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.
2013 Subaru Forester Recall
Certified technicians, only the experts.Don't Want To Service? Sell Us Your Car!
Frequently Asked Questions
8 common questions answered
What are the known NHTSA recalls for a 2013 Subaru Forester?
The NHTSA has issued 23 recalls affecting the 2013 Subaru Forester, covering components such as airbags (including inflator issues), brake light switches, ignition switches, brake lines, engine and turbo intake parts, electrical relays, floor mats, rear suspension bolts, and power steering connectors. These recalls include multiple air bag inflator campaigns (10 entries) that may cause inflator rupture, brake light switch recalls that can prevent brake lights from illuminating, and ignition/engine-related recalls that can cause unexpected stalls or loss of power. All manufacturer recall repairs are performed free of charge at a certified dealer like Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley and use OEM parts and factory-trained technicians.
How do I check if my 2013 Subaru Forester has an open recall?
You can check open recalls by entering your VIN at NHTSA.gov or by contacting Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley for a free VIN check. Bring your VIN to our service team or call us and we will verify NHTSA records and manufacturer bulletins at no charge. If an open recall is found, we will explain the remedy and help you schedule service — service financing is available so you can get repairs now and pay later.
How much does a 2013 Subaru Forester recall repair cost?
Manufacturer recall repairs for the 2013 Subaru Forester are free of charge under the recall program. Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley performs recall repairs at no cost using OEM parts and factory-trained technicians, and we will confirm coverage before any work begins. If you have related non-recall maintenance needs, ask about our current service specials and available service financing to handle additional work affordably.
Can I get my 2013 Subaru Forester recall fixed at an independent shop or do I need a dealer?
Recall repairs must be completed by an authorized dealer to guarantee OEM parts and manufacturer-approved procedures; Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley is your local certified Subaru dealer for recall service near Greeley, CO. Franchise dealers have factory diagnostic tools, parts access, and technical bulletins from Subaru; independent shops cannot substitute manufacturer warranty or some OEM parts in many recall campaigns. To protect safety, warranty, and resale value, we recommend bringing the vehicle to a certified Subaru dealer to have recalls resolved for free — you can schedule service online and learn about service financing options.
How long does a 2013 Subaru Forester recall repair take?
Repair time varies by recall: many air bag or brake light switch replacements take one to a few hours, while inspections or parts-backordered recalls can take longer. Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley will provide an estimated turnaround when you schedule appointment; some campaigns require inspection only and are quick, while others require parts that may be temporarily unavailable. If parts are on backorder we’ll place your vehicle on a priority list and notify you when the remedy is available; our service advisors can also discuss loaner options and same-day scheduling where possible.
Does an open recall affect my 2013 Subaru Forester's trade-in or resale value?
Yes — unresolved recalls can lower trade-in offers and deter private buyers because many buyers and dealerships check NHTSA records before purchase. Getting recalls addressed at Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley protects value by documenting free, OEM repairs on the vehicle history and demonstrating the vehicle was repaired at a certified franchise dealer. When you are ready to sell or trade, our team can assist with a VIN check and link you to our appraisal tools at value your trade so repairs and paperwork are handled professionally.
Can I fail a state inspection because of an unresolved 2013 Subaru Forester recall?
Some recalls — for example brake system or lighting recalls — can cause inspection failures if they affect required safety systems, so unresolved recalls may cause inspection or registration complications in some states. Because certain recalls relate to brakes, lights, or airbags, scheduling recall repairs at a certified dealer like Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley can prevent inspection issues and improve road safety. Contact our service team to confirm whether a specific recall might affect your inspection and to schedule service — service financing is available to help with additional repairs if needed.
2013 Subaru Forester Recall Summary
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) records show 23 recall entries affecting the 2013 Subaru Forester; if your vehicle is impacted, Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley will perform the recall repair for free. To protect safety and resale value, schedule service with our certified Subaru team in Greeley, CO today.
Recall Service & Dealership Highlights
Safety Risks You Can't Ignore
The 2013 Subaru Forester has multiple NHTSA-documented recalls affecting critical safety systems — most notably air bag inflators, brake light switches, ignition switches, brake line corrosion and engine-related parts that can cause stalls or loss of power. Addressing these issues promptly reduces the risk of injury from inflator rupture, prevents brake light or stopping failures that raise crash risk, and eliminates the possibility of an unexpected engine shutdown. Subaru recall remedies include component replacement or inspection performed free of charge. Ignoring an active recall may also affect insurance claims or liability in the event of a crash and can harm resale value. At Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley our factory-trained technicians prioritize safety: we follow Subaru service bulletins, use OEM parts and manufacturer tools, and verify each remedy against NHTSA and Subaru records. If you suspect a recall, please schedule service immediately or review current service specials to coordinate any additional maintenance; service financing is available so safety work can be completed right away without delay.
Your Certified Recall Experts
Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley is the certified Subaru franchise serving Greeley, CO and surrounding communities with factory-trained technicians, OEM parts, and Subaru-approved diagnostic equipment. When it comes to recall repairs for the 2013 Subaru Forester, only a franchised dealer carries the complete set of service bulletins and OEM inflators, sensors, and software updates needed to resolve manufacturer recalls correctly and permanently. Our team documents every repair so your vehicle history shows recall completion — an important trust signal for resale and insurance. We serve drivers across Weld County and nearby towns, offering streamlined check-in, transparent estimates, and dedicated recall scheduling to minimize downtime. All recall work is free under Subaru’s programs and our staff will explain each corrective action and timing when you schedule service. For current offers and savings on additional maintenance, check our service specials; service financing is available if you need it.
Check Your VIN Today
If you own a 2013 Subaru Forester, the fastest way to confirm recalls is to enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov or bring it to Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley for a free check. Our service advisors will look up NHTSA records and Subaru campaign notices and advise on next steps: some recalls only need an inspection, some require part replacement, and some parts may be temporarily on backorder. Typical in-dealer repairs often take a few hours, but we will give you an accurate estimate when you schedule appointment. If remedy parts are unavailable, we’ll place your vehicle on a priority list and notify you when parts arrive. We also offer loaner vehicles or shuttle service where possible and provide full documentation after repair. For added savings, review our service specials. Remember that service financing is available so you can get required work done promptly without delay.
Protect Your Resale Value
Unresolved recalls can reduce trade-in and resale value because dealers and private buyers commonly check NHTSA records before purchase. Bringing your 2013 Subaru Forester to Mike Shaw Subaru Greeley for free recall repairs ensures the vehicle’s history reflects manufacturer remedies completed with OEM parts by factory-trained technicians — a strong selling point and often a condition for higher trade-in offers. If you plan to sell or trade, we can verify open campaigns, complete required repairs, and provide documentation for prospective buyers or lenders. Use our appraisal tools at value your trade to get a current market estimate after recalls are addressed. Handling recalls at a franchised dealer also reduces buyer concerns about safety and warranty continuity. To coordinate repairs and appraisal, schedule service today — service financing is available to help with any non-recall maintenance discovered during inspection.
1 / 4
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
