There are no safety recalls for the 2020 Subaru Forester, but owners have filed 604 complaints with NHTSA.
2020 Subaru Forester problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Visibility/Wiper | 252 | |
| Unknown or Other | 107 | |
| Electrical System | 103 | |
| Engine | 82 | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 58 | |
| Visibility | 49 | |
| Power Train | 32 | |
| Lane Departure | 25 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 24 | |
| Structure | 15 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 14 | |
| Service Brakes | 13 | |
Most reported parts
- Visibility › Windshield — 46
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking — 27
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings — 19
- Structure › Body — 13
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control — 11
- Lane Departure › Warning — 10
- Lane Departure › Assist — 10
- Lane Departure › Blind Spot Detection — 5
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 5,900 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 2020 Subaru Forester complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Fuel/Propulsion System · reported Oct 26, 2026
On XXX, while driving my 2020 Subaru Forester Sport (VIN [XXX]) at approximately 35 mph on [XXX], the check engine light came on and EyeSight, adaptive cruise control, and pre-collision braking were disabled / other warning lights appeared / engine temperature issues. A diagnostic scan showed code [P2682 / P26A3 / P26A5], and the Thermo Control Valve (TCV) was found to be defective. Mileage at failure: 33,297. Subaru has acknowledged this defect in Technical Service Bulletin 09-119-24, which extends warranty coverage for the TCV on 2019â2021 Foresters to 15 years/150,000 miles. However…
Engine · reported Oct 14, 2026
Experience a total engine stall while stopped/accelerating at an intersection. The stall triggered immediate 'EyeSight Disabled' and 'Engine Oil' dashboard warnings, requiring a manual button restart in traffic. Had concerns of permanently being stalled in intersection. Taking to dealer for inspection.
Electrical System · reported Oct 8, 2026
Experienced parasitic battery drain which disabled the vehicle. The drain is tied to a 30 amp fuse labeled "BACKUP" under the hood of the vehicle. This fuse controls the touchscreen, backup camera, interior lights, key fob and radio. There were no warning lights or trouble codes associated with this issue. The problem was replicated by both a Subaru dealer and an independent shop. Neither could find the immediate problem without further investigation, which would have cost more than $1000. I have not contacted the manufacturer, police or insurance rep. The car will operate with the fuse pulled…
Engine · reported Sep 19, 2026
Smoke and fire occurred in the engine and spread into the car while the car was being driven. The car has not been inspected yet.
Engine · reported Sep 13, 2026
Three times within 30 minutes on short drive, the engine stalled at stop sign or stop light. The car had a half tank of gas, and at the same time as the engine stalled, the miles remaining until empty display showed an anomalous 0.3miles to empty reading. Put the car in park allowed the engine to restart and the range remaining display to return to normal.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2020 Subaru Forester have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2020 Subaru Forester as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2020 Subaru Forester?
Owners report visibility/wiper problems most often (252 reports), followed by unknown or other (107). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 5,900 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.