Complaints & Recalls
Official Safety Recalls - Important!
1 RecallThese 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 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and also preventing keyless ignition vehicles from starting and CVT/automatic transmissions from being able to be shifted out of Park.
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: WUE-90
Recall Date: Feb 28, 2019
Consumer Complaints
161 ComplaintsSubaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Potential Consequences:
Windshield spontaneously cracked
Corrective Action:
Windshield spontaneously cracked
Additional Notes:
Windshield spontaneously cracked
Mfg Campaign: 11449697
Recall Date: Feb 1, 2022
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
SERVICE BRAKES
Potential Consequences:
On Jan 7th, during rush-hour traffic on the highway, without any warning all of my vehicle lights began to dim. The power steering and brakes went out. I was able to steer to the side of the road. Then, all of the lights went out and the car shut off. I was unable to shift the vehicle into park, and as I was going up a hill at the time, I was forced to roll backwards slowly and engage the emergency brake. Only luck prevented a serious, perhaps fatal accident. It was also below freezing in Ohio so I had to sit in the frigid temperatures until a tow truck arrived. After being towed to two separate dealerships, the Subaru dealer believes this was caused by a faulty hybrid battery, alternator, or both. An inspection is available by request. The problem did flag multiple error codes (confirmed by the dealer) but it is very frightening that there was absolutely NO warning and I feel unsafe driving this vehicle, even after it will be repaired. Next time, myself or others, may not be so fortunate. The alternator is being recalled in 2017+ Subaru Crosstrek for this very issue, but not the 2016 (my vehicle).
Corrective Action:
On Jan 7th, during rush-hour traffic on the highway, without any warning all of my vehicle lights began to dim. The power steering and brakes went out. I was able to steer to the side of the road. Then, all of the lights went out and the car shut off. I was unable to shift the vehicle into park, and as I was going up a hill at the time, I was forced to roll backwards slowly and engage the emergency brake. Only luck prevented a serious, perhaps fatal accident. It was also below freezing in Ohio so I had to sit in the frigid temperatures until a tow truck arrived. After being towed to two separate dealerships, the Subaru dealer believes this was caused by a faulty hybrid battery, alternator, or both. An inspection is available by request. The problem did flag multiple error codes (confirmed by the dealer) but it is very frightening that there was absolutely NO warning and I feel unsafe driving this vehicle, even after it will be repaired. Next time, myself or others, may not be so fortunate. The alternator is being recalled in 2017+ Subaru Crosstrek for this very issue, but not the 2016 (my vehicle).
Additional Notes:
On Jan 7th, during rush-hour traffic on the highway, without any warning all of my vehicle lights began to dim. The power steering and brakes went out. I was able to steer to the side of the road. Then, all of the lights went out and the car shut off. I was unable to shift the vehicle into park, and as I was going up a hill at the time, I was forced to roll backwards slowly and engage the emergency brake. Only luck prevented a serious, perhaps fatal accident. It was also below freezing in Ohio so I had to sit in the frigid temperatures until a tow truck arrived. After being towed to two separate dealerships, the Subaru dealer believes this was caused by a faulty hybrid battery, alternator, or both. An inspection is available by request. The problem did flag multiple error codes (confirmed by the dealer) but it is very frightening that there was absolutely NO warning and I feel unsafe driving this vehicle, even after it will be repaired. Next time, myself or others, may not be so fortunate. The alternator is being recalled in 2017+ Subaru Crosstrek for this very issue, but not the 2016 (my vehicle).
Mfg Campaign: 11446983
Recall Date: Jan 11, 2022
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
On Jan 7th, during rush-hour traffic on the highway, without any warning all of my vehicle lights began to dim. The power steering and brakes went out. I was able to steer to the side of the road. Then, all of the lights went out and the car shut off. I was unable to shift the vehicle into park, and as I was going up a hill at the time, I was forced to roll backwards slowly and engage the emergency brake. Only luck prevented a serious, perhaps fatal accident. It was also below freezing in Ohio so I had to sit in the frigid temperatures until a tow truck arrived. After being towed to two separate dealerships, the Subaru dealer believes this was caused by a faulty hybrid battery, alternator, or both. An inspection is available by request. The problem did flag multiple error codes (confirmed by the dealer) but it is very frightening that there was absolutely NO warning and I feel unsafe driving this vehicle, even after it will be repaired. Next time, myself or others, may not be so fortunate. The alternator is being recalled in 2017+ Subaru Crosstrek for this very issue, but not the 2016 (my vehicle).
