Owners have filed 285 complaints
about the 2021 Subaru Forester with NHTSA between 2021 and 2026.
The largest single group is the windows, mirrors & wipers.
Across this model's run it ranks 8 of 29 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 47
Against the median year of the Subaru Forester. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 91
17.5% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 100
95% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2021 compares with every other Subaru Forester
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Automatic Emergency Braking
1327.7%
Windshield
1327.7%
Warnings
714.9%
Blind Spot Detection
48.5%
Warning
36.4%
Body
36.4%
Assist
24.3%
Adaptive Cruise Control
24.3%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
37.3%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
1946.3%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
1024.4%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
922.0%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
Frontal crash test
Side barrier crash test
Side pole crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2021 Subaru Forester SUV AWD
16.9% risk
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Jan 2021peak 11Jul 2026
Recalls on the 2021 Subaru Forester
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2024546499,490 units in Canada
Label
Issue: On certain vehicles, the compliance label may be missing information in French. The words listed on the label for "Tires", "Rims", "Front" and "Rear" appear in English only, when they should be listed as "Tires/Pneus", "Rims/Jantes", "Front/Avant" and "Rear/Arriere". Canadian regulations require this information to be listed on the label in both English and French. Safety Risk: These small errors do not affect vehicle safety. Corrective Actions: This is not a recall. Subaru has corrected the compliance label for all new vehicles.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Amelia Court House, VAFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
While driving this car on April 4, 2026 at around 6PM, I experienced the distinct smell of gasoline. I had driven for about 5 minutes on our way to a local restaurant that is approximately an 8 minute drive from our residence. My wife said that she had just filled the gas tank that afternoon. After arriving at the restaurant, I checked the gas cap to ensure it was tightly sealed. I also checked to ensure no fuel was leaking from the car. After finishing dinner, we I drove the car back to my residence and once again, 5 minutes into the drive, I smelled gasoline. After we arrived home, I check the vehicle exterior for leaks and found no liquids under the car. The following day, April 5, 2026 at approximately 1115 AM, having once again found no liquids or gasoline under my car, I drove the car to my local repair shop; an 8 minute drive. About 5 minutes into the drive, I smelled gasoline again. I parked the car at the repair shop, but while adjusting the parking to fit better between the painted lines, I saw and heard a large puff of smoke from the hood area. I immediately put the car into Park, shut off the engine and ran from the car. After exiting, I saw that the car ignited with visible fire under the engine compartment. I called 911 to request fire department help. No damage to any structures or other cars occurred. Q1 Above: No the car is totaled and unavailable for inspection as far as I know. Q2 Above: I had to run from a burning car. Q3 Above: No. Q4 Above: Yes, the car was inspected by my insurance company, USAA. Q5 Above: No, there were no warning lights or any indictor that there was trouble. I would like to note that the car was brought in to my Subaru dealership service station (Hyman Brothers in Midlothian, VA) for a heater element safety recall several months ago.
NHTSA complaint #11731868 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Amelia Court House, VAFire
ENGINE
While driving this car on April 4, 2026 at around 6PM, I experienced the distinct smell of gasoline. I had driven for about 5 minutes on our way to a local restaurant that is approximately an 8 minute drive from our residence. My wife said that she had just filled the gas tank that afternoon. After arriving at the restaurant, I checked the gas cap to ensure it was tightly sealed. I also checked to ensure no fuel was leaking from the car. After finishing dinner, we I drove the car back to my residence and once again, 5 minutes into the drive, I smelled gasoline. After we arrived home, I check the vehicle exterior for leaks and found no liquids under the car. The following day, April 5, 2026 at approximately 1115 AM, having once again found no liquids or gasoline under my car, I drove the car to my local repair shop; an 8 minute drive. About 5 minutes into the drive, I smelled gasoline again. I parked the car at the repair shop, but while adjusting the parking to fit better between the painted lines, I saw and heard a large puff of smoke from the hood area. I immediately put the car into Park, shut off the engine and ran from the car. After exiting, I saw that the car ignited with visible fire under the engine compartment. I called 911 to request fire department help. No damage to any structures or other cars occurred. Q1 Above: No the car is totaled and unavailable for inspection as far as I know. Q2 Above: I had to run from a burning car. Q3 Above: No. Q4 Above: Yes, the car was inspected by my insurance company, USAA. Q5 Above: No, there were no warning lights or any indictor that there was trouble. I would like to note that the car was brought in to my Subaru dealership service station (Hyman Brothers in Midlothian, VA) for a heater element safety recall several months ago.
