2023 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.

2023 Subaru Forester

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Common 2023 Subaru Forester problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 2023 Subaru Forester, the common problems reported are as follows:

  • Failed Catalytic Converter: Another frequent problem with the Subaru Forester is a failed catalytic converter. This issue not only triggers an illuminated check engine light but may also cause the vehicle to fail smog tests in states where it's required. If the car is still under warranty, Subaru typically covers the cost of repairs or replacement of the catalytic converter.
  • Head Gasket Failure Due to Cooling System Issues: Owners have reported head gasket failures in the Subaru Forester due to cooling system issues. This problem led Subaru to extend the head gasket warranty coverage to eight years or 100,000 miles for some vehicles. The head gasket failure can be a significant issue affecting the engine's performance and reliability.

These problems highlight some of the key issues faced by owners of the 2023 Subaru Forester. It's essential for potential buyers to be aware of these common issues to make informed decisions regarding the purchase and maintenance of this vehicle.

2023 Subaru Forester engine

Is the 2023 Subaru Forester reliable?

The 2023 Subaru Forester has a predicted reliability score of 84 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

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.

Where are Subaru Foresters made 2023?

Gunma, Japan

Currently manufactured in Gunma, Japan (Subaru-chō location): The Subaru Forester compact SUV. 2024 Crosstrek Base and Premium subcompact SUV trims. 2024 Impreza compact hatchback.

Is Subaru Forester a reliable car?

In general, this is a solid generation for the Forester SUV. As per Consumer Reports, all of the models from this generation have at least a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0. Therefore, if you're looking for a newer used Subaru Forester, the 2020 year is a good choice in terms of reliability.

What are the complaints about the Subaru Forester?

Top Subaru Forester Problems

  • Subaru Front O2 Sensor Recall. ...
  • Check Engine Light Due to Failed Catalytic Converter. ...
  • Cooling System Problems Cause Head Gasket Failure. ...
  • Worn Out Gaskets Allowed Oil to Seep Into Spark Plugs. ...
  • Improved Spark Plug Wires for Misfire Issues. ...
  • Check Engine Light Due to Failed Knock Sensor.

What is the most common problem for 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.

Is the 2023 Subaru Forester reliable?

The 2023 Subaru Forester has a predicted reliability score of 84 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

Where are 2023 Foresters made?

Gunma, Japan

Currently manufactured in Gunma, Japan (Subaru-chō location): The Subaru Forester compact SUV. 2024 Crosstrek Base and Premium subcompact SUV trims.

2023 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:

  • Visibility/wiper problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Forward collision avoidance problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Exterior lighting problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2023 Subaru Forester vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2023 Subaru Forester

The NHTSA has received 43 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2023 Subaru Forester. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2023 Subaru Forester vehicles.

2024-11-18

LANE DEPARTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-15
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JF2SKAJC4PH
  • Components: LANE DEPARTURE
  • Summary: I was driving on a two lane highway in the mountains and came around a small right-veering turn in the road. I straightened out the wheel to resume traveling straight, and my car’s auto-steer kicked in and pulled left into the center divider, and then right across two lanes and crashed into the side of the mountain. The auto-steer has pulled me out of lanes prior to this incident as well.
2024-10-05

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
  • VIN: JF2SKAPC2PH
  • Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE
  • Summary: While driving on a highway, one lane in each direction, my lane was going to end. In front of me were painted yellow highway lines directing me to head right to the new lane on the right side of the steel railings. My adaptive cruise control with lane keeping assistance still had me heading straight instead of to the right. I had to strongly turn my steering wheel to the right to avoid hitting the railing. Also I was following a car into a rotary with my adaptive cruise control on. Thankfully I wasn't going fast and the car started to speed up a little as the car in front of me turned around the rotary. I was able to steer it in the right direction. My point is, some of the new technology is showing commercials with drivers with their hands off the steering wheel, relying on the technology. I was glad I had complete control of the car, but these features aren't perfect.
2024-10-03

SEAT BELTS,SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-17
  • VIN: JF2SKAPCXPH
  • Components: SEAT BELTS,SEATS
  • Summary: The front passenger seat and the seat belt attached to that seat suddenly started making creaking noises as if the seatbelt or the seat itself are not properly secured whenever a passenger is sitting and seatbelt fastened while the vehicle is moving (no noise exists when the seat is empty). The noise is loudest and most prevalent when the weight of the passenger is lower, when outside temperature is cooler, when the vehicle is driven on roads that are not smooth, when the vehicle breaks and is going uphill. The vehicle has not been in any accidents and the noise appeared suddenly without any warning lights or any indications. the vehicle was bought brand new about a year ago and has just under 5000 miles. Since the noise first appeared it has been regularly occurring. The dealership has inspected the vehicle on three occasions but claims they cannot hear it or replicate it despite the fact that they agree that videos shown by the owner clearly point to this noise.
2024-09-09

