Complaints & Recalls
Official Safety Recalls - Important!
55 RecallsThese are official manufacturer recalls ordered by NHTSA for safety defects. If you own this vehicle, contact your dealer immediately for free repairs.
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Safety Issue:
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ascent vehicles. The ground bolt that secures the ground terminal of the Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater may have been improperly fastened, which could result in melting of the ground terminal and surrounding components.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Mfg Campaign: WRL-22
Recall Date: Dec 8, 2022
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Safety Issue:
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2020 Legacy and Outback vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Mfg Campaign: WRK-21
Recall Date: Dec 9, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Safety Issue:
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Mfg Campaign: WRG-21
Recall Date: Jul 29, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Safety Issue:
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Impreza, Outback, Legacy, and Ascent vehicles. The low pressure fuel pump may become inoperative.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: WRD-20
Recall Date: Apr 16, 2020
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Safety Issue:
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Ascent vehicles. The transmission hydraulic sensor may inaccurately measure the hydraulic fluid pressure.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: WUV-07
Recall Date: Dec 2, 2019
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Safety Issue:
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent vehicles. The aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve can separate, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, resulting in a loss of power while driving.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: WUW-08
Recall Date: Dec 2, 2019
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Safety Issue:
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Ascent vehicles. The center support bolts for the driveshaft may loosen, possibly resulting in the front portion of the driveshaft disconnecting.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: WUI-94
Recall Date: Jul 10, 2019
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Safety Issue:
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Subaru Ascent vehicles. These vehicles may be missing spot welds on, or around, the B-Pillar, compromising vehicle strength.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: WTU-80
Recall Date: Aug 2, 2018
Consumer Complaints
532 ComplaintsSubaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
STEERING
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while in the middle of an intersection, the power steering assist failed as the power steering disabled warning message appeared on the instrument panel. The contact had to use excessive force to complete the turn as several other unknown warning lights illuminated. After she pulled over, the contact was able to resume normal driving after the vehicle was restarted. The contact then called the dealer who informed her to bring in the vehicle to be inspected. The vehicle remained in the possession of the dealer and was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 14,000. The VIN was not available.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while in the middle of an intersection, the power steering assist failed as the power steering disabled warning message appeared on the instrument panel. The contact had to use excessive force to complete the turn as several other unknown warning lights illuminated. After she pulled over, the contact was able to resume normal driving after the vehicle was restarted. The contact then called the dealer who informed her to bring in the vehicle to be inspected. The vehicle remained in the possession of the dealer and was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 14,000. The VIN was not available.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while in the middle of an intersection, the power steering assist failed as the power steering disabled warning message appeared on the instrument panel. The contact had to use excessive force to complete the turn as several other unknown warning lights illuminated. After she pulled over, the contact was able to resume normal driving after the vehicle was restarted. The contact then called the dealer who informed her to bring in the vehicle to be inspected. The vehicle remained in the possession of the dealer and was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 14,000. The VIN was not available.
Mfg Campaign: 11434899
Recall Date: Sep 29, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked in a parking garage and when she returned to the vehicle, she noticed that the windshield was cracked. The contact stated she could not determine the cause of the failure. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The failure mileage was 33,663.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked in a parking garage and when she returned to the vehicle, she noticed that the windshield was cracked. The contact stated she could not determine the cause of the failure. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The failure mileage was 33,663.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked in a parking garage and when she returned to the vehicle, she noticed that the windshield was cracked. The contact stated she could not determine the cause of the failure. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The failure mileage was 33,663.
Mfg Campaign: 11433728
Recall Date: Sep 20, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
Battery recurrently dies
Corrective Action:
Battery recurrently dies
Additional Notes:
Battery recurrently dies
Mfg Campaign: 11433459
Recall Date: Sep 18, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Potential Consequences:
Unknown. We bought the car brand new from the Subaru Dealership and the original windshield is on the vehicle. There are 6+ cracks/chips in this windshield all are unexplained. The first crack happened 3 months after purchasing and the lasted crack happened 2 weeks ago.
Corrective Action:
Unknown. We bought the car brand new from the Subaru Dealership and the original windshield is on the vehicle. There are 6+ cracks/chips in this windshield all are unexplained. The first crack happened 3 months after purchasing and the lasted crack happened 2 weeks ago.
