2012 Subaru Forester problems

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The Subaru Forester (Japanese: スバル・フォレスター, Hepburn: Subaru Foresutā) is a compact crossover SUV that has been manufactured by Subaru since 1997. The first generation was built on the platform of the Impreza in the style of a taller station wagon, a style that continued to the second generation, while the third-generation model onwards moved towards a crossover SUV design. A performance model was available for the second-generation Forester in Japan as the Forester STi.

First generation (SF; 1997)

The Forester was introduced at the Tokyo Motor Show in November 1995 as the Streega concept, and available for sale in February 1997 in Japan, and to the US market in 1997 for MY1998. The Forester was one of the first crossover SUVs; the idea was inspired by Volkswagen (VW). It was built in the style of a station wagon, but had a taller stance, higher h-point seating, and an all-wheel drive drivetrain. Subaru advertising employed the slogan "SUV tough, Car Easy". It used the Impreza platform but with the larger 2.5-liter DOHC EJ25D four-cylinder boxer engine from the Subaru Outback, making 123 kW (165 hp; 167 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 220 N⋅m (162 lb⋅ft) of torque at 4,000 rpm.

Japan

In its domestic market, the Forester replaced the Impreza Gravel Express, known in the US as the Subaru Outback Sport. However, the Outback Sport remained in production for the U.S. market. The Forester appeared after the introduction of the Nissan Rasheen in Japan with a similar appearance, and the Forester's Japanese competitors include the Toyota RAV4, Mitsubishi RVR, and the Suzuki Grand Vitara. Because of the Forester's low center of gravity, it meets the United States federal safety standards for passenger vehicles and does not require a "risk of rollover" warning label on the driver's visor. Size- and price-wise, it fits between the shared Impreza platform and the larger Legacy.

The automatic transmissions used on AWD-equipped vehicles will normally send 60% of the engine's torque to the front wheels and 40% to the rear wheels, using a computer-controlled, continuously variable, multi-plate transfer clutch. When the transmission detects a speed difference between the front and rear axle sets, the transmission progressively sends power to the rear wheels. Under slip conditions, it can achieve an equal split in front and rear axle speeds.

When accelerating or driving uphill, the vehicle's weight shifts rearward, reducing front-wheel traction, causing the transmission to automatically send torque to the rear wheels to compensate. When braking or driving downhill, the vehicle's weight shifts towards the front, reducing rear-wheel traction. The transmission again compensates by sending torque to the front wheels for better steering control and braking performance. If the automatic is placed in reverse or first gear, the transmission divides the torque 50/50 to both front and rear wheels. The manual transmission cars are set up with a near 50/50 torque split as a base setting, and it varies from there. Essentially, manual cars are set up with more bias towards the rear than automatic cars.

2012 Subaru Forester

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Common 2012 Subaru Forester problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the 2012 Subaru Forester, several common problems have been reported:

  1. Excessive Oil Consumption:
    • Owners have reported unusually high oil consumption, with some vehicles consuming a significant amount of engine oil in a short period. This issue can lead to frequent oil changes and, in severe cases, catastrophic engine failures due to dangerously low oil levels.
  2. Sudden Acceleration:
    • Some owners have experienced problems with sudden and uncontrollable acceleration, even when the accelerator pedal is not pressed. This issue poses a safety risk and can be concerning for drivers.
  3. Premature Clutch Failure:
    • Instances of early clutch failure have been documented, with reports of clutch failures occurring at relatively low mileage. Owners have reported hearing grinding sounds from the transmission before the clutch failure.
  4. Brake Failure:
    • There have been reports of brake failures in 2012 Subaru Foresters, with incidents occurring even after the vehicle had undergone a brake line erosion recall repair. Brake failures can lead to safety hazards and potential accidents.
  5. Accelerator Pedal Stuck:
    • Some 2012 Forester models were affected by accelerator pedal failures, causing the accelerator pedals to become stuck to the floorboard. This issue resulted in unexpected accelerations, posing a risk to drivers.

These common problems reported by owners highlight important issues that potential buyers of the 2012 Subaru Forester should be aware of. Regular maintenance and thorough inspections are crucial to address these issues and ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle.

