Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Forester vehicles equipped with heated seats. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may loosen.
2012 Subaru Forester Recall
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Frequently Asked Questions
8 common questions answered
What are the known NHTSA recalls for a 2012 Subaru Forester?
The NHTSA has issued 22 recall campaigns affecting the 2012 Subaru Forester covering air bag, brake light, engine, ignition, brake line corrosion, and other components. Key issues include multiple passenger air bag inflator recalls that can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, Occupant Detection System (ODS) seat electrical connection problems that can disable a passenger air bag, brake light switch failures that can prevent lights from illuminating, and brake-line corrosion risks in certain regions. These recall summaries are based on NHTSA records; for details we list affected components and corrective actions below and can verify your VIN at Mike Shaw Subaru.
How do I check if my 2012 Subaru Forester has an open recall?
You can check your VIN at NHTSA.gov or bring your VIN to our service team for a free recall check. If you prefer hands-on help, call or visit Mike Shaw Subaru in Thornton, CO and our factory-trained technicians will confirm open recalls at no cost and explain the remedy. To make a visit easy, schedule service online and ask about available service specials and our service financing options so you can get repairs now and pay later.
How much does a 2012 Subaru Forester recall repair cost?
Manufacturer recall repairs are performed free of charge to the vehicle owner under the recall program. If the NHTSA recall requires parts or labor, Subaru-authorized dealers like Mike Shaw Subaru will perform the corrective action at no cost and document the repair in the vehicle’s service history. We also offer complimentary VIN checks and can discuss any non-recall maintenance or optional services with available service specials or service financing if needed.
Can I get my 2012 Subaru Forester recall fixed at an independent shop or do I need a dealer?
Recall repairs must be completed by a manufacturer-authorized dealership to ensure OEM parts, proper diagnostics, and official remedy records; Mike Shaw Subaru is your local certified Subaru dealer for recall work near Thornton, CO. Dealers use factory diagnostic tools and manufacturer guidance to ensure the recall repair is performed correctly and recorded with Subaru and the NHTSA, protecting your warranty and future resale value. To arrange dealer recall service, schedule appointment with Mike Shaw Subaru; our technicians are factory-trained and will complete recall work free of charge.
How long does a 2012 Subaru Forester recall repair take?
Most recall repairs take between 30 minutes and a few hours, but timing depends on the specific recall and parts availability. For complex remedies—such as air bag inflator replacement or engine component inspections—turnaround can be longer if parts are not immediately available; Mike Shaw Subaru will provide an estimated pick-up time when you schedule service. We prioritize safety work and will notify you promptly about part lead times or temporary measures; ask about our service loaner options and available service specials.
Does an open recall affect my 2012 Subaru Forester's trade-in or resale value?
An unresolved recall can negatively affect trade-in or resale value because many buyers and dealers verify open recall history before purchase. Having recall repairs completed at a franchise dealer like Mike Shaw Subaru documents that safety issues were properly remedied using OEM parts, which preserves value and provides transparent service records for prospective buyers. To protect value before selling or trading, get the recall work done and consider a free VIN check with us and then get a quick online appraisal at our trade-in page: sell your car online.
Can I fail a state inspection because of an unresolved 2012 Subaru Forester recall?
Open safety-related recalls can lead to inspection or registration issues in some states; while not every recall automatically fails an inspection, some defects like non-functioning brake lights or corroded brake lines can cause a failed safety inspection. Because the NHTSA lists multiple recall items for the 2012 Subaru Forester—brake light switch defects and brake-line corrosion among them—it's important to resolve open recalls before scheduled inspections; Mike Shaw Subaru can verify and repair any items free of charge. If you need to schedule service ahead of an inspection, mention the inspection date and our team will prioritize safety-related recall work; we also offer service financing to help with non-recall repairs.
2012 Subaru Forester Recall Summary
These entries summarize NHTSA recall records for the 2012 Subaru Forester. To confirm whether your vehicle is affected and to get free repair, schedule service with Mike Shaw Subaru in Thornton, CO; our factory-trained technicians will complete manufacturer recall work using OEM parts and document the remedy.
