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 22, 2019
OIL CONSUMPTION - SUBARU DEALERSHIP CONFIRMED THERE WAS AN OIL CONSUMPTION PROBLEM OVER 1 QT PER 1200 MILES. SUBARU OF AMERICA WOULD NOT REPAIR UNDER WARRANTY OR OFFER ASSISTANCE AS VEHICLE WAS JUST OVER EXTENDED WARRANTY. 113K MILES AT TIME AND THE EXTENDED WARRANTY WAS 8 YEARS OR 100K MILES
Engine, Jan 15, 2019
ON CHRISTMAS EVE, WHILE DRIVING ON THE GARDEN STATE PARKWAY IN NJ, CAR ENGINE STARTED MAKING LOUD TAPPING NOISES. AS I TRIED TO PULL OFF THE ROAD, ENGINE NOISE BECAME LOUDER AND WHEN I FINALLY WAS OFF THE ROAD , THE NOISE TURNED TO BANGING. NO WARNING LIGHTS.BEFORE I COULD TURN OFF THE ENGINE, IT STOPPED ON IT'S OWN. FROM START OF NOISE TO STOP WAS ABOUT 15 SECONDS. THERE WAS OIL ON BOTTOM OF VEHICLE AND NONE IN THE ENGINE. I CHECK THE OIL FREQUENTLY AND HAVE THE CAR DEALER SERVICED FAITHFULLY EVERY 6000 MILES, WHICH IS EVEN LESS THAN SUBARU RECOMMENDED INTERVALS.. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO THAT DEALER. THEY TOLD ME THE ENGINE WAS A TOTAL LOSS AND IT WOULD COST $9000 TO REPAIR. THE CAR HAD 117000 MILES ON IT.
Engine, Oct 23, 2018
FAILED CONSUMPTION OIL TEST. ENGINE HAD TO BE REPLACED .I WAS TOLD BY SUBARU THAT THEIR WAS NO RECALL .MY SECOND SUBARU FORESTER 2013 HAD SAME PROBLEM AND ITS ENGINE HAD TO BE REPLACED.
Engine, Jul 26, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT COASTED THE VEHICLE TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITH THE HELP OF A POLICE OFFICER. SUBARU OF GWINNETT (2920 SATELLITE BLVD, DULUTH, GEORGIA 30096) WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS A HOLE IN THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS ALSO ASSESSED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE AND VIN WERE NOT AVAILABLE.
Engine, Jul 16, 2018
ENGINE BURNED OUT ON INTERSTATE HIGHWAY, METAL FILINGS IN CASE, NO WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON THE DASH AT ANY TIME. COME TO FIND OUT THERE IS NO LOW OIL LIGHT IN THIS VEHICLE! PLUS, THERE IS A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT AGAINST THIS YEAR/MAKE/MODEL FOR EXCESS ENGINE OIL USE. SERVICED THIS CAR AT ALL RECOMMENDED INTERVALS AND NEVER LET OIL CHANGES GO BEYOND THE RECOMMENDED MILEAGE. HAVE BEEN VERY FAITHFUL WITH CARING FOR THIS VEHICLE. THE OIL CHANGE WAS NOT DUE FOR ANOTHER 1,000 MILES WHEN THIS OCCURRED. SUBARU DEALERSHIP NEAREST TO WHERE THE ENGINE FAILED WAS UNHELPFUL AS WAS THE NATIONAL SUBARU COMPANY. VERY DISAPPOINTED IN SUBARU'S CUSTOMER SERVICE AS A WHOLE. DID NOT RECEIVE COMMUNICATION REGARDING THIS PROBLEM AND NO WARNING FROM SERVICE MANAGERS AT ANY TIME DURING SERVICING THE VEHICLE.
Engine, Jun 4, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE CONSUMED AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF OIL. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 131,879.
Engine, May 14, 2018
I HAVE A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER 2.5 PREMIUM THAT HAD BEEN CONSUMING AN EXORBITANT AMOUNT OF OIL EVER SINCE I GOT IT. IT REQUIRES THAT I ADD UP TO 1.2 QTS EVERY 2 MONTHS TO STAY ABOVE THE EMPTY LINE ON THE DIP STICK. MY BROTHER TOLD ME RECENTLY HE HEARD THAT THERE WAS A RECALL ON SOME SUBARU VEHICLES DURING MY YEAR DUE TO OIL CONSUMPTION ISSUES. THEREFORE, I CHECKED MY VIN BOTH ON THIS WEBSITE AND DUBARU'S WEBSITE, BUT IT DIDN'T RETURN ANYTHING REGARDING THE OIL CONSUMPTION. CAN I GET SOME HELP WITH THIS ISSUE AS MY WARRANTY HAD ALREADY EXPIRED AND THIS ISSUE MAY BE GETTING WORSE.
