2002 Subaru Forester recalls and problems
The 2002 Subaru Forester has 1 safety recall and 88 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Subaru dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2002 Subaru Forester vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2002 Subaru Forester recalls
Recall 02V-282: Power Train
Problem: Certain sport utility and passenger vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions were produced with an improperly manufactured transmission parking rod. When the transmission selector lever is placed in the "p" (Park) position, the transmission park mechanism, that is intended to hold your vehicle, may not engage.
Risk: The vehicle could then move/roll without prior warning, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the automatic transmission parking rod assembly. Owner notification january 8, 2003. An interim owner notification will be sent during november 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
2002 Subaru Forester problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Speed Control | 23 | |
| Power Train | 18 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 14 | |
| Air Bags | 10 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 9 | |
| Suspension | 9 | |
| Fuel System, Gasoline | 6 | |
| Unknown or Other | 5 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 5 | |
| Structure | 3 | |
| Visibility | 1 | |
| Wheels | 1 |
Most reported parts
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 13
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip — 4
- Air Bags › Frontal — 4
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline — 3
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Pedals and Linkages — 3
- Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator Pedal — 3
- Power Train › Clutch Assembly — 2
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Cooling System — 2
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 90,730 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2002 Subaru Forester complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Subaru Forester years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2002 Subaru Forester have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2002 Subaru Forester: 02V-282 (power train). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2002 Subaru Forester?
Owners report vehicle speed control problems most often (23 reports), followed by power train (18). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 90,730 miles.
Are Subaru recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Subaru dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.