Corrective Action:
On Jan 7th, during rush-hour traffic on the highway, without any warning all of my vehicle lights began to dim. The power steering and brakes went out. I was able to steer to the side of the road. Then, all of the lights went out and the car shut off. I was unable to shift the vehicle into park, and as I was going up a hill at the time, I was forced to roll backwards slowly and engage the emergency brake. Only luck prevented a serious, perhaps fatal accident. It was also below freezing in Ohio so I had to sit in the frigid temperatures until a tow truck arrived. After being towed to two separate dealerships, the Subaru dealer believes this was caused by a faulty hybrid battery, alternator, or both. An inspection is available by request. The problem did flag multiple error codes (confirmed by the dealer) but it is very frightening that there was absolutely NO warning and I feel unsafe driving this vehicle, even after it will be repaired. Next time, myself or others, may not be so fortunate. The alternator is being recalled in 2017+ Subaru Crosstrek for this very issue, but not the 2016 (my vehicle).
Additional Notes:
On Jan 7th, during rush-hour traffic on the highway, without any warning all of my vehicle lights began to dim. The power steering and brakes went out. I was able to steer to the side of the road. Then, all of the lights went out and the car shut off. I was unable to shift the vehicle into park, and as I was going up a hill at the time, I was forced to roll backwards slowly and engage the emergency brake. Only luck prevented a serious, perhaps fatal accident. It was also below freezing in Ohio so I had to sit in the frigid temperatures until a tow truck arrived. After being towed to two separate dealerships, the Subaru dealer believes this was caused by a faulty hybrid battery, alternator, or both. An inspection is available by request. The problem did flag multiple error codes (confirmed by the dealer) but it is very frightening that there was absolutely NO warning and I feel unsafe driving this vehicle, even after it will be repaired. Next time, myself or others, may not be so fortunate. The alternator is being recalled in 2017+ Subaru Crosstrek for this very issue, but not the 2016 (my vehicle).
Mfg Campaign: 11446983
Recall Date: Jan 11, 2022
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
STEERING
Potential Consequences:
On Jan 7th, during rush-hour traffic on the highway, without any warning all of my vehicle lights began to dim. The power steering and brakes went out. I was able to steer to the side of the road. Then, all of the lights went out and the car shut off. I was unable to shift the vehicle into park, and as I was going up a hill at the time, I was forced to roll backwards slowly and engage the emergency brake. Only luck prevented a serious, perhaps fatal accident. It was also below freezing in Ohio so I had to sit in the frigid temperatures until a tow truck arrived. After being towed to two separate dealerships, the Subaru dealer believes this was caused by a faulty hybrid battery, alternator, or both. An inspection is available by request. The problem did flag multiple error codes (confirmed by the dealer) but it is very frightening that there was absolutely NO warning and I feel unsafe driving this vehicle, even after it will be repaired. Next time, myself or others, may not be so fortunate. The alternator is being recalled in 2017+ Subaru Crosstrek for this very issue, but not the 2016 (my vehicle).
Corrective Action:
On Jan 7th, during rush-hour traffic on the highway, without any warning all of my vehicle lights began to dim. The power steering and brakes went out. I was able to steer to the side of the road. Then, all of the lights went out and the car shut off. I was unable to shift the vehicle into park, and as I was going up a hill at the time, I was forced to roll backwards slowly and engage the emergency brake. Only luck prevented a serious, perhaps fatal accident. It was also below freezing in Ohio so I had to sit in the frigid temperatures until a tow truck arrived. After being towed to two separate dealerships, the Subaru dealer believes this was caused by a faulty hybrid battery, alternator, or both. An inspection is available by request. The problem did flag multiple error codes (confirmed by the dealer) but it is very frightening that there was absolutely NO warning and I feel unsafe driving this vehicle, even after it will be repaired. Next time, myself or others, may not be so fortunate. The alternator is being recalled in 2017+ Subaru Crosstrek for this very issue, but not the 2016 (my vehicle).