Engine, Apr 24, 2018
OUR SUBARU FORESTER BEGAN TICKING, LIKE A LIFTER WAS STICKING, AND THE OIL LEVEL OF THE SYNTHETIC OIL WAS PERFECT. THEN THE CAR BEGAN TO HAVE A BURNING SMELL FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. WE TOOK THE CAR TO OUR DEALER HUEBUEGER, COLO. SPRINGS, COLORADO. THE TECH INFORMED US THAT THE CAR HAD TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETINS ABOUT THESE ISSUES. THE TECH ALSO SAID THAT A TSB IS ISSUED BY AN AUTO MAKER WHEN THERE IS A GROWING TREND WITH AN UNANTICIPATED PROBLEM, BUT DOES NOT WARRANT A RECALL. HE SAID THE IRREGULAR STAMPING OF CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR PLATES CAUSED THE EVENTUAL TICKING AND LEAKING FROM THE CAMSHAFT CARRIER ON BOTH SIDES OF THE ENGINE AND THIS IS WHAT HAPPENED TO OUR VEHICLE NOW WARRANTING A $4,500 REPAIR. SINCE THE ISSUE HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED AS A FACTORY DEFECT I CALLED SUBARU SUPPORT EXPECTING FINANCIAL HELP TO RID THE CAR OF THE DEFECT. THE WOMAN WAS VERY OBTUSE AND PRETENDED NOT TO UNDERSTAND THE ISSUE OF RESPONSIBILITY OF SUBARU. I DON'T UNDERSTAND THE REASON FOR TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETINS BEING RELEASED ONLY TO DEALERSHIPS AND MECHANICS. ISN'T IT LOGICAL AND REASONABLE TO ALERT THE OWNERS OF VEHICLES THAT MAY DEVELOP OIL LEAKS THAT COULD LEAD TO A VEHICLE FIRE ? ISN'T SUBARU ADMITTING RESPONSIBILITY BY ISSUING A TSB FOR A GROWING TREND WITH AN UNANTICIPATED PROBLEM. IT SEEMS IRRESPONSIBLE FOR THE NHTSA AND SUBARU NOT TO NOTIFY OWNERS OF IDENTIFIED PROBLEMS THAT COULD LEAD TO SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUES. PLEASE RESPOND AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, I AM 69 YEARS OLD AND THIS ISSUE AND THE FINANCIAL STRAIN IS VERY IMPORTANT. THE APPLICABLE COMMUNICATION #"S OF THE TSB IS 02-131-12R OF OCT. 2, 2012, 060000 ENGINE (PWS). SB-11-100 HR, NOVEMBER 27, 2012, IRREGULAR STAMPING OF CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR PLATE. THE BURNING SMELL BECAME OVERPOWERING ON THE WAY TO THE DEALERSHIP. THE TECH ADVISES THAT AN OIL LEAK IS COMING FROM THE CAM CARRIERS ON BOTH SIDES DEFECTS
Engine, Apr 2, 2018
THERE IS AN OIL LEAK IN THE HEAD GASKET AND CAMSHAFT SEAL. THIS CAUSES OIL TO DRIP AND BURN SMOKE. THERE IS A FIRE RISK TO THIS. THE COST OF REPAIRING THIS IS EXTREMELY HIGH. THIS SEEMS TO BE A FAULTY PART OF ALL SUBARU FORESTERS OF THIS TIME PERIOD.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Engine, Mar 13, 2018
THE VEHICLE STALLS IN TRAFFIC AND AT A STOPS, PROBLEM BEGAN IN DECEMBER 2017 AND THE BATTERY WAS REPLACED IMMEDIATELY. IN JANUARY 2018 IT WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED SUBARU DEALER FOR REPAIRS. THE 60000 MILE SERVICE WAS PERFORMED, IT CONTINUED TO STALL AND WAS RETURNED TO THE DEALER. THE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS WERE REPLACED AND IT STALLED IN TRAFFIC WHEN IT WAS PICKED UP FROM THE DEALERSHIP, IT WAS RETURNED. THE WIRING HARNESS IS NOW BEING REPLACED. SUBARU FIELD TECHNICIANS AND DEALERSHIP TECHNICIANS HAVE TRIED TO DIAGNOSE THE ISSUE.
