2021 Subaru Forester - Maintenance & Specs

The 2021 Subaru Forester belongs to a Subaru Forester lineup that Know Your Ride tracks across 19 model years, from 1998 to 2026. Engine options on record include the 2.5L, 2.5L I4. It is configured as all-wheel drive with an automatic (av-s7). The 2021 sits mid-run, with both earlier (1998) and later (2026) Forester model years also documented.

It takes 0W-20 full synthetic oil, 5.1 qt with a new filter meeting API SP. Fluid specs on file include Super Long Life coolant, DOT 3 brake fluid, Subaru ATF HP transmission fluid. Know Your Ride lists 12 scheduled maintenance items for this vehicle, the earliest interval falling at 7,500 miles. Documented torque values include oil drain plug 33 ft-lb, lug nut 89 ft-lb, spark plug 18 ft-lb.

NHTSA complaints for this vehicle cluster around visibility/wiper (67), unknown or other (20), visibility (13). A representative report reads: "My Subaru Forester has a significant safety defect. If my web searches are representative this software problem affects multiple models and years of Subaru. I..."

EPA fuel economy is rated at 26 city / 33 highway MPG, 29 MPG combined. Estimated annual fuel cost is about $1,500.

Quick Specs

Common Trouble Codes

• P0300 - Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
• P0420 - Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
• P0171 - System too Lean (Bank 1)
• P0128 - Insufficient Coolant Temperature for Stable Operation
• P0442 - Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (small leak)
• P0455 - Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (gross leak)
• P0700 - Transmission Control System Malfunction
• P0301 - Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected
• U0100 - Lost Communication With ECM/PCM A

Related Vehicles

Part of the free Know Your Ride vehicle maintenance reference. Figures are sourced from EPA, NHTSA and manufacturer data and are for general reference - always confirm with your owner's manual.