NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2019 Subaru Forester
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV that has occupied a loyal niche among safety-conscious families, outdoor enthusiasts, and commuters who want all-wheel drive without stepping up to a larger footprint. Now in its fifth generation and covering model years 2019 through 2025, the Forester competes in one of the most crowded segments in the American market, where its reputation for standard safety technology and rugged practicality continues to define its appeal.
The 2019 Subaru Forester earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 87 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. It has 3 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally regard the Forester as a practical, family-friendly compact SUV that punches above its class in standard safety features and driver-assist technology. Most praise its generous visibility and upright seating position, and the broad availability of Subaru's driver-assistance suite across trims draws consistent positive attention. Handling and powertrain refinement receive more mixed reactions.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 13404
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
SUSPENSION:REAR21V263000
Risk: Missing bolts may allow the rear stabilizer bracket to shift, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will retorque and replace any missing bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 17, 2021. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRD-21.
Reported 2021-04-15
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)19V856000
Risk: An unexpected loss of power while driving can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the PCV valve, free of charge. If the PCV valve has separated and the components cannot be found, the short block engine will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began January 31, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUW-08.
Reported 2019-12-02
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM19V065000
Risk: Loss of power steering assist would require higher steering effort, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: None of the affected vehicles have been sold yet. Subaru has notified dealers and they will inspect the steering gearbox, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 7, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUC-88.
Reported 2019-02-06
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
831 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.