Additional Notes:
On Jan 7th, during rush-hour traffic on the highway, without any warning all of my vehicle lights began to dim. The power steering and brakes went out. I was able to steer to the side of the road. Then, all of the lights went out and the car shut off. I was unable to shift the vehicle into park, and as I was going up a hill at the time, I was forced to roll backwards slowly and engage the emergency brake. Only luck prevented a serious, perhaps fatal accident. It was also below freezing in Ohio so I had to sit in the frigid temperatures until a tow truck arrived. After being towed to two separate dealerships, the Subaru dealer believes this was caused by a faulty hybrid battery, alternator, or both. An inspection is available by request. The problem did flag multiple error codes (confirmed by the dealer) but it is very frightening that there was absolutely NO warning and I feel unsafe driving this vehicle, even after it will be repaired. Next time, myself or others, may not be so fortunate. The alternator is being recalled in 2017+ Subaru Crosstrek for this very issue, but not the 2016 (my vehicle).
Mfg Campaign: 11446983
Recall Date: Jan 11, 2022
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
I have had three occurrences with my vehicle where I discovered a dangerous situation in the manual heater and air conditioner control module connector that resulted in the module connector and the wiring harness connector both becoming scorched and melted due to excessive heat. I believe that this is probably occurring due to high electrical current at the connector. In all occurrences, the first symptoms of the problem are intermittent blower fan speed followed by the fan speed knob becoming melted into a fixed position. The first occurrence was in February 2021 and the damaged control module (part number 72311FJ500) and the pigtail connector were replaced by a trained auto body tech. The second occurrence was in August 2021 and I took the vehicle to the Subaru dealership given it was a repeat occurrence and because we were concerned it might be a problem that could impact other vehicles. The service department at Subaru kept the vehicle for 2 weeks to diagnose the problem and eventually recommended we replace the vehicle's main wiring harness as well as again replace the damaged heater and air conditioning control module. We authorized the required repairs. The issue has now occurred for a third time and I will be taking the vehicle to Subaru again. I will be asking the service department to contact the manufacturer about this safety issue. I believe the primary risk to safety the potential of a fire in the vehicle in the right circumstances due to excessive current at the connector of the module. There is a secondary but less acute risk that the heater becomes inoperable during the winter and puts occupants at risk which is the situation we are facing as we travel frequently in rural areas.
Corrective Action:
I have had three occurrences with my vehicle where I discovered a dangerous situation in the manual heater and air conditioner control module connector that resulted in the module connector and the wiring harness connector both becoming scorched and melted due to excessive heat. I believe that this is probably occurring due to high electrical current at the connector. In all occurrences, the first symptoms of the problem are intermittent blower fan speed followed by the fan speed knob becoming melted into a fixed position. The first occurrence was in February 2021 and the damaged control module (part number 72311FJ500) and the pigtail connector were replaced by a trained auto body tech. The second occurrence was in August 2021 and I took the vehicle to the Subaru dealership given it was a repeat occurrence and because we were concerned it might be a problem that could impact other vehicles. The service department at Subaru kept the vehicle for 2 weeks to diagnose the problem and eventually recommended we replace the vehicle's main wiring harness as well as again replace the damaged heater and air conditioning control module. We authorized the required repairs. The issue has now occurred for a third time and I will be taking the vehicle to Subaru again. I will be asking the service department to contact the manufacturer about this safety issue. I believe the primary risk to safety the potential of a fire in the vehicle in the right circumstances due to excessive current at the connector of the module. There is a secondary but less acute risk that the heater becomes inoperable during the winter and puts occupants at risk which is the situation we are facing as we travel frequently in rural areas.