Additional Notes:
Unknown. We bought the car brand new from the Subaru Dealership and the original windshield is on the vehicle. There are 6+ cracks/chips in this windshield all are unexplained. The first crack happened 3 months after purchasing and the lasted crack happened 2 weeks ago.
Mfg Campaign: 11433321
Recall Date: Sep 17, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
3 times in past 6 weeks car battery was found dead. Recharged 3 times with wall charger. Replaced battery today after 3rd time of being dead.
Corrective Action:
3 times in past 6 weeks car battery was found dead. Recharged 3 times with wall charger. Replaced battery today after 3rd time of being dead.
Additional Notes:
3 times in past 6 weeks car battery was found dead. Recharged 3 times with wall charger. Replaced battery today after 3rd time of being dead.
Mfg Campaign: 11432836
Recall Date: Sep 13, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
The battery is draining. This has happened multiple times. Most recently, the battery died when the car was not used for a 6 day period while I was out of town.
Corrective Action:
The battery is draining. This has happened multiple times. Most recently, the battery died when the car was not used for a 6 day period while I was out of town.
Additional Notes:
The battery is draining. This has happened multiple times. Most recently, the battery died when the car was not used for a 6 day period while I was out of town.
Mfg Campaign: 11427513
Recall Date: Aug 2, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
Hi Issue #1: My Subaru never gives the MPG what they promised, on average I get 17 or 18 MPG mixed drive supposed to get 21MPG, whenever I complain to the dealership they give a standard answer about it depends on driving style never attempted to find the root cause. Never had this issue with my previous cars, I used to get the same as what they promised. So I feel not related to driving style. Issue #2: Blue smoke came multiple times, so not consistent reproducing not sure. Issue #3. My battery died many times couple of times had called roadside, later I got a jump starter and I have used it multiple times to start my car, and replaced the new battery under warranty and Subaru paid for it, but unfortunately, the new battery I got had also died and got it replaced by warranty.
Corrective Action:
Hi Issue #1: My Subaru never gives the MPG what they promised, on average I get 17 or 18 MPG mixed drive supposed to get 21MPG, whenever I complain to the dealership they give a standard answer about it depends on driving style never attempted to find the root cause. Never had this issue with my previous cars, I used to get the same as what they promised. So I feel not related to driving style. Issue #2: Blue smoke came multiple times, so not consistent reproducing not sure. Issue #3. My battery died many times couple of times had called roadside, later I got a jump starter and I have used it multiple times to start my car, and replaced the new battery under warranty and Subaru paid for it, but unfortunately, the new battery I got had also died and got it replaced by warranty.
Additional Notes:
Hi Issue #1: My Subaru never gives the MPG what they promised, on average I get 17 or 18 MPG mixed drive supposed to get 21MPG, whenever I complain to the dealership they give a standard answer about it depends on driving style never attempted to find the root cause. Never had this issue with my previous cars, I used to get the same as what they promised. So I feel not related to driving style. Issue #2: Blue smoke came multiple times, so not consistent reproducing not sure. Issue #3. My battery died many times couple of times had called roadside, later I got a jump starter and I have used it multiple times to start my car, and replaced the new battery under warranty and Subaru paid for it, but unfortunately, the new battery I got had also died and got it replaced by warranty.
Mfg Campaign: 11426405
Recall Date: Jul 26, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
Hi Issue #1: My Subaru never gives the MPG what they promised, on average I get 17 or 18 MPG mixed drive supposed to get 21MPG, whenever I complain to the dealership they give a standard answer about it depends on driving style never attempted to find the root cause. Never had this issue with my previous cars, I used to get the same as what they promised. So I feel not related to driving style. Issue #2: Blue smoke came multiple times, so not consistent reproducing not sure. Issue #3. My battery died many times couple of times had called roadside, later I got a jump starter and I have used it multiple times to start my car, and replaced the new battery under warranty and Subaru paid for it, but unfortunately, the new battery I got had also died and got it replaced by warranty.
