2021 Subaru Forester: Engine complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 35 owner complaints for the 2021 Subaru Forester that list the engine component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11774244 (filed 10/28/2026): “Component failed & inspection availability: the vehicle suffered a sudden, catastrophic mechanical engine block failure at 74,000 miles. the dealership teardown confirmed a failed/spun lifter bearing and a fractured connecting rod cap, requiring a complete engine replacement. this sudden oil pressur…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11773516 (filed 10/25/2026): “I was stopped at a red light. when the light changed to green i put my foot on the gas and the car totally stalled out. there were no lights, fans or radio on just total silence. i tried to restart the car putting it is park and depressing the brake while pushing the start button and nothing. it…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11768776 (filed 10/03/2026): “On two separate occasions, less than one year apart after subaru service replaced my battery with a “larger” battery without my knowledge my vehicle suffered sudden, catastrophic electrical failure while moving in active highway traffic, causing an immediate loss of propulsion and creating a life-th…”
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 .