Subaru Recalls 69K Foresters Over Sunroof Risk

Wouter Smit · 2026-06-04

Subaru is recalling nearly 69,000 Forester SUVs in the U.S. because the sunroof could detach while driving. That's a scary thought, especially if you're cruising down the highway. Here's what you need to know about the recall and how to check if your vehicle is affected. ### What's Going On? The issue involves the panoramic sunroof on certain 2019-2022 Subaru Forester models. According to reports, the glass panel may not be properly bonded to the frame. Over time, wind and road vibrations can loosen it. In worst-case scenarios, the sunroof could fly off entirely. Subaru says the problem comes from a manufacturing error. The adhesive used to attach the glass may not hold up under stress. While no crashes or injuries have been reported yet, the risk is real enough to prompt a full recall. ### How Many Vehicles Are Affected? Roughly 69,000 Foresters in the United States are part of this recall. That covers models built between late 2018 and early 2022. If you own a Forester from those years, you'll want to act fast. Here's a quick breakdown: - Models affected: 2019-2022 Subaru Forester - Number of vehicles: About 69,000 - Issue: Sunroof glass may detach - Fix: Dealers will inspect and re-bond the sunroof at no cost ### What Should You Do? First, don't panic. Subaru will notify owners by mail starting in March 2024. But you don't have to wait. You can check if your Forester is part of the recall right now. Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website and enter your vehicle identification number (VIN). You can also use Subaru's own recall lookup tool. If your car is included, schedule an appointment with your local dealer. The repair is free and should take just a few hours. ### Why This Matters for Car Owners Recalls can feel like a hassle, but they're there to keep you safe. A sunroof falling off at 60 miles per hour could cause a serious accident. It could also damage other vehicles on the road. Taking action now prevents that risk. This situation also highlights why it's smart to stay on top of recalls. Many drivers ignore recall notices, thinking they're not urgent. But something as simple as a loose sunroof can turn into a big problem. A quick VIN check takes less than a minute and could save you a lot of trouble. ### The Bigger Picture Subaru has had a few recalls over the years, but this one stands out because of the unusual nature of the defect. Sunroof issues are relatively rare. Most recalls involve engines, brakes, or airbags. Seeing a structural problem like this is a reminder that even small components matter. For now, Subaru is handling the situation proactively. They're offering free inspections and repairs. If you're a Forester owner, take advantage of that. It's better to be safe than sorry. ### Final Thoughts If you drive a 2019-2022 Subaru Forester, check your VIN today. The recall process is straightforward, and the fix won't cost you a dime. Don't wait for a problem to happen. Stay ahead of it. "A recall is not a sign of failure. It's a sign that a company is willing to make things right." That's a good way to think about it. Subaru is stepping up, and you should too.