2012 Subaru Forester engine

What is the most common problem with the Subaru Forester?

Most Common Subaru Forester Problems

  • Engine Issues. There are a variety of issues that owners have reported that are related to the Check Engine light being illuminated. ...
  • Transmission Problems. Subaru Forester transmission problems typically occur in two ways – shuddering or jerking. ...
  • Oil Consumption. ...
  • Electrical Issues.

What is the recall on the 2012 Subaru Forester engine?

(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.

How many miles does a 2012 Subaru Forester last?

The Subaru Forester has impressed owners with its durability since its 1998 debut, with many of the machines lasting up to 200,000 miles or longer.

What years are good for the Subaru Forester?

A: For those looking to buy a Subaru Forester, the best model years to consider are the most recent ones, specifically 2019, 2020, and 2021. These models have received favorable customer reviews, feature better connectivity and technology, and have excellent safety ratings.

What is the most common problem with the Subaru Forester?

Most Common Subaru Forester Problems

  • Engine Issues. There are a variety of issues that owners have reported that are related to the Check Engine light being illuminated. ...
  • Transmission Problems. Subaru Forester transmission problems typically occur in two ways – shuddering or jerking. ...
  • Oil Consumption. ...
  • Electrical Issues.

What is the recall on the 2012 Subaru Forester engine?

(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.

How long can a 2012 Subaru Forester last?

The Subaru Forester has impressed owners with its durability since its 1998 debut, with many of the machines lasting up to 200,000 miles or longer.

What years are good for the Subaru Forester?

A: For those looking to buy a Subaru Forester, the best model years to consider are the most recent ones, specifically 2019, 2020, and 2021. These models have received favorable customer reviews, feature better connectivity and technology, and have excellent safety ratings.

2012 Subaru Forester car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Forester problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Engine problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Subaru Forester vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2012 Subaru Forester

The NHTSA has received 102 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Subaru Forester. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2012 Subaru Forester vehicles.

2024-01-16

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-15
  • VIN: JF2SHABC8CH
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: my vehicle has 52460 miles and was in southern oregon subaru for an oil change, when i was informed the engine was leaking oil. the service advisor said the cam carrier reseal was needed and it would cost $3380.00. i checked youtube and found that subaru forester from 2012 to 2019 engines have this problem. why should i pay this if subaru's engines have this problem.
2023-11-28

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-11-21
  • VIN: JF2SHABC5CG
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: My 2012 Subaru Forester suddenly accelerated as I was making a right hand turn from a parking lot onto a major street. My brakes failed and I could only steer at high speed off the street, over a curb on to a parking strip between trees, and through a motel parking lot. The car finally came to a stop as I had blown the front right tire going over the curb. The car has been towed to my auto repair shop where the cause(s) of the mechanical failure(s) as well as any possible associated damage(s) are still unknown. It is available for inspection upon request at this point in time. Although no injuries, fatalities, or property damage resulted from this incident, the sudden acceleration and brake failure of the car could have resulted in major injuries or fatalities if pedestrians had been on the sidewalk or in the motel parking lot. I could have also hit staff and/or guests in the motel office if I had not been able to steer away in time. I, as the driver, and my dog, as my sole passenger, could also have been seriously injured or killed if my car had hit the motel office or if my car had collided with any cars in motel lot. At this point in time, the cause of my car’s mechanical failure(s) remains unknown so the problem has not been assessed or confirmed by my independent auto repair service shop. The car has not been been inspected by any representative of the manufacturer (Subaru). Because no other vehicle was damaged nor person injured (miraculously) , I did not initiate a police report. Because the accident co-incidentally occurred next door to my insurance agent, where I had just been, the agent's assistant visually inspected my car immediately following the accident. I did not see any control panel signs or other signs prior to nor during the failure (although during the failure I was so focused on where the car was headed that I was unable to look at the control panel at the same time). There were no signs of the failure when I came to a stop.
2023-08-16

