2011 Subaru Forester
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 147 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 13th highest complaint count among 26 Forester model years with reports.
Of the 2011 reports, 21 involved a crash and 6 involved a fire. 4 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 2009-2013 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: engine
67 reports, newest first. Show all
Engine, Jan 8, 2025
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.
Service brakes, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 11, 2024
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.
Engine, Mar 1, 2024, fire
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.
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 23, 2023, crash
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.
Engine, Aug 18, 2023
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.
Steering, Engine, Jun 20, 2023
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.
Engine, Jan 26, 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.
Engine, Sep 15, 2022
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.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Engine, Mar 28, 2022
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.
Engine and engine cooling, Feb 2, 2022
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.
Engine, Apr 20, 2021
LEAKY CYLINDER HEAD GASKETS MADE OIL LEAK INTO COOLING SYSTEM. CAR BEGAN RATTLING AND ENGINE WARNING LIGHTS ALL CAME ON. SUBARU KNOWS THIS IS AN ISSUES WITH THIS AND MAY OTHER YEARS CARS YET REFUSES TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT. LOOKING AT A COSTLY $3K FIX. NOT DRIVABLE OTHERWISE. LUCKILY IT DIDN'T FAIL ON US WHILE DRIVING.
Air bags, Engine, Sep 16, 2020
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
Engine, Sep 15, 2020
WHILE BACKING OUT OF MY DRIVEWAY THE INTAKE VALVE SPRING BROKE AND DROPPED THE VALVE INTO THE CYLINDER CAUSING THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS TO REPAIR
Engine, Jun 30, 2020
THIS MODEL HAS BURNED A LARGE AMOUNT OF OIL. I HAVE TO REFILL WITH 1-2 QUARTS OF OIL BETWEEN CHANGES AND EVEN MORE IF WE DRIVE CAR FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME. I HAD TAKEN VEHICLE AT ABOUT 40,000 MILES BECAUSE OF THE SMELL OF BURNT OIL WOULD COME FROM THE BLOCK, BUT THERE WASN'T A SIGN OF LEAKAGE ANYWHERE. THE DEALERSHIP HELD THE CAR FOR A COUPLE OF DAYS AND DETERMINED THAT IT WAS THE MAIN OIL SEALS THAT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. $3200 LATER AND THE PROBLEM WAS NOT FIXED. SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY, IT WAS TOO COSTLY TO KEEP BRINGING VEHICLE IN FOR THE SAME PROBLEM. AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH, I FOUND A BOLD FORUM WHERE HUNDREDS OF OWNERS HAD THE SAME ISSUE AND SUBARU OF AMERICA WAS NOT WILLING TO LISTEN AND DO A MANDATORY RECALL FOR THIS OBVIOUS PROBLEM. WHEN I CALLED CORPORATE CUSTOMER SERVICE, THEY TOLD ME I WAS OVER THE ALLOWED MILEAGE FOR THIS PROBLEM TO BE FIXED. MY PROBLEM WITH THIS WAS THAT THEY NEVER SENT OUT A NOTICE OR MESSAGE RELATED THE POSSIBLE PROBLEM MANY COULD BE ENCOUNTERING. THEY STATED THAT THE ONLY FIX WAS TO REPLACE THE ENGINE BLOCK WHICH WOULD COST ME OVER $5000. THIS PROBLEM IS A MAJOR ONE BECAUSE THE VEHICLE BURNS ALMOST 2 QUARTS OF OIL EVERY 1500 MILES OR SO. IF NOT REGULARLY CHECKED AND REFILLED, THE ENGINE CAN BURN DUE TO THE LACK OF OIL. IT IS BECOMING EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE SINCE A QUART OF OIL IS ABOUT $10. I STILL DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW THIS PROBLEM CONTINUES TO BE PRESENT AND SUBARU HAS NOT YET TAKEN CARE OF ITS LOYAL CUSTOMERS. AT THIS POINT, AS SOON AS I CAN AFFORD IT, I WILL BUY ANOTHER VEHICLE AND SUBARU WILL NOT BE ON MY TO BUY LIST IN THE FUTURE AGAIN. I WILL ALSO NOT RECOMMEND ANY OF MY ACQUAINTANCES TO PURCHASE A SUBARU IN THE FUTURE AS WELL. *TR
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, May 8, 2020
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
Engine, Mar 1, 2020
DEALER SAYS MY 2011 SUBARU FORESTER (~60,000 MI) HAS A CAM CARRIER OIL LEAK THAT WILL REQUIRE A $2,500 REPAIR TO FIX, AS IT INVOLVES REMOVING THE ENGINE. I'M CONCERNED THAT A LEAKING CAMSHAFT SEAL CAN COMPROMISE THE TIMING BELT, LEADING TO A CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE AND DAMAGE.