NHTSA complaint #11731868 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Amelia Court House, VAFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
While driving this car on April 4, 2026 at around 6PM, I experienced the distinct smell of gasoline. I had driven for about 5 minutes on our way to a local restaurant that is approximately an 8 minute drive from our residence. My wife said that she had just filled the gas tank that afternoon. After arriving at the restaurant, I checked the gas cap to ensure it was tightly sealed. I also checked to ensure no fuel was leaking from the car. After finishing dinner, we I drove the car back to my residence and once again, 5 minutes into the drive, I smelled gasoline. After we arrived home, I check the vehicle exterior for leaks and found no liquids under the car. The following day, April 5, 2026 at approximately 1115 AM, having once again found no liquids or gasoline under my car, I drove the car to my local repair shop; an 8 minute drive. About 5 minutes into the drive, I smelled gasoline again. I parked the car at the repair shop, but while adjusting the parking to fit better between the painted lines, I saw and heard a large puff of smoke from the hood area. I immediately put the car into Park, shut off the engine and ran from the car. After exiting, I saw that the car ignited with visible fire under the engine compartment. I called 911 to request fire department help. No damage to any structures or other cars occurred. Q1 Above: No the car is totaled and unavailable for inspection as far as I know. Q2 Above: I had to run from a burning car. Q3 Above: No. Q4 Above: Yes, the car was inspected by my insurance company, USAA. Q5 Above: No, there were no warning lights or any indictor that there was trouble. I would like to note that the car was brought in to my Subaru dealership service station (Hyman Brothers in Midlothian, VA) for a heater element safety recall several months ago.
NHTSA complaint #11731868 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesWaukegan, ILCrash4 injured
POWER TRAIN
The contact owned a 2021 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 4 MPH and slowing to park, the vehicle accelerated on its own. The contact stated that the vehicle drove out of the parking lot and crashed into a wall. The contact stated that the air bags deployed and that the vehicle had then shifted into reverse (R) and driven out away from the wall and crashed into a parked vehicle and stopped. The contact stated she was unaware of any warning lights. The contact stated that she had 1 passenger in the front seat and 2 passengers in the rear seat. The contact stated that everyone was shaken and achy, but no cuts or other injuries. The contact stated later that the passengers went on their own to seek medical attention. The contact stated that the passenger front bumper, hood, and wheel well were damaged, and the rear bumper on the passenger side had damage from the crash with the parked vehicle. The contact stated that the other vehicle had minor damage to the right rear quarter panel. The police were called and issued a report. The vehicle was towed to a collision repair shop, but had not been repaired. The vehicle had not been diagnosed for the independent acceleration and reverse failures. The contact stated that her insurance provider had not yet declared the vehicle a total loss. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
NHTSA complaint #11723858 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesWaukegan, ILCrash4 injured
ENGINE
The contact owned a 2021 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 4 MPH and slowing to park, the vehicle accelerated on its own. The contact stated that the vehicle drove out of the parking lot and crashed into a wall. The contact stated that the air bags deployed and that the vehicle had then shifted into reverse (R) and driven out away from the wall and crashed into a parked vehicle and stopped. The contact stated she was unaware of any warning lights. The contact stated that she had 1 passenger in the front seat and 2 passengers in the rear seat. The contact stated that everyone was shaken and achy, but no cuts or other injuries. The contact stated later that the passengers went on their own to seek medical attention. The contact stated that the passenger front bumper, hood, and wheel well were damaged, and the rear bumper on the passenger side had damage from the crash with the parked vehicle. The contact stated that the other vehicle had minor damage to the right rear quarter panel. The police were called and issued a report. The vehicle was towed to a collision repair shop, but had not been repaired. The vehicle had not been diagnosed for the independent acceleration and reverse failures. The contact stated that her insurance provider had not yet declared the vehicle a total loss. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
NHTSA complaint #11723858 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tucson, AZFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
After arriving home from a short drive to the grocery store I parked my car in the drive way and went inside. On the drive home I could hear a low humming coming from the speakers and the car was decelerating when the accelerator was not being pressed, no warning lights or sounds came on. About 10 minutes after I parked a neighbor knocked on the door letting me know my car was smoking from inside the hood. Within a minute or 2 the entire hood of the car was engulfed in flames. The entire front half of the car burned to a crisp, the fire also burned half a tree. The car was burning so hot that it melted the hood of the car, had I parked it with the hood facing my house my house would have caught fire. The problem has not been reduced or confirmed by dealer or independent service. The vehicle is being stored by the insurance and for the time being is accessible for investigation. Because I was having trouble with the infotainment system, the humming coming from the speakers, and a recent warranty extension by from Subaru for the infotainment system due to known issues I suspect that the fire was caused by electrical issues.
