2010 Subaru Forester
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Seats is the leading concern among 262 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 8th highest complaint count among 26 Forester model years with reports.
Of the 2010 reports, 21 involved a crash and 6 involved a fire. 9 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Seat beltsNov 10, 2022
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles. The front seat belt assembly force-limiter may not operate correctly in the event of a crash.
The seat belt assembly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Dealers will inspect and replace the seat belt assembly, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 9, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRJ-22.
Campaign 22V838000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 2, 2020
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-20.
Campaign 20V003000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 2, 2020
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-20.
Campaign 20V002000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 2, 2020
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators with alternate inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-20.
Campaign 20V001000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, ignition, switchApr 11, 2019
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch installed as a replacement part. The ball spring inside the switch may break, reducing the strength of the ignition switch. If this occurs, the weight on the key ring and certain road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. If a crash occurs under this condition, the air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ignition switch, replacing the ignition switch, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 10, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUF-91.
Campaign 19V297000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 9, 2019
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-19.
Campaign 19V009000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 9, 2019
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, and Legacy vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-19.
Campaign 19V008000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 9, 2019
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Forester, 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, Legacy, and 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-19.
Campaign 19V007000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 9, 2018
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2010 Tribeca, Impreza, Forester, WRX, Legacy, and Outback vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-18.
Campaign 18V013000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 9, 2018
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Legacy, Forester, Tribeca, WRX and Outback vehicles, and 2009-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-18.
Campaign 18V012000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 10, 2017
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Subaru Baja, 2006-2011 Impreza (including WRX and STI models), 2006-2012 Tribeca, 2009-2012 Forester, Legacy, Outback, and 2012 WRX vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2017. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-17.
Campaign 17V014000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical systemOct 13, 2016
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2008-2014 Impreza vehicles and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, all equipped with turbo-charged engines. The relay that controls the secondary air injection pump may fail, causing the pump to continuously operate and overheat.
If the air injection pump overheats, it may melt and increase the risk of a fire.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary air injection pump relay, free of charge. The recall began December 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTM-73.
Campaign 16V738000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleMay 25, 2016
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2009-2011 Legacy, Outback, Forester, 2006-2011 Impreza, Tribeca, 2003-2006 Baja, and 2006 Saab 9-2x vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." These vehicles may be equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 26, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Saab owners may contact GM at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-16.
Campaign 16V358000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulicDec 31, 2014
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Impreza, 2008-2014 WRX and STI, and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, currently, or formerly, registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia that were remedied under recall 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014. The brake lines may experience brake line corrosion due to salt water splashing on the brake lines through a gap in the fuel tank protector.
Brake fluid may leak due to the brake line corrosion and may result in longer distances being required to slow or stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will apply an anti-corrosion wax to the four-way joint connector area of the brake line system, free of charge. The recall began on January 27, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQQ-52. Notes: This recall is specific to affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI customers who had their car remedied under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014. Subaru has determined that this remedy was inadequate due to incomplete repair instructions provided to dealers. Affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI vehicles that were not repaired under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014 will continue to be processed under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311. Affected vehicles not currently, or formerly, registered in the salt belt states identified in this recall are eligible for repair, at no cost to the customer, upon request.
Campaign 14V830000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, foundation components, hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsJun 10, 2014
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Outback and Legacy, 2008-2011 Impreza and 2008-2014 Impreza WRX/STI, and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, currently, or formerly, registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. Salt water could splash on the brake lines through a gap in the fuel tank protector, resulting in excessive corrosion of the brake lines. Note that affected vehicles not currently, or formerly registered, in the salt belt states identified above are eligible for repair, at no cost to the customer, upon request.
Brake line corrosion may result in brake fluid leakage. Fluid leakage may result in longer distances being required to slow or stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will test the brake system by depressing the brake pedal and inspecting for brake fluid leaks. If no brake fluid seepage is observed, the affected areas will be rustproofed with anti-corrosion wax. If brake fluid seepage is observed, the brake lines will be replaced followed by rustproofing with anti-corrosion wax. These services will be performed free of charge. The recall began July 2014 and second notifications will run through November 2014. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's recall campaign number is WQK-47. Note: This recall supersedes recall 13V-110 which applied to certain 2005-2009 Legacy/Outback vehicles. Vehicles that were remedied under the previous campaign still need additional areas rust-proofed.