Engine, Feb 21, 2020
TWO MONTHS AFTER BUYING THE CAR USED FROM A DEALER, I NOTICED THAT IT SMELLED 'OILY', LIKE AN OLD CAR THAT HAD BEEN SITTING WITHOUT BEING STARTED. I CHECKED THE OIL AND THE CAR WAS ALMOST DRY AFTER ABOUT 1900 MILES FROM PICKING IT UP FROM THE DEALER. IT HAS USED OIL EXCESSIVELY EVER SINCE. I NEED ABOUT 1 QT, SOMETIMES MORE, EVERY 500 MILES. AFTER DRIVING, IT ALWAYS HAS THAT HOT OLD OIL SMELL TO THE ENGINE, LIKE A VERY OLD CAR. I'VE TAKEN IT TO SEVERAL INDEPENDENT GARAGES BUT THEY CANNOT FIND A LEAK, SO IT MUST BE THAT THE OIL IS SOMEHOW BURNING. WHEN I ASK WHERE THE OIL IS GOING, THEY EITHER TELL ME "IT'S A SUBARU" WITH A SHRUG, AS THOUGH THIS IS TO BE EXPECTED, OR THEY SAY THAT PERHAPS I'M NOT NOTICING HOW FAR I'VE DRIVEN. ON ACCELERATION, THE ENGINE TICKS AND RATTLES LIKE IT IS OUT OF OIL. AT HIGH SPEEDS (60+MPH), THE ENGINE SOUNDS LIKE IT IS STRAINING. THE OIL PRESSURE LIGHT LIGHTS UP DURING INITIAL STARTING, BUT NEVER COMES ON WHILE IDLING OR DRIVING, NO MATTER HOW LOW THE OIL GETS. THIS PUTS ME AT RISK TO BLOW THE ENGINE WITH NO WARNING.
Engine, Aug 19, 2019
UNKNOWN ORIGIN. VEHICLE EMITS STRONG FOUL BURNING OIL/RUBBER SMELL. SUBARU HAS CHECKED USING AN OIL LEAK TEST SHOWS IT IS NOT BURNING OIL. THERE ARE NUMEROUS OTHER SMELL COMPLAINTS, BUT SUBARU SAYS THEY DO NOT KNOW WHAT THE CAUSE IS. THERE IS A RECALL FOR THIS COMPLAINT, BUT SAYS IT IS RELATED TO AN OIL LEAK. PEOPLE NEARBY MAKE COMMENTS ABOUT THE FOUL SMELLING SUBARU.
Engine, May 30, 2019
I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE USED WITH A NEW ENGINE INSTALLED BY SUBARU OF AMERICA AS A LEMON LAW BUYBACK. AFTER ONLY 87,000 MILES, MOSTLY HIGHWAY MILES UNDER GOOD CONDITIONS AND METICULOUS MAINTENANCE, A ROD BEARING FAILED, DESTROYING THE ENGINE.
Engine, May 27, 2019
BURNING MORE THAN 1 QT PER 1,000 MILES
Other or unspecified, Engine, Mar 21, 2019
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
Engine, Feb 23, 2019
73000 MILES AND WE HAD TO DO A FULL ENGINE RESEAL INCLUDING HEAD GASKETS, CAM CARRIERS, VALVE COVER GASKETS. ALL WERE LEAKING. COMPLAINT IS THAT THE GASKETS SHOULD NOT FAIL THIS SOON, 73K MILES. WE WERE LOSING ENGINE OIL. CAR WAS MAINTAINED ACCORDING TO SUBARU.
Engine, Feb 21, 2019
VEHICLE IS BURNING LARGE AMOUNTS OF OIL. NO OIL LIGHT INDICATOR COMES ON TO WARN OF LOW ENGINE OIL. BURNS APPROXIMATELY 2 QUARTS PER 1000 MILES. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR SEVERAL YEARS NOW.
Engine, Feb 2, 2019
I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE IN 2016 AND HAVE ALWAYS MAINTAINED MY CAR AND NOW THE ENGINE IS BLOWN IT'S MAKING A TICKING NOISE ALL THE OIL WAS GONE I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE RD AND IT STARTING MAKING A TICKING NOISE UNDER THE HOOD
Other or unspecified, Engine, Jan 27, 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.