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-08-05
  • VIN: JF2SHADC4CH
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: After purchasing the vehicle on July 25, 2023 at approximately 99,800 miles, I began driving across the country from PA to CA. I purchased the vehicle from a Subaru dealership, so it was certified pre-owned. Beginning on day 3 of the drive, the car began to make a ticking sound under the hood. The car still had oil on the dipstick, but I added half a quart to be safe. There were no dealerships nearby, so I proceeded to drive to the nearest town and went to a mechanic. They believed the sound was from the engine working hard. We proceeded driving the following day, and after a few hours (around 2,000 miles of the cross country drive) the sound became worse/louder. I was fortunately able to pull off at an exit in the middle of Wyoming, and immediately after driving down the exit ramp, the car stopped. I could not turn the steering wheel, the car would not move, and 3 lights came on. I was able to turn on the car to move it 20 feet out of the way, and checked the oil again as two oil lights came on the dash. There was essentially no oil in my car. I added the last half quart I had with me, but the location we were at did not carry oil for cars. We got a tow to the nearest dealership the following day and they informed me that my engine needed to be replaced and I had no oil in my car. There were no warning or indication lights the entire time we were driving. The engine seized without warning and there were never any leaks under the car indicating that I was losing oil. Had there not been an exit at the right time, the car would have given out on the side of the highway where people drive 80mph. The exact cause is still unknown as to why the engine burned through all the oil and why the engine needs to be replaced.
2023-01-30

STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-11-27
  • VIN: JF2SHBECXCH
  • Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Both rear gate hydraulic arms failed at the same time. On or about 11/27/22, while retrieving items from the cargo compartment, I heard a pop and the door completely collapsed and struck me on the back of the head. Upon inspection the popping noise was the fracturing of the bolt which supported the right hydraulic arm. The left hydraulic arm failed to keep the door open or at least from slamming down upon me. Because I felt the simultaneous failure of both hydraulic arms posed a serious safety concern, my wife called Subaru Headquarters and spoke with [XXX], Customer Advocacy Department, and relayed the incident and our safety concerns for other owners of older model Subaru Foresters. [XXX] assured us that Subaru Headquarters would seriously consider our safety concerns. [XXX] asked that after making an appointment with the dealership for repair, we contact her of the date so she could speak directly to the Service Department regarding the safety issue we were raising. My wife made the appointment, called [XXX] with the date, and when arriving at the appointment asked the service person if they had been in touch with Subaru Headquarters regarding our concerns. First the service manager said no, but another service person said yes and that they had put a notation about this on our appointment service order. The repairs were made. About a week later my wife contacted [XXX], Subaru Headquarters' Customer Advocacy Department, to inquire on the status of our safety concern and was told that it had been elevated to the next higher level and we would hear from them by 12/30/22. On 1/27/22, [XXX] representative from Customer Advocacy at Subaru Headquarters, called to inform us that Subaru will no longer be able to investigate our safety concerns as the failed parts had not been saved by the Bloomington Subaru Service Department. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
2022-09-24

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-09-14
  • VIN: JF2SHBDC7CH
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: The vehicle will just stall. It has happened three times; usually at a stop sign or slowing down to turn. I have had it towed and in the shop, and they can't find anything wrong with it. No error messages. One shop cleaned the throttle body and thought that might be the problem. The vehicle has always consumed oil; at least a quart is added every 700-1000 miles. We have changed the oil regularly and don't understand why the oil consumption problem. Now the cruise light flashes off and on. The traction light and check engine light stays on all the time.
2022-08-01

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-08-01
  • VIN: JF2SHABCXCG
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: 2012 SUBARU FORESTER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO STUD FAILURE. THE CONSUMER STATED THE 3 OF THE 5 WHEEL STUDS EXPERIENCED A SHEARING FAILURE. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO BE REIMBURSED FOR THE FAILURE DUE TO IT BEING A KNOWN ISSUE.
2022-07-12

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-07-08
  • VIN: JF2SHAGC7CH
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: My 2012 Subaru forester had a recall on my passenger air bag that I had completed February 2019. It is now July 2022 and it’s displaying the same codes for a faulty air bag per my mechanic. I contacted Subaru of America and they stated that it’s not their problem because they have already complied with the recall. Clearly there is still an issue with the air bag or it would not have the same safety air bag code as before. This is clearly a manufacturer issue that they need to rectify. I should not have the same issue 3 years later. This is a huge safety problem. Consumer was instructed to make an appointment with a licensed Subaru facility to inspect the air bag issue and to go from there.
2022-02-03

