The 2024 Subaru Forester has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 26 owner complaints on file for the 2024 Subaru Forester. Severity signals include 3 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Air Bags (6), Unknown Or Other (6), Visibility Wiper (4).
Forester reliability snapshot
78/100
Latest model-year reliability score
3.5/5
RepairPal rating (medium)
$632
Avg annual repair cost vs $521 category avg
#21/26
Ranking in compact SUVs · better than 19% of peers
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
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Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Air Bags6
Unknown Or Other6
Visibility Wiper4
Engine1
Forward Collision Avoidance1
Structure1
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2024 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 signs of weakness
☐Test passenger airbag activation with a passenger under 105 lbs
☐Check power steering functionality for pulling or loss of power
☐Verify backup camera operation, especially after washing
☐Inspect side mirrors for distortion or melting
What owners reported
2024 Subaru Forester owner complaints in detail
Owners have reported 3 crashes and 1 injury to NHTSA for the 2024 Subaru Forester. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints6
AIR BAGS
Owners report issues with the passenger airbag system in the 2024 Subaru Forester, particularly with the airbag not activating when lighter passengers are seated. Complaints frequently mention that the airbag indicator remains off for passengers weighing around 85 to 100 pounds, despite the owner's manual suggesting activation at lower weights. These issues are noted across various mileages, with some vehicles experiencing the problem since new. One report involves a collision where airbags failed to deploy, resulting in minor injuries, though no inspections had confirmed the cause at the time. This pattern of airbag non-activation could have significant safety implications, especially in the event of a crash.
Owner complaints6
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Owners of the 2024 Subaru Forester frequently report issues with the vehicle's windshield and driver-side mirror. Several complaints mention windshields cracking unexpectedly, with one owner experiencing multiple cracks within a few months of ownership, and another describing a windshield shattering from minor impact. Additionally, a driver-side mirror distortion is noted, described as dizzying and potentially hazardous. These issues appear across various mileage ranges, with potential safety implications due to compromised visibility and unexpected glass breakage. Such patterns suggest that buyers should be vigilant about inspecting these components when considering this model.
Owner complaints4
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Owners report spontaneous windshield cracks in the 2024 Subaru Forester, with several noting no apparent impact as the cause. Complaints frequently mention cracks appearing suddenly, often growing over time and obstructing the driver's view. Some owners experience these issues at relatively low mileages, with one case at just 7,900 miles. A few owners reference similar problems in past Subaru models, suggesting a possible recurring issue. While there are no reports of crashes or injuries, the visibility obstruction could pose a safety risk.
2024 Forester recalls (2)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2024 Forester. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
POWER TRAINNHTSA 23V754000Nov 9, 2023
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.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLINGNHTSA 23V723000Oct 26, 2023
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Forester vehicles. The engine water pipe may have loose attachment bolts, allowing the pipe to lose its seal and leak coolant.
Consequence: Leaking coolant can contact a hot exhaust pipe, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Subarus independent distributor processing facilities will tighten the water pipe attachment bolts. The affected vehicles have not been delivered to dealers or sold to owners and therefore, no owner notification letters will be sent. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRO-23.
Used-market value
2024 Subaru Forester resale snapshot
75%estimated value retained after 5 years
600listings in the model-level benchmark
$31,590median asking price from 60 listings
Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.
The 2024 Subaru Forester posts an above-segment reliability score, suggesting a generally solid track record versus its peers. Recall activity is limited, which reduces the likelihood of broad, systemic corrections affecting many owners.
Complaint patterns look somewhat concentrated rather than evenly spread across the vehicle. Air bag and “unknown/other” reports account for a meaningful share, with a smaller cluster tied to visibility/wiper concerns. Powertrain and driver-assistance-related complaints appear comparatively infrequent, indicating fewer signals of widespread mechanical or system-level instability in the available data.
Overall, the data points to an above-average reliability profile with moderate buyer risk concentrated in a few categories.
What you get in a 2024 Subaru Forester report
✓Available title brand history
✓Odometer readings & rollback detection
✓Accident & damage records
✓Auction sales with photos
✓Open safety recalls
✓Theft & stolen vehicle check
Check a 2024 Subaru Forester now
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2024 Subaru Forester — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2024 Subaru Forester reliable?
The 2024 Subaru Forester posts an above-segment reliability score, suggesting a generally solid track record versus its peers. Recall activity is limited, which reduces the likelihood of broad, systemic corrections affecting many owners.
How many recalls does the 2024 Subaru Forester have?
2 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2024 Subaru Forester. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2024 Subaru Forester problems?
The most-reported 2024 Subaru Forester problem areas are: Air Bags (6), Unknown Or Other (6), Visibility Wiper (4).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2024 Subaru Forester?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2024 Subaru Forester, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
