2024 Subaru Forester Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
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.
2024 Subaru Forester
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.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.
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.
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 reportedUsage: 5 reports
2. Visibility
Usage: 4 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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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.