2020 Subaru Forester: Engine complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 85 owner complaints for the 2020 Subaru Forester that list the engine component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11773646 (filed 10/26/2026): “On xxx, while driving my 2020 subaru forester sport (vin [xxx]) at approximately 35 mph on [xxx], the check engine light came on and eyesight, adaptive cruise control, and pre-collision braking were disabled / other warning lights appeared / engine temperature issues. a diagnostic scan showed code […”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11771077 (filed 10/14/2026): “Experience a total engine stall while stopped/accelerating at an intersection. the stall triggered immediate 'eyesight disabled' and 'engine oil' dashboard warnings, requiring a manual button restart in traffic. had concerns of permanently being stalled in intersection. taking to dealer for inspecti…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11765530 (filed 09/19/2026): “Smoke and fire occurred in the engine and spread into the car while the car was being driven. the car has not been inspected yet.…”
Likely causes
These complaints do not establish a single root cause; read the examples above and get a diagnosis.
Fix, in plain English
No single fix is established by these reports. Check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls, ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs) or extended warranty coverage, then have the system diagnosed.
DIY difficulty: Pro
Internal engine work (lifters, oil consumption, fuel dilution diagnosis) requires engine teardown or dealer software/tests. (Our assessment.)
Cost
No sourced cost range for this issue. Get a written quote after diagnosis.
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
AutoZone · O'Reilly · Advance · RockAuto
Sources
Page last updated .