Campaign 14V311000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lightingDec 26, 2012
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010 and 2011 Legacy and Outback vehicles, certain model year 2006 through 2012 Tribeca vehicles sold before January 2012, and certain model year 2009 through 2012 Forester vehicles sold before January 2012. Up to 78,650 of these vehicles may have been equipped with accessory puddle lights that, when illuminated, brighten the area under the doors of the vehicle. A short circuit can develop when either the puddle light or connector are exposed to an electrolytic moisture source (such as road spray that has road salt in it) and it penetrates the circuit board of the puddle light or the pins of the puddle light connector(s).
Over time, migration of the moisture into the circuit board and/or into the connector cavity, may result in a short circuit of the puddle light system. This may generate heat which may melt the plastic resulting in smoke or fire.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional fused-harness, free of charge. The recall began February 19, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
Campaign 12V602000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat belts, rear/otherMar 13, 2012
SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009-2012 FORESTER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 26, 2007, THROUGH MARCH 13, 2012. THE AUTOMATIC LOCKING RETRACTOR in the SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES LOCATED IN THE REAR CENTER SEATING OF THE AFFECTED VEHICLES DO NOT MEET LOCKABILITY REQUIREMENTS AND FAIL TO COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION. SPECIFICALLY, THE ASSEMBLIES MAY NOT PERMIT PROPER INSTALLATION AND SECURE ATTACHMENT OF A CHILD RESTRAINT IN THAT SEATING POSITION.
AN INSECURE INSTALLATION OF A CHILD RESTRAINT CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF INJURY TO A CHILD DURING A CRASH.
SUBARU WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR CENTER SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY WITH A NEWLY MODIFIED AUTOMATIC LOCKING RETRACTOR, FREE OF CHARGE. AN INTERIM LETTER WAS MAILED ON MARCH 26, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
Campaign 12V099000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
262 reports, newest first.
Seat belts, Jun 8, 2012
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 12V099000 SUBARU'S RECALL CAMPAIGN NUMBER IS WQA-37. I HAD THIS RECALL DONE AND WANT TO INFORM YOU ABOUT THIS NEW SAFETY ISSUE. SUBARU HAS THIS RECALL ON REAR SEAT BELTS BUCKLES. PER THE SUBARU MECHANIC, THEY ARE EXCHANGING TWO BUCKLES AND TWISTING THE NEW ONES TOGETHER DURING THE INSTALLATION. THE NEW INSTALLED BUCKLES ARE SHORTER! IN ADDITION, THEY ARE TWISTING THEM TOGETHER WHICH IS UNSAFE AND MAKES THEM EVEN SHORTER! THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE! NEW BUCKLES BEING SHORTER DO NOT COME OUT OF THE SEAT MAKING IT EXTREMELY HARD IF NOT IMPOSSIBLE TO BUCKLE ANY ONE OR ALL THREE REAL BELTS WHEN A PERSON SITS IN THERE LET ALONE WHEN YOU HAVE A CHILD SEAT IN PLACE. BECAUSE THE BUCKLES ARE SO SHORT AND EXTREMELY HARD TO REACH AND WORK WITH, MANY TIMES UNKNOWINGLY YOU DON?T LOCK THE SEAT BELT IN THE BUCKLE BECAUSE IT STAYS IN, WHICH CREATES FALSE FEELING OF SECURITY AND A SAFETY ISSUE. SUBARU MECHANIC TOLD ME THEY HAVE RECEIVED MULTIPLE COMPLAINS FROM FORESTER OWNERS ABOUT THIS ISSUE. 2010 SUBARU FORESTER, X (BASE) MODEL. *JS
Electrical system, Feb 23, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND REMAINED ILLUMINATED. ALSO THE TRACTION CONTROL, CRUISE CONTROL AND AIR BAG WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER MADE NINE ATTEMPTS TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 27,433 AND THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 26,277.