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-08
  • VIN: JF2SKANC1PH
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Windshield cracked after dust hit car while on road. Crack split aggressively in 1 day from 1 inch to 14 inches. This is the SECOND time it has happened.
2024-08-27

EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-27
  • VIN: JF2SKARC5PH
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: I see black/gray spots on the headlights and sometimes I cannot detect if it is something in the road. Especially if it is raining. I called today for my maintenance and I am going to address this. Another issue that scared me to death. I was backing out of my garage, I was clear to continue backing but it kept beeping. Again I checked and nothing there, I began to continue and all of a sudden the car braked on its on hard. It was so alarming. I’m glad I was not in traffic. I am addressing this as well at my dealership. Another issue, I am feeling a hesitation when I accelerate, like it is not getting gas, then it starts going without hesitation. I am addressing this as well at my dealership. Another issue all of a sudden the eye sight crossed through came on. No reason for it to come on. I will address with the dealership.
2024-08-23

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-22
  • VIN: JF2SKACC7PH
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Subaru Forester. The contact stated while at a stop light, the brake pedal was released, but the vehicle failed to move. The accelerator pedal was depressed, and the vehicle jolted forward. The contact was able to drive to a parking lot. After shifting to drive, the vehicle unexpectedly reversed. While in reverse, the vehicle would shift to drive erroneously. The vehicle jolted forward. The vehicle was shaking, jerking, and skipping gear. The engine and oil warning lights were illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 11,426.
2024-08-20

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-02
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: See attached document for complaint.
2024-08-13

SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-13
  • VIN: JF2SKARC5PH
  • Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I checked on KBB.com and my car came up as having a recall for the drive shaft. The NHTSA Campaign ID - 23V754000 and when I called my dealership about it, I am being told that there is no recall. This is a serious issue and I am seriously concerned.,
2024-07-31

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-15
  • VIN: JF2SKAECXPH
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: The car was parked for several weeks in a friend's driveway. I was on a trip overseas. When I came back, I started the car and the rear window glass shattered and blew into the car. There was no evidence of anything striking the glass from outside.
2024-07-22

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-21
  • VIN: JF2SKAMC6PH
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
  • Summary: I was driving the car, towards the end of about a 40-minute drive the car, I can best describe, lost its mind. Without any prior signs of symptoms, in about the span of 5-10 seconds, the check engine light came on, then eyesight warning came on, then traction system error appeared and I lost all power. It started braking on its own and completely acting on its own. I could still steer, but I had no other control over the vehicle! THANKFULLY I was in a 25 MPH zone, with no other vehicles or pedestrians anywhere near me. I was able to steer the piece of junk into a vacant loading dock and at least get it off the street. I shudder to think what would have happened to me if the car did this on the interstate that I had exited from not five minutes prior to this incident. The car was rendered undriveable. I had it towed to the dealership. I don't know what is wrong with it yet as the dealer is closed on Sunday. This was an EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SITUATION! If the car lost its mind a mere five minutes earlier than it did, I could have been killed! I am still shaking from this incident.
2024-07-15

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-30
  • VIN: JF2SKAEC8PH
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: I was driving down the main street of a small city. There is a decent amount of traffic, so I’m not sure what speed I was going but likely no more than 25 mph. All of a sudden, for no apparent reason, the pre-collision braking went into effect and slammed me to a total stop. I wasn’t too close to the vehicle in front of me, there were no pedestrians in the road, etc. thankfully the vehicle behind me was able to stop and did not hit me. I was able to move forward and pulled into the closet parking lot. I looked and could see anything directly on my vehicle. Subaru is saying that one of my tire’s pressure was low and that may have caused it or sunlight may have caused it. There was no low tire pressure light on my vehicle. The light had been on not too long before this and I had filled the tires. But no warning light on the day this happened. I was able to successfully drive further with no issues. Subaru does not seem to be taking this seriously. But, no matter the cause, if either of these things will cause a vehicle to come to an immediate stop, that is definitely a safety issue. And it is a safety concern that should be looked into.
2024-07-10

AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-10
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JF2SKAPC5PH
  • Components: AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Subaru Forester. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the vehicle accelerated unintendedly and the RPMs were significantly high. The contact depressed the brake pedal, but the vehicle failed to respond. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact shifted to park(P) and turned off the vehicle, and the vehicle decelerated. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road. The contact stated that upon restarting the vehicle, the vehicle operated as needed. Additionally, the contact stated while his wife was reversing, the vehicle accelerated unintendedly and hit a chained gate. The contact's wife depressed the brake pedal, but the vehicle failed to respond. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle went into the woods, hit several small trees, and then the vehicle crashed into a big tree and bounced 30 ft. away from the tree. The air bags failed to deploy. The contact's wife sustained a sore neck, but did not seek medical assistance. A police report was filed. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was towed to an auto collision repair shop, awaiting for a damage estimate. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 9,000.
2024-06-26

BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-10-21
  • VIN: JF2SKAJC2PH
  • Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
  • Summary: Subaru Infotainment system frozen I've been experiencing an issue where the screen suddenly freezes and emits a loud beeping sound. I've tried restarting and resetting to factory settings multiple times, but the issue persists. The situation is worsening; my infotainment system has been unusable for a couple of days now, which means my backup camera is also not functioning. My friend mentioned that I could report this to the NHTSA, as it directly relates to safety concerns.
2024-06-19

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-19
  • VIN: JF2SKAPC5PH
  • Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: We were traveling on a limited access highway at approximately 65 miles an hour. Both the adaptive cruise control and the driver assist were engaged. A car approximately four car lengths ahead of us exited the highway into the breakdown lane. My car slammed on its brakes and reduced speed to less than 40 miles an hour with no warning. Had there been a vehicle behind us we certainly would have been hit. This is not the first time we have had difficulty with the adaptive cruise control braking unpredictably , but it’s the first time it endangered our lives.
2024-05-26

VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-09
  • VIN: JF2SKAEC2PH
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: Rear windshield burst for no apparent reason in car less than one year old while car was stopped at a stop light. Other traffic was also stopped around the car. There was no obvious cause (rock, etc.), plus the rear windshield appeared to shatter as much outward as it did inward. Fortunately car was stopped because it was very startling and could have affected driving. Also fortunately, there was no one in the back who could have been hurt by the glass. Reported it to Subaru, but they denied any coverage under warranty.
2024-05-21

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-03
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JF2SKARC5PH
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while in a parking lot, the contact depressed the brake pedal and attempted to shift into gear and the vehicle accelerated inadvertently, jumped a curb, and crashed into a tree. The contact was able to put the vehicle in reverse; however, while the contact’s foot was on the brake pedal, the vehicle accelerated backward independently. The contact was treated by a local urgent care for whiplash. No one else was involved in the crash. The Police were dispatched to the scene however, no Police report was filed. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic, but the mechanic was unable to assist. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 4,500.
2024-05-13

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-06
  • VIN: JF2SKAJC6PH
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Windshield developed chip driving down a quiet residential street. Expected windshield to be much durable, but seems to be a very common issue with Subaru windshields, even though this is a 2023 model!
2024-05-08

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-01
  • VIN: JF2SKAECXPH
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Our car’s Android Auto navigation system is failing. This is not just a navigation failure. When we drive, especially at night, and our navigation system fails, it becomes a security and safety hazard. The problem: 1. After connecting a phone, TCL A30 Android 11, via the USB cable to the car navigation system and entering an address, frequently, the system gets frozen. After a few tries at physically connecting and disconnecting the cable, we were able to get the system going. 2. While driving, the navigation system frequently fails. Occasionally, it points in the wrong direction, freezes, or shows that the navigation position is lagging by miles from our actual position. Disconnecting and reconnecting the USB cable tends to resolve the problem. When we use the Subaru navigation system and, at the same time, concurrently employ a second phone navigation system, that standalone phone navigation system does not experience the failures we are seeing with the Subaru navigation system. 2. Frequently, we get a message about a lost GPS signal. This is an erroneous message. We know that because a second phone, not connected to the car navigation system, does not give GPS error messages at the time the car navigation system announces GPS errors. We did the following tests to verify that the navigation failures we observed were not phone or USB cable issues. We tested the car navigation system with two different phones and observed the same failures with both phones. We tested the system with two USB cables, and the failures persisted. We tested the USB cables for data transfers by downloading files from the phones to a computer. The file transfers from the phone to the computer were quick and accurate. It appears that the communication protocol that links the phone with the car’s navigation system is broken. We communicated our concerns to Subaru customer support. To the present time, we have received no response from Subaru.
2024-02-12

