The front grille 'Six Stars' emblem on 2014-2020 Foresters frequently suffers from delamination where the blue backing peels or bubbles away from the clear acrylic cover.
Reviewed by SubaruReview Editorial Team · Last reviewed 2026-05-15 · Editorial standards
This is one of several documented Forester problems we track, and it fits inside the broader Reliability & Common Problems guide. If you're weighing repair against replacement, cross-check the Subaru repair-cost database and any open NHTSA recalls on your VIN before booking a shop.
Over time, the adhesive bond between the clear acrylic face of the Subaru 'Pleiades' star cluster emblem and the painted backing fails. This allows moisture and UV rays to oxidize the colored layer, leading to a cloudy, bubbling, or 'peeled' appearance that degrades the vehicle's front-end aesthetics.
Delamination caused by UV exposure and moisture ingress between the acrylic outer layer and the metallic-colored sub-stratum, exacerbated by harsh cleaning chemicals.
Delamination caused by UV exposure and moisture ingress between the acrylic outer layer and the metallic-colored sub-stratum, exacerbated by harsh cleaning chemicals.
National average $40–$150. Includes $40-$60 for the OEM part and approximately 0.5 to 1.0 hour of labor if performed by a dealership. DIY cost is strictly the price of the part.
Difficulty 1/5. Replacement of the front grille ornament with the updated part number or an aftermarket vinyl overlay.
Visible bubbling underneath the clear plastic of the front emblem.; The blue background appearing to 'melt' or flake away.; Water droplets trapped inside the emblem housing.; Silver stars losing their definition as the adhesive fails.
Owners typically pay $40–$150 at an independent Subaru shop, parts and labor included. Our Subaru Front Lower Control Arm Replacement Cost guide breaks the job down by parts, labor hours, and where the money actually goes.
We rate it 1/5 on our DIY scale. Confident wrenchers can tackle it in a weekend using the permanent-fix steps above. Cross-reference the reliability & common problems hub for related jobs worth bundling while you're in there.
Dig into the Problems Database to plan your next maintenance sprint, or browse every model hub for buyer's guides, generation breakdowns, and known-issue lists.