Corrective Action:
Hi Issue #1: My Subaru never gives the MPG what they promised, on average I get 17 or 18 MPG mixed drive supposed to get 21MPG, whenever I complain to the dealership they give a standard answer about it depends on driving style never attempted to find the root cause. Never had this issue with my previous cars, I used to get the same as what they promised. So I feel not related to driving style. Issue #2: Blue smoke came multiple times, so not consistent reproducing not sure. Issue #3. My battery died many times couple of times had called roadside, later I got a jump starter and I have used it multiple times to start my car, and replaced the new battery under warranty and Subaru paid for it, but unfortunately, the new battery I got had also died and got it replaced by warranty.
Additional Notes:
Hi Issue #1: My Subaru never gives the MPG what they promised, on average I get 17 or 18 MPG mixed drive supposed to get 21MPG, whenever I complain to the dealership they give a standard answer about it depends on driving style never attempted to find the root cause. Never had this issue with my previous cars, I used to get the same as what they promised. So I feel not related to driving style. Issue #2: Blue smoke came multiple times, so not consistent reproducing not sure. Issue #3. My battery died many times couple of times had called roadside, later I got a jump starter and I have used it multiple times to start my car, and replaced the new battery under warranty and Subaru paid for it, but unfortunately, the new battery I got had also died and got it replaced by warranty.
Mfg Campaign: 11426405
Recall Date: Jul 26, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Potential Consequences:
Was driving south on the Garden State Parkway in Woodbridge, NJ - small pebble or rock hit the passenger side black trim on windshield (original windshield). Crack immediately started to expand to about 3-4” long. The next day the crack was almost half way across the entire windshield. I now need to have the entire windshield replaced which will require my taking time off of work to take it in, since the repair shop must recalobrate the windshield safety equipment. This amount of cracking seems excessive for a 2019 vehicle especially since the initial chip was so small - not happy that this occurred on such a new vehicle in what seems like a normal situation.
Corrective Action:
Was driving south on the Garden State Parkway in Woodbridge, NJ - small pebble or rock hit the passenger side black trim on windshield (original windshield). Crack immediately started to expand to about 3-4” long. The next day the crack was almost half way across the entire windshield. I now need to have the entire windshield replaced which will require my taking time off of work to take it in, since the repair shop must recalobrate the windshield safety equipment. This amount of cracking seems excessive for a 2019 vehicle especially since the initial chip was so small - not happy that this occurred on such a new vehicle in what seems like a normal situation.
Additional Notes:
Was driving south on the Garden State Parkway in Woodbridge, NJ - small pebble or rock hit the passenger side black trim on windshield (original windshield). Crack immediately started to expand to about 3-4” long. The next day the crack was almost half way across the entire windshield. I now need to have the entire windshield replaced which will require my taking time off of work to take it in, since the repair shop must recalobrate the windshield safety equipment. This amount of cracking seems excessive for a 2019 vehicle especially since the initial chip was so small - not happy that this occurred on such a new vehicle in what seems like a normal situation.
Mfg Campaign: 11426277
Recall Date: Jul 24, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
Huge plumes of smoke on startup. Complained to the service department on multiple occasions and even left the car with the dealer service department. They said they could not duplicate my complaint. They said I should take pictures. Can't take pictures when it happens three or four times a month. I think there is something wrong with the engine am afraid of fire or failure of the engine.
Corrective Action:
Huge plumes of smoke on startup. Complained to the service department on multiple occasions and even left the car with the dealer service department. They said they could not duplicate my complaint. They said I should take pictures. Can't take pictures when it happens three or four times a month. I think there is something wrong with the engine am afraid of fire or failure of the engine.
Additional Notes:
Huge plumes of smoke on startup. Complained to the service department on multiple occasions and even left the car with the dealer service department. They said they could not duplicate my complaint. They said I should take pictures. Can't take pictures when it happens three or four times a month. I think there is something wrong with the engine am afraid of fire or failure of the engine.
Mfg Campaign: 11425761
Recall Date: Jul 21, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
Have had to jump my battery start using a portable power supply at least 4 times. Various reasons, such as leaving the back hatch open for extended periods, leaving the accessories on for a little over 15 minutes etc. At times it appears to struggle to start as though the battery has not fully charged. These incidents has been happening shortly after the vehicle was purchased. They are happening less to date because I'm aware that i cant use ANY accessory for an extended period because of the risk of a dead battery.
