Warnings problems of the 2021 Subaru Forester

Three problems related to warnings have been reported for the 2021 Subaru Forester. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2021 Subaru Forester based on all problems reported for the 2021 Forester.

1 Warnings problem

Failure Date: 12/01/2025

I am writing to file a formal complaint regarding repeated, severe, and dangerous malfunctions of the vehicle's engine start/stop (idle stop) feature. The system is failing to operate as intended, resulting in the engine stalling while the vehicle is in motion or under crucial driving circumstances, creating significant safety hazards. History of incidents I have experienced four separate incidents where the engine unexpectedly stalled or shut down, creating extreme risk: incident 1 (railroad tracks): the engine stopped while I was actively driving over railroad tracks. The car stalled on the tracks, and within seconds of the engine restarting, the crossing gates came down and a train passed. I narrowly avoided being hit by the train, missing the impact by approximately ten seconds. Incident 2 (heavy traffic/bridge): during heavy, back-to-back traffic as a bridge (pga bridge) was opening, the car momentarily stopped and then resumed movement. The unpredictable stopping motion created a severe risk of being rear-ended, as the following vehicle would have had difficulty anticipating the sudden, unintended stop. Incident 3 (December 2025): while taking a right turn, the engine stopped suddenly, with dash lights blinking, during only a slight pause in vehicle movement. This occurred while the vehicle was still maneuvering. Incident 4 (the following day): the engine stopping malfunction described in incident 3 occurred again the next day. Attempted repair and ongoing concern two years ago, the dealership installed a new battery following the first two incidents. However, the problem has now recurred this week (December 2025). The dealership has informed me that using a third-party device to permanently disable the start/stop function would void the powertrain warranty. Causing mechanical stress: I believe the continuous, potentially faulty activation is putting unnecessary stress on the battery, electrical system, and engine components, which may ultimately shor.

2 Warnings problem

Failure Date: 04/11/2025

Was stopped at traffic light. Start stop system was engaged. Engine turned off as normal. When I took my foot off the brake the engine did not engage and the eyesight warning light came on that the eyesight system was not functioning. Put the car in park and engaged the ignition button and the engine started. Turned off the start stop system and the car functioned normally after that. Have read postings on Subaru forum that this has happened to others.

3 Warnings problem

Failure Date: 07/01/2024

I’ve owned the vehicle under a year and am already on my second window replacement. I drive the same route everyday and ever experienced windows cracking in any other vehicle before this vehicle.


Other Forward Collision Avoidance related problems of the 2021 Subaru Forester



Forester Service Bulletins
Forester Safety Recalls
Forester Defect Investigations