NHTSA complaint #11681870 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 22,500 milesLynn, MA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while trying to roll up vehicle windows from driver sits and passenger sit they would roll up to 3/4th all the way up and they would roll back down after. The contact stated this was a recurring event. The dealer was aware of failure and diagnosed issue needing repairs for window regulator and run channels for driver and passengers side. Manufacturer was made aware of failure and let contact know it was outside of warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 22,500.
NHTSA complaint #11748908 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oak Creek, WI
POWER TRAIN
My 2021 Subaru Forester has a recurring, worsening defect in the Idle Stop/Start (ISS) system that creates a stalling hazard. When ISS shuts the engine off at a stop, the engine intermittently fails to restart when I try to move again. It cranks progressively slower, warning lights illuminate, a continuous alert sounds, and the vehicle cannot proceed until I shift to Park and restart manually. This has left me immobile in live traffic at lights, stop signs, and mid-turn. The system also attempts to shut down in unfavorable moments, such as mid-turn, or as I am already releasing the brake (meaning it was depressed only lightly or briefly); it then tries to restart while still mid-shutdown, producing a pronounced shake. This is not a battery-charge problem. It has occurred even when the battery tested above its rated cold-cranking amps, and after each failure the engine restarts smoothly by manual start, indicating the starter, engine, and fuel systems function normally. I raised this before 2024, but it was not recorded until May 2024. At that visit the dealer performed the TCM reprogramming in Service Bulletin 16-147-24 (Forester, auto start/stop engine speed drop on restart) plus an ECM update. A later visit added another ECM update. A dealer has now identified yet another TCM reprogramming, quoted for a fee. The failure has persisted across all of these updates. Dealer staff acknowledge repeated customer complaints with these exact symptoms and say there is no known effective fix. Because ISS cannot be permanently disabled through any factory control, I must remember to disable it manually every drive to avoid a restart failure in traffic. The vehicle is available for inspection. This is an ongoing, unresolved safety defect that repeated manufacturer software remedies have failed to correct, and it can leave the vehicle disabled in live traffic.
NHTSA complaint #11748058 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oak Creek, WI
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My 2021 Subaru Forester has a recurring, worsening defect in the Idle Stop/Start (ISS) system that creates a stalling hazard. When ISS shuts the engine off at a stop, the engine intermittently fails to restart when I try to move again. It cranks progressively slower, warning lights illuminate, a continuous alert sounds, and the vehicle cannot proceed until I shift to Park and restart manually. This has left me immobile in live traffic at lights, stop signs, and mid-turn. The system also attempts to shut down in unfavorable moments, such as mid-turn, or as I am already releasing the brake (meaning it was depressed only lightly or briefly); it then tries to restart while still mid-shutdown, producing a pronounced shake. This is not a battery-charge problem. It has occurred even when the battery tested above its rated cold-cranking amps, and after each failure the engine restarts smoothly by manual start, indicating the starter, engine, and fuel systems function normally. I raised this before 2024, but it was not recorded until May 2024. At that visit the dealer performed the TCM reprogramming in Service Bulletin 16-147-24 (Forester, auto start/stop engine speed drop on restart) plus an ECM update. A later visit added another ECM update. A dealer has now identified yet another TCM reprogramming, quoted for a fee. The failure has persisted across all of these updates. Dealer staff acknowledge repeated customer complaints with these exact symptoms and say there is no known effective fix. Because ISS cannot be permanently disabled through any factory control, I must remember to disable it manually every drive to avoid a restart failure in traffic. The vehicle is available for inspection. This is an ongoing, unresolved safety defect that repeated manufacturer software remedies have failed to correct, and it can leave the vehicle disabled in live traffic.
