Used compact SUV
Used Subaru Forester: history, recalls & what to check
Review the NHTSA recall overview and buyer checklist for this model. A VIN-specific vehicle history report is currently offered for $8.99; available records and delivery time vary by vehicle.
Open safety recalls
NHTSA lists 10 recall campaigns across recent Subaru Forester model years. Recent campaigns have involved Structure, Wheels, Engine And Engine Cooling, Power Train.
- 2026 3
- 2025 3
- 2024 2
- 2023 1
- 2022 1
- 2021 0
These are model-level NHTSA campaigns. Use the free VIN recall checker below for the specific vehicle you are considering.
Check a specific Subaru Forester VIN for open recalls, free →
Categories the example report illustrates
- • Title brands, when reported by available sources.
- • Accident or damage records, when reported.
- • Odometer readings or flags, when available.
- • Ownership information, when available.
- • Recall information, when available; verify with NHTSA.
- • Service or registration events, when reported.
Buying a used SUV: what to check
Crossovers and SUVs are all-weather workhorses — check the drivetrain and towing history.
- If it's AWD or 4x4, confirm the system engages smoothly with no drivetrain noises.
- Look for towing wear if it has a hitch, and check the tires are matched and evenly worn.
- Review reported accidents and the owner count in the history report before you commit.
What to check before buying a used Subaru Forester
- Confirm the 17-character VIN matches the title, the windshield, and the door jamb.
- Pull the full history report and look for any title brand first. It's the biggest red flag.
- Check the odometer readings trend upward with no gaps or rollbacks.
- Review reported accidents and the number of previous owners.
- Clear any open recalls with a dealer, since they're fixed free of charge.
- Always pair the report with an in-person inspection by a trusted mechanic.
Found a Subaru Forester you like?
Review the example format and current $8.99 offer before ordering a VIN-specific report.
Check this Forester's VIN →Frequently asked questions
What may appear in a Subaru Forester history report?
Available records vary by VIN. The example format illustrates categories that may appear, such as reported title, accident, odometer, ownership, or recall information, but no category is guaranteed for every vehicle.
How much does a used Subaru Forester history report cost?
$8.99 for a single report. The price is shown before checkout, and signed-in customers can review the published rate card for report-credit packs. Delivery time varies with source availability.
Does the report show recalls for the Subaru Forester?
NHTSA lists 10 recall campaign(s) across recent Subaru Forester model years. Recent campaigns have involved Structure, Wheels, Engine And Engine Cooling, Power Train. Use the free VIN recall check on the landing page to query the vehicle before checkout.
What should I check before buying a used Subaru Forester?
Confirm the VIN matches the title and dash, arrange an independent inspection, review available history records, and check for open recalls. No report guarantees a complete vehicle history, so compare it with the seller's documents and the vehicle itself.
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Recall data: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This service is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Carfax, Inc.