Corrective Action:
Have had to jump my battery start using a portable power supply at least 4 times. Various reasons, such as leaving the back hatch open for extended periods, leaving the accessories on for a little over 15 minutes etc. At times it appears to struggle to start as though the battery has not fully charged. These incidents has been happening shortly after the vehicle was purchased. They are happening less to date because I'm aware that i cant use ANY accessory for an extended period because of the risk of a dead battery.
Additional Notes:
Have had to jump my battery start using a portable power supply at least 4 times. Various reasons, such as leaving the back hatch open for extended periods, leaving the accessories on for a little over 15 minutes etc. At times it appears to struggle to start as though the battery has not fully charged. These incidents has been happening shortly after the vehicle was purchased. They are happening less to date because I'm aware that i cant use ANY accessory for an extended period because of the risk of a dead battery.
Mfg Campaign: 11425048
Recall Date: Jul 15, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
Have had to jump my battery start using a portable power supply at least 4 times. Various reasons, such as leaving the back hatch open for extended periods, leaving the accessories on for a little over 15 minutes etc. At times it appears to struggle to start as though the battery has not fully charged. These incidents has been happening shortly after the vehicle was purchased. They are happening less to date because I'm aware that i cant use ANY accessory for an extended period because of the risk of a dead battery.
Corrective Action:
Have had to jump my battery start using a portable power supply at least 4 times. Various reasons, such as leaving the back hatch open for extended periods, leaving the accessories on for a little over 15 minutes etc. At times it appears to struggle to start as though the battery has not fully charged. These incidents has been happening shortly after the vehicle was purchased. They are happening less to date because I'm aware that i cant use ANY accessory for an extended period because of the risk of a dead battery.
Additional Notes:
Have had to jump my battery start using a portable power supply at least 4 times. Various reasons, such as leaving the back hatch open for extended periods, leaving the accessories on for a little over 15 minutes etc. At times it appears to struggle to start as though the battery has not fully charged. These incidents has been happening shortly after the vehicle was purchased. They are happening less to date because I'm aware that i cant use ANY accessory for an extended period because of the risk of a dead battery.
Mfg Campaign: 11425048
Recall Date: Jul 15, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
Battery keeps dying.
Corrective Action:
Battery keeps dying.
Additional Notes:
Battery keeps dying.
Mfg Campaign: 11424524
Recall Date: Jul 12, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Potential Consequences:
A crack appeared one morning on the drivers/middle of the windshield going from the bottom up about 8 inches then turning toward the drivers side. Took the car to the local Subaru dealer where the tech examined and at first could not locate a ding in the glass. He eventually used a ball point pen and ran it along the crack. Just behind the wiper he said he felt some resistance and that indicated a chip. He rubbed the pen tip aggressively over this point till there was some wear. I pointed out that not only was this behind the wiper but how could something so small that it took hard rubbing with the pen to provide "a source" for the crack cause the windshield to break. I suspect a defective windshield.
Corrective Action:
A crack appeared one morning on the drivers/middle of the windshield going from the bottom up about 8 inches then turning toward the drivers side. Took the car to the local Subaru dealer where the tech examined and at first could not locate a ding in the glass. He eventually used a ball point pen and ran it along the crack. Just behind the wiper he said he felt some resistance and that indicated a chip. He rubbed the pen tip aggressively over this point till there was some wear. I pointed out that not only was this behind the wiper but how could something so small that it took hard rubbing with the pen to provide "a source" for the crack cause the windshield to break. I suspect a defective windshield.
Additional Notes:
A crack appeared one morning on the drivers/middle of the windshield going from the bottom up about 8 inches then turning toward the drivers side. Took the car to the local Subaru dealer where the tech examined and at first could not locate a ding in the glass. He eventually used a ball point pen and ran it along the crack. Just behind the wiper he said he felt some resistance and that indicated a chip. He rubbed the pen tip aggressively over this point till there was some wear. I pointed out that not only was this behind the wiper but how could something so small that it took hard rubbing with the pen to provide "a source" for the crack cause the windshield to break. I suspect a defective windshield.