Recall Service & Dealership Highlights
Safety Risks You Can't Ignore
The 2012 Subaru Forester has multiple NHTSA-recorded recalls that directly affect occupant protection systems and braking components, and addressing these recalls promptly is essential to reduce real safety risks on the road. Specific issues noted by the NHTSA include passenger air bag inflator defects that can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, Occupant Detection System (ODS) seat harness problems that may deactivate the passenger air bag when the seat is occupied, and brake light switch failures that can prevent brake lights from illuminating or interfere with transmission shift interlocks. Ignoring recalls can increase the risk of injury in a crash, elevate the chance of being involved in a collision due to non-functioning lights, and in salt-belt regions may leave corrosive damage unchecked in brake lines that could lead to brake fluid leaks. Beyond safety, unresolved safety recalls can affect insurance claims, state inspection outcomes, and resale value. At Mike Shaw Subaru in Thornton, CO our factory-trained technicians prioritize safety: we perform all manufacturer recall repairs using OEM parts and Subaru diagnostic tools, document the repair properly, and explain the corrective action and timeline to every customer. Recall repairs are free under Subaru’s program; to protect you and your passengers, please schedule service today or review current service specials.
Your Certified Recall Experts
Mike Shaw Subaru is the local certified Subaru franchise dealer serving Thornton, CO and surrounding communities including Denver, Northglenn, Westminster, Aurora, Brighton and Commerce City; we are positioned to handle manufacturer recall work with full accountability and factory-authorized procedures. Choosing a franchise dealer matters: our technicians are factory-trained, receive ongoing Subaru manufacturer instruction, and use OEM replacement parts and Subaru-specific diagnostic tools to ensure the recall remedy is applied exactly as intended. Manufacturer recall repairs are recorded with Subaru and the NHTSA to preserve warranty records and vehicle history—something independent shops cannot always provide. Our service drive is designed to prioritize safety recalls, with dedicated advisors who can verify NHTSA recall status, explain necessary corrective actions like air bag inflator replacement or ODS sensor harness inspections, and provide accurate timelines. All recall repairs are performed at no cost to the customer; we also discuss optional maintenance needs transparently and offer service financing where appropriate so you can get required work done now and pay over time. Visit Mike Shaw Subaru to have us confirm open recalls, complete the remedy using OEM parts, and return your vehicle to proper factory standards.
Next Steps & Free VIN Check
If you suspect your 2012 Subaru Forester may have an open recall, the fastest path to resolution is a free VIN check and dealer verification—either on NHTSA.gov or by bringing your VIN to Mike Shaw Subaru in Thornton, CO. Start by locating your 17-character VIN and visit NHTSA.gov for an immediate lookup, or let our service team perform the check during a scheduled visit. When you bring the vehicle in, our technicians will confirm which NHTSA campaigns apply, explain the specific defect (for example, whether it concerns an air bag inflator, the Occupant Detection System, a brake light switch, or brake-line corrosion), and if parts are available we will perform the recall repair the same day when possible. Typical simple recall repairs often take under a few hours; for parts-limited campaigns we’ll provide a clear estimate and follow-up communication. To get started, schedule service online and ask about our current service specials and service financing—recall repairs remain free, and our team will guide you through every step to restore safety and document the completed remedy.
Protect Your Vehicle Value
Unresolved recalls can reduce trade-in and resale value because many buyers and dealers check NHTSA history and expect safety items to be remedied; handling open recalls at a Subaru franchise dealer like Mike Shaw Subaru ensures repairs are properly documented and performed with OEM parts, which protects the vehicle’s marketability. The 2012 Subaru Forester has several NHTSA-recorded campaigns, including air bag inflator replacements and brake-system corrosion fixes—both items buyers and appraisers scrutinize. By completing recall work at our dealership you create a verifiable service record showing manufacturer-authorized corrective action, which often improves buyer confidence and can prevent discounts at trade-in appraisal. If you’re considering selling or trading, get a free VIN recall check and then request an appraisal through our trade-in page at sell your car online; our advisors will note completed recalls and help you present the vehicle with full disclosure. We also offer clear timelines—most recalls are completed quickly—and service financing for non-recall items if you want additional maintenance performed before sale. Protect your investment by resolving recalls now with Mike Shaw Subaru, your local Subaru recall service near me in Thornton, CO.
