What are the most common problems with the 2021 Subaru Forester?

**Windshield Cracking:** A prevalent issue, often occurring early in ownership, posing visibility risks and potential EyeSight system interference. This is the primary ownership risk.

How many recalls does the 2021 Subaru Forester have?

The 2021 Subaru Forester currently has 0 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2021 Subaru Forester a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. **Windshield Cracking:** A prevalent issue, often occurring early in ownership, posing visibility risks and potential EyeSight system interference. This is the primary ownership risk. **Electrical System Issues:** Reports of battery drain and other electrical gremlins are common and can lead to unexpected failures. **Engine Concerns:** Some owners report shuddering and power loss, though less frequent than windshield or electrical problems. **Safety:** Achieves a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, but the windshield issue could compromise systems relying on clear glass. **Fuel Economy:** Offers a respectable 29 MPG combined, but high fuel costs can be a factor for some drivers. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2021 Subaru Forester?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2021 Subaru Forester.

2021 Subaru Forester Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Windshield Cracking: A prevalent issue, often occurring early in ownership, posing visibility risks and potential EyeSight system interference. This is the primary ownership risk.
Electrical System Issues: Reports of battery drain and other electrical gremlins are common and can lead to unexpected failures.
Engine Concerns: Some owners report shuddering and power loss, though less frequent than windshield or electrical problems.
Safety: Achieves a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, but the windshield issue could compromise systems relying on clear glass.

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Overview

2021 Subaru Forester

The 2021 Subaru Forester offers standard all-wheel drive and a comfortable ride, making it a practical choice for many. However, used car shoppers should be aware of its below-average reliability rating. The most significant concern is a high volume of early-life windshield failures, which can impair visibility and compromise safety systems. Electrical system issues and engine complaints also contribute to owner dissatisfaction. While it boasts a 5-star overall safety rating, these mechanical and structural concerns warrant careful consideration.

Critical Failure Risk

This is the most frequently reported issue. The cause is often attributed to material defects, improper installation, or stress from temperature fluctuations. Early detection and repair are crucial to prevent propagation and maintain visibility, especially for safety systems.

Early detection can help you avoid a $400-$800 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns0

Service Bulletins64

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

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

261

Visibility/Wiper76

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

Buyers prioritizing standard all-wheel drive and a comfortable ride.

+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

2021 Subaru Forester Reliability Analysis

Specs

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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Most Common Issues

1. Visibility

Most reported

Usage: 76 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 26 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System - Inspect Wiper Blades and Washer System

Est. shop cost: $70 - $120

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

Full safety recall details

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FAQ

Is the 2021 Subaru Forester reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Subaru Forester is 7.0/10. Reliability score is 7.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 261.

How practical is the 2021 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 2021 Subaru Forester?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Subaru Forester is 7.7/10. Overall score is 7.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.8/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.2/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Subaru Forester?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System - Inspect Wiper Blades and Washer System at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Windshield (typical at 15,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $400 • Max: $800).

What engine is in the 2021 Subaru Forester?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2021 Subaru Forester use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Subaru Forester, transmission is Automatic (AV-S7). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Subaru Forester?

EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Subaru Forester?

14 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 2021 Subaru Forester?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Subaru Forester, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Subaru Forester?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Subaru Forester, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Subaru Forester use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Subaru Forester, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S7).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Subaru Forester?

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

Is the 2021 Subaru Forester good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2021 Subaru Forester is a capable SUV designed for versatility and everyday use.

What are the most common visibility/wiper problems on the 2021 Subaru Forester?

Top complaint category: visibility/wiper (76 reports, 29.1% of complaints).