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-04
  • VIN: JF2SKAECXPH
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that the front passenger’s side occupant sensor failed to recognize a petite, smaller individual seated in the front passenger’s seat. The dealer was notified of failure and referred the contact to the manufacturer. The manufacturer was notified, and the contact inquired about the weight requirement for the passenger occupant sensor, and the manufacturer did not answer the question. The vehicle was not repaired or diagnosed. The failure mileage was unknown.
2024-02-11

VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-01
  • VIN: JF2SKARC2PH
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: Got a crack on the windshield after owning the vehicle for under 5 months. There was no apparent pebble/stone and one morning i just saw that there was a crack on the windshield. It was also active that means was growing with time. My dealer also said that it won't be covered under warranty. I used my insurance to get it fixed however it seems like this is a consistent problem with Subaru's and they are well aware of it. This is well known issue in the online Subaru groups however Subaru has done nothing to get it fixed.
2024-02-10

VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-08
  • VIN: JF2SKAJC3PH
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: Spontabeus stress crack in windshield in first 1000 miles.
2024-02-07

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-07
  • VIN: JF2SKALC0PH
  • Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: If you have the adaptive cruise control (or regular cruise if you disable adaptive) and accelerate to pass another vehicle, as soon as you take your foot off the gas to coast back down to the cruise setting the car slams on the brakes to bring the vehicle back to the set speed. I have almost been rear ended several times when this happens. This has occurred since I purchased the vehicle. The dealership says this is a design feature and not a defect. It doesn't matter what speed the cruise is set at. If you are exceeding the set speed, the brakes apply when the accelerator is released.
2024-02-06

VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-02
  • VIN: JF2SKARC8PH
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: I have owned the vehicle less than 6 months. There is now a 6 inch crack in my front windshield for no apparent reason. It just appeared one day last week. I have heard from other Subaru owners that this is a common problem. They suggested I report the issue here.
2024-02-06

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-04
  • VIN: JF2SKARC3PH
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: Car only has 6,000 miles,had 2 tiny stones hit the windshield and put 2 pebble sized holes in windshield, got those fixed and a week later another stone hit and now it has a quarter size chip,hole ,never had any other car i owned have this happen too,I would think a #1 safety rated manufacturer would have better windshields
2024-01-26

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
  • VIN: JF2SKAMC6PH
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The vehicles battery does not hold a charge during short term, (3-5 weeks of storage). I understand that some prior years of Subaru vehicles have this same problem and there is currently a recall for this. I wonder if this battery problem exists in newer Subaru Foresters. When we purchased this vehicle as new we observed that the Dealership was having problems maintaining the charge on at least two other new Forester vehicles on display and had to replace the battery in one of these to start the vehicle and show it to other customers. We have had to have Triple A, (AAA), visit our home and jump start our 2023 Forester at least three times. We do not use the vehicle much and there is less than 1000 miles on our auto. The auto is stored in the off condition. No warning messages of lamps show the depleted battery conditions until trying to start the vehicle. We have recently, week of 1/15-22/2023, replaced the battery the auto came with and put in a new Diehard battery. We have photos of the old battery.

2023 Subaru Forester recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2023 Subaru Forester.

2023-11-09
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Crosstrek, Impreza, 2023-2024 Forester, and 2023 WRX vehicles. The front driveshaft assemblies' outer race may develop cracks and break.
  • Consequence: A broken driveshaft can cause a loss of drive power while driving or vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is in park without the parking brake engaged. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the left and right front driveshafts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRP-23.

Negative 2023 Subaru Forester car reviews

  1. Hubert Runte 2024-02-17

    Hi there! Thank you for your feedback. It's great to hear that you like all the features except for one. We're sorry to hear that you find the engine underpowered. Have you considered turbocharging the engine? It might be just what you need to get the most out of your vehicle. Thank you again for your feedback!

  2. Raheem Roob 2024-01-15

    Hey there! I noticed that my 2023 Forester doesn't have Sirius radio like my previous models did. I was a bit disappointed because I thought it would come with SiriusXM and a CD player, but it only has a basic AM-FM radio. Another small issue is that the key doesn't fold and can be a bit inconvenient. On the bright side, it has amazing gas mileage!

