2019 Subaru Forester Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Windshield Fragility: Expect potential issues with windshields cracking or chipping easily, often without apparent cause. This can lead to costly replacements and affect the calibration of safety systems.
- Steering and Engine Recalls: Be aware of past recalls concerning the Electric Power Steering (EPS) unit and the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve. Confirm these have been addressed.
- Electrical System Concerns: A notable number of complaints relate to the electrical system, suggesting potential for various electronic malfunctions.
- All-Wheel Drive Capability: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides confidence in various weather conditions.
2019 Subaru Forester
Critical Failure Risk
The 2019 Subaru Forester is widely reported to have issues with windshields that chip and crack easily, often spontaneously or from minor impacts. This can lead to significant repair costs and potential interference with safety systems like EyeSight. Lawsuits have been filed regarding this issue.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$3,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing standard all-wheel drive and a practical SUV package.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2019 Subaru Forester Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Subaru Forester.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic (AV-S7)
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 29
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See the full 2019 Subaru Forester buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
1. Visibility
Most reportedUsage: 370 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 129 reports
First Service Interval
- Synthetic Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Steering and Suspension Inspection - Drive Belt Inspection - Fuel System Inspection - Cooling System Inspection - Wheel Bearing Inspection
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2019 Subaru Forester reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Subaru Forester is 4.2/10. Reliability score is 4.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 1,068.
How practical is the 2019 Subaru Forester for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.2/10. EPA combined economy is 29 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.
What is the overall score for the 2019 Subaru Forester?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Subaru Forester is 6.4/10. Overall score is 6.4/10 (Mixed). Confidence 82%. Maintenance 7.2/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.2/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Subaru Forester?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Synthetic Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Steering and Suspension Inspection - Drive Belt Inspection - Fuel System Inspection - Cooling System Inspection - Wheel Bearing Inspection at 6,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,200 - $1,800. Repair prediction highlight: Windshield (estimated cost Min: $191 • Max: $926).
What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Subaru Forester?
Base MSRP is $24,295.
What engine is in the 2019 Subaru Forester?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.
What transmission does the 2019 Subaru Forester use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Subaru Forester, transmission is Automatic (AV-S7). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Subaru Forester?
EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Subaru Forester?
11 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2019 Subaru Forester?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Subaru Forester, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2019 Subaru Forester?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Subaru Forester, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2019 Subaru Forester use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Subaru Forester, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S7).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Subaru Forester?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2019 Subaru Forester good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2019 Subaru Forester, equipped with a 2.5L engine and All-Wheel Drive, is a practical SUV with a focus on utility and safety.
What are the most common visibility/wiper problems on the 2019 Subaru Forester?
Top complaint category: visibility/wiper (370 reports, 34.6% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Subaru Forester?
This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.