VehicleVerdict

2019 Subaru Forester engine problems

The 2019 Subaru Forester has 111 engine complaints filed with NHTSA — 10% of the year's total, and up sharply from the prior model year.

111

Engine complaints

10%

Share of year

7

Crash-involved

1

Related recalls

Engine complaints by year

Related recalls

19V856000EngineDecember 2, 2019 · 51,613 units

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.

Remedy

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.

What owners report

MY SON'S NEW 2019 SUBARU FORESTER TOURING BURNED TO A CRISP (TOTAL) ON SATURDAY, 10/19 IN I-95 NEAR NEW ROCHELLE, NY. VEHICLE WAS IN THE LEFT LANE AND THE CAR IN FRONT STOPPED AND THEY HIT IT, THEN THEY WERE HIT IN THE BACK, TOO. THEIR CAR BURNED BUT THE CAR IN FRONT AND BEHIND DID NOT. THE CAR IN…

Complaint filed with NHTSA · Engine · October 19, 2019 · crash · fire

Common questions

How many engine complaints does the 2019 Subaru Forester have?

NHTSA has 111 complaints about the 2019 Subaru Forester engine — 10% of all complaints filed for that model year.

Are there recalls for the 2019 Subaru Forester engine?

Yes — 1 NHTSA recall campaign for this model year is tied to the engine: 19V856000.

Related

Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.