PROBLEM GUIDE

2013–2016 Subaru Forester Common Problems

Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.

Last updated May 2026

403

complaints filed for the 2014 model year

2013–2016

Model years affected

$7,500+

Typical repair cost, by problem

Two problems on this vehicle fall outside existing recall coverage. Passenger airbag Occupant Detection System sensor malfunctions disable airbag deployment on 2014 models excluded from a recall covering 2015-2018 models, and brake line junction corrosion is 'similar to previous recalls but 2014 excluded' — in both cases that model year sits outside the recall.

Quick Scan: 14 Issues

Click a problem for the full write-up — symptoms, what we found, and typical repair costs where we have them.

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PROBLEM DETAILS

Passenger airbag sensor malfunction, 2014 excluded from recall

Occupant Detection System disables airbag deployment

Check engine light: On

Passenger airbag Occupant Detection System (ODS) sensor malfunctions disable airbag deployment; a recall covers 2015-2018 models with identical components, but 2014 models are excluded.

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Brake line junction corrosion and failure, 2014 excluded

Similar to previous recalls, but this model year excluded

Check engine light: On

Brake line junction corrosion and failure occurs, described as "similar to previous recalls but 2014 excluded".

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Excessive oil consumption, coverage denied

A quart of oil every 1,000 miles

Check engine light: On

Excessive oil consumption is documented at "a quart of oil every 1,000 miles," with owners reporting the manufacturer "stopped repairs" and denied warranty coverage.

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Sudden unintended acceleration

Uncontrollable acceleration despite braking efforts

Check engine light: On

Sudden unintended acceleration occurs — "vehicle accelerated uncontrollably" despite braking efforts, with multiple resulting crashes documented in the sample.

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Liftgate support struts fracture

"Liftgate came crashing down"

Check engine light: Off

Liftgate support struts fracture, with one owner reporting the "liftgate came crashing down."

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Steering wheel lock-up, uneven steering effort

Difficulty maintaining control

Check engine light: On

Steering wheel lock-up and uneven steering effort are documented, alongside a notably low-mileage CVT replacement quoted at $7,500+ (the owner ultimately paid $4,000 for a used unit).

$7,500+27,900 mi

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Check Engine Light Due to Failed Catalytic Converter

The check engine light comes on due to a failed catalytic converter

Check engine light: On

The check engine light comes on due to a failed catalytic converter. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 374 owner reports on file.

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Cooling System Problems Cause Head Gasket Failure

Cooling system problems cause head gasket failure

Check engine light: Off

Cooling system problems cause head gasket failure. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 188 owner reports on file.

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Worn Out Gaskets Allowed Oil to Seep Into Spark Plugs

Worn out gaskets allowed oil to seep into the spark plugs

Check engine light: Off

Worn out gaskets allowed oil to seep into the spark plugs. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 109 owner reports on file.

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Improved Spark Plug Wires for Misfire Issues

Improved spark plug wires correct misfire issues

Check engine light: Off

Improved spark plug wires correct misfire issues. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 87 owner reports on file.

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Check Engine Light Due to Failed Knock Sensor

The check engine light comes on due to a failed knock sensor

Check engine light: On

The check engine light comes on due to a failed knock sensor. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 53 owner reports on file.

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Engine Oil May Leak From Camshaft/Crankshaft Front Seals

Engine oil leaks from the camshaft or crankshaft front seals

Check engine light: Off

Engine oil leaks from the camshaft or crankshaft front seals. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 27 owner reports on file.

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Technical Service Bulletin for ABS Control Module

A technical service bulletin addresses the ABS control module

Check engine light: Off

A technical service bulletin addresses the ABS control module. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 19 owner reports on file.

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Improved Clutch Parts to Correct Clutch Chatter

Improved clutch parts correct clutch chatter

Check engine light: Off

Improved clutch parts correct clutch chatter. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 10 owner reports on file.

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A recall covers the passenger airbag sensor for 2015-2018 models, but 2014 models are excluded. Enter your VIN to get the confirmed, current recall picture for your specific car.

The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.

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