Seat belts, Engine, Feb 17, 2018
AFTER 1 YR PURCHASING CAR NEW NOTICED HIGH OIL CONSUMPTION. I WAS TOLD NORMAL WEAR BY DEALER. NOW CATALYTIC CONVERTOR IS GONE DUE TO BURNING OIL. OVER $1500.00 TO BE REPLACED. I HAVE TO REPLACE THE RINGS SO I WON'T HAVE TO REPLACE THE CAT NEXT YEAR. I AM GOING THROUGH 2 + QTS. OF OIL PER 1000 MILES .
Engine, Jan 2, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TIRE PRESSURE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT NOTICED AN ABNORMAL KNOCKING SOUND IN THE ENGINE. DURING ROUTINE INSPECTION, THE TECHNICIAN INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION. THE TECHNICIAN ADDED THREE QUARTS OF OIL TO THE ENGINE. MID-HUDSON SUBARU (1715 U.S. 9, WAPPINGERS FALLS, NY) WAS CONTACTED, BUT A DIAGNOSTIC WAS NOT PERFORMED DUE TO SCHEDULING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 66,000.
Structure, Electronic stability control (ESC), Engine, Dec 5, 2017, crash
WHEN I PARKING MY CAR INTO THE PARKING PLACE, THE CAR SUDDENLY GAVE A ROAR AND RUSHED INTO SOMEONE'S BACKYARD. ALTHOUGH I PUSHED THE BRAKE PEDAL AS DEEP AS POSSIBLE, THE CAR RUSHED AROUND 10 METERS(?) AND FULLY STOPPED AFTER THE CAR HIT THE RODS OF WOOD STAIRCASE(TWO OF THE RODS OF STAIRCASE WAS BOKEN BY MY CAR). AT THAT MOMENT I JUST WANT SHIFT THE CAR FROM "D" TO "R" (BUT NOT YET), THE UNINTENDED ACCELERATION HAPPENED TO THIS CAR. TIME: IT HAPPENED BETWEEN 2:30 TO 3:00 PM ON NOV 30, 2017. PLACE: RUSHED INTO THE BACKYARDS OF 8352 KAVANAGH RD, DUNDALK MD 21222, THIS BACKYARDS LOCATED ON SANDY PLAINS ROAD. CONSEQUENCE: 1. SCRATCHS TO FRONT BUMPER. 2. FRONT BUMPER BECAME LOOSE AFTER COLLISION HAPPENED TO THE ROD OF STAIRCASE. 3. I HAVE STIFF MUSCLES ON BOTH THIGHS FOR TWO DAYS AFTER THIS ACCIDENT.
Engine, Oct 19, 2017
MY 2011 SUBARU FORESTER WITH 65,700 MILES ON IT IS SLUGGISH INTO GEAR WHEN FIRST STARTING. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER WHO INFORMED ME IT NEEDED A NEW TRANSMISSION ($5500+). I THINK THIS IS OUTRAGEOUS. I READ IN FORBES THAT THERE WAS AN EXTENSION OF THE WARRANTY (SEE HTTPS://WWW.FORBES.COM/SITES/JENSEN/2017/07/07/FACING-COMPLAINTS-SUBARU-OFFERS-EXTENDED-WARRANTIES-ON-1-5-MILLION-VEHICLES/#662FD3AC79DC) AND WONDER IF THIS COVERS MY VEHICLE?
