Subaru Forester

In Canada: generations, trims, common issues, recalls and fuel costs

By GarageMap · Last checked

Drafted with AI assistance. Every fact was checked against the cited source on September 29, 2026. How we build these pages.

This guide covers the Subaru Forester across 6 generations from model year 1998. Transport Canada lists 30 recalls for it since the 2000 model year, the latest issued in July 2026 (list read ). Symmetrical full-time all-wheel drive is standard on every Forester sold in Canada.

Overview

The Subaru Forester is a compact crossover SUV with all-wheel drive on every model. It reached North America for the 1998 model year as a tall wagon built on Impreza underpinnings and, from the third generation on, took a more conventional SUV shape. It appeals to buyers who want a practical, upright five-seater with good ground clearance and standard all-wheel traction for snowy Calgary roads and winter trips to the mountains. Foresters sold in Canada are built in Japan. Turbocharged XT versions were offered from 2004 to 2018, and a hybrid joined during the 2025 model year. Owners of older Foresters should know about head gasket leaks on the early 2.5 L engine, corrosion recalls for suspension arms and brake lines, oil consumption on early FB engines and Subaru Canada's extended CVT coverage.

Body type
Compact crossover SUV
Model years covered
1998 on
Generations
6
Production
The U.S.-built Forester Wilderness (2026 on) is not sold in Canada because Canadian counter-tariffs have paused Subaru's U.S.-made models.[4][5]
Transport Canada recalls
30 since the 2000 model year
NRCan fuel rating, 2026
6.9–9.2 L/100 km combined, about $2,240–$2,986 a year

Generations

Newest first. Years are model years; “on” means the generation is still in production.

  1. Sixth generation (SL)

    2025 on

    On sale in Canada for 2025 with a 180 hp 2.5 L and a CVT, joined later in the 2025 model year by the Forester Hybrid. Canadian cars still come from Japan even though U.S.-market production began in Indiana in October 2025.[1][3][4][5][18]

  2. Fifth generation (SK)

    2019–2024

    Moved to the Subaru Global Platform with a direct-injected 2.5 L as the only engine and no turbo option. The 2022 update brought a new front end, a newer EyeSight and the off-road Wilderness trim.[1][14][15][16]

  3. Fourth generation (SJ)

    2014–2018

    A Lineartronic CVT replaced the old 4-speed automatic, and the XT switched to a 250 hp 2.0 L turbo. A facelift arrived for 2017.[1][12][13]

  4. Third generation (SH)

    2009–2013

    A larger, more SUV-like body. The newer FB25 four-cylinder replaced the EJ engine in non-turbo models for 2011, while the XT kept the turbocharged 2.5 L.[1][10][11]

  5. Second generation (SG)

    2003–2008

    Still wagon-shaped and still built in Japan. The turbocharged 2.5 XT joined the Canadian lineup for 2004, and a 2006 update raised output on both the base and turbo engines.[1][8][9]

  6. First generation (SF)

    1998–2002

    Built in Ota, Gunma, Japan, on Impreza underpinnings in the style of a tall wagon. Canadian models used a 165 hp 2.5 L four-cylinder with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic, in trims such as L, S and S Limited.[1][7]

Trims and engines

Trims sold in Canada

Subaru Forester trims as sold in Canada, with the model years each was offered.
TrimYearsWhat it adds
2.5i (base)2019–2024Entry fifth-generation model, later listed simply as Forester, with all-wheel drive, automatic climate control and LED headlights.[15][16][17]
Convenience2019 onStep-up trim on the fifth generation (not listed for 2024) and the entry trim of the sixth, with LED steering-responsive headlights, dual-zone climate control and 17-inch alloy wheels on the 2025 model.[15][16][18][19]
Touring2019 onAdds a power sunroof and proximity key; on the sixth generation it also gets LED fog lights and the 11.6-inch touchscreen.[15][17][18][19]
Sport2019 onStyling-focused trim with its own wheels and coloured accents (orange at first, bronze from 2025); the 2019 version also added a two-mode X-Mode.[15][17][18][19]
Limited2019 onAdds navigation and Harman Kardon audio; on the 2025 model it also gains DriverFocus and a memory driver seat.[15][17][18][19]
Premier2019 onTop trim with leather (leather and Ultrasuede from 2025), unique alloy wheels and, on the fifth generation, the DriverFocus distraction-monitoring system.[15][17][18][19]
Wilderness2022–2024Off-road version of the fifth generation with a raised suspension, all-terrain tires, skid plates, revised CVT gearing and up to 1,360 kg of towing capacity.[16][17]
Hybrid Premier2025 onThe Forester Hybrid as sold in Canada: one fully equipped grade that arrived later in the 2025 model year, priced about $3,000 above the gas Premier, and listed as the Hybrid Premier for 2026.[5][6][19]