Additional Notes:
I have had three occurrences with my vehicle where I discovered a dangerous situation in the manual heater and air conditioner control module connector that resulted in the module connector and the wiring harness connector both becoming scorched and melted due to excessive heat. I believe that this is probably occurring due to high electrical current at the connector. In all occurrences, the first symptoms of the problem are intermittent blower fan speed followed by the fan speed knob becoming melted into a fixed position. The first occurrence was in February 2021 and the damaged control module (part number 72311FJ500) and the pigtail connector were replaced by a trained auto body tech. The second occurrence was in August 2021 and I took the vehicle to the Subaru dealership given it was a repeat occurrence and because we were concerned it might be a problem that could impact other vehicles. The service department at Subaru kept the vehicle for 2 weeks to diagnose the problem and eventually recommended we replace the vehicle's main wiring harness as well as again replace the damaged heater and air conditioning control module. We authorized the required repairs. The issue has now occurred for a third time and I will be taking the vehicle to Subaru again. I will be asking the service department to contact the manufacturer about this safety issue. I believe the primary risk to safety the potential of a fire in the vehicle in the right circumstances due to excessive current at the connector of the module. There is a secondary but less acute risk that the heater becomes inoperable during the winter and puts occupants at risk which is the situation we are facing as we travel frequently in rural areas.
Mfg Campaign: 11443862
Recall Date: Dec 15, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
SUSPENSION
Potential Consequences:
THE WHOLE CONTROL ARM BROKE AND THE CAR ONLY HAD 44 000 MILES ON IT HAD TO REPLACE IT AND THE RADIATOR CRACKED TOO WITH SO MANY LITTLE MILES CONTACTED SUBARU NO ANSWER THEY WONT EVEN REIMBURSE ME PAID OVER 2 GRAN TO FIX IT VERY UNRELIABLE CAR
Corrective Action:
THE WHOLE CONTROL ARM BROKE AND THE CAR ONLY HAD 44 000 MILES ON IT HAD TO REPLACE IT AND THE RADIATOR CRACKED TOO WITH SO MANY LITTLE MILES CONTACTED SUBARU NO ANSWER THEY WONT EVEN REIMBURSE ME PAID OVER 2 GRAN TO FIX IT VERY UNRELIABLE CAR
Additional Notes:
THE WHOLE CONTROL ARM BROKE AND THE CAR ONLY HAD 44 000 MILES ON IT HAD TO REPLACE IT AND THE RADIATOR CRACKED TOO WITH SO MANY LITTLE MILES CONTACTED SUBARU NO ANSWER THEY WONT EVEN REIMBURSE ME PAID OVER 2 GRAN TO FIX IT VERY UNRELIABLE CAR
Mfg Campaign: 11443474
Recall Date: Dec 11, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
The key will not come out of the ignition when placing the car in park! We have to fiddle with the shifter to get the key to release. Contacted the dealer and Subaru of America to see if this could be fixed as a recall, unfortunately it is a service bulletin as of now and costs >$500 to fix this known problem that occurred on a vehicle with 50K miles! This is unacceptable and would like it fixed at no charge.
Corrective Action:
The key will not come out of the ignition when placing the car in park! We have to fiddle with the shifter to get the key to release. Contacted the dealer and Subaru of America to see if this could be fixed as a recall, unfortunately it is a service bulletin as of now and costs >$500 to fix this known problem that occurred on a vehicle with 50K miles! This is unacceptable and would like it fixed at no charge.
Additional Notes:
The key will not come out of the ignition when placing the car in park! We have to fiddle with the shifter to get the key to release. Contacted the dealer and Subaru of America to see if this could be fixed as a recall, unfortunately it is a service bulletin as of now and costs >$500 to fix this known problem that occurred on a vehicle with 50K miles! This is unacceptable and would like it fixed at no charge.
Mfg Campaign: 11440513
Recall Date: Nov 15, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
Ignition Key stuck in the ignition cannot be removed from ignition after parking. This problem never occurred in previous 5 years of ownership. It happens nearly every time the car is driven, and has been reported widely on the internet by Subaru owners. In many cases, owners have not been able to remove the keys at all, and have had to call for assistance. On the advice of a repair tech, we replaced our battery, which, at 5 years old, was probably due to be replaced. This has not solved the problem.
Corrective Action:
Ignition Key stuck in the ignition cannot be removed from ignition after parking. This problem never occurred in previous 5 years of ownership. It happens nearly every time the car is driven, and has been reported widely on the internet by Subaru owners. In many cases, owners have not been able to remove the keys at all, and have had to call for assistance. On the advice of a repair tech, we replaced our battery, which, at 5 years old, was probably due to be replaced. This has not solved the problem.