Engine, Sep 1, 2017
I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY IN PORTLAND OREGON AND STOPPED AT A LIGHT, AS I BEGAN TO ACCELERATE GOING UP A SLIGHT HILL I NOTICED AN AWFUL SMELL LIKE BURNING OIL OR TRANNY FLUID. I PICKED UP A FAMILY MEMBERS TO GO TO AN APPOINTMENT AND THEY SMELLED IT ALSO. IT WENT AWAY AS I CONTINUED BUT THEN NEXT HILL AND THE SMELL CAME BACK PRETTY STRONG. I FOUND A SUBARU DEALER/SERVICE DEPT. NEAR BY AND DROVE THERE. I WAS TOLD THAT THE FRONT ENGINE SEAL AND CAM CARRIERS WERE LEAKING OIL ONTO THE EXHAUST. I ASKED IF IT WAS SAFE TO DRIVE AND THEY SAID NOT TOO FAR BECAUSE ITS LEAKING OIL. NEXT DAY I TOOK IT TO MY NORMAL SUBARU SERVICE DEPT. AND THEY VERIFIED WHAT THE OTHER SERVICE DEPT. HAD TOLD ME WITH THE EXCEPTION OF SAYING IT WAS OK TO DRIVE IT. THEY COULDN'T GET ME IN FOR AT LEAST A WEEK. MY SUBARU FORESTER ONLY HAS 61,738 MILES ON IT AND I HAVE NEVER MISSED A MAINTENANCE SERVICE. I'M AFRAID NOW BECAUSE THE WARRANTY EXPIRED A FEW MONTHS AGO AND I LOST MY JOB OF 10 YEARS JUST BEFORE TURNING 62. I BOUGHT THIS CAR BECAUSE I THOUGHT SUBARU WAS A GOOD LONG LASTING CAR. I'VE LOOKED AND IT APPEARS THAT REPAIRS COULD BE AS MUCH AS $2300. IT ALSO APPEARS FROM MY RESEARCH THAT THESE ENGINES HAVE OIL LEAK PROBLEMS AS WELL AS OTHER SERIOUS ENGINE PROBLEMS. I DON'T HAVE THE MONEY FOR THIS REPAIR. THIS SHOULDN'T BE HAPPENING. WHY ISN'T THERE A CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT FOR THESE ENGINES AND ALL THE MONEY ITS COSTING ALL THESE FOLKS BECAUSE OF FAILURES. I AM A QUALITY REP FOR THE AEROSPACE INDUSTRY AND THIS JUST WOULDN'T BE ACCEPTABLE IN ANY WAY, SHAPE OR FORM!
Engine, Apr 17, 2017, fire
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, A TICKING NOISE EMERGED FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND THE OIL WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE STARTED TO SLOW DOWN AND THEN STOPPED. THE CONTACT COASTED THE VEHICLE TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD TO A COMPLETE STOP. THE CONTACT EXITED THE VEHICLE, RAISED THE HOOD, AND OBSERVED SMOKE AROUND THE DIPSTICK. THE CONTACT CHECKED THE OIL AND FOUND THAT THE RESERVOIR WAS EMPTY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER, BUT IT WAS CLOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THE CONTACT OF A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN RELATED TO THE OIL CONSUMPTION ISSUE, BUT THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE EVALUATED AND THEN DRIVEN 1,200 MILES IN ORDER FOR THEM TO REPLACE THE ENGINE BLOCK ASSEMBLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 87,000.
Power train, Engine, Mar 9, 2017
MY WIFE AND I CURRENTLY OWN A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER WE PURCHASED NEW FROM HATFIELD SUBARU IN COLUMBUS, OHIO. WE HAVE ALWAYS HAD IT SERVICED AT BYERS DUBLIN SUBARU IN COLUMBUS OHIO. AT THE 25,000 MILE MARK BOTH HEAD GASKETS WERE LEAKING SO THE MECHANICS AT BYERS PULLED THE MOTOR AND REPLACED THEM. JUST RECENTLY AT THE 33,000 MILE MARK I BROUGHT IN MY VEHICLE TO BYERS FOR MY 30,000 MAINTENANCE CHECK ALSO COMPLAINING OF A STRANGE NOISE. THEY INFORMED ME THE HEAD GASKET WAS LEAKING AGAIN AND THE NOISE WE HEARD WAS THE TRANSMISSION RUNNING LOW ON FLUID. THEY AGAIN PULLED THE MOTOR AND MADE REPAIRS, HOWEVER, WHEN PLACING THE MOTOR BACK IN THE CAR A STRANGE NOISE DEVELOPED IN THE ENGINE, THEY AGAIN PULLED