Engines

Engines offered in the Subaru Forester, by model year.
EngineYearsNotes
2.5 L H4 (EJ25)2000–2010Timing-belt boxer four rated at 165 to 173 hp; 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic.[1][7][9][10]
2.5 L turbo H4 (XT)2004–2013Turbocharged boxer four in XT models: 210 hp at launch, 230 hp for 2006 and 224 hp on the third generation.[8][9][11]
2.5 L H4 (FB25)2011–2018Newer 170 hp FB-series four; 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual until 2013, then a CVT on most models.[1][11][12]
2.0 L turbo H4 (XT)2014–2018250 hp turbocharged FA-series four paired with a high-torque CVT.[1][12][13]
2.5 L H4 direct injection (FB25)2019 on182 hp on the fifth generation and 180 hp on the sixth; CVT only.[14][15][18]
Hybrid 2.5 L H42025 onFull hybrid using a 2.5 L boxer four with an electric motor and an eCVT; arrived in Canada later in the 2025 model year.[1][5][19]

Common issues

Problems a source documents for this model, tagged by what kind of source it is. What each tag means:

Recall
A safety recall. Transport Canada’s list further down has the recall itself, and a dealer can tell you from your VIN whether it applies to your vehicle.
Service bulletin
A manufacturer’s technical service bulletin: its instructions to dealers for diagnosing and repairing the problem. A bulletin is not a recall.
Owner complaint pattern
Owners have reported it in complaints. A pattern in reports is not a recall, and not a finding that every vehicle has the problem.
Documented
Documented by the sources cited, such as a manufacturer program, a court-approved settlement or a reputable publication.

  • Head gasket leaks on the 2.5 L engine

    Owner complaint pattern Model years 2000–2004

    Owners have reported head gaskets on the 2.5 L four leaking oil or coolant, in some cases needing replacement more than once, in dozens of NHTSA complaints for these years. The engine's single-layer gasket was later replaced by a multi-layer steel design. Before buying one, have a mechanic look for oil or coolant seepage where the cylinder heads meet the block.[1][2][28][29]

  • Corroded front lower control arms

    Recall Model years 2003–2008

    Road de-icing chemicals and humidity can corrode the front lower control arms until the steel thins and the arm can break near its front mount, which could cause a loss of control. Under the recall, dealers inspect the arms and rustproof or replace them depending on the corrosion found.[22]

  • Rusted centre and rear brake lines

    Recall Model years 2009–2013

    The centre and rear brake lines can corrode through, causing a brake fluid leak and longer stopping distances. Dealers inspect the lines and the 4-way joint connector and either coat them against corrosion or replace them.[23][24]

  • Takata passenger airbag inflator recalls

    Recall Model years 2009–2013

    Transport Canada recalls cover the passenger-front airbag inflator on 2009 to 2013 Foresters, because an aged inflator can rupture in a crash. Dealers replace the inflator at no cost; check any used Forester by VIN to confirm the work was done.[25][26]

  • Excessive oil consumption on the FB25 engine

    Service bulletin Model years 2011–2015

    Subaru issued technical service bulletins with an oil consumption test and repair procedures for 2011 to 2015 Foresters with the 2.5 L FB25 engine (turbo XT models were not included). A United States class-action settlement later extended coverage for those repairs; Canadian owners should ask a dealer whether the bulletin work applies to their VIN.[21]

  • CVT covered to 10 years or 160,000 km

    Documented Model years 2014–2018

    Subaru Canada extended coverage of the CVT on 2014 to 2018 Foresters, including the 2.0 L turbo models, to 10 years or 160,000 km from the first retail sale, and dealers will inspect and test a CVT free of charge. Owners can check eligibility by VIN on Subaru Canada's program page.[20]

