Subaru has initiated a recall covering nearly 70,000 of its popular Forester SUVs, following a defect that could cause the glass moonroof to separate from the vehicle while in motion, according to a filing with the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The recall predominantly affects 65,656 model year 2025-2026 Subaru Foresters, along with an additional 4,007 hybrid versions from the same period. The issue stems from improper bonding of the glass panel to the sliding frame, which may not have been executed correctly during assembly.
The NHTSA warning states that if the glass panel detaches, it could become a hazard for other drivers and pedestrians. “If the glass panel were to separate from the vehicle, a displaced panel could increase the risk of a potential crash or injury for other road users,” the agency noted.
Subaru launched an internal investigation after receiving a report on February 26, 2026, detailing that the power moonroof glass had detached from one of its vehicles. To date, the automaker has received three such reports but has not identified any crashes or injuries linked to the defect, per the NHTSA filing.
This recall adds to a growing list of automotive safety actions in recent months. For instance, Ford Recalls 420K Vehicles Over Seat Belt Defects, Issues Do-Not-Drive Order, highlighting ongoing quality control challenges across the industry. Similarly, Toyota Recalls 43,000 Tundra Trucks Over Engine Defect Causing Power Loss, underscoring the prevalence of manufacturing issues. Even Honda Recalls 60K Vehicles Over Rearview Camera Glitch That Can Go Blank, showing that electronic and structural problems persist among major automakers.
Owners of affected Foresters can check whether their vehicles are included by visiting Subaru’s official website and entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Subaru has not yet announced a timeline for the repair, but it is expected to involve re-bonding the moonroof glass to ensure proper attachment.
The recall highlights broader regulatory and safety concerns in the auto sector, where even minor assembly errors can lead to significant risks on the road. As the NHTSA continues to monitor compliance, automakers face pressure to address defects swiftly to maintain consumer trust and avoid potential legal liabilities.
