What are the most common problems with the 2014 Subaru Forester?

**Suspension Issues:** Premature and potentially dangerous rear coil spring failures are a significant concern, often reported below 70,000 miles. This can lead to a loss of control.

How many recalls does the 2014 Subaru Forester have?

The 2014 Subaru Forester currently has 2 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2014 Subaru Forester a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. **Suspension Issues:** Premature and potentially dangerous rear coil spring failures are a significant concern, often reported below 70,000 miles. This can lead to a loss of control. **Engine Oil Consumption:** Many 2.5L engines exhibit excessive oil consumption, potentially due to faulty piston rings, requiring frequent top-offs and potentially leading to costly engine damage if ignored. **Safety Concerns:** While earning a 5-star NHTSA overall safety rating, critical recalls for the brake light switch and numerous complaints regarding airbags and vehicle speed control highlight areas needing verification. **Brake Light Switch Recall:** A critical recall (19V149000) addresses a brake light switch malfunction that can prevent brake lights from illuminating and affect keyless ignition and transmission shifting. Confirm this has been properly repaired. **High Complaint Volume:** With 573 complaints, the most frequent issues reported are suspension, engine, and airbags, indicating potential systemic weaknesses. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2014 Subaru Forester?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2014 Subaru Forester.

2014 Subaru Forester Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Suspension Issues: Premature and potentially dangerous rear coil spring failures are a significant concern, often reported below 70,000 miles. This can lead to a loss of control.
Engine Oil Consumption: Many 2.5L engines exhibit excessive oil consumption, potentially due to faulty piston rings, requiring frequent top-offs and potentially leading to costly engine damage if ignored.
Safety Concerns: While earning a 5-star NHTSA overall safety rating, critical recalls for the brake light switch and numerous complaints regarding airbags and vehicle speed control highlight areas needing verification.
Brake Light Switch Recall: A critical recall (19V149000) addresses a brake light switch malfunction that can prevent brake lights from illuminating and affect keyless ignition and transmission shifting. Confirm this has been properly repaired.

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Overview

2014 Subaru Forester

The 2014 Subaru Forester offers standard all-wheel drive and a practical SUV package, making it a versatile choice for various conditions. However, prospective used car buyers should be aware of its 'Below Average' reliability rating, stemming from a notable number of owner complaints and critical recalls. Key areas of concern include suspension components, engine oil consumption, and potential issues with the airbag system and vehicle speed control. Despite these concerns, the Forester boasts a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, indicating strong performance in crash tests. Fuel economy is respectable for an AWD vehicle, with a combined EPA rating of 24 MPG. With 329 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued, it's clear Subaru has addressed numerous issues throughout the model's lifecycle, but the volume suggests a complex ownership history. Potential buyers should prioritize a comprehensive inspection, especially of the suspension and engine.

Critical Failure Risk

Premature and potentially dangerous failure of rear coil springs, often reported below 70,000 miles.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

573

Suspension93

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers prioritizing standard all-wheel drive for all-weather capability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal repair concerns.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2014 Subaru Forester Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 24

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Most Common Issues

1. Suspension

Most reported

Usage: 93 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 69 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Suspension Components

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

2 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2014 Subaru Forester reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2014 Subaru Forester is 7.0/10. Reliability score is 7.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 573.

How practical is the 2014 Subaru Forester for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2014 Subaru Forester?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2014 Subaru Forester is 7.2/10. Overall score is 7.2/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.7/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2014 Subaru Forester?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Suspension Components at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Suspension (Rear Coil Springs) (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $400 • Max: $800).

What engine is in the 2014 Subaru Forester?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2014 Subaru Forester use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Subaru Forester, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2014 Subaru Forester?

EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2014 Subaru Forester?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2014 Subaru Forester?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Subaru Forester, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2014 Subaru Forester use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Subaru Forester, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2014 Subaru Forester?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2014 Subaru Forester good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2014 Subaru Forester presents a mixed bag for enthusiasts. While the XT models offer a turbocharged engine, the CVT transmission is a si... Popular platforms: Subaru Forester XT.

What are the most common suspension problems on the 2014 Subaru Forester?

Top complaint category: suspension (93 reports, 16.2% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2014 Subaru Forester?

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.