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-02-03
  • VIN: JF2SHABC2CG
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: I purchased my Subaru Forester new in 2012. After a few thousand miles it was brought to my attention by the service tech that there was a "small" oil leak coming from the engine. They said it was not significant. No one mentioned that SB 02-131-12R had been issued addressing these leaks because they were so prominent with the engine in my Forester. At a little over 60,000 miles all of a sudden the dealer was "concerned" about fixing it now that I would have to foot the bill. The repair was made but failed shortly thereafter. The engine started showing PO170, PO171 codes. I took the vehicle to Subaru of Loveland and was told that the camshaft carrier that was supposed to be repaired at Subaru of Pueblo was leaking oil on the O2 sensor causing the lean condition. I was told that if it was not repaired that the catalytic converter would overheat and valve damage to the engine would occur. Loveland said that the repair would cost $3,300.00 and that I probably would need a new short block shortly because of the damages caused by the leak. This is an emission problem as the engine will not meet standards. The engine in the Subaru Forester was a new design in 2011 and has suffered excessive oil consumption and camshaft carrier leaks until 2018 when the engine was replace with a new design. A search of the https://www.subaruforester.org/threads/2012-cam-carrier-oil-leak.261490/ (Subaru Forum) will show many, many Subaru owner complaints on this issue. The overheating of the catalytic converter is a definite fire hazard.
2021-11-20

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-11-13
  • VIN: JF2SHADC2CH
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: My car suffered a catastrophic oil event without an indicator light or any other warning requiring a new engine. The car has 119k miles (purchased from a Subaru dealer with 114k less than a year ago). We had no leaks in our garage or driveway from the car. My daughter was driving the car to school, and the smoke filled the car. The car was not driveable and was towed to an auto repair shop.
2021-07-26

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-04-24
  • VIN: JF2SHBDC6CH
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: My car suffered a catastrophic oil event without an indicator light or any other warning that is nesitating a new engine. The car had less than 70,000 miles on it. I had informed some ticking noise from the engine in previous maintenance events. I was driving on the interstate, and my engine seized and locked-up, and I had to slowly pullover on an interstate highway.
2021-07-06

AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-07-02
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: jf2shabcxch
  • Components: AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving at a low rate of speed through a parking garage, the vehicle independently accelerated without warning. The vehicle initially crashed into a parked vehicle which caused a chain reaction with two other parked vehicles. The air bags did not deploy upon impact. The police arrived at the scene and a police report was filed. The contact sought medical attention for a laceration to the head and a stiff neck. The vehicle was towed to an independent tow yard where it remained in their possession. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.
2021-06-18

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-06-17
  • VIN: JF2SHBBC7CH
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: 1st noticed a couple of years ago sounded like valve tapping engine noise. Took to auto shop and they stated car had virtually no oil in it. Never mentioned oil consumption issue. In March of 2020, took car into Subaru dealer for inspection and oil change. Yesterday, while driving home, noticed same noise as before. Auto shop found article about excessive oil consumption. Article stated owners were notified and advised of actions that could be taken. Mechanic stated it was a known issue, but no official recall had ever been issued. I never received any notification. Subaru offered to extend warranty period, but I may now be outside of that. Have appt at dealer tomorrow for other service work (including oil change). Car has 75k miles and is 2012. Was down over 3 quarts of oil at around 7,000 miles. No oil warning indicator ever illuminated. Was told by dealer when I called last night that they would perform "Oil Consumption Test" recommended by manufacture, "if your engine VIN meets the requirements". If the engine runs dry, good potential to seize on the spot and cause accident and injury.
2021-05-06

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-05-05
  • VIN: JF2SHADC3CH
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: KEEPS SMELLING LIKE GAS, AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, CRUISE LIGHT BLINKS, AND TRACKTION CONTROL LIGHTIS BLINKING. SAYS CODE PROBLEM WITH THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER.
2020-12-21

