Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2020 Subaru Forester
The 2020 Subaru Forester has a moderate number of owner complaints with no recalls, suggesting limited issues. Notable areas include visibility/wiper systems and general electrical concerns. While there's no indication of severe systemic problems, potential buyers should perform a thorough inspection focusing on identified concerns.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2020 Subaru Forester has no NHTSA recall campaigns and 604 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.
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Visibility/Wiper 252 complaints
- Unknown or Other 107 complaints
- Electrical System 103 complaints
- Engine 82 complaints
- Visibility 49 complaints
- Forward Collision Avoidance 44 complaints
Of the 604 complaints on file, 26 report a crash and 9 a fire; across all 604 complaints, owners report 16 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Wiper system failure
How to check: Operate wipers and check for consistent motion and noise.
Check engine light issues
How to check: Look for any persistent check engine light on the dashboard.
Forward collision sensor issues
How to check: Ensure forward collision system activates without false alarms.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Check engine light remains on
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test wiper functionality and smoothness.
Red flag: Inconsistent or noisy wiper operation
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check acceleration for smooth power delivery.
Red flag: Hesitation or jerking
- 05
Stop-and-go traffic
What to check: Pay attention to brake responsiveness.
Red flag: Spongy or delayed braking
- 06
Parking maneuver
What to check: Test steering response and ease of turn.
Red flag: Hard steering or strange noises
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the windshield wiper system been replaced?
- Any forward collision system malfunctions?
- Have you encountered frequent check engine lights?
- Have any electrical repairs been done?
- Are there service records for the engine?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle service history
- Detailed repair receipts
- Previous owner records
- Title and registration documents
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2020 Subaru Forester at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2020 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.