  • Brake lamp switch failure

    Recall Model years 2014–2016

    The brake lamp switch can fail so the brake lights stay off when braking; depending on the car it can also stop the shifter leaving Park or the push-button start from working and upset the ABS, stability control and EyeSight. Dealers replace the switch under the recall.[27]

  • Cracked windshields

    Owner complaint pattern Model years 2017–2021

    Owners have reported windshields cracking in hundreds of NHTSA complaints per model year for 2019 and 2020 and over a hundred for 2017 and 2018, including drivers who say there was no stone chip or impact.[30][31][32]

Transport Canada recalls

Transport Canada lists 30 recalls for the Subaru Forester since the 2000 model year, grouped below by generation, newest first. A recall that spans two generations is listed under both. Read from Transport Canada on .

Check one model year against Transport Canada’s live list with the recall check, or decode your VIN first with the VIN decoder.

Sixth generation (SL) 2025 on

5 recalls

  1. Recall 2026-329 · Label

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    28,461 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2025–2026
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WRH-26
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the compliance label lists an incorrect gross axle weight rating (GAWR). This could lead you to overload the vehicle, which could cause poor handling or a tire failure. Note: For the Forester model, this recall affects both gas and hybrid models. For the Crosstrek model, only the Crosstrek Hybrid model is affected.

    Safety risk. Poor handling or a tire failure could cause a loss of control and increase the risk of a crash.

    Corrective action. Subaru will mail a new compliance label to each owner. If you'd like help to install the label, you can contact a Subaru dealer to have it installed free of charge.

  2. Recall 2026-077 · Fuel System

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    3,005 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2025–2026
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WRD-26
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the fuel filler cap gasket may not seal properly to the housing. As a result, fuel could leak from the fuel filler neck. Note: This recall only affects certain hybrid model vehicles.

    Safety risk. A fuel leak can create the risk of a fire.

    Corrective action. To reduce the safety risk, Subaru recommends keeping the fuel tank below 50% capacity until the recall repairs have been completed. Subaru will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to replace the fuel filler cap gasket.

  3. Recall 2025-344 · Structure

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    199 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2025
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WRC-25
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the bolts that secure the universal anchorage system (UAS) for installing a child car seat may not have been tightened properly. As a result, the bolt(s) could loosen, and the anchor(s) could separate in a crash. Note: This recall only affects Forester e-BOXER hybrid models.

    Safety risk. A child seat that isn't properly secured could increase the risk of injury in a crash.

    Corrective action. To reduce the safety risk, Subaru advises you not to install child seat(s) using the universal anchorage system. You may still install child seat(s) using the rear seat belts, as described in the vehicle owner's manual and child seat manufacturer's installation guide until the recall repairs have been completed. Subaru will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to inspect and, if necessary, tighten the lower child seat anchor bolts.

  4. Recall 2025-032 · Wheels

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    1,415 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2025
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WRB-25
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the aluminum wheels may not have been manufactured correctly. As a result, the wheel lug nuts may not secure the wheels properly. Note: This recall only affects certain 18-inch aluminum wheels.

    Safety risk. A wheel that's not properly secured could cause a loss of stability and increase the risk of a crash.

    Corrective action. Subaru will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to inspect and, if necessary, replace the affected aluminum wheels.

  5. Recall 2024-546 · Label

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    499,490 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2010–2025
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WRZ-24
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the compliance label may be missing information in French. The words listed on the label for "Tires", "Rims", "Front" and "Rear" appear in English only, when they should be listed as "Tires/Pneus", "Rims/Jantes", "Front/Avant" and "Rear/Arriere". Canadian regulations require this information to be listed on the label in both English and French.

    Safety risk. These small errors do not affect vehicle safety.

    Corrective action. This is not a recall. Subaru has corrected the compliance label for all new vehicles.

Fifth generation (SK) 2019–2024

4 recalls

  1. Recall 2024-546 · Label

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    499,490 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2010–2025
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WRZ-24
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the compliance label may be missing information in French. The words listed on the label for "Tires", "Rims", "Front" and "Rear" appear in English only, when they should be listed as "Tires/Pneus", "Rims/Jantes", "Front/Avant" and "Rear/Arriere". Canadian regulations require this information to be listed on the label in both English and French.