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-12-21
  • VIN: JF2SHADC6CH
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: 2012 SUBARU DASH LIGHT ALL COME ON AND THEN THE CAR STARTS TO STALL OUT. DEALER CAN NOT FIND OUT THE PROBLEM. THE HAPPENS INTERMITTENTLY. THEY RESET THE COMPUTER AND IT RUNS FOR A COUPLE HOURS OR DAY AND THEN IT HAPPENS AGAIN. THIS WILL HAPPEN IN THE WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND IS VERY DANGEROUS.
2020-12-01

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-11-25
  • VIN: JF2SHADC1CH
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: SUBARU HAS BEEN AWARE OF AN OIL CONSUMPTION DEFECT WITH THE PISTON RINGS IN THIS MODEL CAR AND NEVER NOTIFIED OWNERS THAT IT WAS PRESENT. THE RESULT CAN BE OIL PRESSURE LOSS, RAPID OVERHEATING, AND MOTOR SEIZING. THE MOTOR HAS BEEN REPLACED FOR SOME CUSTOMERS FOR THE OIL CONSUMPTION DAMAGES, BUT NOT FOR MANY OTHERS. THE PARTS WERE DEFECTIVE AT MANUFACTURE AND A RECALL SHOULD BE INSTITUTED.
2020-10-28

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-04-01
  • VIN: JF2SHABC1CH
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: MY FRONT WINDSHIELD DEVELOPED A SPONTANEOUS CRACK. IN APRIL 2020, THE CAR WAS PARKED OUTSIDE OVERNIGHT, AND IN THE MORNING, THERE WAS A 20-INCH LONG HORIZONTAL CRACK ON THE BOTTOM PORTION OF THE WINDSHIELD. THERE WAS NO IMPACT MARK TO INDICATE A ROCK HIT THE WINDSHIELD.
2020-10-26

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-09-26
  • VIN: JF2SHABC3CH
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: AT 102K MILES, ENGINE DEVELOPED LOUD TAPPING SOUND. VEHICLE HAS ALWAYS USED A QUART OF OIL APPROXIMATELY EVERY 1000 MILES SINCE NEW. THIS PROBLEM APPEARS TO BE OIL RELATED DUE TO ENGINE DESIGN/PART DEFECT. PROBLEM APPEARED AFTER 4 HOUR DRIVE AT HIGHWAY SPEED (70-75MPH). MECHANIC CHECKING FOR VALVE OR ROCKER DAMAGE.
2020-10-01

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-10-01
  • VIN: JF2SHADC3CH
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: 2012 SUBARU FORESTER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO WHEEL ISSUES. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE TIRES DO NOT HOLD PRESSURE. THE TIRES WERE 2 YEARS OLD WITH LESS THAN 20,000 MILES. THE TIRE PRESSURE GAUGES WERE FOUND NOT TO BE THE CAUSE OF FAILURE.
2020-09-15

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-06-01
  • VIN: JF2SHABCXCH
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT'S DAUGHTER OWNS A 2012 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT'S DAUGHTER BECAME AWARE OF OIL CONSUMPTION ON THE VEHICLE. HIS DAUGHTER FREQUENTLY HAD TO REPLENISH THE OIL DUE TO THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT CALLED MAITA SUBARU (2912 AUBURN BLVD, SACRAMENTO, CA 95821) AND ELK GROVE SUBARU (8581 LAGUNA GROVE DR, ELK GROVE, CA 95757) WHERE HE WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS A WARRANTY EXTENSION ON THE VEHICLE FOR EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION HOWEVER, THE WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED IN MAY OF 2020. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALSO NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND CONFIRMED THE DEALERS INFORMATION. THE CONTACT'S DAUGHTER HAD NOT TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO BE DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 87,000.
2020-07-07

VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-09-05
  • VIN: JF2SHBBC7CH
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: THE SUN VISOR MOUNT IS OF LOW QUALITY AND FAILURE ALLOWED THE VISOR TO FALL IN MY LAP WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH ON A COUNTY HIGHWAY. NO VEHICLE DAMAGE OCCURRED. THE ATTACHED PHOTO SHOWS THE REASON FOR FAILURE. VEHICLE MILEAGE AT FAILURE WAS APPROXIMATELY 70,000.
2020-07-07

