Case file · SUBARU-FORESTER-2025-2026 · Field document

Subaru Forester 2025–2026 · Pre-purchase checklist

Bring this to the inspection. Every check below is specific to this generation's documented failure modes — not generic used-car advice.

1. Check 01

   Run the VIN for all six campaigns: 25V033 (18-inch wheels, 2025), 25V419 (child-seat anchor bolts, 2025), 26V106 (fuel filler cap, 2025 Hybrid), 25V889 (rear hatch bracket, 2026), 26V346 (moonroof glass, 2026), 26V436 (GAWR label, 2025–2026). All remedies are free — an open recall is leverage, an unknown one is a red flag.

2. Check 02

   On a Hybrid: confirm the 26V106 fuel-cap gasket was replaced, and check the filler recess and right rear quarter for fuel staining or smell after a full tank. Until the fix, Subaru's own advice was to park outside and keep the tank under half.

3. Check 03

   Inspect the windshield edge-to-edge in good light for chips and spreading cracks, and ask directly whether the glass was ever replaced — if it was, ask for proof the EyeSight cameras were recalibrated.

4. Check 04

   Drive it at dusk or later. The low beams have a hard horizontal cutoff that many owners report as a dark band above the lit area — dealers call it working as designed, and aim can be adjusted, but decide with your own eyes before you buy.

5. Check 05

   On the highway, watch the driver-side mirror for vibration blur (a known 2025–2026 complaint with no TSB yet) and run a stretch with adaptive cruise on, noting any phantom-braking events or EyeSight warnings.

6. Check 06

   On a 2026: cycle the rear hatch several times and check the gas-strut support brackets (recall 25V889), and on moonroof cars confirm the 26V346 adhesion inspection is documented.

7. Check 07

   From a stop, accelerate gently several times cold. Light CVT shudder has scattered owner reports on 2025s; anything obvious should go to a dealer under powertrain warranty before you sign.

8. Check 08

   Check the service records for oil viscosity: this generation specs 0W-16, and 0W-20 is temporary-top-off-only per the manual. A stack of quick-lube receipts showing the wrong oil tells you how carefully the car was owned.