2019 Subaru Forester Engine Problems
NHTSA lists 136 engine-related complaints for the 2019 Subaru Forester, 16% of all complaints filed for the year, with a median failure mileage of 12,247 miles. A related recall (19V856000) covers a PCV valve that can separate and send debris into the engine.
- Engine complaints
- 136
- 16% of 833
- Crashes reported
- 13
- Fires reported
- 7
- Injuries reported
- 5
- Median mileage
- 12,247 mi
- Related recalls
- 1
Typical engine symptoms owners report
- Owners report the engine compartment catching fire after low-speed or moderate-speed collisions, sometimes fully consuming the vehicle.
- Some describe fires starting without any prior collision, with smoke appearing suddenly before flames spread through the engine bay.
- Several drivers report the vehicle unexpectedly accelerating on its own at very low speeds, such as while parking or pulling into a space, leading to crashes into objects or parked cars.
- A number of complaints describe the engine stalling or shutting off unexpectedly while stopped or moving, with dash warning lights coming on and the vehicle later restarting or losing power again.
- One owner linked engine stalling to a failed thermo control valve that required dealership repair under warranty.
When 2019 Subaru Forester engine complaints were filed
First complaint Apr 12, 2019, latest Aug 21, 2026.
Engine recalls for the 2019 Subaru Forester
- NHTSA 19V856000Dec 2, 2019Engine51,613 vehicles
Engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:emission control:crankcase (pcv)
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent vehicles. The aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve can separate, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, resulting in a loss of power while driving.
Risk: An unexpected loss of power while driving can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the PCV valve, free of charge. If the PCV valve has separated and the components cannot be found, the short block engine will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began January 31, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUW-08.
Engine complaints by Forester model year
Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.
Frequently asked questions
- How many engine complaints does the 2019 Subaru Forester have?
- NHTSA lists 136 engine-related complaints for the 2019 Forester, which is 16% of the 833 total complaints filed for that model year.
- Is there an engine recall for the 2019 Subaru Forester?
- Yes. Recall 19V856000, reported December 2, 2019, covers a PCV valve that can separate and let components enter the engine on certain 2019 Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent vehicles. Dealers inspect and replace the valve free of charge.
- At what mileage do engine problems typically show up on the 2019 Forester?
- NHTSA data shows a median mileage of 12,247 miles at the time engine-related failures were reported.
- Do the 2019 Forester's engine complaints involve fires or crashes?
- Among the complaints in this area, NHTSA records 13 crashes, 7 fires, and 5 injuries linked to engine-related issues.
- Is the 2019 Forester worse than other Forester years for engine complaints?
- Its 16% share of complaints tied to the engine is lower than several earlier Forester years, such as 2011 (54%) and 2012 (44%), but higher than 2017 (13%) and 2018 (12%).