place I bought it, complained about constant vibraton in Sterring wheel at high speeds around 55 - 65 MPH. They said the wheels were out of balance, they re balanced them and the problem was resolved, BUT IT WASN'T. I brought it back to them At 600 miles they looked it over and took it for a ride they said they did NOT feel the wheel vibration. I said how could you NOT feel it. I brought it back a 3rd time at 800 miles. They took it for a ride with me in passanger seat . Even as I told them I could feel it in armrest they still said they did not feel it. I opened a case with Subaru of America Advocates. they advised me to take it to a different dealer which I did. The second dealer acknowledge the wheel vibration at high speeds. They had my SUV for about 10 days they tried several different brands of tires . They same result happended . Then they said one brand of tires the vibration was less but it is NOT less it is about the same. They are trying to get me some new tires but I don't think it is the tires. THe supension has been looked over by both Subaru dealers. They say it is safe to drive. BUT IT STILL VIBRATES it is NOT just road noise. I just want the vehicle fixed properly.

Apr 23, 2025

WHEELS

1 complaint

Got a notification about a Subaru forester recall for my vehicle VIN that is not being listed on your website regarding my wheels. Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2025 Forester Vehicles Equipped With 18" Aluminum Alloy Wheels. THE Wheels MAY Have Been Manufactured With AN Incorrectly Specified LUG Seat Surface, Which CAN Result IN THE Wheel Being Improperly Attached and Cause A Loss OF Vehicle Stability. Consequence A Loss OF Vehicle Stability Increases THE Risk OF A Crash. Remedy Dealers Will Inspect and Replace THE Wheels, AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed February 28, 2025. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Wrb-25.

Mar 22, 2025

4.9/5.0

108 reviews

SUBARU Forester VIN Decoder — Free VIN Check Video Guide

Watch our quick SUBARU Forester VIN decoder walkthrough. Learn how to decode any SUBARU Forester VIN number to get full vehicle history, recall alerts, specifications, fuel economy (MPG), safety ratings, and known problems — completely free on ForCar.org.

Where to Find VIN for Problems Check

To check for problems and complaints on your 2025 SUBARU Forester, you'll need the VIN number. Find your VIN in one of these 4 common locations.

Where to Find VIN Number on 2025 SUBARU Forester for Problems Lookup - Dashboard, Door Jamb, Engine Bay, Documents

Understanding VIN Structure for Problem Reports

Each character in your 2025 SUBARU Forester 17-digit VIN helps identify specific complaints and problems affecting your vehicle model.

2025 SUBARU Forester VIN Structure for Complaint Verification - WMI, VDS, Check Digit, Model Year, Plant Code

How to Check 2025 SUBARU Forester Problems in 3 Steps

Locate Your VIN

Find the 17-character VIN on your 2025 SUBARU Forester dashboard (visible through windshield), door jamb, engine bay, or vehicle documents.

Review by Component

Browse owner-reported complaints organized by vehicle component (engine, transmission, brakes, electrical) to identify common issues and problem patterns for this model year.

Check Safety Issues

Review crash and fire incidents for each component to assess safety concerns. Contact your SUBARU dealer or report problems to NHTSA at SaferCar.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many problems does the 2025 SUBARU Forester have?

The 2025 SUBARU Forester currently has 63 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 2025 SUBARU Forester?

The most common problems reported for the 2025 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 2025 SUBARU Forester problem data come from?

All problem and complaint data for the 2025 SUBARU Forester comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.

How do I report problems with my 2025 SUBARU Forester?

You can report safety problems with your 2025 SUBARU Forester directly to NHTSA at SaferCar.gov or call 1-888-327-4236. Your complaint helps identify patterns and may lead to recalls or investigations.

Where can I find my VIN to check problems?

Your 2025 SUBARU Forester VIN is located in 4 places: (1) Dashboard near windshield on driver's side, (2) Driver's door jamb sticker, (3) Engine bay, (4) Vehicle registration and insurance documents.

Is the 2025 SUBARU Forester reliable?

Reliability can be assessed by reviewing the number and severity of owner complaints for the 2025 SUBARU Forester. Check complaints by component, crash reports, and fire incidents above to evaluate potential issues and problem patterns.