THE MOTOR ADJUSTING THE TENSIONING ON THE TIMING CHAIN YET THE NOISE WAS STILL PRESENT. THEY THEN CONTACTED SUBARU TECHNICAL SUPPORT ASKING FOR ASSISTANCE. THEY ARE CURRENTLY PULLING THE MOTOR FOR THE FOURTH TIME WITH THE INTENTION ON REPLACING THE CYLINDER HEADS AND CAM SHAFT. UP UNTIL NOW I HAVE BEEN IN CONTACT WITH BOTH DEALERSHIPS EXPRESSING MY CONCERNS. I HAVE ALSO SPOKEN WITH CUSTOMER SERVICE, A SUPERVISOR, AND A MANAGER AT SUBARU OF AMERICA. THE MANAGER AT SUBARU HEADQUARTERS SAID THEY COULD ONLY OFFER ME 2500.00 TOWARDS THE PURCHASE OF A NEW VEHICLE THE MANAGER AT HATFIELD WHERE I PURCHASED MY VEHICLE FROM PASSED ME OFF TO A SALES ASSOCIATE WHO ONLY WANTED TO SELL ME A NEW SUBARU AT FULL PRICE TO MEET HIS END OF THE MONTH FEBRUARY SALES QUOTA. THE MANAGER AT BYERS WHERE MY CAR IS BEING SERVICED HAS BEEN LESS THEN FORTH COMING AS TO THE TRUE STATUS OF MY VEHICLE AND I HAVE NOT HEARD FROM HIM AS TO THE STATUS OF MY VEHICLE AS PROMISED IN THE LAST FOUR BUSINESS DAYS. WHAT CONCERNS ME THE MOST IS MY WIFE AND I NOW OWN A SUBARU WITH A LONG LIST OF ENGINE PROBLEMS SO EARLY IN ITS LIFE AND A TRANSMISSION WHICH HAS BEEN EX
Engine, Mar 1, 2017
ABNORMAL OIL CONSUMPTION WHICH IS OF THE OIL CONSUMPTION LAWSUIT. THE OIL WARNING LIGHTS DID NOT TURN BUT THE CAR WAS ALREADY OUT OF OIL IN 3 MONTHS OF USE (SUPPOSEDLY 6 MONTH WINDOW FOR OIL CHANGES). THE CAR STARTED TO BECOME JERKY BUT STILL MANAGED TO GET HOME AND HAD IT CHECKED. IF THERE ARE NO WARNING SIGNS, IT IS POSSIBLE IT CAN DIE IN THE MIDDLE OF A BUSY HIGHWAY, WHICH IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS.
Engine, Oct 13, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENGINE EMITTED A STRONG BURNING ODOR AND SMOKE WHILE DRIVING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER SEVERAL TIMES FOR THE FAILURE WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE WAS LEAKING OIL ON THE MANIFOLD. THE DEALER REPLACED THE ENGINE INTAKE MANIFOLD, VALVE COVER GASKET, CAMSHAFT, SPARKS PLUGS, AND ENGINE COVER SEALS; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE WAS NOT CORRECTED. THE ENGINE OIL CONTINUED TO LEAK. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 74,000.
Engine, Aug 22, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS BURNING OIL AT A HIGHER RATE THAN NORMAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS BURNING A QUARTER OF OIL EVERY THOUSAND MILES, WHICH CAUSED THE OIL CONSUMPTION TO SURPASS SUGGESTED AMOUNTS BY THE MANUFACTURER. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS LEAKING OIL FROM THE PCV VALVE, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO BURN OIL. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT RETURNED THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED OTHER LEAKS WERE THE CAUSE; HOWEVER, THE LOCATIONS WERE NOT SPECIFIED. THE DEALER PLACED A SHORT BLOCK ENGINE INTO THE VEHICLE, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE WHO INFORMED THE CONTACT OF A PENDING LAWSUIT RELATED TO THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 938.
Engine, Dec 11, 2015
MY SUBARU IS BEING TESTED FOR OIL CONSUMPTION USE, I RETURNED WITH 1 1/2 QUART LOW AFTER 948 MILES. TECH STATED IT WAS ON FULL AFTER IT WAS TAKEN TO GARAGE. IT WAS NOT CHECKED IN OUR PRESENCE. CAR HAS NO OIL SENSOR AND I FEAR THE MOTOR WILL LOCK UP & I DO NOT TRUST THE SUBARU DEALER NOW SINCE THEY DENIED ADDING OIL.