NHTSA complaint #11748058 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oak Creek, WI
ENGINE
My 2021 Subaru Forester has a recurring, worsening defect in the Idle Stop/Start (ISS) system that creates a stalling hazard. When ISS shuts the engine off at a stop, the engine intermittently fails to restart when I try to move again. It cranks progressively slower, warning lights illuminate, a continuous alert sounds, and the vehicle cannot proceed until I shift to Park and restart manually. This has left me immobile in live traffic at lights, stop signs, and mid-turn. The system also attempts to shut down in unfavorable moments, such as mid-turn, or as I am already releasing the brake (meaning it was depressed only lightly or briefly); it then tries to restart while still mid-shutdown, producing a pronounced shake. This is not a battery-charge problem. It has occurred even when the battery tested above its rated cold-cranking amps, and after each failure the engine restarts smoothly by manual start, indicating the starter, engine, and fuel systems function normally. I raised this before 2024, but it was not recorded until May 2024. At that visit the dealer performed the TCM reprogramming in Service Bulletin 16-147-24 (Forester, auto start/stop engine speed drop on restart) plus an ECM update. A later visit added another ECM update. A dealer has now identified yet another TCM reprogramming, quoted for a fee. The failure has persisted across all of these updates. Dealer staff acknowledge repeated customer complaints with these exact symptoms and say there is no known effective fix. Because ISS cannot be permanently disabled through any factory control, I must remember to disable it manually every drive to avoid a restart failure in traffic. The vehicle is available for inspection. This is an ongoing, unresolved safety defect that repeated manufacturer software remedies have failed to correct, and it can leave the vehicle disabled in live traffic.
NHTSA complaint #11748058 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
New York, NY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Persistent Battery Drain on a 2021 Subaru Forester Limited. Problems began in year 4 of ownership (~17,000 mileage), after Subaru Starlink Subscription services expired. Red (Error) Starlink SOS indicator light was evident, where a normal light would show green. Battery would fully drain after about 3-4 days of inactivity while parked in a commercial garage. After repeated dead batteries, a jump-starter battery pack was used regularly, as well as a wall-outlet battery charger. The problem has not resolved with a new and appropriately specified AGM battery, replaced in December 2025. The only solution is to pull the engine-bay fuse #5, which disables the Data Communication Module (DCM), as well as other features (hands-free microphones and audio system). By pulling the fuse #5 consistently, the problem has ceased, even after a two-week period of no use. This provides irrefutable evidence that the DCM powered by fuse #5 is the source of the battery drain. The only resolution Subaru would offer was to insist on a dedicated diagnostic visit to a dealership, with the associated costs of hundreds of dollars to be borne by me, the customer, without a clear understanding of the costs or remedies to resolve this problem. I feel unsafe driving my vehicle for more than short trips given the risk of stranding or further electrical malfunctions that would impact critical vehicle functions or safety systems.
NHTSA complaint #11744837 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hastings, MI
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Driving along and various system warnings came on, then started losing power, then the engine died and the car was completely dead. Got a jump start and the car ran for a couple of minutes and died again. Had it towed to a repair shop and when they checked it the next morning, they couldn't find a problem and it ran great for them. I replaced the battery and alternator just to be safe because we were about to leave on a trip.
NHTSA complaint #11743852 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lakeland, FL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2021 Subaru Forester The vehicle has experienced recurring electrical and battery-related issues for several years. The original battery was replaced by the Subaru dealer with a larger-capacity battery because of repeated starting concerns. The replacement provided only temporary improvement. The vehicle continues to experience rough starting on a regular basis, even after installation of a newer aftermarket battery with a higher cold-cranking-amp rating. The current battery is approximately five months old. The most significant safety concern occurs during Auto Start-Stop operation. On multiple occasions, the engine has shut off at a stop as intended, but then failed to restart when attempting to move again. When this occurs, multiple warning lights illuminate on the dashboard and the vehicle is unable to proceed until it is shifted into Park and restarted manually. Because of this issue, I now disable the Auto Start-Stop feature on every drive to avoid a potential failure to restart while in traffic. The issue has been ongoing for years and has occurred with multiple batteries, including the dealer-installed replacement battery and a newer aftermarket battery. The dealer suggested that an aftermarket dash camera could be contributing to battery drain. The dash camera was disconnected, but the problem continued. I am concerned that failure of the vehicle to restart after Auto Start-Stop operation could leave the vehicle disabled in traffic and create a safety hazard. The condition appears to involve the vehicle’s electrical system, battery management system, charging system, Auto Start-Stop system, or a combination of those components. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.