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Recall Summary
23 recalls found · All repairs FREE
Air Bag
FREE10 OPEN RECALLS
Consequence
If the connection loosens, the front passenger airbag may deactivate even though the seat is occupied, increasing the risk of injury to the front passenger in the event of a crash.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, replace the ODS sensor mat harness, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. Owners will be notified of the recall beginning November 29, 2019, and will receive a second notice when remedy parts are available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUM-98.
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Air Bag10
FREE10 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Forester vehicles equipped with heated seats. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may loosen.
Consequence
If the connection loosens, the front passenger airbag may deactivate even though the seat is occupied, increasing the risk of injury to the front passenger in the event of a crash.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, replace the ODS sensor mat harness, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. Owners will be notified of the recall beginning November 29, 2019, and will receive a second notice when remedy parts are available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUM-98.
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Brake Light3
FREE3 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and also preventing keyless ignition vehicles from starting and CVT/automatic transmissions from being able to be shifted out of Park.
Consequence
Brake lights that do not illuminate properly will not alert other drivers that the vehicle is slowing or stopping, increasing the risk of crash.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake light switch, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 29, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUE-90.
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Turbocharger Air Intake Duct1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 WRX vehicles manufactured April 10, 2015, to October 21, 2015, and Forester 2.0XT vehicles manufactured April 10, 2015, to October 20, 2015. The turbocharger air intake duct may crack and possibly result in an engine stall.
Consequence
An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the turbocharger air intake duct, and replace it as necessary, free of charge, depending on the lot number found on the duct. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTA-62.
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Ignition1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch installed as a replacement part. The ball spring inside the switch may break, reducing the strength of the ignition switch. If this occurs, the weight on the key ring and certain road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move out of t
Consequence
The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. If a crash occurs under this condition, the air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ignition switch, replacing the ignition switch, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 10, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUF-91.
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Electrical System1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2008-2014 Impreza vehicles and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, all equipped with turbo-charged engines. The relay that controls the secondary air injection pump may fail, causing the pump to continuously operate and overheat.
Consequence
If the air injection pump overheats, it may melt and increase the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary air injection pump relay, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTM-73.
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Brake2
FREE2 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Impreza, 2008-2014 WRX and STI, and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, currently, or formerly, registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia that were remedied under recall 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014. The brake lines may
Consequence
Brake fluid may leak due to the brake line corrosion and may result in longer distances being required to slow or stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will apply an anti-corrosion wax to the four-way joint connector area of the brake line system, free of charge. The recall began on January 27, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQQ-52. Notes: This recall is specific to affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI customers who had their car remedied under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014. Subaru has determined that this remedy was inadequate due to incomplete repair instructions provided to dealers. Affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI vehicles that were not repaired under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014 will continue to be processed under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311. Affected vehicles not currently, or formerly, registered in the salt belt states identified in this recall are eligible for repair, at no cost to the customer, upon request.
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Equipment1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2014 Forester vehicles manufactured from January 2013 through March 2013. The backing for the carpeted floor mats was not manufactured to specification. As a result, the floor mats may curl when exposed to heat.
Consequence
Curling of the driver side floor mat could distract the driver and/or interfere with proper operation of one or a combination of, the vehicle's clutch, brake, and accelerator pedals. Brake or accelerator pedal interference may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop the vehicle, which could cause a crash.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace each of the vehicle's four (4) carpeted floor mats with new ones. These services will be performed free of charge. Subaru will issue an interim notification by the end of April 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's recall campaign number is WQH-44.
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Rear Suspension1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Subaru Crosstrek, 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid, and 2019 Forester vehicles. The rear stabilizer bracket bolts may loosen and detach.
Consequence
Missing bolts may allow the rear stabilizer bracket to shift, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will retorque and replace any missing bolts, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 14, 2021. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRD-21.
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Engine2
FREE2 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent vehicles. The aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve can separate, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, resulting in a loss of power while driving.
Consequence
An unexpected loss of power while driving can increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
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.
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Power Steering1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Forester and Crosstrek vehicles. A connector inside the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) unit may short circuit resulting in a loss of electric power steering assistance.
Consequence
Loss of power steering assist would require higher steering effort, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
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.
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