2018 Model Year

Subaru Forester

NHTSA Complaints & Reliability Data

Compare
Complaints
475
Recalls
2
Crashes
25
Severe
32

Active Recalls

Manufacturer safety recalls

19V701000 Oct 2019

Other

No consequence data available

18V455000 Jul 2018

Other

No consequence data available

Recent Complaints

Latest owner reports

UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Dec 2026

The AC compressor needs replaced and I see a lot of complaints on-line about this specific model- 2018 Forester so I am reporting in case it may help...

Brakes
Sep 2026

The CVT parking brake switch has failed. The failure leads to the inability to remove the key from the ignition switch when the vehicle is in park. Th...

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
Mar 2026

The AC compressor/condesor needs replaced and I see a lot of complaints on-line about this specific model- 2018 Forester. My kids and I were on a road...

Electrical System
Mar 2026

The defect presents itself when the equipped data communications module (DCM) attempts to communicate with 3G cellular networks. As 3G networks within...

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Nov 2025

I’ve experienced recurrent failures with my Subaru’s AC system, and it’s become more than just an inconvenience—it’s a real safety concern. In hot wea...

Air Bags
Oct 2025

The passenger airbag light in my 2018 Subaru Forester intermittently turns off and on, even when the seat is occupied. The vehicle has never been in a...

POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
Oct 2025

On October 3, 2023, I purchased a used 2018 Subaru Forester (VIN: [XXX] ) from Hengxin Auto Group, 210 39th St, Brooklyn, NY 11232, for about $19,500...

UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Sep 2025

Air bag warning light comes on intermittently so passenger air bag system is off.

Suspension
Sep 2025

I was driving on the interstate when car started vibrating and making a terrible sound. Dealership advised both front lower control arm bushings were...

Air Bags
Sep 2025

I am the second owner of this vehicle and lately my passenger airbag sometimes doesn’t turn on due to a harness connected to the occupant plate being...

VS

Vehicle Safety Research Team

Automotive Data Analysts

Independent researchers analyzing NHTSA data to help consumers make informed vehicle decisions.

Data updated: March 5, 2026

Summary

The 2018 Subaru Forester has 475 complaints and 2 recalls on record. The most commonly reported issue is VISIBILITY/WIPER. 25 crash-related incidents have been reported.

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