Mfg Campaign: 11423828
Recall Date: Jul 7, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the front windshield started to crack without incident or impact. The vehicle was diagnosed but was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 16,000.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the front windshield started to crack without incident or impact. The vehicle was diagnosed but was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 16,000.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the front windshield started to crack without incident or impact. The vehicle was diagnosed but was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 16,000.
Mfg Campaign: 11423832
Recall Date: Jul 7, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
In June 2020, the front window cracked while I was driving even though I did not observe any rocks or other road debris hit the windshield. The crack has not spread further since that date.
Corrective Action:
In June 2020, the front window cracked while I was driving even though I did not observe any rocks or other road debris hit the windshield. The crack has not spread further since that date.
Additional Notes:
In June 2020, the front window cracked while I was driving even though I did not observe any rocks or other road debris hit the windshield. The crack has not spread further since that date.
Mfg Campaign: 11421599
Recall Date: Jun 21, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
On Friday, June 28th, we were driving the Ascent, towing our 4100 lb. camper from Tehachapi, CA, headed north toward Las Vegas. When we stopped for gas in Tehachapi, we checked all fluids including the oil. Then at about 86 miles outside of Las Vegas coming up a steep grade in hot conditions, we hear a noise that sounded like it could be valve flutter. We drove for another minute (there was no shoulder), and noted that no warning lights were on. Then we heard a louder knocking sound and saw the oil temp indicator start moving quickly to hot, and immediately pulled off onto the shoulder. After our tow to the Las Vegas Subaru dealer, it became apparent that the battery was also dead (this was the second battery replaced under warranty, and we have had to jump both batteries at least monthly over the last 2 years). Last Monday, June 14, Subaru notified us by phone on a recorded line that the investigation had concluded. They determined towing excessive weight to be the cause of the engine failure (thrown rod). We verified the make and model and registration of our camper with Subaru, which at a dry weight of 4134 pounds, is 100 lbs. less than the Airstream used in Subaru's promotional materials. We disclosed to Subaru that the camper has few miles on it and we tow with empty tanks and less than 100 pounds of cargo (2 adults and one toddler). We also told them that on our two prior trips towing, the transmission has revved frequently and it sounds like it can't find the right gear. Subaru has not provided us a copy of either inspection report, and we have been without the vehicle for nearly a month. We are asking Subaru to repair the engine under warranty (39k miles). This sudden failure put our family's safety at risk. We were forced to stop the car in the middle of a high-speed highway without safely moving to an exit- we waited in excessive heat, barely off the road in deep sand without a shoulder for an hour- we were almost hit by a semi truck as we braked.
Corrective Action:
On Friday, June 28th, we were driving the Ascent, towing our 4100 lb. camper from Tehachapi, CA, headed north toward Las Vegas. When we stopped for gas in Tehachapi, we checked all fluids including the oil. Then at about 86 miles outside of Las Vegas coming up a steep grade in hot conditions, we hear a noise that sounded like it could be valve flutter. We drove for another minute (there was no shoulder), and noted that no warning lights were on. Then we heard a louder knocking sound and saw the oil temp indicator start moving quickly to hot, and immediately pulled off onto the shoulder. After our tow to the Las Vegas Subaru dealer, it became apparent that the battery was also dead (this was the second battery replaced under warranty, and we have had to jump both batteries at least monthly over the last 2 years). Last Monday, June 14, Subaru notified us by phone on a recorded line that the investigation had concluded. They determined towing excessive weight to be the cause of the engine failure (thrown rod). We verified the make and model and registration of our camper with Subaru, which at a dry weight of 4134 pounds, is 100 lbs. less than the Airstream used in Subaru's promotional materials. We disclosed to Subaru that the camper has few miles on it and we tow with empty tanks and less than 100 pounds of cargo (2 adults and one toddler). We also told them that on our two prior trips towing, the transmission has revved frequently and it sounds like it can't find the right gear. Subaru has not provided us a copy of either inspection report, and we have been without the vehicle for nearly a month. We are asking Subaru to repair the engine under warranty (39k miles). This sudden failure put our family's safety at risk. We were forced to stop the car in the middle of a high-speed highway without safely moving to an exit- we waited in excessive heat, barely off the road in deep sand without a shoulder for an hour- we were almost hit by a semi truck as we braked.
