2021 Subaru Forester VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability
The 2021 Subaru Forester has good reliability. There are 0 recalls and 196 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Subaru Forester. Severity signals include 15 crash-related complaints and 4 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Visibility Wiper (69), Unknown Or Other (28), Electrical System (25).
Forester reliability snapshot
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Subaru Forester before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Most-reported 2021 Subaru Forester issues
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
- Visibility Wiper69
- Unknown Or Other28
- Electrical System25
- Engine14
- Visibility13
- Power Train11
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Subaru Forester
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
- Inspect windshield for cracks or chips
- Test auto start/stop feature for unexpected shutdowns
- Check for any unusual noises from the suspension
- Verify brake rotor condition for warping or rust
- Ensure the thermo control valve has been replaced or inspected
- Test forward collision avoidance system for false activations
- Check battery health and ensure proper CCA rating
- Verify transmission shifts smoothly without unexpected neutral shifts
2021 Forester recalls
No NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2021 Forester.
Used-market value
2021 Subaru Forester resale snapshot
Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.
2021 Subaru Forester on the road
154,723 2021 Subaru Forester units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2021 Subaru Forester stacks up against rivals
The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.
Reliability verdict for the 2021 Subaru Forester
The 2021 Subaru Forester scores above the segment average, indicating solid overall reliability for its class. With no recalls recorded, formal corrective actions appear limited, which lowers systemic risk signals. As year three of its generation, the data reflects a model that is not in its earliest launch phase.
Complaint patterns are not evenly spread. Reports cluster most heavily around visibility and wiper-related concerns, while other categories—unknown/other, electrical system, and engine—show smaller but meaningful representation. That mix suggests the primary reliability exposure is concentrated in one area rather than broadly distributed across major systems, though secondary issues are present across multiple domains.
Overall, the data supports a moderate-to-low buyer risk level relative to the segment.
What you get in a 2021 Subaru Forester report
Check a 2021 Subaru Forester now
Confirm exact options, recall completion, accident history, and odometer accuracy in minutes.
2021 Subaru Forester — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Subaru Forester reliable?
The 2021 Subaru Forester scores above the segment average, indicating solid overall reliability for its class. With no recalls recorded, formal corrective actions appear limited, which lowers systemic risk signals. As year three of its generation, the data reflects a model that is not in its earliest launch phase.
How many recalls does the 2021 Subaru Forester have?
No NHTSA safety recalls are on file for the 2021 Subaru Forester.
What are the most common 2021 Subaru Forester problems?
The most-reported 2021 Subaru Forester problem areas are: Visibility Wiper (69), Unknown Or Other (28), Electrical System (25).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Subaru Forester?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Subaru Forester, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.