Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2007 Subaru Forester
The 2007 Subaru Forester shows common issues with its suspension and power train, both with 11 complaints, alongside recalls affecting its control arm. Prospective buyers should examine these areas closely but may find a generally reliable vehicle if well-maintained.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2007 Subaru Forester has 1 NHTSA recall campaign and 74 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #11V464000 FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM/TRANSVERSE LINK NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Suspension 12 complaints
- Power Train 11 complaints
- Engine 9 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 8 complaints
- Air Bags 6 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 6 complaints
Of the 74 complaints on file, 13 report a crash and 1 a fire; across all 74 complaints, owners report 7 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Lower control arm rust
How to check: Inspect for rust or corrosion, especially control arms.
Engine coolant leakage
How to check: Inspect coolant levels and check for leaks.
Power train malfunction
How to check: Check for delays in shifting gears.
Airbag deployment issues
How to check: Inquire about airbag recall fixes.
Intermittent electrical faults
How to check: Test all electrical components for faults.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for abnormal engine noises.
Red flag: Persistent knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe for engine light activation.
Red flag: Check engine light stays on
- 03
Slow speed turns
What to check: Evaluate suspension for creaks or groans.
Red flag: Loud creaking noises
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth gear transitions.
Red flag: Rough or delayed shifting
- 05
Braking
What to check: Test for stability and no squeaks.
Red flag: Vehicle pulls or vibrates
- 06
Parking
What to check: Test all electrical functions, lights, AC.
Red flag: Electric components not working
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the control arm recall been addressed?
- Any current known electrical issues?
- Has the power train been serviced?
- Are there any coolant leaks?
- Were any airbags replaced or fixed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Maintenance records
- Recall completion confirmation
- Accident history report
- Title paperwork
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2007 Subaru Forester at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2007 Subaru Forester? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.