Engine, Mar 10, 2015
VEHICLE HAS HAD ABNORMALLY HIGH OIL CONSUMPTION SINCE PURCHASED. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Feb 5, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE'S OIL CONSUMPTION WAS EXCESSIVE AND THAT THE ENGINE OIL WOULD BE DEPLETED MULTIPLE TIMES PER WEEK. THE FAILURE OCCURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE OIL CONSUMPTION WAS NORMAL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Engine, Jan 13, 2015
I PURCHASED MY 2011 SUBARU FORESTER USED FROM A DEALERSHIP IN NY. I STARTED NOTICING THAT IT WAS BURNING THROUGH OIL. I TOOK IT TO A SUBARU DEALERSHIP AND FOUND OUT THAT IT NEEDS A NEW ENGINE AND THAT OTHER PEOPLE ARE HAVING THIS PROBLEM AS WELL. SUBARU DOESN'T WANT TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THIS ISSUE THOUGH SO I HAVE TO MAKE A CLAIM ON MY WARRANTY AND OF COURSE THEY HAVE FOUND A LOOP HOLE TO NOT COVER THE REPAIR (PISTON RINGS ARE DAMAGED DUE TO FAULTY CYLINDER WALLS AND, CONVENIENTLY, THE CYLINDER WALLS ARE NOT CONSIDERED AN INTERNAL PART SO THE WARRANTY WON'T COVER). NOW I'M LEFT WITH EITHER REPLACING MY ENGINE OR TAKING A LARGE HIT ON MY TRADE-IN VALUE. HAD I KNOWN THAT I WOULD'VE BEEN REPLACING THE ENGINE LESS THAN 2 YEARS AFTER BUYING THE CAR I WOULD'VE NEGOTIATED A MUCH LOWER PRICE FOR THE CAR OR WENT WITH A DIFFERENT MAKE/MODEL. I CANNOT AFFORD TO REPLACE AN ENGINE OR BUY A NEW CAR, I HAVE NO OTHER CHOICE THAN TO CONTINUE TO POUR OIL INTO THIS CAR AND HOPE THAT I DON'T BREAK DOWN ON THE EXPRESSWAY OR BACK ROADS DURING MY 60 MILE COMMUTE TO AND FROM WORK OR WHEN I HAVE MY CHILD IN THE CAR. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Service brakes, Dec 14, 2014
WHEN THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT (CEL) IS ACTIVATED BY AN EMISSION CONTROL FAILURE SUBARU HAS PROGRAMMED A SHUT DOWN OF THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (AS WELL AS SHUT DOWN OF CRUISE CONTROL). THIS ABS SHUT DOWN COULD OCCUR FOR A SIMPLE LOOSE GAS CAP WHICH IS COMMON CAUSE OF CEL FAILURE. THE SECTION 3-16 ON CEL WARNING LIGHT/MALFUNCTION INDICATOR DOES NOT INFORM THE OWNER THAT A CEL EVENT WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY THE DISABLING OF THE ABS. THE DRIVER FINDS THIS OUT ONLY BECAUSE THE CEL IS ACCOMPANIED BY BLINKING CRUISE LIGHT AND STEADILY ILLUMINATED ABS LIGHT. PER OWNER MANUAL SECTION 7-23 FOR 2011 FORESTER WHEN THE ABS IS DISABLED THE CAR/DRIVER/PASSENGERS ARE A RISK OF LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND DIRECTIONAL STABILITY. THREE CEL EVENTS OCCURRED FROM JUNE 2013 TO DECEMBER 2014 FOR SAME PROBLEM BECAUSE THERMOSTAT WAS NOT TO BE REPLACED PER SERVICE BULLETIN 09-56-13/10/21/13 UNTIL ECM RE-PROGRAMMING OCCURRED. THEREFORE I WAS FORCED TO DRIVE WITHOUT ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM 3 TIMES 6/13; 8/14 AND 12/14 UNTIL REPAIRS COULD BE SCHEDULED. I AM REQUESTING THAT SUBARU NOT BE ALLOWED TO DISABLE THE ABS FOR CEL/EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM PROBLEMS. THIS IS BECAUSE I HAVE HAD MULTIPLE UNPREDICTABLE CEL EVENTS SOME DURING WEATHER CONDITIONS FOR WHICH ABS FUNCTION WAS CRITICAL. THE THERMOSTAT AND GASKET ASSEMBLY WEE REPLACED.