2003 Subaru Forester structure problems
19 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the structure on the 2003 Subaru Forester — 10% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“Front subframe on the driver and passenger side rusts away causing failure. Could result in loss of control of vehicle and could injure passengers. Turning or hitting bumps could cause it to snap due to extra force.”
filed Jun 15, 2019
“Tl* the contact owns a 2003 subaru forester. The contact noticed extensive rust, corrosion, and holes around the front frame of the vehicle. An independent mechanic replaced the front frame, and the passenger and driver side control arms. In addition, the rear frame and driver and passenger side…”
filed Aug 17, 2018
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Structure problems in other Forester years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 Forester | 1 | 4% |
| 2023 Forester | 3 | 4% |
| 2022 Forester | 2 | 2% |
| 2021 Forester | 3 | 1% |
| 2020 Forester | 15 | 3% |
| 2019 Forester | 25 | 3% |
| 2018 Forester | 14 | 3% |
| 2017 Forester | 15 | 3% |
| 2016 Forester | 11 | 3% |
| 2015 Forester | 20 | 3% |
| 2014 Forester | 27 | 7% |
| 2013 Forester | 4 | 5% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2003 Subaru Forester
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.