There are 4 owner-reported suspension complaints for the 2021 Subaru Foresterin NHTSA's database. These are unverified consumer reports and may not reflect confirmed defects.
Issue started with hearing a clunking noise from the front of the car, had the dealer inspect at 37,000 miles. They said they the clunking was caused by ECU issue and reprogrammed the ECU to correct it. Obviously, a software update did not correct the noise. Had an independent repair shop inspect the vehicle and found both front control arm bushings were cracked and torn allowing the control arm to move around causing the noise. Since the control arms are an integral component of steering the failure of these bushings could've caused loss of control, or an accident. They were replaced by the independent shop and now the noise is gone.
Front suspension lower control arm Bushings left and right side failed
The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that on two separate occasions while driving below 35 MPH, the sway bar fractured and detached from the subframe of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the bolt was replaced; however, the contact then stated that while driving at a slow speed, the rear sway bar failed. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the rear sway bar had fractured and separated from the subframe and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was provided a case number. The failure mileage was approximately 26,000.
Top bolt on strut fell out. Caused wheel to collapse and bent drive axle.
Complaints are unverified consumer reports submitted to NHTSA. A high complaint count may reflect vehicle popularity, not defect severity. Data sourced from NHTSA public records.
Data synced from NHTSA on Apr 26, 2026