NHTSA complaint #11741788 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Shelton, WA
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
My Subaru Forester has a significant safety defect. If my web searches are representative this software problem affects multiple models and years of Subaru. I have addressed this problem with the local dealer, Subaru America, and Subaru Japan and have been told "that is the way it was designed and it is supposed to do that." As you may imagine that is not a satisfactory answer to a significant safety issue; I can only imagine Ford saying the Pinto was designed with a gas tank that explodes in a collision or a more recent Takata claiming that their seatbelts were designed that way. So here is the problem in a nutshell (and I have a host of Emails from various levels of Subaru if you want the details of how I have attempted to get them to address the issue.) There is a sensor on the gas cap that detects if it is not fully closed since that is a pollution control issue. (More on that later) When that sensor is activated, it disables the Subaru Eyesight system and when the Eyesight system is disabled it disables every safety feature except the seatbelt and it lights up the dash with a dozen alarms none of which have anything to do with the gas cap. That takes down collision avoidance, lane changing, and autodim headlights among others. It also wants you to check the engine and consult the users manual. None of that has anything to do with the actual situation. Now I have taken the car to the dealer who assures me it is operating as designed and there is no fault in the sensor. When you close the gas cap there are audible clicks and as a 190 pound man I can assure you that the cap is fully closed when I close it. But on a random basis the dashboard lights up despite the fact that the gas cap is fully engaged and the safety systems become disabled. Usually it stays lit up until I refill the tank, but its behavior is not predictable - occasionally it just resets as I drive. Besides the obvious hazard of having safety systems which do not work, havi
NHTSA complaint #11738084 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Shelton, WA
BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS
My Subaru Forester has a significant safety defect. If my web searches are representative this software problem affects multiple models and years of Subaru. I have addressed this problem with the local dealer, Subaru America, and Subaru Japan and have been told "that is the way it was designed and it is supposed to do that." As you may imagine that is not a satisfactory answer to a significant safety issue; I can only imagine Ford saying the Pinto was designed with a gas tank that explodes in a collision or a more recent Takata claiming that their seatbelts were designed that way. So here is the problem in a nutshell (and I have a host of Emails from various levels of Subaru if you want the details of how I have attempted to get them to address the issue.) There is a sensor on the gas cap that detects if it is not fully closed since that is a pollution control issue. (More on that later) When that sensor is activated, it disables the Subaru Eyesight system and when the Eyesight system is disabled it disables every safety feature except the seatbelt and it lights up the dash with a dozen alarms none of which have anything to do with the gas cap. That takes down collision avoidance, lane changing, and autodim headlights among others. It also wants you to check the engine and consult the users manual. None of that has anything to do with the actual situation. Now I have taken the car to the dealer who assures me it is operating as designed and there is no fault in the sensor. When you close the gas cap there are audible clicks and as a 190 pound man I can assure you that the cap is fully closed when I close it. But on a random basis the dashboard lights up despite the fact that the gas cap is fully engaged and the safety systems become disabled. Usually it stays lit up until I refill the tank, but its behavior is not predictable - occasionally it just resets as I drive. Besides the obvious hazard of having safety systems which do not work, havi
NHTSA complaint #11738084 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Shelton, WA
LANE DEPARTURE: WARNING
My Subaru Forester has a significant safety defect. If my web searches are representative this software problem affects multiple models and years of Subaru. I have addressed this problem with the local dealer, Subaru America, and Subaru Japan and have been told "that is the way it was designed and it is supposed to do that." As you may imagine that is not a satisfactory answer to a significant safety issue; I can only imagine Ford saying the Pinto was designed with a gas tank that explodes in a collision or a more recent Takata claiming that their seatbelts were designed that way. So here is the problem in a nutshell (and I have a host of Emails from various levels of Subaru if you want the details of how I have attempted to get them to address the issue.) There is a sensor on the gas cap that detects if it is not fully closed since that is a pollution control issue. (More on that later) When that sensor is activated, it disables the Subaru Eyesight system and when the Eyesight system is disabled it disables every safety feature except the seatbelt and it lights up the dash with a dozen alarms none of which have anything to do with the gas cap. That takes down collision avoidance, lane changing, and autodim headlights among others. It also wants you to check the engine and consult the users manual. None of that has anything to do with the actual situation. Now I have taken the car to the dealer who assures me it is operating as designed and there is no fault in the sensor. When you close the gas cap there are audible clicks and as a 190 pound man I can assure you that the cap is fully closed when I close it. But on a random basis the dashboard lights up despite the fact that the gas cap is fully engaged and the safety systems become disabled. Usually it stays lit up until I refill the tank, but its behavior is not predictable - occasionally it just resets as I drive. Besides the obvious hazard of having safety systems which do not work, havi