    Safety risk. These small errors do not affect vehicle safety.

    Corrective action. This is not a recall. Subaru has corrected the compliance label for all new vehicles.

  2. Recall 2023-606 · Powertrain

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    97 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2024
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WRP-23
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the front axle shafts may not have been manufactured properly. As a result, the axle shaft(s) could break and cause a loss of power to the wheels. Additionally, if the vehicle is parked and the parking brake isn't applied, the vehicle could roll away.

    Safety risk. A loss of power to the wheels could increase the risk of a crash. A parked vehicle that rolls away could also create the risk of an injury or a crash.

    Corrective action. Subaru will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to inspect the front axle shafts and, if necessary, replace them.

  3. Recall 2021-226 · Suspension

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    39,502 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2019
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WRD-21
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the bolts for the rear stabilizer bracket could loosen over time. This may cause a rattling notice from the rear of the vehicle. If you continue to drive with this problem, the bolts could detach. If this happens, vehicle stability could be reduced.

    Safety risk. Reduced vehicle stability could cause a loss of control and increase the risk of a crash.

    Corrective action. Subaru will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to inspect the condition of the bolts on the rear stabilizer bracket, and tighten them, if necessary. If a bolt is missing, the dealer will install a new bolt.

  4. Recall 2019-604 · Engine

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    5,539 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2019
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WUW-08
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve could fail. If you continue to operate the vehicle after this happens, pieces of the PCV valve may enter the engine and cause an engine failure.

    Safety risk. A sudden loss of engine power could increase the risk of a crash.

    Corrective action. Subaru will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to replace the PCV valve. Additionally, the replaced PCV valve will be inspected. If the valve is found to have separated, the separator cover and oil pan will be removed. If the separated parts are not located, the engine short block assembly will be replaced.

Fourth generation (SJ) 2014–2018

7 recalls

  1. Recall 2024-546 · Label

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    499,490 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2010–2025
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WRZ-24
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the compliance label may be missing information in French. The words listed on the label for "Tires", "Rims", "Front" and "Rear" appear in English only, when they should be listed as "Tires/Pneus", "Rims/Jantes", "Front/Avant" and "Rear/Arriere". Canadian regulations require this information to be listed on the label in both English and French.

    Safety risk. These small errors do not affect vehicle safety.

    Corrective action. This is not a recall. Subaru has corrected the compliance label for all new vehicles.

  2. Recall 2021-466 · Fuel System

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    13,717 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2018
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WRG-21
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the low-pressure fuel pump could fail. If this happens, then engine may run rough or may not start and the check engine light may turn on. This could also result in a sudden loss of engine power while driving.

    Safety risk. A sudden loss of engine power could increase the risk of a crash.

    Corrective action. Subaru will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to replace the fuel pump.

  3. Recall 2019-492 · Airbag

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    35,806 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2015–2018
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WUM-98
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the passenger occupant detection system (ODS) may malfunction. This could cause the airbag system to turn off the passenger-front airbag even when a passenger is seated.

    Safety risk. An airbag that is turned off could increase the risk of injury to a passenger in a crash.

    Corrective action. The company will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to inspect the ODS sensor mat harness. It will be replaced if necessary.

  4. Recall 2019-104 · Brakes

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    135,814 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2014–2016
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WUE-90
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the brake lamp switch could fail. This would cause the brake lamps not to turn on when the brakes are applied. Depending on the model, this could cause an inability to shift from park or to start using the push-button ignition. This may also cause problems with the following: anti-lock brake system (ABS), vehicle dynamics control (VDC), and/or Eyesight system.

    Safety risk. If the brake lights do not work, a following driver may not to recognize that a vehicle ahead is braking, increasing the risk of crash.

    Corrective action. The company will notify owners by mail. Owners will be instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to have the brake lamp switch replaced.

  5. Recall 2016-122 · Engine

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    2,163 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2015–2016
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WTA-62
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, a portion of the engine turbocharger air intake duct may crack due to incorrect material being used during production. If the air intake duct were to crack, it could result in the engine developing a rough idle, reduced power and possibly a stall. Engine stalling would result in lost propulsion which, in conjunction with traffic and road conditions, and the driver's reactions, could increase the risk of a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury.