Additional Notes:
On Friday, June 28th, we were driving the Ascent, towing our 4100 lb. camper from Tehachapi, CA, headed north toward Las Vegas. When we stopped for gas in Tehachapi, we checked all fluids including the oil. Then at about 86 miles outside of Las Vegas coming up a steep grade in hot conditions, we hear a noise that sounded like it could be valve flutter. We drove for another minute (there was no shoulder), and noted that no warning lights were on. Then we heard a louder knocking sound and saw the oil temp indicator start moving quickly to hot, and immediately pulled off onto the shoulder. After our tow to the Las Vegas Subaru dealer, it became apparent that the battery was also dead (this was the second battery replaced under warranty, and we have had to jump both batteries at least monthly over the last 2 years). Last Monday, June 14, Subaru notified us by phone on a recorded line that the investigation had concluded. They determined towing excessive weight to be the cause of the engine failure (thrown rod). We verified the make and model and registration of our camper with Subaru, which at a dry weight of 4134 pounds, is 100 lbs. less than the Airstream used in Subaru's promotional materials. We disclosed to Subaru that the camper has few miles on it and we tow with empty tanks and less than 100 pounds of cargo (2 adults and one toddler). We also told them that on our two prior trips towing, the transmission has revved frequently and it sounds like it can't find the right gear. Subaru has not provided us a copy of either inspection report, and we have been without the vehicle for nearly a month. We are asking Subaru to repair the engine under warranty (39k miles). This sudden failure put our family's safety at risk. We were forced to stop the car in the middle of a high-speed highway without safely moving to an exit- we waited in excessive heat, barely off the road in deep sand without a shoulder for an hour- we were almost hit by a semi truck as we braked.
Mfg Campaign: 11421600
Recall Date: Jun 21, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
On Friday, June 28th, we were driving the Ascent, towing our 4100 lb. camper from Tehachapi, CA, headed north toward Las Vegas. When we stopped for gas in Tehachapi, we checked all fluids including the oil. Then at about 86 miles outside of Las Vegas coming up a steep grade in hot conditions, we hear a noise that sounded like it could be valve flutter. We drove for another minute (there was no shoulder), and noted that no warning lights were on. Then we heard a louder knocking sound and saw the oil temp indicator start moving quickly to hot, and immediately pulled off onto the shoulder. After our tow to the Las Vegas Subaru dealer, it became apparent that the battery was also dead (this was the second battery replaced under warranty, and we have had to jump both batteries at least monthly over the last 2 years). Last Monday, June 14, Subaru notified us by phone on a recorded line that the investigation had concluded. They determined towing excessive weight to be the cause of the engine failure (thrown rod). We verified the make and model and registration of our camper with Subaru, which at a dry weight of 4134 pounds, is 100 lbs. less than the Airstream used in Subaru's promotional materials. We disclosed to Subaru that the camper has few miles on it and we tow with empty tanks and less than 100 pounds of cargo (2 adults and one toddler). We also told them that on our two prior trips towing, the transmission has revved frequently and it sounds like it can't find the right gear. Subaru has not provided us a copy of either inspection report, and we have been without the vehicle for nearly a month. We are asking Subaru to repair the engine under warranty (39k miles). This sudden failure put our family's safety at risk. We were forced to stop the car in the middle of a high-speed highway without safely moving to an exit- we waited in excessive heat, barely off the road in deep sand without a shoulder for an hour- we were almost hit by a semi truck as we braked.
Corrective Action:
On Friday, June 28th, we were driving the Ascent, towing our 4100 lb. camper from Tehachapi, CA, headed north toward Las Vegas. When we stopped for gas in Tehachapi, we checked all fluids including the oil. Then at about 86 miles outside of Las Vegas coming up a steep grade in hot conditions, we hear a noise that sounded like it could be valve flutter. We drove for another minute (there was no shoulder), and noted that no warning lights were on. Then we heard a louder knocking sound and saw the oil temp indicator start moving quickly to hot, and immediately pulled off onto the shoulder. After our tow to the Las Vegas Subaru dealer, it became apparent that the battery was also dead (this was the second battery replaced under warranty, and we have had to jump both batteries at least monthly over the last 2 years). Last Monday, June 14, Subaru notified us by phone on a recorded line that the investigation had concluded. They determined towing excessive weight to be the cause of the engine failure (thrown rod). We verified the make and model and registration of our camper with Subaru, which at a dry weight of 4134 pounds, is 100 lbs. less than the Airstream used in Subaru's promotional materials. We disclosed to Subaru that the camper has few miles on it and we tow with empty tanks and less than 100 pounds of cargo (2 adults and one toddler). We also told them that on our two prior trips towing, the transmission has revved frequently and it sounds like it can't find the right gear. Subaru has not provided us a copy of either inspection report, and we have been without the vehicle for nearly a month. We are asking Subaru to repair the engine under warranty (39k miles). This sudden failure put our family's safety at risk. We were forced to stop the car in the middle of a high-speed highway without safely moving to an exit- we waited in excessive heat, barely off the road in deep sand without a shoulder for an hour- we were almost hit by a semi truck as we braked.