NHTSA complaint #11738084 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ridgefield, WA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I am filing this complaint regarding a recurring and dangerous safety issue with my 2021 Subaru Forester. The auto stop/start feature intermittently fails to restart the engine after it shuts off when stopped. When this occurs, multiple dashboard warning lights come on, an alarm sounds, and the vehicle requires putting the transmission into "Park" and shutting it down completely before it will start again. This has happened multiple times at intersections, traffic lights, and freeways during rush hour (stopping and starting frequently), leaving me temporarily stranded in live traffic. The local Subaru dealership service department was unable to replicate the issue, however upon inspecting the vehicle's charging system, the battery was found unable to hold charge from the alternator and was replaced on June 9th, 2025. Now after less than 1 year of replacing the battery, the problem persists. I have been made aware of TSB 16-118-24R (TCM reprogramming for auto start/stop restart failure) and TSB 09-80-21 (Thermostatic Control Valve failure) which appear directly related to this issue. This is a serious safety hazard. A vehicle that cannot restart in live traffic puts the driver and other motorists at significant risk of a crash. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this issue and consider a formal recall.
NHTSA complaint #11735403 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Amelia Court House, VAFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
While driving this car on April 4, 2026 at around 6PM, I experienced the distinct smell of gasoline. I had driven for about 5 minutes on our way to a local restaurant that is approximately an 8 minute drive from our residence. My wife said that she had just filled the gas tank that afternoon. After arriving at the restaurant, I checked the gas cap to ensure it was tightly sealed. I also checked to ensure no fuel was leaking from the car. After finishing dinner, we I drove the car back to my residence and once again, 5 minutes into the drive, I smelled gasoline. After we arrived home, I check the vehicle exterior for leaks and found no liquids under the car. The following day, April 5, 2026 at approximately 1115 AM, having once again found no liquids or gasoline under my car, I drove the car to my local repair shop; an 8 minute drive. About 5 minutes into the drive, I smelled gasoline again. I parked the car at the repair shop, but while adjusting the parking to fit better between the painted lines, I saw and heard a large puff of smoke from the hood area. I immediately put the car into Park, shut off the engine and ran from the car. After exiting, I saw that the car ignited with visible fire under the engine compartment. I called 911 to request fire department help. No damage to any structures or other cars occurred. Q1 Above: No the car is totaled and unavailable for inspection as far as I know. Q2 Above: I had to run from a burning car. Q3 Above: No. Q4 Above: Yes, the car was inspected by my insurance company, USAA. Q5 Above: No, there were no warning lights or any indictor that there was trouble. I would like to note that the car was brought in to my Subaru dealership service station (Hyman Brothers in Midlothian, VA) for a heater element safety recall several months ago.
NHTSA complaint #11731868 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Amelia Court House, VAFire
ENGINE
While driving this car on April 4, 2026 at around 6PM, I experienced the distinct smell of gasoline. I had driven for about 5 minutes on our way to a local restaurant that is approximately an 8 minute drive from our residence. My wife said that she had just filled the gas tank that afternoon. After arriving at the restaurant, I checked the gas cap to ensure it was tightly sealed. I also checked to ensure no fuel was leaking from the car. After finishing dinner, we I drove the car back to my residence and once again, 5 minutes into the drive, I smelled gasoline. After we arrived home, I check the vehicle exterior for leaks and found no liquids under the car. The following day, April 5, 2026 at approximately 1115 AM, having once again found no liquids or gasoline under my car, I drove the car to my local repair shop; an 8 minute drive. About 5 minutes into the drive, I smelled gasoline again. I parked the car at the repair shop, but while adjusting the parking to fit better between the painted lines, I saw and heard a large puff of smoke from the hood area. I immediately put the car into Park, shut off the engine and ran from the car. After exiting, I saw that the car ignited with visible fire under the engine compartment. I called 911 to request fire department help. No damage to any structures or other cars occurred. Q1 Above: No the car is totaled and unavailable for inspection as far as I know. Q2 Above: I had to run from a burning car. Q3 Above: No. Q4 Above: Yes, the car was inspected by my insurance company, USAA. Q5 Above: No, there were no warning lights or any indictor that there was trouble. I would like to note that the car was brought in to my Subaru dealership service station (Hyman Brothers in Midlothian, VA) for a heater element safety recall several months ago.
