What are the most common problems with the 2015 Subaru Forester?

**Engine and Powertrain Issues**: Unintended acceleration and power loss are significant concerns, demanding careful inspection of these systems.

How many recalls does the 2015 Subaru Forester have?

The 2015 Subaru Forester currently has 3 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2015 Subaru Forester a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. **Engine and Powertrain Issues**: Unintended acceleration and power loss are significant concerns, demanding careful inspection of these systems. **Airbag System Concerns**: Reports of airbag malfunctions, particularly related to occupant detection, warrant verification of proper function. **Below-Average Reliability**: The 2015 Forester has a documented history of critical safety issues and a high complaint volume, impacting its long-term dependability. **Recall Verification**: Confirm that all three recalls, including those for the turbocharger intake duct, occupant detection system, and brake light switch, have been addressed. **All-Wheel Drive Capability**: Standard AWD provides confidence in various weather conditions, a key Subaru trait. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2015 Subaru Forester?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2015 Subaru Forester.

2015 Subaru Forester Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Daniel Wilson3 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Engine and Powertrain Issues: Unintended acceleration and power loss are significant concerns, demanding careful inspection of these systems.
Airbag System Concerns: Reports of airbag malfunctions, particularly related to occupant detection, warrant verification of proper function.
Below-Average Reliability: The 2015 Forester has a documented history of critical safety issues and a high complaint volume, impacting its long-term dependability.
Recall Verification: Confirm that all three recalls, including those for the turbocharger intake duct, occupant detection system, and brake light switch, have been addressed.

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Overview

2015 Subaru Forester

The 2015 Subaru Forester offers standard all-wheel drive and a practical SUV form factor, but used buyers should be aware of its below-average reliability. While it achieved a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, a high volume of complaints and several recalls point to potential ownership challenges. The most frequent issues reported involve the engine, airbags, and powertrain, with some owners experiencing unintended acceleration or power loss. With 219 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), a thorough pre-purchase inspection is critical.

Critical Failure Risk

Includes reports of stalling, rough idle, and reduced power, potentially linked to the turbocharger air intake duct recall (WTA-62R).

Early detection can help you avoid a $7,000-$10,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns3

Service Bulletins219

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

875

Engine127

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing standard all-wheel drive and practicality.

+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2015 Subaru Forester Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 25

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 127 reports

2. Airbags

Usage: 98 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Oil (non-turbo), 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (turbo XT))

Est. shop cost: $70 - $150

7,500 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

3 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2015 Subaru Forester reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2015 Subaru Forester is 4.9/10. Reliability score is 4.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 875.

How practical is the 2015 Subaru Forester for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2015 Subaru Forester?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2015 Subaru Forester is 6.4/10. Overall score is 6.4/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 6.3/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2015 Subaru Forester?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Oil (non-turbo), 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (turbo XT)) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,500 - $2,500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 90,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $3,500).

What engine is in the 2015 Subaru Forester?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2015 Subaru Forester use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Subaru Forester, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2015 Subaru Forester?

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2015 Subaru Forester?

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

What body style is the 2015 Subaru Forester?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Subaru Forester, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2015 Subaru Forester use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Subaru Forester, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2015 Subaru Forester?

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

Is the 2015 Subaru Forester good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. This guide provides a realistic approach to enhancing the 2015 Subaru Forester.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2015 Subaru Forester?

Top complaint category: engine (127 reports, 14.5% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2015 Subaru Forester?

This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.