Seats, Feb 1, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORRESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER'S SEAT CAUSED PAIN TO ANYONE THAT DROVE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO HAVE THE FAILURE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5,000. UPDATED 03/05/12*LJ
Tires, Dec 28, 2011
2010 SUBARU FORESTER. CONSUMER STATES PROBLEMS WITH VEHICLE TIRES *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED THE RIGHT REAR TIRE WENT FLAT. HE WAS INFORMED BY THE SERVICE COMPANY WHO REPLACED THE TIRE, THERE WAS A SPLIT ON THE SIDEWALL AND COULD NOT BE REPAIRED. THE CONSUMER HAD TO PURCHASE ANOTHER TIRE EXACTLY THE SAME AS THE DEFECTIVE TIRE FOR A TOTAL OF $269.13.
Seat belts, Dec 6, 2011, crash
SUBARU WAS SLOWING TO A STOP BEHIND A CHEVROLET SUBURBAN WHEN IT WAS STRUCK FROM BEHIND BY A MERCEDES SUV. THE MERCEDES WAS TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 30 - 35 MPH. THE SUBARU WAS DRIVEN INTO THE REAR OF THE SUBURBAN CAUSING THE SUBARU'S AIRBAG TO DEPLOY. THE IMPACT SITE OF THE AIRBAG WAS IN THE CHEST AREA AND NOT THE FACE. UPON ARRIVAL, THE MEDICS AND FIREMEN NOTED THAT THE SEAT BELT WAS TOTALLY DEPLOYED AND WERE UNABLE TO RETRACT IT INTO THE PILLAR. BRUISING WAS NOTED ACROSS THE SUBARU DRIVER'S CHEST AND UPPER THIGH AREA WHICH WAS ASSOCIATED WITH THE PATTERN OF A SEAT BELT. I SUSTAINED A MODERATE CONCUSSION AND MODERATE TO SEVERE NECK STRAIN. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Nov 5, 2011
ENGINE OIL WAS BELOW DIP STICK AFTER 5500 MILES ODOMETER AT 23566. SUBARU DID AN OIL CONSUMPTION TEST, USES 1/2 PINT PER 1000 MILES ON CLEAN OIL. SUBARU MECHANIC SAID THAT 1 QT PER 1000 MILES ON ENGINE IS NORMAL. OIL CHANGE RECOMMENDATION IS 7500 MILES. ENGINE HAS LESS THAN 29000 MILES AND IS IN DANGER OF SEIZING UP IF OIL IS NOT KEPT UP. SUBARU IS AWARE OF PROBLEM IN ENGINE, BUT REFUSES TO FIX THE OIL CONSUMPTION PROBLEM. *TR
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Oct 17, 2011
REAR BRAKES STARTED SCRAPING SLIGHTLY ON A SATURDAY (SO SLIGHTLY THAT THEY COULDN'T BE HEARD WITH THE WINDOWS UP). THAT FOLLOWING MONDAY WE TOOK IT TO OUR MECHANIC WHO TOLD US THAT THE REAR BRAKES PADS WERE COMPLETELY SHOT (METAL ON METAL WERE HIS EXACT WORDS). FRONT BRAKES NEEDED NEW PADS. IT'S REALISTIC TO REPLACE FRONT BRAKE PADS AT 32000 AS WE DO MOSTLY CITY DRIVING, HOWEVER REAR BRAKES SHOULD LAST TWICE AS LONG AS THE FRONT PADS. WE HAD NO WARNING THAT SUCH A SEVERE REAR BRAKE ISSUE EXISTED AND HAD WE NOT GONE TO THE MECHANIC AT THE FIRST SIGN OF ANY ISSUE, WE COULD HAVE HAD A SERIOUS PROBLEM RESULTING IN INJURY OR DEATH. WE BELIEVE THIS IS A DESIGN OR MANUFACTURING DEFECT ON SUBARU'S PART AND NEEDS TO BE LOOKED INTO MORE CLOSELY. *TR
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Oct 8, 2011
