Complaints drop by more than half
With the early bugs fixed, the 2021 Forester has one of the lowest complaint rates in the lineup and no recalls on file. Windshield cracks still appear now and then, and some owners dislike the auto start-stop system. Otherwise reports are scattered.
Updated November 2026 · based on 215 owner complaints and 0 recalls
139 43% below the Forester average
0 free to fix at a dealer
Every Forester year compared
Owner complaints per 100,000 cars sold. Lower is better. The newest years have had less time to collect complaints, so they are marked too new to judge.
Known problems on the 2021 Forester
Top problems and what they cost
Windshield cracks
Still reported, though far less than 2019.
Fix: Windshield plus calibration $800 to $1,500.
Visibility
Auto start-stop faults
Start-stop works erratically or brings up warning lights.
Fix: Often a weak battery; battery $180 to $280.
Electrical
Warning lights
Several driver assist lights come on together, usually after a battery dip.
Fix: Battery test and code reset, $50 to $150.
Engine
Recalls
No recalls for this year.
Complaints by part
Before you buy a 2021 Subaru Forester
- Check the windshield for cracks.Windshields on some of these cars crack easily. On cars with camera safety systems, a new windshield also needs the cameras recalibrated, which can cost $800 to $1,500.Owners filed 67 complaints about windshield cracking on the 2021 Forester.
- Watch that start-stop works at a red light on the test drive.Lights fail on some of these cars because of failing LED boards, connectors or water in the housing. Brake and tail lights matter most, so use a helper to check them.
- Make sure no warning lights stay on.Warning lights should come on briefly at start and then go out. One that stays on means the car has stored a fault, and a parts store can read the code for free.35 of the 215 owner complaints about the 2021 Forester involve the electrical system (16%).
- Ask how old the battery is.Many electrical glitches on these cars trace back to a weak 12-volt battery or a failing alternator. A battery older than about four years is worth replacing.35 of the 215 owner complaints about the 2021 Forester involve the electrical system (16%).
Questions
Is the 2021 Subaru Forester reliable?
Complaints drop by more than half. With the early bugs fixed, the 2021 Forester has one of the lowest complaint rates in the lineup and no recalls on file. Windshield cracks still appear now and then, and some owners dislike the auto start-stop system. Otherwise reports are scattered.
How many recalls does the 2021 Subaru Forester have?
0 recalls. Recall repairs are free at any Subaru dealer, even for later owners. Enter the VIN on the free government recall lookup to see which are still open on a specific car.
What are the most common 2021 Subaru Forester problems?
Windshield cracks; Auto start-stop faults; Warning lights.
Crash rating shown for the 2021 Subaru Forester SUV AWD. Repair costs are typical U.S. ranges for parts and labor, not quotes. How we score.