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-11-13
  • VIN: JF2SHBBC7CH
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: A STUCK BRAKE CALIPER PISTON EXTENDED FAR ENOUGH TO RELEASE BRAKE FLUID RESULTING IN COMPLETE LOSS OF BRAKES.IT FAILED A FEW BLOCKS FROM HOME ON CITY STREETS AND NO DAMAGE OCCURRED.REQUIRED TOWING TO A REPAIR SHOP.NO PHOTOS BUT ATTACHED IS A RECEIPT FOR REPAIRS.
2020-04-16

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-12-31
  • VIN: JF2SHABC4CH
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: ON 12/31/18, WHEN DRIVING HOME AT 11P.M.,AND AN HOUR FROM MY HOME, MY "OIL LIGHT" CAME ON. I STOPPED AT A SERVICE STATION AND HAD 3 QUARTS OF OIL PUT IN MY OIL TANK. TWO DAYS LATER, I TOOK IT TO MY MECHANIC WHO COULD NOT FIND A LEAK BUT OVER THE NEXT 9 MONTHS, AT APPROXIMATELY EVERY 2 WEEK INTERVALS, HE PUT BETWEEN 1/2-3 QUARTS OF OIL IN MY CAR. IN MAY 2019 THE NORTH END SUBARU SERVICE DEPT. CHECKED OVER MY CAR AND COULD NOT FIND A OIL LEAK EITHER. ON 9/21/19, MY MECHANIC READ AN ARTICLE ONLINE ABOUT THE EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION IN MOST SUBARU MODELS BETWEEN 2011-15. I NEVER RECEIVED NOTIFICATION FROM SUBARU RE: THIS PROBLEM. I WROTE 2 LETTERS TO SUBARU OF AMERICA (ONE TO THE PRESIDENT). I WAS NOTIFIED BY THEM THAT MY CAR WAS "OUT OF WARRANTY" BECAUSE IT, BY THEN, HAD OVER 100,000 MILES. THEY OFFERED ME A $1500 "LOYAL CUSTOMER" CREDIT ON A NEW SUBARU, WHICH THEY NEVER SENT ME. I HAVE BEEN DRIVING SUBARUS SINCE 1990 AND HAVE TALKED MY WHOLE FAMILY AND SEVERAL FRIENDS INTO BUYING THEM. I USUALLY DRIVE MY SUBARUS UNTIL 250.000 MILES AND DON'T WANT TO GET A NEW CAR. THIS WAS A DEFECT IN MANY MODELS AND I WAS NOT NOTIFIED AS AN OWNER. I TAKE METICULOUS CARE OF MY CARS. I CONTINUE TO DRIVE THIS ONE, HAVING THE OIL LEVELS CHECKED EVERY 2 WEEKS. THE COST OF A NEW "ENGINE BLOCK ASSEMBLY" WOULD BE $4995, WHICH I THINK SUBARU SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR. I HAVE FILED A COMPLAINT WITH THE MA ATTORNEY GENERAL'S OFFICE AND THEY SUGGESTED I ALSO CONTACT YOU. ATTACHED IN THE MENTIONED COMPLAINT, THE 2 LETTERS I WROTE TO SUBARU AND AN ARTICLE RE: THE EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION PROBLEM. THANK YOU FOR ANY ASSISTANCE YOU CAN GIVE ME. *TR
2020-01-24

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-01-24
  • VIN: JF2SHBCC7CG
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION. HAVE TO ADD MORE THAN A 1 QUART BETWEEN OIL CHANGES(EVERY 3K MILES).
2019-07-16

STEERING,SUSPENSION,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-04-01
  • VIN: JF2SHAEC3CH
  • Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,ENGINE
  • Summary: PURCHASED VEHICAL 3-4 MONTHS AGO W/ 86K MILES. OIL LEAKS IN HEAD GASKET ( QUART EVERY 6 WEEKS..RESEARCHED THIS AND TURNS OUT THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM FROM 1999- 2013. ON ALL FORESTERS. MANUFACTURER USED MORE SEALANT AND LESS GASKET ON THAT ENGINE.WHY WASN'T THIS RECALLED?? EASILY VERIFIED VIA TUBE OR INTERNET.THE OTHER ISSUE IS LOWER CONTROL ARM BUSHINGS WORN OUT AT 86K MILES. STEERING IS VERY UN STABLE.
2019-06-25

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-05-11
  • VIN: JF2SHABC6CH
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: 2012 SUBARU FORESTER WITH 106,000 MILES BURNS ALL OF THE ENGINE OIL DRY. I HAVE READ THIS IS DUE TO FAULTY PISTON RINGS. WHERE IS THE RECALL FOR THIS ? IT IS UNACCEPTABLE. REGULARLY, IF NOT, OVER MAINTAINED.