Additional Notes:
On Friday, June 28th, we were driving the Ascent, towing our 4100 lb. camper from Tehachapi, CA, headed north toward Las Vegas. When we stopped for gas in Tehachapi, we checked all fluids including the oil. Then at about 86 miles outside of Las Vegas coming up a steep grade in hot conditions, we hear a noise that sounded like it could be valve flutter. We drove for another minute (there was no shoulder), and noted that no warning lights were on. Then we heard a louder knocking sound and saw the oil temp indicator start moving quickly to hot, and immediately pulled off onto the shoulder. After our tow to the Las Vegas Subaru dealer, it became apparent that the battery was also dead (this was the second battery replaced under warranty, and we have had to jump both batteries at least monthly over the last 2 years). Last Monday, June 14, Subaru notified us by phone on a recorded line that the investigation had concluded. They determined towing excessive weight to be the cause of the engine failure (thrown rod). We verified the make and model and registration of our camper with Subaru, which at a dry weight of 4134 pounds, is 100 lbs. less than the Airstream used in Subaru's promotional materials. We disclosed to Subaru that the camper has few miles on it and we tow with empty tanks and less than 100 pounds of cargo (2 adults and one toddler). We also told them that on our two prior trips towing, the transmission has revved frequently and it sounds like it can't find the right gear. Subaru has not provided us a copy of either inspection report, and we have been without the vehicle for nearly a month. We are asking Subaru to repair the engine under warranty (39k miles). This sudden failure put our family's safety at risk. We were forced to stop the car in the middle of a high-speed highway without safely moving to an exit- we waited in excessive heat, barely off the road in deep sand without a shoulder for an hour- we were almost hit by a semi truck as we braked.
Mfg Campaign: 11421600
Recall Date: Jun 21, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
Driving from Tehachapi, CA toward Las Vegas towing our camper at about 45-50 mph, we started hearing a knocking that sounded like valve flutter. We drove for about 1 minute looking for a safe place to pull over, but then the knocking grew louder and the oil temp started to rise, so we immediately braked and pulled into the sand (no shoulder). There were no warning lights at any point until we actually pulled over (oil light). After the tow to Subaru Las Vegas, we noted that the battery was dead. On 6-14, Subaru of America told us on a recorded line that the two investigations had concluded and the cause was towing excessive weight. We shared our camper registration and specs with them, showing a dry weight of 4130 pounds, 100 less than the airstream used in Subaru's marketing materials (we tow with empty tanks and less than 100 lbs. of cargo. We also indicated to Subaru of Las Vegas and SOA that on our few previous trips with the camper, we noticed the Ascent revving hard on slight inclines and that it sounded like it struggled to find a gear towing. SOA has not shared a copy of either report. We are asking SOF to repair under the warranty (car has 39K miles). We will asked for the defective engine whenever we are able to pick up the vehicle. We spent over $1000 between towing, flights home from Vegas, renting a substitute vehicle, etc.. Most importantly, this sudden catastrophic failure could have killed us-the failure was so swift (the time from hearing the noise to being stationary was less than a minute and a half) and without warning that we didn't have time to react well and had to pull off into deep sand with no shoulder- a semi truck almost rear-ended us as we pulled over. Then we had to wait in the Mojave heat, arm's length away from traffic whizzing by with my toddler and puppy while the tow truck arrived. The Ascent is the vehicle we purchased to be able to evacuate our family from our wildfire-prone home, so every day we are without it poses risk.
