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What is the recall on the 2013 Subaru Forester engine?

The recall status for the 2013 Forester engine is not a single nationwide campaign that affects every vehicle. The most widely discussed issue concerns certain 2.5-liter engines experiencing excessive oil consumption, but whether your car is affected depends on its VIN and the specific recall campaigns in place at any given time.


What defines the recall for the 2013 Forester engine


There isn’t one blanket recall covering all 2013 Forester engines. Over the years, Subaru and the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have issued multiple VIN-specific campaigns related to engine health, primarily centered on oil consumption and related engine performance concerns. The exact scope and remedy of any recall depend on your car’s VIN and the campaigns currently active or completed for that VIN.


Below are common triggers seen in recall campaigns for this model range. Note that specifics depend on VIN and production dates.



  • Reports or measurements of higher-than-expected engine oil consumption

  • Potential oil leaks or oil contamination affecting engine performance

  • Engine-related conditions that could lead to reduced performance or abnormal operation


Concluding: Because campaigns are VIN-dependent, owners should verify status using official sources rather than relying on general impressions of the model year.


How to verify if your vehicle is affected


To determine whether a specific 2013 Forester is subject to an active recall related to the engine, follow these steps. The process is the same for other model years and Subaru vehicles.



  1. Find your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It’s usually located on the driver’s side dashboard near the windshield or on the driver’s door jamb.

  2. Visit official recall databases, such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s SaferCar.gov recall page or Subaru’s official recall portal.

  3. Enter your VIN to view any active or historical recalls tied to your car.

  4. Review the details of each campaign, including the issue description, affected components, and required remedy or service actions.


Concluding: If a recall is listed for your VIN, contact an authorized Subaru dealer to schedule the appropriate service at no cost to you, provided the recall is active in your area.


VIN-check tips


For the most reliable results, use the VIN from the actual vehicle and cross-check on multiple official sources. If you see a recall notice, note the campaign number and the recommended remedy, and keep a record of all communications and service appointments.


Possible remedies offered under recalls


Remedies vary by campaign and VIN. In general, recall actions may include inspections, software updates, replacement of engine components, or even engine replacement under warranty terms. Some campaigns associated with engine oil consumption have included extended warranty provisions or goodwill adjustments based on eligibility and vehicle age.



  • Inspection of engine oil consumption and related components

  • Repair work on identified engine parts or replacement of affected components

  • Engine replacement or major repairs covered under warranty or extended warranty programs


Concluding: The precise remedy you receive depends on the specific campaign tied to your VIN and Subaru’s warranty policies at the time of service.


What to do next if you own a 2013 Forester


If you suspect an engine issue or discover a recall linked to your VIN, take these steps promptly to protect engine health and ensure proper remedy.



  1. Do not ignore symptoms such as unusual oil consumption, oil leaks, or warning lights.

  2. Schedule a free recall service appointment with an authorized Subaru dealer as soon as possible.

  3. Bring your VIN and any relevant service history to the appointment for quick verification.

  4. Ask the technician to confirm the exact recall campaign applicable to your VIN and the expected remedy.


Concluding: Acting quickly helps prevent possible engine damage and ensures you receive any eligible recall remedy at no charge.


Summary


For the 2013 Subaru Forester, there isn’t a single, universal recall affecting all engines. Instead, VIN-specific campaigns—primarily related to oil consumption and related engine performance—determine whether a vehicle is affected and what remedy is offered. The only reliable way to know your status is to check your VIN on official recall portals (NHTSA or Subaru) and work with a dealer to complete any eligible recall work.


If you’d like, I can walk you through checking a specific VIN or provide direct links to official recall lookup tools.

What is the recall on the Subaru Forester engine?


(Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Forester vehicles. The engine water pipe may have loose attachment bolts, allowing the pipe to lose its seal and leak coolant. Subarus independent distributor processing facilities will tighten the water pipe attachment bolts.



What years did the Subaru Forester have a bad transmission?


Yes, the Transmissions of Foresters from 2014 - 2018 are known to have problems. Subaru extended the warranty on CVT transmissions to 10 years or 100000 miles.



How much does it cost to replace a Subaru Forester engine?


On average, the cost to replace a Subaru engine can range from $3,000 to $5,000 or more, including parts and labor.



What engine is in a 2013 Subaru Forester?


New-Generation BOXER Engine for 2.5X Models
All Forester 2.5X models are powered by a new-generation 2.5-liter (2,498cc / 152 cu. in.) BOXER engine that produces 170 horsepower at 5,800 RPM and 174 lb.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.