DURING A ROUTINE STATE INSPECTION IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE REAR DISC BRAKE ROTORS AND PADS WERE NO LONGER ACCEPTABLE AND HAD TO BE REPLACED. THE BRAKES WERE STILL FUNCTIONAL AT THIS POINT BUT ONLY BARELY. THERE WAS NO WEAR INDICATOR SOUND THAT EVER EMANATED FROM THE BRAKES. THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHT ON THE DASH BOARD INDICATING A BRAKE PROBLEM. THERE WAS LONGER BRAKING DETECTED BUT ONLY THAT ASSOCIATED WITH NORMAL WEAR OF A VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO SIGNS OF ANY ISSUE WITH THE BRAKES. A ROUTINE RECENT INSPECTION OF THE FRONT BRAKES BY THE OWNER TO ASSESS THE VEHICLE PRIOR TO INSPECTION REVEALED NO ISSUES WITH NORMAL WEAR OF THE FRONT PADS AND ROTORS. THE REAR DISC BRAKES WERE NOT EXAMINED AT THE TIME AS THE ASSUMPTION WAS THAT BRAKE WEAR WOULD BE NOMINALLY THE SAME AS THE FRONT. THE YEARLY STATE INSPECTION REVEALED THE EXCESSIVE WEAR OF THE REAR BRAKES RELATIVE TO THE FRONT BRAKES. THIS INDICATES A VEHICLE FLAW, POSSIBLE DESIGN OR COMPONENT, AS THE VEHICLE ONLY HAD 25,000 MILES ON IT AND THE FRONT DISK PADS AND ROTORS INDICATE ONLY NORMAL WEAR. THE ROTORS WERE WORN TOO THIN TO BE USED. THERE WAS EXCESSIVE RUST ON THE BRAKE COMPONENTS. THE PADS WERE PAST ACCEPTABLE WEAR. THE REAR BRAKES/PADS/ROTORS WERE EITHER DEFECTIVE, IMPROPERLY WORKING, OR IMPROPERLY DESIGNED. THERE COULD HAVE BEEN A SERIOUS BRAKE FAILURE RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT AS A RESULT OF THE EXCESSIVE WEAR OF THE REAR DISC BRAKES. THIS SHOULD BE RED FLAGGED AS A SERIOUS ISSUE OF CONCERN. *TR
Electrical system, Sep 7, 2011, crash
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 10 MPH UPHILL WHEN THE VEHICLE STALLED AND ROLLED BACKWARD UNTIL CRASHING INTO A TREE. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED AND NO INJURIES WERE REPORTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE IGNITION WAS NOT RECOGNIZING THE KEY AND ADVISED THAT THEY DID NOT HAVE A SUITABLE REMEDY FOR THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE WHO OFFERED TO PAY THE INSURANCE DEDUCTIBLE AND EXTEND THE WARRANTY FOR AN ADDITIONAL SEVEN YEARS, WITH CONDITIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 5,000.
Other or unspecified, Aug 31, 2011
THE BODY CONTROL MODULE - WHICH IS HELD IN PLACE BY DOUBLE-STICK TAPE(!) - DROPPED FROM ITS PLACE UNDER THE DASHBOARD AND OBSTRUCTED THE BRAKE PEDAL. IT TOOK 20 FEET TO FIGURE OUT THAT THERE WAS SOMETHING IN THE WAY OF THE BRAKE PEDAL AND GET MY FOOT AROUND AND UNDER IT AND STOP THE CAR. FORTUNATELY I WAS IN A FAIRLY EMPTY PARKING GARAGE AND DRIVING 15 MPH. HAD I BEEN DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT SPEED PEOPLE COULD HAVE DIED. MY MECHANIC RESECURED IT W/A HEAVIER DUTY ADHESIVE, BUT SAID IT WASN'T POSSIBLE (FOR HIM) TO PUT A BOLT OR STRAP ON IT. I HAVE ASKED SUBARU TO PLEASE FIGURE A WAY TO BOLT OR STRAP IT FOR ME.