Corrective Action:
Driving from Tehachapi, CA toward Las Vegas towing our camper at about 45-50 mph, we started hearing a knocking that sounded like valve flutter. We drove for about 1 minute looking for a safe place to pull over, but then the knocking grew louder and the oil temp started to rise, so we immediately braked and pulled into the sand (no shoulder). There were no warning lights at any point until we actually pulled over (oil light). After the tow to Subaru Las Vegas, we noted that the battery was dead. On 6-14, Subaru of America told us on a recorded line that the two investigations had concluded and the cause was towing excessive weight. We shared our camper registration and specs with them, showing a dry weight of 4130 pounds, 100 less than the airstream used in Subaru's marketing materials (we tow with empty tanks and less than 100 lbs. of cargo. We also indicated to Subaru of Las Vegas and SOA that on our few previous trips with the camper, we noticed the Ascent revving hard on slight inclines and that it sounded like it struggled to find a gear towing. SOA has not shared a copy of either report. We are asking SOF to repair under the warranty (car has 39K miles). We will asked for the defective engine whenever we are able to pick up the vehicle. We spent over $1000 between towing, flights home from Vegas, renting a substitute vehicle, etc.. Most importantly, this sudden catastrophic failure could have killed us-the failure was so swift (the time from hearing the noise to being stationary was less than a minute and a half) and without warning that we didn't have time to react well and had to pull off into deep sand with no shoulder- a semi truck almost rear-ended us as we pulled over. Then we had to wait in the Mojave heat, arm's length away from traffic whizzing by with my toddler and puppy while the tow truck arrived. The Ascent is the vehicle we purchased to be able to evacuate our family from our wildfire-prone home, so every day we are without it poses risk.
Additional Notes:
Driving from Tehachapi, CA toward Las Vegas towing our camper at about 45-50 mph, we started hearing a knocking that sounded like valve flutter. We drove for about 1 minute looking for a safe place to pull over, but then the knocking grew louder and the oil temp started to rise, so we immediately braked and pulled into the sand (no shoulder). There were no warning lights at any point until we actually pulled over (oil light). After the tow to Subaru Las Vegas, we noted that the battery was dead. On 6-14, Subaru of America told us on a recorded line that the two investigations had concluded and the cause was towing excessive weight. We shared our camper registration and specs with them, showing a dry weight of 4130 pounds, 100 less than the airstream used in Subaru's marketing materials (we tow with empty tanks and less than 100 lbs. of cargo. We also indicated to Subaru of Las Vegas and SOA that on our few previous trips with the camper, we noticed the Ascent revving hard on slight inclines and that it sounded like it struggled to find a gear towing. SOA has not shared a copy of either report. We are asking SOF to repair under the warranty (car has 39K miles). We will asked for the defective engine whenever we are able to pick up the vehicle. We spent over $1000 between towing, flights home from Vegas, renting a substitute vehicle, etc.. Most importantly, this sudden catastrophic failure could have killed us-the failure was so swift (the time from hearing the noise to being stationary was less than a minute and a half) and without warning that we didn't have time to react well and had to pull off into deep sand with no shoulder- a semi truck almost rear-ended us as we pulled over. Then we had to wait in the Mojave heat, arm's length away from traffic whizzing by with my toddler and puppy while the tow truck arrived. The Ascent is the vehicle we purchased to be able to evacuate our family from our wildfire-prone home, so every day we are without it poses risk.
Mfg Campaign: 11421603
Recall Date: Jun 21, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
We believe the battery is being drained by the CAN system because it is only 2 years old and is already completely dead leaving my vehicle inoperable and creating a potentially dangerous situation
Corrective Action:
We believe the battery is being drained by the CAN system because it is only 2 years old and is already completely dead leaving my vehicle inoperable and creating a potentially dangerous situation
Additional Notes:
We believe the battery is being drained by the CAN system because it is only 2 years old and is already completely dead leaving my vehicle inoperable and creating a potentially dangerous situation
Mfg Campaign: 11421724
Recall Date: Jun 21, 2021
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Barry Edzant
Edzant Price LLC
Valencia, CA • 36 yrs
Focus: Lemon Law, Personal Injury