What is the class action lawsuit for the Subaru Forester?

There isn’t a single, universal class action for the Subaru Forester. The most prominent Forester-related lawsuits concern two issues: oil consumption in the 2.5‑liter engine and, for some model years, problems with the continuously variable transmission (CVT). Outcomes vary by year and jurisdiction, with some settlements offering extended warranties, reimbursements, or other relief to affected owners.

Overview of Forester-related class actions

Class actions filed against Subaru of America have centered on recurring mechanical concerns reported by owners of Forester models and other Subaru vehicles. Plaintiffs allege that certain engines burn oil excessively and that CVT-equipped Foresters experience transmission problems. The cases are not uniform; different lawsuits cover different model years and claim scopes, and many have been resolved through settlements, court rulings, or ongoing litigation.

Common allegations

The core claims typically include:

• Excessive oil consumption by the 2.5-liter engine, requiring frequent oil top-offs and creating the risk of low oil levels between changes.


• Possible engine damage or reduced engine life resulting from sustained oil consumption not adequately disclosed by Subaru.


• Transmission issues in CVT-equipped Foresters, including shudder, slipping, or total transmission failure in certain model years.


• Requests for relief such as extended warranties, reimbursements for past repairs, and coverage for future repairs related to the alleged defects.

Relief and remedies depend on the specific case and settlement terms, and not all owners will qualify for the same benefits.

What the lawsuits typically cover and possible relief

In most Forester-related class actions, plaintiffs seek a range of remedies designed to address repair costs and reliability concerns. Here is a snapshot of common relief themes you may encounter in settlements or court orders.

1. Reimbursement for qualifying past repairs and maintenance related to oil consumption or CVT issues, including certain oil changes and diagnostic work.


2. Extended warranty coverage or repair guarantees for affected engines or transmissions, often lasting several years beyond the original factory warranty.


3. Cash compensation or reimbursements, awarded according to the terms of the settlement and the owner’s specific situation.


4. Payment of attorney fees and costs approved by the court as part of the settlement process.

Eligibility, deadlines, and the exact amounts or scope of relief vary by case, so interested owners should review official notices carefully and consult counsel as needed.

Notable developments and how to check if you’re affected

Because settlements and active litigation change over time, owners should rely on official court notices and settlement pages to determine eligibility and dates. The landscape includes several separate actions across different jurisdictions, with varying inclusion criteria and relief options.

• Check the official settlement notice for your case to see which Forester years and engines are covered and what steps you must take to participate.


• Visit court websites or class action portals (and reputable legal information sites) for the latest docket status, qualifying criteria, and deadlines.


• Contact the named class counsel listed in the notices or Subaru customer service for guidance on eligibility and next steps.

Participants should be aware that participation is not automatic; opting in or submitting required documentation is typically necessary to receive any relief.

Current status and steps for Forester owners

Owners who believe their vehicle may be covered should take proactive steps to verify eligibility and timeframe. Since settlements and ongoing actions can be model-year specific, it’s important to consult the latest official documents and, if needed, seek legal advice.

1. Gather your vehicle information (model year, VIN, mileage) to determine potential eligibility.


2. Search for the latest settlement notices related to Subaru Forester oil consumption or CVT actions in your jurisdiction.


3. Review the terms to understand what relief is available and what documentation is required (receipts, diagnostics, etc.).


4. Consult a qualified consumer attorney if you’re unsure about eligibility or how to proceed.

Timely action is often required to participate in a settlement, so owners should verify status promptly with official sources.

Summary

The Forester has been the focus of multiple class actions tied to two primary concerns: oil consumption in the 2.5-liter engine and CVT-related transmission problems. Outcomes range from extended warranties and reimbursements to other relief, depending on the specific lawsuit and year range involved. For owners, the key steps are to locate and review the latest official settlement notices, gather vehicle information, and seek legal guidance to determine eligibility and deadlines.

Which Subaru Foresters are being recalled?

2025 Subaru Forester
2025 Subaru Forester Recall
(Subaru) is recalling certain 2025 Forester vehicles equipped with 18″ aluminum alloy wheels. The wheels may have been manufactured with an incorrectly specified lug seat surface, which can result in the wheel being improperly attached and cause a loss of vehicle stability.

How much will I get from the Subaru EyeSight settlement?

The Subaru EyeSight settlement deadline to file a claim has already passed (September 27, 2025), so no new payouts are available. For eligible claimants, the settlement provides reimbursement for 75% of the cost of one covered repair, with checks to be issued within 150 days of the settlement's effective date (around May 10, 2026). The settlement covers specific models between 2013 and 2024 that had certain EyeSight-related issues.
 
Who was eligible

• Owners or lessees of specific model years of Subaru vehicles equipped with EyeSight, including certain 2013–2022 Legacy, 2013–2022 Outback, 2015–2023 Impreza, 2015–2023 Crosstrek, 2014–2021 Forester, 2019–2022 Ascent, 2016–2021 WRX, and 2022–2024 BRZ models.
• Vehicle owners had to have paid for a covered repair before July 29, 2025. 

What the payout was for

• Reimbursement for 75% of the paid invoice for one qualifying repair.
• Qualifying repairs had to be performed within four years or 48,000 miles, whichever came first, of the vehicle's in-service date. 

Current status

• The deadline for submitting a claim was September 27, 2025. 
• Final approval was granted on November 5, 2025. 
• Checks are expected to be sent out approximately 150 days after the settlement's effective date, which is around May 10, 2026. 

What is the most common problem with the Subaru Forester?

The most common problem with the Subaru Forester is the continuously variable transmission (CVT), which can suffer from issues like shuddering, delayed acceleration, and whining noises, and may require expensive repairs. Other frequent issues include problems with the engine (especially oil consumption), the electrical system, and, in certain model years, issues with windshields cracking and batteries dying quickly.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about Subaru Forester common problems: 51scar PROblemsYouTube · Feb 19, 2024
Transmission (CVT)

• Shuddering and jerking: This often occurs when accelerating from a stop.
• Delayed acceleration and slipping: The engine revs up but the car doesn't speed up as expected, which can be dangerous when merging.
• High-pitched whining: This can be a sign of worn pulley bearings inside the transmission.
• Repair cost: CVTs are often not rebuildable and require a complete, expensive replacement. 

Engine

• Excessive oil consumption: Many model years, particularly from the 2014-2018 generation, are known for burning through oil rapidly.
• Oil leaks: Leaks, often requiring expensive engine replacements, are another reported problem. 

Electrical and other issues

• Electrical malfunctions: Issues can range from infotainment system glitches and GPS errors to more serious problems like a battery dying prematurely or the EyeSight safety system turning off unexpectedly. 
• Air conditioning (AC): Some models experience AC failure that can be costly to fix. 
• Windshields: In the 2019-2024 generation, windshields can crack from small chips. 
• Airbag malfunctions: Older models, such as the 2009-2011, have been associated with malfunctioning airbags. 

This video explains some of the most common issues with the Subaru Forester, including the transmission and engine: 57sGear GazetteYouTube · Oct 23, 2025

Am I eligible for the Subaru class action lawsuit?

You are a Settlement Class Member if you are a resident of the continental United States, Alaska, or Hawaii, who currently owns or leases, or previously owned or leased, a Settlement Class Vehicle originally purchased or leased in the continental United States, Alaska, or Hawaii.