NHTSA complaint #11731868 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Amelia Court House, VAFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
While driving this car on April 4, 2026 at around 6PM, I experienced the distinct smell of gasoline. I had driven for about 5 minutes on our way to a local restaurant that is approximately an 8 minute drive from our residence. My wife said that she had just filled the gas tank that afternoon. After arriving at the restaurant, I checked the gas cap to ensure it was tightly sealed. I also checked to ensure no fuel was leaking from the car. After finishing dinner, we I drove the car back to my residence and once again, 5 minutes into the drive, I smelled gasoline. After we arrived home, I check the vehicle exterior for leaks and found no liquids under the car. The following day, April 5, 2026 at approximately 1115 AM, having once again found no liquids or gasoline under my car, I drove the car to my local repair shop; an 8 minute drive. About 5 minutes into the drive, I smelled gasoline again. I parked the car at the repair shop, but while adjusting the parking to fit better between the painted lines, I saw and heard a large puff of smoke from the hood area. I immediately put the car into Park, shut off the engine and ran from the car. After exiting, I saw that the car ignited with visible fire under the engine compartment. I called 911 to request fire department help. No damage to any structures or other cars occurred. Q1 Above: No the car is totaled and unavailable for inspection as far as I know. Q2 Above: I had to run from a burning car. Q3 Above: No. Q4 Above: Yes, the car was inspected by my insurance company, USAA. Q5 Above: No, there were no warning lights or any indictor that there was trouble. I would like to note that the car was brought in to my Subaru dealership service station (Hyman Brothers in Midlothian, VA) for a heater element safety recall several months ago.
NHTSA complaint #11731868 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Auburn, WA
ENGINE
While driving the car, the engine stops completely. After a few seconds, it can be restarted. It does this several times a week at random intervals. It's very dangerous since it usually happens when we're driving in traffic. The dealer checked it out in July but couldn't find anything wrong. Even though it's a serious safety problem, they said to keep driving it until it does it every time the car is driven or until the car won't run. When this happens, all the dashboard warning lights come on and the word "Eyesight" is displayed with a diagonal line through it. A warning buzzer also sounds. This started last summer with very infrequent occurrences and is now several times a week.
NHTSA complaint #11728784 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cedar Hill, TN
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Automatic start/stop fails to turn car on - intermittent. Taken it to Subaru detailer miltiple times and paid for services to correct the issue, but the issue persists. Fist time - replaced the battery in July 2025. 2nd time, went on a ride along for 1 hour, issue did not happen, replaced spark plugs, issue persists. 3rd time, updated TCM software, issue still persists. Subaru of America is aware of the issue and have not gotten a resolution either.
NHTSA complaint #11728464 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cedar Hill, TN
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Automatic start/stop fails to turn car on - intermittent. Taken it to Subaru detailer miltiple times and paid for services to correct the issue, but the issue persists. Fist time - replaced the battery in July 2025. 2nd time, went on a ride along for 1 hour, issue did not happen, replaced spark plugs, issue persists. 3rd time, updated TCM software, issue still persists. Subaru of America is aware of the issue and have not gotten a resolution either.
NHTSA complaint #11728464 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cedar Hill, TN
ENGINE
Automatic start/stop fails to turn car on - intermittent. Taken it to Subaru detailer miltiple times and paid for services to correct the issue, but the issue persists. Fist time - replaced the battery in July 2025. 2nd time, went on a ride along for 1 hour, issue did not happen, replaced spark plugs, issue persists. 3rd time, updated TCM software, issue still persists. Subaru of America is aware of the issue and have not gotten a resolution either.