Engine and engine cooling, Jul 21, 2011, fire
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, SHE NOTICED THAT THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE WAS DISPLAYING A HIGH READING AND THE TEMPERATURE LIGHT BEGAN TO ILLUMINATE ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT COULD ALSO SMELL A BURNING ODOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER, WHERE THE TECHNICIANS STATED THAT A BOLT CAME LOOSE IN THE ENGINE WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING MANUFACTURED. AS A RESULT, THE ENGINE OVERHEATED. ALSO, THERE WAS AN ENGINE COOLANT LEAK. THE TECHNICIANS REPLACED THE ENGINE SHORT BLOCK. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,412. UPDATED 09/08/11*LJ THE DEALER REPLACED THE SHORT BLOCK. UPDATED 01/20/12
Vehicle speed control, Jul 10, 2011
THE VEHICLE IS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. WHEN THE CAR WAS PUT IN REVERSE TO BACK INTO A PARKING SPACE AND THE GAS PEDAL WAS PRESSED THE CAR ACCELERATED AS IF THE GAS PEDAL HAD BEEN FLOORED. THE BRAKES WERE SLAMMED ON AND NO DAMAGE WAS DONE. THIS IS THE SECOND TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED WITH THIS VEHICLE. THE FLOOR MAT WAS IN THE NORMAL POSITION AND WAS NOT INVOLVED. I WAS DRIVING THE CAR. THIS SAME THING HAPPENED WITH MY WIFE DRIVING THE CAR ON 12/10/2010. SEE ID# 10370392. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Jul 9, 2011
A/C COMPRESSOR HAS FAILED ON 2010 FORESTER. BOUGHT IN JULY 2009 AND HAS 43000 MILES. *TR
Fuel system, Gasoline, Jun 24, 2011
FUEL TANK DESIGN OF SUBARU FORESTER ALLOWS RODENTS TO CONSTRUCT NESTS ATOP THE TANK AND CHEW THROUGH PLASTIC FUEL LINES. LEAKING FUEL MAY PRODUCE EXPLOSIVE VAPOR ATMOSPHERES IN CLOSED GARAGES, WHICH COULD IGNITE. *TR
Structure, Mar 16, 2011
WHEN WASHING MY CAR ONE DAY, I NOTICED A PAINT IMPERFECTION ON THE HOOD MY 2010 SUBARU FORESTER XT. WHEN I TOOK TO DEALERSHIP, THEY SAID IT WAS DUE TO BIRD DROPPINGS. THEY TOOK PICTURES (WITH A CELL PHONE CAMERA) AND SUBMITTED TO SUBARU AS PART OF A WARRANTY CLAIM. I HAVE SINCE NOTICED PAINT IMPERFECTIONS (LOOKS LIKE BLADES OF GRASS UNDERNEATH PAINT, BUBBLING UP) ON EVERY SINGLE PANEL OF THE CAR, FRONT TO BACK. FOR INSURANCE PURPOSES, I TOOK THE CAR TO 3 SEPARATE AUTO BODY SHOPS, WHO ALL CLAIM THE ISSUE IS A PAINT DEFECT AND SUBARU'S RESPONSIBILITY. SUBARU RECENTLY DENIED MY WARRANTY CLAIM. *TR
Other or unspecified, Mar 8, 2011, fire
SUBARU FORESTER 2010 ENGINE WENT DEAD WHILE PULLING INTO DRIVEWAY. ATTEMPTS WERE MADE TO RESTART THE CAR. A STRONG RUBBER ODOR FILLED THE CAR ALONG WITH SMOKE COMING FROM THE TRUNK OF THE CAR. THE DRIVER HAD TO GET HERSELF AND HER TWO CHILDREN (5 MONTH OLD BABY AND A TWO YEAR OLD TODDLER) OUT OF THE CAR. WITHIN MINUTES, THE CAR WAS IN FLAMES. THE CAR BURNT DOWN TO ITS FRAME.
