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2024 Subaru Forester Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·3 Critical Recalls
2024 Subaru Forester Report

Overall Score

7.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The passenger airbag system is a primary concern, with reports of it failing to activate for lighter occupants.
  • Inspect the windshield for any signs of stress cracks or premature wear, as this has been a recurring complaint.
  • Verify that all 7 recalls, especially those concerning the driveshaft and engine water pipe, have been completed.
  • Standard all-wheel drive and a combined 26 MPG offer practical utility.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2024 Subaru Forester

The 2024 Subaru Forester is a practical SUV with standard all-wheel drive and a 5-star overall safety rating. However, its average reliability is tempered by 7 recalls and 29 complaints, notably concerning the passenger airbag system and windshield integrity. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in possible repair costs associated with them.

Critical Failure Risk

The passenger airbag system may fail to activate for lighter occupants, posing a significant safety risk.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,200-$1,800 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls7
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

29
Air Bags5
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
26
MPG
City
25
MPG
Highway
28
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.0/ 10

Practicality

4.7/ 10

The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing all-weather capability and safety ratings.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a vehicle with a strong, trouble-free reliability record.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2024 Subaru Forester Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2024 Subaru Forester.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
26

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Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 5 reports

2. Visibility

Usage: 4 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation

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
7 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2024 Subaru Forester reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2024 Subaru Forester is 7.0/10. Reliability score is 7.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 7. Owner complaints: 29.

How practical is the 2024 Subaru Forester for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.7/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2024 Subaru Forester?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2024 Subaru Forester is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 5.9/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 4.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2024 Subaru Forester?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,500 - $2,500. Repair prediction highlight: Passenger Airbag System (typical at 15,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1000).

What engine is in the 2024 Subaru Forester?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2024 Subaru Forester use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Subaru Forester, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2024 Subaru Forester?▾

EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2024 Subaru Forester?▾

13 standard and 2 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2024 Subaru Forester?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Subaru Forester, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2024 Subaru Forester?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Subaru Forester, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2024 Subaru Forester use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Subaru Forester, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2024 Subaru Forester?▾

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

Is the 2024 Subaru Forester good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2024 Subaru Forester is a practical compact SUV prioritizing comfort and safety. Its naturally aspirated 2. Popular platforms: Subaru WRX, Subaru STI.

What are the most common air bags problems on the 2024 Subaru Forester?▾

Top complaint category: air bags (5 reports, 17.2% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2024 Subaru Forester?▾

This model year has 7 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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