Positive 2023 Subaru Forester car reviews

  1. Allan Pfannerstill 2025-01-04

    I was in need of a car and did my usual extensive research. After considering various options, I decided to drop the idea of an EV as none of them fit my requirements of having a spacious cargo, comfortable and luxurious ride, and being super safe with all the safety bells and whistles, while also being super reliable and fitting my budget. You might think these are very basic requirements, but it's not always easy to find a car that ticks all the boxes. However, the 2023 Forester Limited fit all of those criteria perfectly well. In terms of gas mileage, I am seeing sometimes 36 or 37 on highways and 26 to 27 local driving, which is pretty darn good. As for performance, suffice to say I didn't buy this car to participate in a race. The Forester is a very well optimized car. By the way, I also looked into other options such as the CR-V, RAV4, and CX-50, but overall the Forester won me over.

  2. Emmanuel Sawayn 2024-11-07

    I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying the electronics! It's great to know that the Face ID feature is convenient for multiple drivers with different heights. The safety features are truly unmatched, and I completely agree that the rear view radar is worth it for better odds of avoiding a rear-end collision. Additionally, the seats in the back have plenty of headroom, and the moon roof is nice and long. Overall, it sounds like this car is a great choice for anyone who wants a comfortable and safe driving experience.

  3. Adrian Jacobs 2024-10-28

    I'm glad to hear that you love the safety features and find the vehicle to be really good.

  4. Sedrick Nitzsche 2024-10-18

    I'm so glad to hear that you love your Forester Touring! It sounds like it rides well, is built well, and is very fun to drive.

  5. Clyde Kunde 2024-09-28

    I've always driven Chevy vehicles, but this time I decided to check out Subaru. The dealership was incredibly helpful, and my salesman took the time to explain the differences between the three vehicles I was interested in. He made the sale, and I'm thrilled with my purchase!

Leave your review of 2023 Subaru Forester

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2023 Subaru Forester problems:

Why shouldn't I buy a 2019-2023 forester? : r/SubaruForester
Why shouldn't I buy a 2019-2023 forester? : r/SubaruForester
https://www.reddit.com/r/SubaruForester/comments/14i2g5u/why_shouldnt_i_buy_a_20192023_forester/

Jun 24, 2023 ... Dont' ask me I own a 2021 and a 2023 Subaru Forester ... problems and the manual is known to burn oil. ... The lack of wireless CarPlay in a 2023 is ...

2023 - Limited - Absolutely Hate My Forester! | Subaru Forester ...
2023 - Limited - Absolutely Hate My Forester! | Subaru Forester ...
https://www.subaruforester.org/threads/2023-limited-absolutely-hate-my-forester.850677/

Sep 24, 2023 ... I'd think you have bigger problems if you live in an area where you have to worry about someone stealing your purse from inside the car with you ...

2023 Subaru Forester Reliability - Consumer Reports
2023 Subaru Forester Reliability - Consumer Reports
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/forester/2023/reliability/

After several miles air quits coming out of the ventsfront vents, defroster vents, floor vents. The fan motor is still runningwe can hear it. But there is no ...

19+) - 2023 - Updated! - Subaru Forester Owners Forum
19+) - 2023 - Updated! - Subaru Forester Owners Forum
https://www.subaruforester.org/threads/2023-spontaneous-windshield-crack-at-10k-miles-updated.851910/

Nov 8, 2023 ... 2023 Forester with 10k miles- spontaneous windshield crack passenger side. Located on the very edge of windshield.

3 Most Common Subaru Forester Problems Reported by Many Real ...
3 Most Common Subaru Forester Problems Reported by Many Real ...
https://www.motorbiscuit.com/3-most-common-subaru-forester-problems-reported-real-owners/

Mar 13, 2023 ... The most common Subaru Forester problem reported by real owners is a recall of the front O2 sensor — according to RepairPal. For this issue, the ...

Other years of Subaru Forester

subaru forester 2024 photo
Forester 2024
Subaru

9

2

22

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru forester 1998 photo
Forester 1998
Subaru

112

1

25

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru forester 1999 photo
Forester 1999
Subaru

141

1

30

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru forester 2000 photo
Forester 2000
Subaru

79

0

13

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru forester 2001 photo
Forester 2001
Subaru

146

0

25

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru forester 2002 photo
Forester 2002
Subaru

93

1

31

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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2023 Subaru Forester photo