2017-2018 Subaru Forester Door Glass: A Guide to Tints and Part Numbers

Symptoms of Failure

Unlike mechanical parts, door glass failure is almost always visual. The most common reasons for replacement are due to external factors rather than a defect in the glass itself.

• Visible Cracks or Chips: Any crack, no matter how small, compromises the integrity of the tempered glass. Cracks can spread over time due to temperature changes and vehicle vibrations.
• Shattered Glass: This is the most obvious sign of failure, typically caused by an impact from an object, an accident, or a break-in.
• Heavy Scratching: Deep scratches can impair visibility and weaken the glass. This can sometimes be caused by a faulty or debris-filled window regulator track.
• Erratic Window Operation: While often a sign of a failing window regulator or motor, a misaligned or incorrect glass panel can cause binding in the tracks. This may lead to the window moving slowly, stopping, or reversing direction automatically.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

For the 2017-2018 Subaru Forester, there are no specific recalls or widespread issues related to the door glass spontaneously shattering. While there have been class-action lawsuits concerning the windshields on these models being prone to cracking, this issue does not appear to extend to the side door glass. Breakage is almost always the result of an external impact.

• Recalls: There are no NHTSA recalls for the door glass on the 2017-2018 Forester. Recalls for these model years pertain to other components like the fuel pump, airbags, and brake light switches.
• Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Subaru has issued TSBs related to the window system. TSB #15-232-18 addresses a "stick-slip (judder)" condition as the front door glass opens and closes, caused by the glass run channels. Other TSBs address erratic window operation due to the regulator or run channel seals on other Subaru models, which can present similar symptoms. Some owners report the window auto-reversing due to dirt buildup in the window tracks, which can often be fixed by cleaning the tracks.

Buying a Used 2017-2018 Forester Door Glass: A Buyer's Guide

Purchasing a used OEM door glass is an excellent way to save money while ensuring a perfect fit and color match. However, careful inspection is key.

The Most Important Check: Green vs. Privacy Tint

The biggest mistake when buying a replacement door glass for a Forester is getting the wrong tint. Subaru offered two main types for the rear doors:

• Standard 'Green' Glass: This is a very light, standard automotive tint found on all windows of base model Foresters. Part number 62011SG100 is an example of this type for the rear right door.
• 'Privacy' Glass: This is a much darker factory tint applied to the rear door, quarter, and back glass on higher trim levels like the Premium, Limited, and Touring. It provides a darker, grayish appearance for passenger privacy. Part number 62011SG020 is an example of this type for the rear right door.

Before you buy, hold your existing glass (or a remaining piece) next to the potential replacement in good light. The difference is obvious when they are side-by-side. Installing a privacy glass panel on a car with green glass (or vice-versa) will look mismatched.

Physical Inspection Checklist

• Check for Edge Chips: Carefully run your finger along all edges of the glass. Even a tiny chip can turn into a large crack during installation or from road vibrations.
• Look for Scratches: Hold the glass up to a light source to check for deep scratches that could obstruct the driver's view or weaken the glass.
• Inspect Mounting Points: Ensure the areas where the glass bolts to the window regulator are intact and free of cracks or stress marks.
• Verify Part Numbers: If possible, match the OEM part number etched on the glass or on an attached sticker to your original part.

Cost of Replacement

The cost to replace a door glass can vary significantly based on the type of glass and who performs the labor.

Installation Overview

Replacing the door glass is a moderately difficult job that a patient DIYer can accomplish. It primarily involves removing the interior door panel to access the glass and its mounting hardware.

• Difficulty: 3 out of 5
• Estimated Time: 1.5 - 2.5 hours
• Tools Required: Phillips screwdriver, 10mm socket and ratchet, trim panel removal tool, shop vacuum (for broken glass).

Basic Steps:

1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Remove the screws holding the interior door panel, typically located in the door pull cup and behind the interior handle.
3. Use a trim removal tool to carefully pry the door panel off, releasing the plastic clips around its perimeter.
4. Disconnect electrical connectors for the window switch and any other accessories.
5. Carefully peel back the plastic weather barrier to gain access inside the door.
6. Temporarily reconnect the window switch and lower the window until the two 10mm bolts holding the glass to the regulator are visible through the access holes.
7. Remove the bolts, then carefully tilt and lift the glass out of the door frame.
8. Thoroughly vacuum all broken glass from inside the door and the bottom of the door cavity.
9. Install the new glass by reversing the process. Be careful to seat it correctly in the run channels before tightening the bolts.

OEM Part Number Reference

The following part numbers are for the 2017-2018 Subaru Forester. Always confirm the exact part number with a dealer using your VIN before purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)