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Subaru Outback vs Subaru Forester: recall & safety check by VIN
Cross-shopping a used Subaru Outback and Subaru Forester? Before you decide, compare their public safety record — then decode the exact VIN of the one you're looking at for its open recalls, NCAP crash ratings, fuel economy and a model-specific Buyer's Brief. All free, no signup.
Subaru Outback vs Subaru Forester at a glance
| Subaru Outback | Subaru Forester | |
|---|---|---|
| Body type | wagon crossover | compact SUV |
| Recent recall campaigns* | 12 campaigns | 7 campaigns |
| Common recall components | air bags, steering, power train | exterior lighting, air bags, engine and engine cooling |
| Full report | Decode an Outback VIN → | Decode a Forester VIN → |
* Distinct NHTSA recall campaigns across sampled model years (2016, 2019, 2021, 2023), as of 2026-06-17. Recalls are issued by VIN range — decode the exact VIN for what applies to that car.
Decode a VIN free →Frequently asked questions
How do I compare a Subaru Outback and a Subaru Forester by VIN?
Decode each VIN in junoVIN (free, no signup), or decode two or more VINs at once for a side-by-side comparison of age, engine, fuel economy, recalls, complaints, safety, driver-assist and towing — with the rows that differ highlighted.
Which has more open recalls, the Outback or the Forester?
Recall counts depend on the exact model year and the VIN range each campaign covers. The table above shows recent campaign counts across sampled model years as a rough guide; decode your specific VIN for the recalls that actually apply to that car and whether they have been completed.
Is the Subaru Outback or the Subaru Forester safer?
Both are rated by NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (5-star crash tests). Ratings vary by model year and body style, so decode the exact VIN of the Outback or Forester you are considering to see its NCAP stars, open recalls and consumer complaints side by side — the records that are actually verifiable for free.