    Corrective action. Dealers will inspect the engine turbocharger air intake duct, and replace as necessary.

  6. Recall 2015-206 · Accessories

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    3,500 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2014–2015
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WQO-51
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles equipped with EyeSight driver assist technology, the French version of the EyeSight Owner’s Manual my contain incorrect translations of certain text. If the vehicle were to be operated as described in the mistranslated French text, it could increase the risk of a crash.

    Corrective action. Subaru will send corrected French EyeSight manuals directly to affected vehicle owners and additional corrected manuals will be available to all Dealers.

  7. Recall 2013-134 · Other

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    1,000 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2014
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WQH-44
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the floor mats can curl when exposed to heat. A deformed mat could interfere with the driver when shifting his/her foot from one pedal to another. This could cause a delay in brake pedal application, which could increase stopping distance, possibly causing a crash resulting in property damage and/or personal injury.

    Corrective action. Dealers will replace the vehicle’s four carpeted floor mats.

Third generation (SH) 2009–2013

11 recalls

  1. Recall 2024-546 · Label

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    499,490 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2010–2025
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WRZ-24
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the compliance label may be missing information in French. The words listed on the label for "Tires", "Rims", "Front" and "Rear" appear in English only, when they should be listed as "Tires/Pneus", "Rims/Jantes", "Front/Avant" and "Rear/Arriere". Canadian regulations require this information to be listed on the label in both English and French.

    Safety risk. These small errors do not affect vehicle safety.

    Corrective action. This is not a recall. Subaru has corrected the compliance label for all new vehicles.

  2. Recall 2020-001 · Airbag

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    23,159 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2009
    Manufacturer’s no.
    TKC-20
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. This recall is for certain vehicles that had an airbag inflator replaced as a part of an earlier recall campaign. This recall provides a final repair. Long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. If the airbag inflator ruptures, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants or cause damage to the airbag assembly, preventing its proper function.

    Safety risk. If the vehicle is involved in a crash requiring an airbag deployment, the airbag inflator could rupture and create a risk of injury.

    Corrective action. Owners will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to inspect the passenger-front airbag inflator. The passenger-front airbag module or inflator will be replaced as necessary. Note: The Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. This recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk. It is expected that all airbag inflators will be replaced before their function would be affected.

  3. Recall 2019-191 · Electrical

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    100 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2009–2013
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WUF-91
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. A problem with certain replacement ignition switches may allow the key turn out of the “ON” position while driving. This could cause the engine to turn off suddenly. It could also cause the airbag system not to work properly in a crash. Note: This is a voluntary service campaign that is not being conducted under the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. This problem only affects certain parts used for replacement of original parts.

    Safety risk. A sudden loss of engine power could increase the risk of a crash. An airbag system that does not work properly in a crash could cause an increased risk of injuries.

    Corrective action. The company will notify owners by mail and instruct them to take their vehicle to a dealer to inspect the ignition switch, and replace it as necessary.

  4. Recall 2019-013 · Airbag

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    102,110 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2010–2013
    Manufacturer’s no.
    TKC-19
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. If the airbag inflator ruptures, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants or cause damage to the airbag assembly, preventing its proper function.

    Safety risk. If the vehicle is involved in a crash requiring an airbag deployment, the airbag inflator could rupture and create a risk of injury.

    Corrective action. Owners will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to have the passenger-front airbag inflator replaced. Note: The Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. This recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk. It is expected that all airbag inflators will be replaced before their function would be affected.

  5. Recall 2018-019 · Airbag

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    20,453 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2009
    Manufacturer’s no.
    TKC-18
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, could eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger frontal airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. As a result, if the vehicle were involved in a collision that warrants airbag deployment, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants, and the airbag assembly could be damaged, preventing proper function. These issues could increase the risk of injury.

    Corrective action. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator. Note: Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. The recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk, and is expected to replace airbag inflators before their function would be affected.

