2016 Subaru Forester used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Airbag warning light40 owner complaints, usually around 43,200 miles, owners paid about $1,300

  Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.

• Engine stalls while driving24 owner complaints, usually around 35,000 miles

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Sudden unintended acceleration24 owner complaints, usually around 20,000 miles

  Check that the car accelerates smoothly, without hesitation or surges, and that cruise control works.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Air bagsRecall number 19V701000, Oct 3, 2019
• Exterior lightingRecall number 19V149000, Feb 28, 2019
• Engine and engine coolingRecall number 16V162000, Mar 21, 2016

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• This is an update announcement regarding the TechShare & NorthStar IntegrationOct 26, 2026
• This announcement provides information on the connected services platform for Subaru EVs.Oct 22, 2026
• This bulletin provides a step-by-step diagnostic procedure for resolving Remote Engine Start (RES)...Oct 20, 2026
• This Service Information Bulletin has been developed to outline the steps for gathering basic but...Oct 20, 2026
• This announcement provides information on DCM replacememts due to a parasitic draw.Oct 15, 2026
• This announcement provides information on an outage affecting the Subaru Select Monitor 5 application.Oct 15, 2026

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.