Vehicle speed control, Mar 7, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ACTIVATED, A RAPID INCREASE IN SPEED OCCURRED AND VEHICLE FAILED TO SLOW DOWN. THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WAS ENGAGED AND THE ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT RESTARTED THE ENGINE AND RESUMED NORMAL OPERATION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THEY WERE UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 38,000 UPDATED 03/31/11*LJ THE CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO TURN OFF THE IGNITION AND USED THE EMERGENCY BRAKE TO STOP THE VEHICLE. UPDATED 04/28/11
Engine and engine cooling, Vehicle speed control, Feb 25, 2011, crash
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT SHIFTED INTO REVERSE AND THE VEHICLE ABNORMALLY ACCELERATED BACKWARD, CRASHING INTO A BUILDING. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND A BYSTANDER WAS REPORTED AS INJURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THEY WERE UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP WHERE THE BODY DAMAGE WAS REPAIRED. APPROXIMATELY ONE MONTH LATER THE FAILURE RECURRED, AGAIN UPON SHIFTING THE VEHICLE INTO REVERSE. THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE BACKWARD UNTIL HEAVY PRESSURE WAS APPLIED TO THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE IGNITION WAS TURNED OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO HAVE THE FAILURE DIAGNOSED BECAUSE THE AUTHORIZED DEALER REFUSED TO EXAMINE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THERE WERE NO FLOOR MATS PRESENT IN THE VEHICLE DURING EITHER FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5,800 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 5,900. UPDATED 06/06/11 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALER NOTIFIED HER TO COME IN TO HAVE THE ECM REPROGRAMMED#WVU31. UPDATED 09/23/11 UPDATED 01/13/2012 *LN *TR
Visibility, Feb 8, 2011
I AM WRITING TO FILE A COMPLAINT REGARDING MY 2010 SUBARU FORESTER WHICH WAS PURCHASED IN APRIL, 2010. I HAVE DRIVEN THE VEHICLE MYSELF FOR ONLY 5,371 MILES AND ONLY IN THE CITY. ABOUT A WEEK AGO, I NOTED A SMALL, SMOOTH-SURFACED CRACK ABOUT 2 INCHES LONG THAT ORIGINATED AT THE TOP EDGE OF THE FRONT WINDSHIELD. THE APPEARANCE OF THE CRACK WAS NOT ASSOCIATED WITH ANY IMPACT. IN LESS THAN 48 HOURS, THE SMALL CRACK ELONGATED TO MORE THAN 8 INCHES. I BROUGH THE VEHICLE TO THE LOCAL SUBARU SERVICE DEPARTMENT ON FEBRUARY 8 FOR INSPECTION. THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT REPRESENTATIVE INFORMED ME THAT THE CRACK WAS NOT A "STRESS FRACTURE" BUT DUE TO AN IMPACT. HE STATED THAT THE CRACK WAS NOT COVERED BY EITHER MY SUBARU WARRANTY NOR MY EXTENDED SERVICE WARRANTY BECAUSE IT WAS NOT A "STRESS FRACTURE". HOWEVER, IN MY JUDGEMENT, THIS CRACK ORIGINATED AS A SMOOTH-SURFACED CRACK AKIN TO A DESCRIPTION OF A "STRESS FRACTURE". I ALSO NOTE THAT A NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS HAVE PREVIOUSLY BEEN REPORTED BY CONSUMERS ABOUT THE HIGH INCIDENCE OF WINDSHIELD STRESS CRACKS IN SUBARU VEHICLES, INCLUDING THE FORESTER. REPLACEMENT OF MY WINDSHIELD ON MY RELATIVELY NEW VEHICLE WILL COST ABOUT $820 FOR PARTS AND INSTALLATION. I BOUGHT A SUBARU FOR THE FIRST TIME WITH THE EXPECTATION THAT I WOULD RECEIVE A QUALITY PRODUCT WITH EXCELLENT DURABILITY. THIS EXPERIENCE LEADS ME TO BELIEVE OTHERWISE. *TR