  6. Recall 2016-492 · Electrical

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    15,378 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2009–2013
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WTM-73
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain turbocharged vehicles, the relay which controls the secondary air injection pump may have been manufactured incorrectly. As a result, the relay may allow the pump to operate continuously. If this condition were to occur, the pump may overheat and melt, causing burning smell or smoke and possibly resulting in a fire. This could increase the risk of injury and/or damage to property.

    Corrective action. Dealers will install a revised relay.

  7. Recall 2014-586 · Brakes

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    33,000 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2009–2013
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WQQ-52
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the center and rear brake lines may become perforated due to corrosion. This would cause a leak in the brake system potentially increasing stopping distances, which could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property.

    Corrective action. Dealers will inspect vehicles and either apply an anti-corrosion coating to the 4-way joint connector and brake lines, or replace them as necessary. Note: This recall supersedes recall 2013092 and 2014223. Vehicles that were inspected and/or repaired under the previous recall will require re-inspection and/or repair.

  8. Recall 2014-223 · Brakes

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    105,649 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2009–2013
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WQK-47
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the center and rear brake lines may become perforated due to corrosion. This would cause a leak in the brake system potentially increasing stopping distances, which could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property.

    Corrective action. Dealers will inspect vehicles and either apply an anti-corrosion coating to the lines, or replace them as necessary. Note: This recall supersedes recall 2013092. Vehicles that were inspected and/or repaired under the previous recall will require re-inspection and/or repair.

  9. Recall 2012-444 · Accessories

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    293 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2009–2012
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WQE-41
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles equipped with dealer-installed accessory puddle lights, a short circuit may develop causing the lights to melt and/or emit smoke. This could result in a fire causing property damage and/or injury.

    Corrective action. Dealers will install an additional fused wiring harness to protect against short circuits.

  10. Recall 2012-189 · Seats And Restraints

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    35,585 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2009–2012
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WQA-37
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the center rear seating position seatbelt, when used in automatic locking retractor mode, may not allow the proper installation of a child restraint system or booster seat and could revert to emergency locking mode while in use. Although the seatbelt would still lock in the event of a crash, the belt could loosen during normal operation and cause the child restraint or booster seat to shift or become improperly positioned, increasing the risk of injury.

    Corrective action. Subaru will send owners a locking clip to be used to properly secure a child restraint system or booster seat, and an owner's manual supplement with instructions on its use. Also, dealers will replace the center seatbelt retractor upon request.

Show all 11 recallsShow only the newest 10

  1. Recall 2008-333 · Engine

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    1,489 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2009
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WVF-16
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles equipped with a 2.5L turbo engine, the oil supply pipe to the turbocharger may crack at the stay brazing on the cylinder head-side. If the pipe cracks it will allow oil to leak and if the leaking oil contacts components operating at high temperatures, an engine compartment fire could occur.

    Corrective action. Dealers will replace the cracked pipe with a modified unit or if no crack is found an additional bracket will be installed to increase the rigidity of the pipe.

Back to the top of Third generation (SH)

Second generation (SG) 2003–2008

5 recalls

  1. Recall 2011-344 · Suspension

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    59,432 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2003–2008
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WVX-34
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the front lower control arms could corrode due to exposure to humid environments and road de-icing chemicals. Over time, corrosion could progress causing thinning and perforation of the steel, which could allow the control arm to fracture near the forward pivot attachment to the chassis. Lower control arm failure could result in a loss of vehicle control and a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury.

    Corrective action. Dealers will inspect the front lower control arms and, depending on the degree of corrosion exhibited, will either rustproof or replace them.

  2. Recall 2007-033 · Airbag

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    1,279 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2006
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WVC-13
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the wiring harness for the airbag occupant detection system in the front passenger seating position might have been pinched during vehicle assembly. Pinching of the wiring harness between the floor cross member and the seat mounting bracket could result in an electrical short which would blow the circuit fuse. If this happens, the passenger airbag would be unable to deploy during a crash, leaving the seat occupant susceptible to increased injuries.

    Corrective action. Dealers will inspect and, if required, repair wiring damage.

  3. Recall 2005-344 · Electrical

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    485 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2006
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, a wire for the Immobilizer Control Module was pinched between the two halves of the ICM security cover. As a result, the engine may not start, or may stall while driving.

    Corrective action. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, repair damaged wiring.