Additional Notes:
Ignition Key stuck in the ignition cannot be removed from ignition after parking. This problem never occurred in previous 5 years of ownership. It happens nearly every time the car is driven, and has been reported widely on the internet by Subaru owners. In many cases, owners have not been able to remove the keys at all, and have had to call for assistance. On the advice of a repair tech, we replaced our battery, which, at 5 years old, was probably due to be replaced. This has not solved the problem.
Mfg Campaign: 11440054
Recall Date: Nov 10, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
Ignition Key stuck in the ignition cannot be removed from ignition after parking. This problem never occurred in previous 5 years of ownership. It happens nearly every time the car is driven, and has been reported widely on the internet by Subaru owners. In many cases, owners have not been able to remove the keys at all, and have had to call for assistance. On the advice of a repair tech, we replaced our battery, which, at 5 years old, was probably due to be replaced. This has not solved the problem.
Corrective Action:
Ignition Key stuck in the ignition cannot be removed from ignition after parking. This problem never occurred in previous 5 years of ownership. It happens nearly every time the car is driven, and has been reported widely on the internet by Subaru owners. In many cases, owners have not been able to remove the keys at all, and have had to call for assistance. On the advice of a repair tech, we replaced our battery, which, at 5 years old, was probably due to be replaced. This has not solved the problem.
Additional Notes:
Ignition Key stuck in the ignition cannot be removed from ignition after parking. This problem never occurred in previous 5 years of ownership. It happens nearly every time the car is driven, and has been reported widely on the internet by Subaru owners. In many cases, owners have not been able to remove the keys at all, and have had to call for assistance. On the advice of a repair tech, we replaced our battery, which, at 5 years old, was probably due to be replaced. This has not solved the problem.
Mfg Campaign: 11440054
Recall Date: Nov 10, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
STRUCTURE:BODY
Potential Consequences:
Engine Hood-Latch disengaged while driving at speed. The secondary (emergency) latch failed to keep the hood down, causing it to fly open, shattering the windshield, and completely blocking a view of the highway. (The hood latch had an issue where it would not close 10 months prior, and it was serviced by Subaru at that time)
Corrective Action:
Engine Hood-Latch disengaged while driving at speed. The secondary (emergency) latch failed to keep the hood down, causing it to fly open, shattering the windshield, and completely blocking a view of the highway. (The hood latch had an issue where it would not close 10 months prior, and it was serviced by Subaru at that time)
Additional Notes:
Engine Hood-Latch disengaged while driving at speed. The secondary (emergency) latch failed to keep the hood down, causing it to fly open, shattering the windshield, and completely blocking a view of the highway. (The hood latch had an issue where it would not close 10 months prior, and it was serviced by Subaru at that time)
Mfg Campaign: 11438338
Recall Date: Oct 27, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
Key gets stuck in ignition when vehicle is in park. The key will go to the on position but cannot be pulled out. You must turn the car back on and go into drive and reverse and park again to try and get the key to come out. Sometimes this does not work and you must do so again.
Corrective Action:
Key gets stuck in ignition when vehicle is in park. The key will go to the on position but cannot be pulled out. You must turn the car back on and go into drive and reverse and park again to try and get the key to come out. Sometimes this does not work and you must do so again.
Additional Notes:
Key gets stuck in ignition when vehicle is in park. The key will go to the on position but cannot be pulled out. You must turn the car back on and go into drive and reverse and park again to try and get the key to come out. Sometimes this does not work and you must do so again.
Mfg Campaign: 11430061
Recall Date: Aug 22, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
I had to have it be jump-started first on 7/20/21 and again on 7/23/21, the battery had been replaced with a new manufacturer's battery in Feb. of 2020. When the battery didn't start on 7/23 there were several warning lights concerning all the electrical safety systems. AAA came again this time jumped it and it started and I had it towed to the dealership. Since it was towed to the dealership I have learned that this is a documented problem with this car and that there was even a service bulletin put out by Subaru about how to deal with the problem, their fix is to replace the battery but that is fixing the symptom but not a cure. I was told that I should report this to your agency.