Vehicle speed control, Jan 25, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 5 MPH AND ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE WHEN THE VEHICLE WOULD EITHER NOT RESPOND OR WOULD ABNORMALLY ACCELERATE AT A RAPID PACE. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE AND THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED VIA MAIL BUT HAD NOT YET RESPONDED TO THE CONTACT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 15,000. UPDATED 05/13/11 *BF UPDATED 12/30/11 *CN
Visibility, Jan 4, 2011
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED, THE CONTACT TURNED ON THE HEATER/AIR CONDITIONER/FAN SHE SMELLED A TOXIC, NAUSEATING ODOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHO STATED THAT IT WAS A NEW VEHICLE ODOR. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER WHO STATED THAT THE ODOR WAS PROBABLY MORE NOTICEABLE IN COLD WEATHER. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 4,834.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Dec 13, 2010
ON ICY DOWNHILL GRADES WHEN BRAKING OR SLOWING ABS SYSTEM WILL CAUSE A "ROCK HARD" PEDAL AND COMPLETE LOSS OF BRAKES. ALL FOUR WHEELS WILL LOCKUP. THIS CAUSES LOSS OF DIRECTIONAL CONTROL AND LOSS OF BRAKING. THIS FAILURE OCCURS WHEN ABS FAILS TO PREVENT WHEELS FROM LOCKING UP ON SLICK SURFACES. CONSEQUENCES INCLUDE REAR END COLLISION, LOSS OF CONTROL, UNEXPECTED EXIT FROM THE ROADWAY AND LOSS OF CONTROL OF VEHICLE ATTITUDE. VEHICLE WAS TAKE TO DEALER AND BRAKES WERE INSPECTED. NOTHING WAS FOUND TO BE WRONG. BRAKES WERE OPERATING AS DESIGNED. THIS IS A DESIGN DEFECT IN THE ANTILOCK BRAKING SYSTEM IN THAT THE SYSTEM CAUSES UNEXPECTED DRASTIC CHANGES IN THE FEEL OF THE BRAKE PEDAL, ALLOWS THE WHEELS TO LOCK AND DOES NOT GIVE THE DRIVER CLEAR EXPECTATION OF HOW TO REGAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. ON LOW COEFFICIENT OF FRICTION SURFACES THE ABS SYSTEM CANNOT DIFFERENTIATE BETWEEN THE VEHICLE MOVING WITH WHEELS LOCKED AND VEHICLE STATIONARY WITH BRAKES ENGAGED. VEHICLE MUST BE ACCELERATED TO START WHEELS TURNING IN ORDER FOR THE ABS TO RELEASE THE PEDAL. *TR
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Tires, Dec 13, 2010
AT LOW SPEEDS NEAR INTERSECTIONS WITH LIGHT SNOW OR SLUSH ON THE ROAD VEHICLE'S ABS SYSTEM CAUSES LOSS OF STOPPING ABILITY AND LOSS OF DIRECTIONAL CONTROL. PARTIAL OR COMPLETE LOSS OF BRAKING AND/OR DIRECTIONAL CONTROL AT STOP SIGNS AND ON SLICK ROADS. PREMATURE ACTIVATION OF ABS SYSTEM IN SNOWY AND SLUSHY CONDITIONS. POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES INCLUDE STRIKING PEDESTRIANS, LEAVING THE ROAD UNEXPECTEDLY AND STOPPING IN NOT BEFORE AN INTERSECTION. DEALER INSPECTED BRAKING SYSTEM AND STATED THAT IT IS PERFORMING AS INTENDED. DEALER FURTHER DOCUMENTED THAT OEM TIRES HAD LOW TRACTION RATING CAUSING ABS SYSTEM TO OPERATE INCORRECTLY IN CERTAIN DRIVING CONDITIONS. IN PARTICULAR ABS CAUSES DRASTICALLY INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCE WITH LOSS OF DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WITH OEM BRIDGESTONE DUELLER H/T 687 TIRES WITH 7/32 TREAD DEPTH AND CORRECT INFLATION PRESSURE. DEALER STATES THAT TIRES SHOULD BE CHANGED TO IMPROVE DRIVABILITY AND ABS FUNCTION IN SNOW AND ICE CONDITIONS. BRIDGESTONE DUELLER H/T 687 TIRES WILL BE REPLACED WITH A DIFFERENT BRAND. THESE TIRES WILL BE PUT IN STORAGE AND WILL BE AVAILABLE. *TR
