What is the lawsuit on the Subaru Forester?
There have been several lawsuits tied to Subaru Forester vehicles, most notably class-action challenges to CVT transmissions and to older engine head-gasket issues, along with recall-related litigation. The status of these cases varies by model year and jurisdiction.
This article outlines the main legal threads surrounding Forester models, explains how the lawsuits have evolved, and what owners should consider if they think they might be affected.
Key legal threads around the Forester
CVT transmission lawsuits
The primary litigation in this space involves alleged premature failure of the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) used in some Forester models and other Subaru vehicles. Plaintiffs have sought refunds, covered repairs, or extended warranties, arguing that the transmissions degraded performance or safety and cost owners money.
- Allegations of premature CVT failure and costly repairs affecting Forester models and related Subaru vehicles.
- Requests for refunds, reimbursements, or extended warranty remedies as settlements or court orders.
- Variations by model year and jurisdiction; outcomes range from settlements to ongoing litigation.
In many cases, the CVT suits have prompted reminders to owners about applicable warranty coverage and potential recall or goodwill repair options, though results have differed by jurisdiction.
Head gasket and engine issues
Older Forester generations with the EJ-series 2.5-liter engine have been associated with head-gasket failures, oil consumption, and related cooling problems. These issues have driven consumer lawsuits and prompted warranty considerations in some regions.
- Claims of premature head-gasket failure leading to leaks, overheating, or expensive repairs.
- Class actions and individual lawsuits seeking compensation or coverage for repairs.
- Some regions saw extended warranties or recall-related remedies tied to engine components.
Owners of affected model years should review their vehicle's service history and any communications from Subaru about engine-related remedies.
Recall-related and safety litigation
Beyond model-specific defects, Forester owners have been affected by broader recall actions from agencies such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the aftermarket on Takata airbag inflators. In some instances, litigation has arisen around recall handling, timeliness, and safety assurances.
- Litigation alleging improper recall handling or delayed repairs for airbags or other safety components.
- Legal action connected to broader regulatory investigations into safety campaigns impacting Subaru vehicles, including the Forester.
These cases highlight the intersection of consumer protection, safety recalls, and vehicle ownership costs.
What Forester owners should know
If you own a Forester and are evaluating potential legal exposure or warranty coverage, these steps can help you stay informed and protected.
- Identify your model year and VIN range to check if it aligns with any active class actions, settlements, or extended warranties.
- Review official Subaru recall notices and warranty programs, and monitor court records or consumer protection agency updates for developments.
- Consult a qualified attorney who specializes in lemon laws or consumer protection to assess options for remedies or compensation.
- Keep detailed records of all repairs, service visits, and communications related to the alleged defects or recall actions.
Timing matters: deadlines for claims and eligibility differ by state and by the specifics of any settlement or recall program.
Summary
In sum, Forester-related lawsuits have largely centered on transmission reliability, engine-related failures, and recall handling, with outcomes that vary by year and jurisdiction. Owners should verify their vehicle's status against current settlements, recalls, and warranty programs, and seek legal guidance if they believe they may be eligible for remedies.
