When buyers look at the 2021 Subaru Forester reliability rating from J.D. Power, they find a score of 83 out of 100, which places it in the "Great" category. Unlike the glitch-prone launch year of the fifth generation in 2019, the 2021 model benefited from two years of production refinements. It avoids many of the early teething issues that troubled its initial redesign, making it a strong contender in the crowded compact SUV segment.
The vehicle combines standard symmetrical all-wheel drive with solid everyday durability, though it's not entirely without quirks. While independent testers and platforms like RepairPal note average ownership costs around $632 per year, understanding how these scores break down across real-world metrics helps you decide if this crossover fits your garage.
Breaking Down the J.D. Power Scores
The overall score of 83 out of 100 for quality and reliability reflects a low frequency of defects, malfunctions, and design flaws experienced by verified owners during the first few months of ownership. J.D. Power divides its evaluation into distinct pillars that paint a comprehensive picture of the vehicle.
- Quality & Reliability (83/100): Measures mechanical soundness, engine stability, and infotainment dependability. A high score means fewer unexpected trips to the service department.
- Driving Experience (80/100): Reflects owner satisfaction with powertrain performance, ride comfort, steering feel, and overall cabin functionality.
- Resale Value (77/100): Forecasts how well the vehicle retains its value over a three-year depreciation cycle, landing in an average range for utility vehicles.
How It Compares to Competitors
Compact crossover buyers usually cross-shop the Forester with other segment heavyweights. Against rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, the Forester holds its ground firmly.
While the RAV4 often edges out competitors in pure resale value projections, the Forester counters with superior outward visibility, standard all-wheel drive without a steep price penalty, and a boxy cargo area that swallows bulky gear easier than its sloping competitors. Its safety credentials are also stellar, earning top marks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Common Owner Complaints and Known Issues
No used car is completely bulletproof. Even with solid scores, owners and technicians report a few recurring trouble spots for this model year.
- Windshield Vulnerability: Like many modern Subarus equipped with EyeSight camera housings, the vertical glass angle makes the 2021 Forester prone to stone chips that can quickly turn into full cracks.
- Infotainment Glitches: The Starlink touchscreen occasionally freezes, loses Bluetooth pairing, or requires a hard reset. Software updates performed at a dealership often resolve these bugs.
- Sluggish Acceleration: The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with the continuously variable transmission (CVT) delivers great fuel economy, but it feels strained during rapid highway passing maneuvers.
Tips for Buying a Used 2021 Model
If you're shopping for a pre-owned 2021 Forester, a few practical checks will protect your investment and ensure long-term dependability.
- Inspect the Glass: Check the front windshield carefully for tiny pitting or hairline cracks, especially near the edges where stress fractures start.
- Verify Service Records: Ensure previous owners adhered to Subaru's strict fluid change intervals, particularly for the CVT and differential fluids.
- Test All Driver Assists: Confirm that the EyeSight safety suite, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control engage smoothly without throwing warning lights on the dash.
- Check for Open Recalls: Run the vehicle identification number (VIN) through official databases to confirm all factory safety campaigns have been completed by a certified dealer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2021 Subaru Forester have head gasket problems?
No. Head gasket failures were primarily an issue on older Subaru models built before 2012. The FB25 engine in the 2021 Forester uses a modern design that does not suffer from those historical leaks.
What is the expected lifespan of a 2021 Subaru Forester?
With routine maintenance, timely oil changes, and proper care, modern Subarus routinely surpass 200,000 miles before requiring major mechanical overhauls.
Is the CVT transmission reliable in this model year?
Yes. Subaru made significant durability updates to its line of chain-driven CVTs by 2021. When maintained with fresh fluid every 60,000 miles, these transmissions prove dependable.
How does fuel economy stack up in daily driving?
The 2021 model achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, making it one of the more efficient all-wheel-drive crossovers in its class.
