Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Forester vehicles equipped with heated seats. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may loosen.
2012 Subaru Forester Recall
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Frequently Asked Questions
8 common questions answered
What are the known NHTSA recalls for a 2012 Subaru Forester?
The NHTSA lists 22 recalls that affect the 2012 Subaru Forester, including air bag inflator issues, occupant detection system wiring, brake light switch failures, brake-line corrosion risks, and other component recalls. Major concerns include passenger air bag inflator defects that can rupture and seat ODS wiring that can disable the passenger air bag; several recalls also address brake-line corrosion and brake-light switch malfunctions. All recall details below are drawn from NHTSA records; Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley can verify your VIN and explain the specific recalls that apply.
How do I check if my 2012 Subaru Forester has an open recall?
You can check recalls by entering your VIN at NHTSA.gov or bring your vehicle to Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley for a free VIN recall check. If you prefer in-person help, call or bring your Forester to our service team and we will confirm open recalls and advise next steps. To book an inspection, please schedule service online; we also post current savings via our service specials.
How much does a 2012 Subaru Forester recall repair cost?
Manufacturer recall repairs are performed free of charge to the vehicle owner when covered under the recall campaign. At Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley, all recall repairs use OEM parts and factory-trained technicians at no cost to you; only non-recall maintenance or upgrades incur charges. If you need help paying for non-covered repairs, ask about our service financing options when you schedule service.
Can I get my 2012 Subaru Forester recall fixed at an independent shop or do I need a dealer?
Recall repairs must be completed by an authorized dealer to ensure OEM parts and official procedures; a certified franchise dealer like Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley is the correct choice. Independent shops may perform some repairs, but only a factory franchise dealer has direct access to manufacturer remedy parts, technical service bulletins, and warranty recall updates. For safety and complete documentation, bring your Forester to our certified team — you can schedule appointment online now.
How long does a 2012 Subaru Forester recall repair take?
Most recall repairs take between 1 and 4 hours, but exact timing depends on the specific recall remedy and parts availability. Some recalls (for example, certain air bag inflator replacements) may require longer scheduling windows if parts are limited; we will give an estimated turnaround when you book. To minimize downtime, schedule service with Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley; ask about loaner vehicles and view our current service specials.
Does an open recall affect my 2012 Subaru Forester's trade-in or resale value?
Yes — unresolved recalls can reduce resale or trade-in value because dealers and buyers often check NHTSA recall status before purchase. Getting recalls fixed at a certified dealer like Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley protects value and provides documented service records for buyers and appraisers. To start a value conversation after completing recalls, visit our trade-in page to get an appraisal: value your trade.
Can I fail a state inspection because of an unresolved 2012 Subaru Forester recall?
Some safety-related recalls (brake lights, brake-line corrosion, air bag system) can lead to inspection failures depending on your state's requirements. Addressing recalls promptly at Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley reduces the chance of failing safety inspections and preserves the vehicle's safety and legal compliance. If you need an immediate check before inspection, schedule service and ask about our inspection guidance and available service specials; service financing is available to help manage costs for non-recall repairs.
2012 Subaru Forester Recall Summary
The NHTSA data above shows 22 recall entries affecting the 2012 Subaru Forester. For free, dealer-performed recall repairs and to confirm which recalls apply to your VIN, schedule service at Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley today. Recall information is sourced from NHTSA records and our factory team will ensure your vehicle receives the appropriate OEM remedy.
Recall Service & Dealership Highlights
Safety Risks You Can't Ignore
The 2012 Subaru Forester has multiple safety-focused recalls documented by the NHTSA; ignoring them can create real driver and passenger risk. Specific air bag recalls in the NHTSA data include inflator defects and occupant detection system (ODS) wiring issues that can either cause an inflator to rupture or the passenger air bag to deactivate unexpectedly. Other recalls include brake-line corrosion that can cause brake fluid leaks and brake-light switch failures that prevent lights from illuminating. These defects raise the risk of severe injury in a crash or a secondary crash caused by brake failure or engine stalling. At Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley our factory-trained technicians prioritize safety: we use OEM parts, Subaru-approved diagnostic tools, and follow manufacturer repair instructions so the remedy is complete and documented. Because recall repairs are free under the manufacturer campaign, there is no financial reason to delay — repairs protect your family, maintain insurance clarity, and avoid compounding repair needs over time. Schedule your recall visit today by using our online scheduler to ensure your Forester is safe and compliant.
Your Certified Recall Experts
Choose Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley because we are a factory-authorized Subaru dealer serving Greeley and northern Colorado communities including Fort Collins, Loveland, Windsor, and Evans. Our service center is staffed by Subaru factory-trained technicians who use OEM parts and Subaru-specific service procedures, which ensures recall remedies are performed exactly as the manufacturer intends. We maintain OEM diagnostic tools and direct access to Subaru technical bulletins and recall parts, meaning repairs are done correctly and recorded in Subaru's system at no cost to you. Recall repairs must be completed at an authorized dealer to guarantee manufacturer warranty coverage and accurate repair history — which Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley provides. We also help customers navigate notifications, VIN lookups, and documentation for insurance or resale. If you need to schedule service, our team will confirm the exact recall, estimate timing, and advise on loaner options or shuttle availability. Check current service specials and ask about service financing if you need support for any non-recall maintenance.