2012 Subaru Forester recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 15 recalls for different components of the 2012 Subaru Forester.

2022-11-10
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: 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.
  • Consequence: The seat belt assembly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: 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.
2020-01-02
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: 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.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: 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.
2020-01-02
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: 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.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: 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.
2020-01-02
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: 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.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: 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.
2019-04-11
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
  • Summary: 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.
  • Consequence: 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.
  • Remedy: 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.
2019-01-09
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: 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.
  • Consequence: 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.
  • Remedy: 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.
2019-01-09
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: 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.
  • Consequence: 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.
  • Remedy: 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.
2019-01-09
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: 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.
  • Consequence: 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.
  • Remedy: 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.
2018-01-09
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: 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.
  • Consequence: 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.
  • Remedy: 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.
2017-01-10
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: 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.
  • Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: 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.
2016-10-13
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: 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.
  • Consequence: If the air injection pump overheats, it may melt and increase the risk of a fire.
  • Remedy: 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.
2014-12-31
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: 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.
  • Consequence: 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.
  • Remedy: 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.
2014-06-10
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
  • Summary: 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.
  • Consequence: 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.
  • Remedy: 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.
2012-12-26
  • Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: 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).
  • Consequence: 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.
  • Remedy: 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.
2012-03-13
  • Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER
  • Summary: 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.
  • Consequence: AN INSECURE INSTALLATION OF A CHILD RESTRAINT CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF INJURY TO A CHILD DURING A CRASH.
  • Remedy: 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.

Negative 2012 Subaru Forester car reviews

  1. Jett Howell 2024-10-01

    I meant to write a review a year ago, but now that I have more experience, I can give a better assessment. Here are the pros: good visibility, a simple radio with volume knobs and features that were easy to get used to, and generally reliable performance (aside from a cracked rubber bearing that caused some vibrations). I also appreciate the cool blue background light around the speedometer and tachometer. On the downside, the plastic in the dash vibrates in colder weather, and the ride is not as smooth as newer models. The seats have poor quality clothing that started showing threads after just a month of use, unlike my old Honda. The volume label below the knob also disappeared within a month. The doors are hollow, which makes for high NVH. I had to get the dealer to install more insulation in the body, as even gas smell got in during my first gas station trip. Finally, the dealer was not helpful, but I eventually paid to get the alignment done so I am not afraid to fishtail in winter. Subaru also needs to put better tires on their cars, especially as a well-known AWD company. While resale value is not as high as a Toyota, it is still a good car overall.

  2. Alexie Fadel 2024-09-04

    I am sorry to hear about your experience with your Subaru. It seems like there were some issues with the engine and the oil consumption. It must have been frustrating to deal with the repair bills and the minimal assistance from Subaru. It is disappointing when a car that was supposed to be reliable turns out to be the opposite. Thank you for sharing your experience, and I hope you have better luck with your next vehicle.

  3. Kadin Macejkovic 2024-08-03

    I am confident in my assessment of the Forester. While many people have praised it, I have found that it does not meet my expectations. As someone who does not require excessive features, I believed that a Subaru would be a perfect fit. However, after experiencing both positive and negative aspects of the vehicle, as well as several minor annoyances, I have decided that I will not be renewing my lease.

  4. Cristopher Wolf 2024-08-01

    Despite experiencing multiple issues with my Legacy, including problems with the transmission, AC, tire pressure gauge, and vibrations, I decided to lease a Forester. Unfortunately, after only driving it for 35 miles, the starter, alternator, and battery all died. Despite this setback, I remain confident in my decision to choose Subaru. While we are currently using a rental car, I am certain that Subaru will resolve this issue and provide us with a reliable vehicle. While some may have had negative experiences with Subaru, I am confident in their ability to provide quality cars and will continue to be a loyal customer.

