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.
2020 Subaru Forester Recall
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Frequently Asked Questions
8 common questions answered
What are the known NHTSA recalls for a 2020 Subaru Forester?
The NHTSA records show 23 recall entries related to systems that can affect Forester safety, including air bag inflators, occupant detection sensors, brake light switches, engine and steering components. Major categories include air bag system problems (10 related entries), brake light switch issues (3 entries), engine and intake duct concerns, ignition and brake-line corrosion items, and power steering connector issues. These items are documented by the NHTSA and the manufacturer; Mike Shaw Subaru can confirm which specific recalls apply to your vehicle by VIN.
How do I check if my 2020 Subaru Forester has an open recall?
Check your VIN on NHTSA.gov or bring your VIN to Mike Shaw Subaru and we will check for free. You can also call Subaru customer service at the numbers listed on NHTSA notices, or contact our service team and we will verify open recalls at no charge. If you prefer immediate action, schedule service and we will inspect and advise.
How much does a 2020 Subaru Forester recall repair cost?
Recall repairs for manufacturer safety campaigns are performed free of charge at a certified Subaru dealer like Mike Shaw Subaru. Some recalls require parts not yet available; dealers will notify owners and perform the remedy at no cost once parts arrive. We also offer service financing and will work with you on any related non-recall maintenance under available service specials.
Can I get my 2020 Subaru Forester recall fixed at an independent shop or do I need a dealer?
Manufacturer recall repairs must be performed by an authorized dealership to ensure OEM parts and official remedies are used; Mike Shaw Subaru is a certified Subaru franchise dealer that performs free recall repairs. Independent shops cannot always obtain OEM recall parts or access manufacturer repair procedures and warranty coverage the way a franchised dealer can. For safe, documented repairs and to protect resale and warranty status, we recommend you schedule service with Mike Shaw Subaru in Thornton, CO.
How long does a 2020 Subaru Forester recall repair take?
Typical recall repairs range from an inspection or simple part replacement that can take under an hour to multi-step repairs that may require parts ordering and a longer visit; most dealer repairs are completed same-day when parts are in stock. Air bag inflator or ignition switch replacements may take longer depending on parts availability and required inspections; our service advisors will provide an ETA when you arrive or when you schedule appointment. We also offer courtesy notifications and can advise on interim safety steps if a remedy part is delayed.
Does an open recall affect my 2020 Subaru Forester's trade-in or resale value?
Yes — unresolved recalls can reduce trade-in offers and deter private buyers because many buyers and dealers check NHTSA recall status before purchase. Having recalls completed at a certified dealer like Mike Shaw Subaru protects value, provides documentation of free OEM repair, and removes buyer concerns during sale or trade-in. If you plan to trade in, start with a free VIN check at Mike Shaw Subaru and use our online appraisal at sell your car online.
Can I fail a state inspection because of an unresolved 2020 Subaru Forester recall?
Some recalls affect critical safety systems and can cause inspection failures depending on state law; unresolved air bag, brake, or steering recalls may lead to failed inspections in some jurisdictions. Mike Shaw Subaru in Thornton can verify open recalls and complete required repairs to help keep your vehicle compliant with state inspection rules. If you're concerned about inspection timing, schedule service and ask about temporary accommodations while we complete any designated recall remedy.
2020 Subaru Forester Recall Summary
These summaries are based on NHTSA records and Subaru manufacturer notices. To protect your safety and preserve value, contact Mike Shaw Subaru in Thornton, CO to verify your VIN and schedule service for free recall repair using OEM parts and factory-trained technicians.
Recall Service & Dealership Highlights
Safety Risks You Can't Ignore
The 2020 Subaru Forester faces multiple safety-related recalls recorded by the NHTSA, and addressing these items promptly is essential to protect your family and other road users. Several entries involve the air bag system — including inflator and occupant detection components — which can cause the passenger air bag to fail to deploy or, in rare cases, allow inflator rupture producing sharp fragments. Other documented items include brake light switch malfunctions that can prevent brake lamps from illuminating, and powertrain or turbo-related issues that can cause unexpected loss of power or engine stall. Ignoring these recalls not only increases crash risk but may also affect insurance claims and liability in a collision. At Mike Shaw Subaru we prioritize safety: our factory-trained technicians use OEM parts and Subaru-approved procedures to perform free recall repairs. We will explain the defect, the potential consequence, and the corrective action recommended by the manufacturer and NHTSA, so you can make an informed, safety-first decision for your Forester in Thornton and the surrounding Denver-area communities.
Your Certified Recall Experts
Mike Shaw Subaru is the local certified Subaru franchise in Thornton, CO, staffed with factory-trained technicians who use OEM parts and Subaru diagnostic tools to complete recall repairs exactly as the manufacturer requires. When a recall is issued, only an authorized dealer can guarantee Subaru-approved replacement parts, software updates, and repair procedures — which preserves your safety, manufacturer warranty, and vehicle history. Our service center supports owners across Thornton, Northglenn, Westminster, and greater Denver, and we provide transparent communication so you understand whether a recall is active for your VIN, how long the remedy will take, and what to expect when you arrive. All manufacturer recall repairs are performed free of charge; our advisors can also explain temporary safety measures if parts are delayed. To make the process simple, we accept online scheduling and encourage you to schedule service or review current service specials for any companion maintenance while you wait.
Check Your VIN Today
Start by checking your VIN on NHTSA.gov or bring it to Mike Shaw Subaru and we will verify open recalls at no charge and provide a clear plan for required repairs. If your 2020 Subaru Forester shows open campaigns — for example, occupant detection sensor harnesses, passenger air bag inflator replacements, brake light switch replacements, or engine-related PCV/air intake inspections — our team will explain the specific corrective actions listed by the manufacturer and the NHTSA. Typical steps include an inspection, replacement of a specific component, or in rare cases, an engine or module replacement; all recall work is performed free of charge. If parts are not yet available, we will register your vehicle for interim notification and prioritize your appointment when remedies arrive. You can easily schedule service online and ask about service financing or local service specials to make any non-recall maintenance convenient while your recall is completed.
Protect Your Resale Value
Resolving recalls preserves the resale and trade-in value of your 2020 Subaru Forester because many buyers and retail partners verify NHTSA recall status before purchase. Vehicles with outstanding safety campaigns can receive lower offers or may be rejected by some buyers; completing free manufacturer recall repairs at Mike Shaw Subaru documents that OEM remedies were performed by a certified dealer and removes buyer concerns. Our advisors can provide written proof of repairs and update service records to reflect completed NHTSA campaigns, helping you maximize resale outcomes. If you are considering a trade or sale, use our online appraisal at sell your car online and bring your Forester to our Thornton service center for a free recall check — resolving recalls now prevents last-minute negotiation deductions later and demonstrates a full safety-first service history to potential buyers.
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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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