Next Steps & VIN Check
Start by checking your VIN at NHTSA.gov or bring your 2012 Subaru Forester to Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley for a complimentary VIN-based recall check; our team will verify which of the 22 NHTSA-listed recalls apply. When you arrive, we perform a free inspection, confirm required remedies, and outline expected repair time — many recall jobs are completed in a few hours, though certain air bag inflator replacements or parts-limited remedies may require scheduling. We will always explain the corrective action, whether it is an inflator replacement, ODS sensor harness repair, brake-line rustproofing or replacement, brake-light switch swap, or another targeted service. To minimize downtime you can schedule service online; we’ll reserve a bay, confirm parts availability, and communicate ETA. If parts are temporarily unavailable for a specific campaign, we will place your vehicle on priority status and notify you as soon as the remedy is ready. Our priority is safety, speed, and clear communication; service financing is available to help with any unrelated repairs identified during the visit.
Protect Your Resale Value
Unresolved recalls can lower resale and trade-in value because many buyers and dealerships verify NHTSA records prior to purchase. By resolving all open recalls at Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley you preserve the integrity of your vehicle’s service history and show prospective buyers documented, dealer-performed recall work. The NHTSA data for the 2012 Subaru Forester includes safety-critical campaigns — addressing these now protects value, reduces negotiation leverage for buyers, and ensures clean title transfer at trade-in or sale. After recall repairs our service advisors can provide the documentation buyers expect and will help you list completed recall work on trade paperwork. If you’re considering a trade, use our value tool to get started: value your trade. Remember: recall repairs are free and should be completed at an authorized dealer; postponing them can erode value and complicate future inspections or insurance claims.
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Recall Summary
23 recalls found · All repairs FREE
Air Bag
FREE10 OPEN RECALLS
Consequence
If the connection loosens, the front passenger airbag may deactivate even though the seat is occupied, increasing the risk of injury to the front passenger in the event of a crash.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, replace the ODS sensor mat harness, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. Owners will be notified of the recall beginning November 29, 2019, and will receive a second notice when remedy parts are available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUM-98.
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Air Bag10
FREE10 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Forester vehicles equipped with heated seats. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may loosen.
Consequence
If the connection loosens, the front passenger airbag may deactivate even though the seat is occupied, increasing the risk of injury to the front passenger in the event of a crash.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, replace the ODS sensor mat harness, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. Owners will be notified of the recall beginning November 29, 2019, and will receive a second notice when remedy parts are available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUM-98.
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Brake Light3
FREE3 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and also preventing keyless ignition vehicles from starting and CVT/automatic transmissions from being able to be shifted out of Park.
Consequence
Brake lights that do not illuminate properly will not alert other drivers that the vehicle is slowing or stopping, increasing the risk of crash.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake light switch, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 29, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUE-90.
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Turbocharger Air Intake Duct1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 WRX vehicles manufactured April 10, 2015, to October 21, 2015, and Forester 2.0XT vehicles manufactured April 10, 2015, to October 20, 2015. The turbocharger air intake duct may crack and possibly result in an engine stall.
Consequence
An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the turbocharger air intake duct, and replace it as necessary, free of charge, depending on the lot number found on the duct. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTA-62.
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Ignition1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch installed as a replacement part. The ball spring inside the switch may break, reducing the strength of the ignition switch. If this occurs, the weight on the key ring and certain road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move out of t
Consequence
The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. If a crash occurs under this condition, the air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ignition switch, replacing the ignition switch, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 10, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUF-91.
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Electrical System1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2008-2014 Impreza vehicles and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, all equipped with turbo-charged engines. The relay that controls the secondary air injection pump may fail, causing the pump to continuously operate and overheat.
Consequence
If the air injection pump overheats, it may melt and increase the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary air injection pump relay, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTM-73.
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Brake2
FREE2 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Impreza, 2008-2014 WRX and STI, and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, currently, or formerly, registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia that were remedied under recall 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014. The brake lines may
Consequence
Brake fluid may leak due to the brake line corrosion and may result in longer distances being required to slow or stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will apply an anti-corrosion wax to the four-way joint connector area of the brake line system, free of charge. The recall began on January 27, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQQ-52. Notes: This recall is specific to affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI customers who had their car remedied under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014. Subaru has determined that this remedy was inadequate due to incomplete repair instructions provided to dealers. Affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI vehicles that were not repaired under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014 will continue to be processed under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311. Affected vehicles not currently, or formerly, registered in the salt belt states identified in this recall are eligible for repair, at no cost to the customer, upon request.
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Equipment1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2014 Forester vehicles manufactured from January 2013 through March 2013. The backing for the carpeted floor mats was not manufactured to specification. As a result, the floor mats may curl when exposed to heat.
Consequence
Curling of the driver side floor mat could distract the driver and/or interfere with proper operation of one or a combination of, the vehicle's clutch, brake, and accelerator pedals. Brake or accelerator pedal interference may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop the vehicle, which could cause a crash.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace each of the vehicle's four (4) carpeted floor mats with new ones. These services will be performed free of charge. Subaru will issue an interim notification by the end of April 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's recall campaign number is WQH-44.
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Rear Suspension1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Subaru Crosstrek, 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid, and 2019 Forester vehicles. The rear stabilizer bracket bolts may loosen and detach.
Consequence
Missing bolts may allow the rear stabilizer bracket to shift, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will retorque and replace any missing bolts, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 14, 2021. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRD-21.
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Engine2
FREE2 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
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.
Consequence
An unexpected loss of power while driving can increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
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.
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Power Steering1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Forester and Crosstrek vehicles. A connector inside the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) unit may short circuit resulting in a loss of electric power steering assistance.
Consequence
Loss of power steering assist would require higher steering effort, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
None of the affected vehicles have been sold yet. Subaru has notified dealers and they will inspect the steering gearbox, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 7, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUC-88.
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