  4. Recall 2003-054 · Seats And Restraints

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    44 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2003
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WWL-95
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles, the seat belt tongue plate may become disengaged with the seat belt buckle latch with a force less than the value specified in CMVSS 209. This condition is caused by a slight lack of parallelism between the latch and the buckle body stamped section.

    Corrective action. Dealer will replace the front seat belt buckles.

  5. Recall 2002-200 · Powertrain

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    11,597 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2002–2003
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WWK-94
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions, the parking pawl actuating rod ("parking rod") spring retainer may be defective. The parking pawl may not engage the parking gear fully and could cause the vehicle to move if the parking brake is not applied.

    Corrective action. Dealers will replace the automatic transmission parking rod assembly. Replacement parts will not be available until January 2003.

First generation (SF) 1998–2002

2 recalls

  1. Recall 2002-200 · Powertrain

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    11,597 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2002–2003
    Manufacturer’s no.
    WWK-94
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. On certain vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions, the parking pawl actuating rod ("parking rod") spring retainer may be defective. The parking pawl may not engage the parking gear fully and could cause the vehicle to move if the parking brake is not applied.

    Corrective action. Dealers will replace the automatic transmission parking rod assembly. Replacement parts will not be available until January 2003.

  2. Recall 2000-069 · Other

    Date
    Units affected in Canada
    46,003 (whole recall)
    Covers
    FORESTER 2000
    Issue, risk and remedy

    Issue. Certain vehicle do not comply with Regulation 6 - Statement of Compliance. Compliance label was not expressed in both official languages in regard to vehicle classification.

    Corrective action. No corrective action will be taken for existing vehicles. Correct compliance label will be affixed in current production vehicles.

Source: Transport Canada, Motor Vehicle Safety Recalls Database. Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence – Canada.

Fuel economy and cost

Natural Resources Canada’s combined ratings (55% city, 45% highway driving) for the newest model years it has rated. NRCan rates every drivetrain, transmission and package separately, so each row gives the range across them. The yearly cost assumes 20,000 km a year, the distance NRCan’s own fuel consumption search tool assumes, at Statistics Canada’s average self-serve price in Calgary for August 2026: regular 162.3¢/L, premium 188.4¢/L, diesel 210.6¢/L. Each rating is costed at the fuel NRCan rated it on. How far and how you drive will move it.

Subaru Forester: NRCan combined fuel consumption and yearly fuel cost in Calgary, model years 2019–2026.
YearEngineFuel Combined L/100 kmFuel a year (CAD)
2026 2.5 L, 4 cylinders (2 versions) Regular 8.3–9.2 $2,694–$2,986
2026 2.5 L, 4 cylinders hybrid Regular 6.9 $2,240
2025 2.5 L, 4 cylinders (2 versions) Regular 8.3–9.0 $2,694–$2,921
2025 2.5 L, 4 cylinders hybrid Regular 6.9 $2,240
2024 2.5 L, 4 cylinders (2 versions) Regular 8.2–9.0 $2,662–$2,921
2023 2.5 L, 4 cylinders (2 versions) Regular 8.2–9.0 $2,662–$2,921
2022 2.5 L, 4 cylinders (2 versions) Regular 8.2–9.0 $2,662–$2,921
2021 2.5 L, 4 cylinders Regular 8.2 $2,662
2020 2.5 L, 4 cylinders Regular 8.2 $2,662
2019 2.5 L, 4 cylinders Regular 8.2 $2,662

Source: Natural Resources Canada, Fuel consumption ratings, read . Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence – Canada. Prices: Statistics Canada, Table 18-10-0001-01, Monthly average retail prices for gasoline and fuel oil, by geography (https://doi.org/10.25318/1810000101-eng), used under the Statistics Canada Open Licence.

Canada notes

  • Symmetrical full-time all-wheel drive is standard on every Forester sold in Canada.[18]
  • Canadian Foresters are built in Japan. The U.S.-built Forester Wilderness (2026 on) is not sold in Canada because Canadian counter-tariffs have paused Subaru's U.S.-made models.[4][5]
  • Canadian trim names differ from U.S. ones: the sixth-generation Base, Premium, Sport, Limited and Touring are sold in Canada as Convenience, Touring, Sport, Limited and Premier.[1][18]
  • Subaru Canada's own CVT Warranty Enhancement Program covers 2014 to 2018 Forester CVTs for 10 years or 160,000 km, and the coverage transfers to later owners.[20]

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Sources

The entry above was checked against these on . The numbers beside each fact point here.

