Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 Subaru Forester
The 2017 Subaru Forester has moderate concerns, mainly related to airbags and electrical systems. While a recall exists for airbag sensors, owner complaints span a range of issues, including visibility and engine problems. Evidence is somewhat limited, so ensure a thorough inspection.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2017 Subaru Forester has 1 NHTSA recall campaign and 593 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, for the 1 NHTSA-tested trim.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #19V701000 Occupant Detection System May Deactivate Airbag NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Air Bags 167 complaints
- Electrical System 106 complaints
- Visibility/Wiper 104 complaints
- Unknown or Other 98 complaints
- Engine 47 complaints
- Power Train 46 complaints
Of the 593 complaints on file, 40 report a crash and 1 a fire; across all 593 complaints, owners report 28 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Airbag sensor failure
How to check: Ensure airbag sensors respond correctly during diagnostics.
Loose electrical connections
How to check: Check for any loose electrical connections under passenger seat.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for irregular engine noises or rough idle.
Red flag: Loud knocking or rough running.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check all dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights staying on.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Monitor airbag functionality and sensor alerts.
Red flag: Airbag light stays illuminated.
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Assess engine power and acceleration smoothness.
Red flag: Hesitation or sluggish acceleration.
- 05
Braking test
What to check: Check for vibrations, sounds during braking.
Red flag: Brakes screeching or uneven stopping.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag sensor been fixed?
- Any electrical issues recently?
- Are there any engine concerns?
- Have you experienced visibility problems?
- Any recalls not yet addressed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Complete service history
- Accident history report
- Title and registration
- Emissions test results
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2017 Subaru Forester at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2017 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.