2017 Subaru Forester Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The passenger airbag system is the primary concern, with numerous complaints and a recall related to the occupant detection system.
- Expect potential issues with visibility, particularly concerning windshield fragility and spontaneous cracking.
- Electrical system problems, including power loss and ignition issues, are frequently reported.
- While safety ratings are high, the volume and nature of complaints suggest a need for thorough pre-purchase inspection.
2017 Subaru Forester
The 2017 Subaru Forester offers standard all-wheel drive and a practical SUV package, but used-car shoppers should be aware of its below-average reliability verdict. While it boasts a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, a significant number of complaints point to issues with the airbag system, visibility, and electrical systems. There is one recall concerning the occupant detection system's harness. With 758 complaints logged, proactive inspection is crucial.
Critical Failure Risk
The passenger seat occupant detection system (ODS) may fail to correctly identify an occupied seat, leading to the deactivation of the passenger airbag. This issue has been linked to a recall (WUM-98) and persists for some owners. Warning lights may illuminate.
Early detection can help you avoid a repair of about $1,500.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing standard all-wheel drive and a practical, safe SUV who are willing to conduct thorough pre-purchase inspections and are prepared for potential repair costs related to known issues.
Avoid if
Those seeking a trouble-free ownership experience or who are not prepared to address potential issues with critical safety systems like airbags and electrical components.
2017 Subaru Forester Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Subaru Forester.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Manual 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- EPA Combined MPG
- 24
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Most Common Issues
1. Airbags
Most reportedUsage: 146 reports
2. Visibility
Usage: 103 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Wiper/Washer System - Inspect Belts and Hoses
Est. shop cost: $70 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2017 Subaru Forester reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Subaru Forester is 5.8/10. Reliability score is 5.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 758.
How practical is the 2017 Subaru Forester for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.2/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2017 Subaru Forester?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Subaru Forester is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.2/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Subaru Forester?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Wiper/Washer System - Inspect Belts and Hoses at 6,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag Occupant Detection System (ODS) (typical at 1,200 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500+).
What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Subaru Forester?
Base MSRP is $34,295.
What engine is in the 2017 Subaru Forester?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.
What transmission does the 2017 Subaru Forester use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Subaru Forester, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Subaru Forester?
EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Subaru Forester?
7 standard and 5 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2017 Subaru Forester?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Subaru Forester, seating capacity is 5.
What drivetrain does the 2017 Subaru Forester use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Subaru Forester, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Subaru Forester?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2017 Subaru Forester good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2017 Subaru Forester is a practical SUV with standard all-wheel drive, known for its utility and safety features. Popular platforms: Forester XT.
What are the most common air bags problems on the 2017 Subaru Forester?
Top complaint category: air bags (146 reports, 19.3% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Subaru Forester?
This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.