Fuel system, Other, Vehicle speed control, Dec 13, 2010, crash
THE VEHICLE IS A 2010 SUBARU FORESTER. WHEN STEPPING ON THE GAS PEDAL TO BACK UP, THE CAR ACCELERATED AS IF THE ACCELERATOR HAD BEEN FLOORED. THE CAR SHOT UP A SNOW BANK AND RESTED ON A GUARD RAIL STILL RUNNING FAST. THE CAR WAS TURNED OFF AND THE WINTER MAT THAT CAME WITH THE CAR WAS ON THE LOWER PART OF THE ACCELERATOR. WE DO NOT KNOW IF THE MAT CAUSED THE RAPID ACCELERATION OR THERE WAS A MALFUNCTION WITH THE CAR. IF THIS HAD HAPPENED IN A BUSY PARKING LOT SOMEONE COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED. THE MAT HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM THE CAR. THERE WAS DAMAGE TO THE UNDER SIDE OF THE CAR AND FENDER. *TR
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Parking brake, Vehicle speed control, Nov 26, 2010
WE EXPERIENCED BRAKE FAILURE TWICE ON A TRIP 11/4/10 - 11/6/10. THE FIRST INCIDENT OCCURRED ON 11/4 WHILE USING CRUISE CONTROL. TO SLOW FOR A VEHICLE IN FRONT OF US, I HIT THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE BRAKES WERE NOT RESPONSIVE AND THE CRUISE CONTROL REMAINED ACTIVE. PUMPING THE BRAKE PEDAL IN A FEW SECONDS DEACTIVATED THE CRUISE CONTROL AND THE BRAKES RETURNED. THIS OCCURRED WITH A NOTICEABLE JERK. THE SECOND INCIDENT OCCURRED 11/6 WHILE ON HEADING EAST ON RT 30 COMING DOWN SIDLING HILL. THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS NOT IN USE. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO BRAKE TO REDUCE SPEED GOING DOWN THE HILL, THE BRAKES COMPLETELY FAILED. REPEATED ATTEMPTS TO USE THE BRAKE PEDAL FAILED TO PROVIDE ANY BRAKING. I USED THE PARKING BRAKE TO SLOW US DOWN; HOWEVER, THE PARKING BRAKE DID NOT SEEM VERY EFFECTIVE. IT TOOK A CONSIDERABLE DISTANCE TO COME TO A STOP. I PROCEEDED DOWN THE HILL IN A LOWER GEAR AND AT SOME POINT THE BRAKES RETURNED TO USE. THERE DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE ANY REASON AS TO WHY THEY FAILED OR HOW OR WHY THEY RETURNED. THE CAR HAS OVER 20,000 MILES ON IT AND THIS WAS THE FIRST INCIDENT OF BRAKE FAILURE; ALTHOUGH THE SITUATION WITH THE CRUISE NOT DEACTIVATING HAD OCCURRED ONCE BEFORE. THE CAR WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER ON 11/7. THE DEALER CHECKED BOTH THE CRUISE AND THE BRAKING SYSTEM AND FOUND NO PROBLEMS. THE DEALER REPORTED CONSULTING WITH SUBARU ON THE PROBLEM AS WELL. ON 11/12 AT THE SUGGESTION OF THE DEALER, I CONTACTED SUBARU CUSTOMER SERVICE (REF#1-1157948155). SUBARU'S FOLLOW UP WAS THAT THE CAR WAS CHECKED AND FOUND TO BE OK AND WE SHOULD DRIVE IT AND SEE IF IT HAPPENS AGAIN. THIS WAS NOT ACCEPTABLE AND WE OPTED FOR A REPLACEMENT VEHICLE AT CONSIDERABLE OUT OF POCKET EXPENSE. THIS VEHICLE SHOULD NOT BE SOLD TO SOMEONE ELSE. IT SHOULD BE RETURNED TO SUBARU TO DETERMINE WHAT CAUSED THE FAILURES DESCRIBED. *TR