  5. Dimitri Walter 2024-03-06

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to bring to your attention a couple of issues I've noticed. Firstly, I've found that the highway mileage doesn't quite match up to what's advertised, even when using cruise control. Secondly, I've noticed that the radio only seems to work when the car is stationary, which I believe is by design. Thanks for taking the time to read this!

Positive 2012 Subaru Forester car reviews

  1. Gabe Wolf 2024-10-29

    The car is great for winter and very safe. You might not be a big fan of the interior design, but other than that, there are no complaints.

  2. Kennith Leuschke 2024-10-12

    We're so glad you chose this Subaru! It sounds like you made a great choice. The car is comfortable, smooth, and has plenty of pep. Even better, you're already getting great gas mileage on your commute. Congratulations on your first Subaru! Your wife is going to love it. The premium package you chose, along with the added remote start, fog lights, all-weather mats, cargo tray, dog divider, and bumper cover, will make for a fantastic driving experience. Thank you for choosing Subaru!

  3. Osvaldo Johns 2024-08-16

    The metal on the door and fender is a bit soft, which makes it prone to dents from people opening their car doors in parking lots.

  4. Dedrick Smitham 2024-07-22

    You can always count on it being reliable and user-friendly. There have been no recalls so far.

  5. Antonio Hand 2024-05-21

    Our family owned the 2008 version for 4 years and we loved it! Although it may not be the most technically advanced in its segment, its price is definitely a plus. It's a great ride, spacious and perfect for a small family that needs wagon utility, especially in rough weather. We found it to be reliable and safe, which is always a top priority. We even opted for the alloy wheel-package to add a little extra style.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2012 Subaru Forester problems:

Thoughts on 2012 Subaru Foresters? (Specifically reliability reviews ...
Thoughts on 2012 Subaru Foresters? (Specifically reliability reviews ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/SubaruForester/comments/usx00m/thoughts_on_2012_subaru_foresters_specifically/

May 19, 2022 ... Mine has always eaten oil... Like a little over a quart per 1000 miles. But honestly, besides keeping oil in it , I do nothing to maintain my ...

2012 Subaru Forester Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
2012 Subaru Forester Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2012-subaru-forester/problems

Top 2012 Subaru Forester Problems · Subaru Front O2 Sensor Recall · Check Engine Light Due to Failed Catalytic Converter · Cooling System Problems Cause Head ...

Does the 2012 Forester 2.5X Premium Have Any Glaring Issues? : r ...
Does the 2012 Forester 2.5X Premium Have Any Glaring Issues? : r ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/subaru/comments/1603k9q/does_the_2012_forester_25x_premium_have_any/

Aug 24, 2023 ... ... 2012 Subaru Forester, 2.5x Premium with 128k miles on it. I know that the EJ25 engines were the ones that primarily had the issue, and from ...

2012 Subaru Forester Reliability - Consumer Reports
2012 Subaru Forester Reliability - Consumer Reports
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/forester/2012/reliability/

VERY disappointed in Subaru's refusal to address these issues. Interior finish/quality also much worse than previous years. Thin, easily-stained materials on ...

Looking into a used 2012 Forester 2.5L. Wondering what the ...
Looking into a used 2012 Forester 2.5L. Wondering what the ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/subaru/comments/3xe86v/looking_into_a_used_2012_forester_25l_wondering/

Dec 19, 2015 ... It's an issue with the oil rings letting oil through and getting burned off. Original fix was to replace rings but now Subaru is just replacing ...

Other years of Subaru Forester

subaru forester 2013 photo
Forester 2013
Subaru

75

12

21

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru forester 2014 photo
Forester 2014
Subaru

386

2

30

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru forester 2015 photo
Forester 2015
Subaru

577

3

29

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru forester 2016 photo
Forester 2016
Subaru

372

3

24

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru forester 2017 photo
Forester 2017
Subaru

509

1

29

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru forester 2018 photo
Forester 2018
Subaru

437

3

22

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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