NHTSA complaint #11728464 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesWaukegan, ILCrash4 injured
POWER TRAIN
The contact owned a 2021 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 4 MPH and slowing to park, the vehicle accelerated on its own. The contact stated that the vehicle drove out of the parking lot and crashed into a wall. The contact stated that the air bags deployed and that the vehicle had then shifted into reverse (R) and driven out away from the wall and crashed into a parked vehicle and stopped. The contact stated she was unaware of any warning lights. The contact stated that she had 1 passenger in the front seat and 2 passengers in the rear seat. The contact stated that everyone was shaken and achy, but no cuts or other injuries. The contact stated later that the passengers went on their own to seek medical attention. The contact stated that the passenger front bumper, hood, and wheel well were damaged, and the rear bumper on the passenger side had damage from the crash with the parked vehicle. The contact stated that the other vehicle had minor damage to the right rear quarter panel. The police were called and issued a report. The vehicle was towed to a collision repair shop, but had not been repaired. The vehicle had not been diagnosed for the independent acceleration and reverse failures. The contact stated that her insurance provider had not yet declared the vehicle a total loss. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
NHTSA complaint #11723858 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesWaukegan, ILCrash4 injured
ENGINE
The contact owned a 2021 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 4 MPH and slowing to park, the vehicle accelerated on its own. The contact stated that the vehicle drove out of the parking lot and crashed into a wall. The contact stated that the air bags deployed and that the vehicle had then shifted into reverse (R) and driven out away from the wall and crashed into a parked vehicle and stopped. The contact stated she was unaware of any warning lights. The contact stated that she had 1 passenger in the front seat and 2 passengers in the rear seat. The contact stated that everyone was shaken and achy, but no cuts or other injuries. The contact stated later that the passengers went on their own to seek medical attention. The contact stated that the passenger front bumper, hood, and wheel well were damaged, and the rear bumper on the passenger side had damage from the crash with the parked vehicle. The contact stated that the other vehicle had minor damage to the right rear quarter panel. The police were called and issued a report. The vehicle was towed to a collision repair shop, but had not been repaired. The vehicle had not been diagnosed for the independent acceleration and reverse failures. The contact stated that her insurance provider had not yet declared the vehicle a total loss. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
NHTSA complaint #11723858 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Houston, TX
SEATS
Car drains battery. 45,000 miles and has had 3 batteries and have been told it needs another. Dealer says start stop switch, requires a battery of 750 CCA and not the Subaru recommend battery. Car will die in traffic and driver seat adjusts to different positions by itself. Told that these problems will never stop unless I get a higher rated battery than required.
NHTSA complaint #11714847 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Houston, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Car drains battery. 45,000 miles and has had 3 batteries and have been told it needs another. Dealer says start stop switch, requires a battery of 750 CCA and not the Subaru recommend battery. Car will die in traffic and driver seat adjusts to different positions by itself. Told that these problems will never stop unless I get a higher rated battery than required.
NHTSA complaint #11714847 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Houston, TX
ENGINE
Car drains battery. 45,000 miles and has had 3 batteries and have been told it needs another. Dealer says start stop switch, requires a battery of 750 CCA and not the Subaru recommend battery. Car will die in traffic and driver seat adjusts to different positions by itself. Told that these problems will never stop unless I get a higher rated battery than required.
NHTSA complaint #11714847 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Houston, TX
ENGINE
On January16,2026 while driving from Houston,TX to Austin TX the vehicle experienced a complete loss of power on Highway 71 W. We were traveling at approximately 70 MPH when the engine completely failed. We were forced to immediately pull over onto a narrow shoulder Our situation at that point was dire: we could not exit the vehicle as other cars were speeding by. Fortunately an emergency vehicle from the Texas Department of Transportation pulled up behind us with his emergency lights flashing. He told us we were in a dangerous situation and, due to our location, he was not able to tow us to safety. Our only option at that point was to allow the emergency vehicle to puss us to a safe location off of the highway. The driver pushed our vehicle approximately 1/2 mile to a motel parking lot. We contacted Austin Subaru, arranged for a tow truck, and proceeded to the dealer. The dealer technician advised us the Thermo Control Valve had failed. We were told this failure was common. The repair was at no charge since Subaru, being aware of the problem, had extended the warranty on this part. The action by Subaru to extend the warranty instead of proactively replacing the part before failure seems blatantly irresponsible
NHTSA complaint #11713463 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bayonne, NJ
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Vehicle was delivered with the wrong battery - reserve capacity. The car stalls out in idle position creating safety issues. My wife was stranded and we had the original battery replaced with the specs from the previous battery…causing the same issues to occur. Finally, we were informed of the improper battery installation
NHTSA complaint #11703148 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