  1. Wikipedia, Subaru Forester. Accessed .
  2. Wikipedia, Subaru EJ engine. Accessed .
  3. Subaru of America, Subaru of Indiana Automotive produces final Legacy (September 18, 2025). Accessed .
  4. AutoTrader.ca, Counter-Tariffs Are Keeping a Couple New Subarus Out of Canada. Accessed .
  5. The Car Guide, Subaru Canada Clarifies Status of Missing 2026 Models. Accessed .
  6. The Car Guide, Subaru Announces Pricing for 2025 Forester Hybrid, Unveils New BRZ Edition. Accessed .
  7. AutoTrader.ca, 2000 Subaru Forester - Canadian Prices, Specs, Photos. Accessed .
  8. AutoTrader.ca, 2004 Subaru Forester - Canadian Prices, Specs, Photos. Accessed .
  9. AutoTrader.ca, 2006 Subaru Forester - Canadian Prices, Specs, Photos. Accessed .
  10. AutoTrader.ca, 2009 Subaru Forester - Canadian Prices, Specs, Photos. Accessed .
  11. AutoTrader.ca, 2013 Subaru Forester - Canadian Prices, Specs, Photos. Accessed .
  12. AutoTrader.ca, 2014 Subaru Forester - Canadian Prices, Specs, Photos. Accessed .
  13. AutoTrader.ca, 2018 Subaru Forester - Canadian Prices, Specs, Photos. Accessed .
  14. AutoTrader.ca, 2019 Subaru Forester - Canadian Prices, Specs, Photos. Accessed .
  15. Subaru Canada, All-New 2019 Subaru Forester Pricing Announced. Accessed .
  16. Subaru Canada (via Newswire.ca), Subaru Canada Announces Pricing for 2022 Forester; Outlines Trim Levels. Accessed .
  17. Subaru Canada (Wayback Machine), Pricing - 2024 Forester - Subaru Canada (archived January 2024). Accessed .
  18. Subaru Canada (via Newswire.ca), Subaru Canada Announces 2025 Forester Pricing. Accessed .
  19. Subaru Canada, Pricing - 2026 Forester - Subaru Canada. Accessed .
  20. Subaru Canada, CVT Warranty Enhancement Program. Accessed .
  21. Chimicles Schwartz Kriner & Donaldson-Smith (class counsel), Settlement Agreement, oil consumption class action against Subaru of America (D.N.J. No. 1:14-cv-04490). Accessed .
  22. Transport Canada, Transport Canada recall 2011344: front lower control arm corrosion, 2003-2008 Forester. Accessed .
  23. Transport Canada, Transport Canada recall 2014223: brake line corrosion, 2009-2013 Forester. Accessed .
  24. Transport Canada, Transport Canada recall 2014586: brake line corrosion, 2009-2013 Forester (expanded remedy). Accessed .
  25. Transport Canada, Transport Canada recall 2018019: passenger airbag inflator, 2009 Forester. Accessed .
  26. Transport Canada, Transport Canada recall 2019013: passenger-front airbag inflator, 2010-2013 Forester. Accessed .
  27. Transport Canada, Transport Canada recall 2019104: brake lamp switch, 2014-2016 Forester. Accessed .
  28. NHTSA, NHTSA owner complaints, 2001 Subaru Forester. Accessed .
  29. NHTSA, NHTSA owner complaints, 2003 Subaru Forester. Accessed .
  30. NHTSA, NHTSA owner complaints, 2018 Subaru Forester. Accessed .
  31. NHTSA, NHTSA owner complaints, 2019 Subaru Forester. Accessed .
  32. NHTSA, NHTSA owner complaints, 2020 Subaru Forester. Accessed .

Where the recall and fuel data comes from

Transport Canada’s recalls and NRCan’s fuel ratings: contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence – Canada. Pump prices: Statistics Canada, used under the Statistics Canada Open Licence. Neither government endorses GarageMap. More Subaru guides: Subaru models · all vehicle guides.