Corrective Action:
I had to have it be jump-started first on 7/20/21 and again on 7/23/21, the battery had been replaced with a new manufacturer's battery in Feb. of 2020. When the battery didn't start on 7/23 there were several warning lights concerning all the electrical safety systems. AAA came again this time jumped it and it started and I had it towed to the dealership. Since it was towed to the dealership I have learned that this is a documented problem with this car and that there was even a service bulletin put out by Subaru about how to deal with the problem, their fix is to replace the battery but that is fixing the symptom but not a cure. I was told that I should report this to your agency.
Additional Notes:
I had to have it be jump-started first on 7/20/21 and again on 7/23/21, the battery had been replaced with a new manufacturer's battery in Feb. of 2020. When the battery didn't start on 7/23 there were several warning lights concerning all the electrical safety systems. AAA came again this time jumped it and it started and I had it towed to the dealership. Since it was towed to the dealership I have learned that this is a documented problem with this car and that there was even a service bulletin put out by Subaru about how to deal with the problem, their fix is to replace the battery but that is fixing the symptom but not a cure. I was told that I should report this to your agency.
Mfg Campaign: 11426134
Recall Date: Jul 23, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
2016 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0 LTD (CVT) When placing vehicle in park, occasionally, will not allow me to remove ignition key when transmission is placed in park position. Safety issue is that I am not able to exit vehicle because if they remains in the car, it will be an easy vehicle to steal. Especially an issue if I am in a parking lot at night or during severe weather conditions. The car dealer and Subaru of America feel that it is my financial responsibility even though there are numerous other Subaru Crosstrek owners that have voiced the same complaint. Subaru has issued several service bulletins acknowledging that there is a defect and that the shifter was redesigned for model year 2019. Subaru Service Bulletin 16-112-18R states "The cause is contamination if the Park-Range switch internal components.
Corrective Action:
2016 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0 LTD (CVT) When placing vehicle in park, occasionally, will not allow me to remove ignition key when transmission is placed in park position. Safety issue is that I am not able to exit vehicle because if they remains in the car, it will be an easy vehicle to steal. Especially an issue if I am in a parking lot at night or during severe weather conditions. The car dealer and Subaru of America feel that it is my financial responsibility even though there are numerous other Subaru Crosstrek owners that have voiced the same complaint. Subaru has issued several service bulletins acknowledging that there is a defect and that the shifter was redesigned for model year 2019. Subaru Service Bulletin 16-112-18R states "The cause is contamination if the Park-Range switch internal components.
Additional Notes:
2016 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0 LTD (CVT) When placing vehicle in park, occasionally, will not allow me to remove ignition key when transmission is placed in park position. Safety issue is that I am not able to exit vehicle because if they remains in the car, it will be an easy vehicle to steal. Especially an issue if I am in a parking lot at night or during severe weather conditions. The car dealer and Subaru of America feel that it is my financial responsibility even though there are numerous other Subaru Crosstrek owners that have voiced the same complaint. Subaru has issued several service bulletins acknowledging that there is a defect and that the shifter was redesigned for model year 2019. Subaru Service Bulletin 16-112-18R states "The cause is contamination if the Park-Range switch internal components.
Mfg Campaign: 11423784
Recall Date: Jul 7, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
While driving on the highway with a quarter tank of gas, without warning, my vehicle's engine turned off. As I was in the left lane at the time, I was forced to pull over onto the small shoulder. There were two other occupants in the car and the nearest roadside assistance was an hour away. There were no warning lights or messages prior, and my gas gauge said I had 80 miles until empty. This is the third time this has occurred. I believe this is related to a faulty fuel pump, because my gas tank was not empty. It has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police or insurance.
Corrective Action:
While driving on the highway with a quarter tank of gas, without warning, my vehicle's engine turned off. As I was in the left lane at the time, I was forced to pull over onto the small shoulder. There were two other occupants in the car and the nearest roadside assistance was an hour away. There were no warning lights or messages prior, and my gas gauge said I had 80 miles until empty. This is the third time this has occurred. I believe this is related to a faulty fuel pump, because my gas tank was not empty. It has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police or insurance.
Additional Notes:
While driving on the highway with a quarter tank of gas, without warning, my vehicle's engine turned off. As I was in the left lane at the time, I was forced to pull over onto the small shoulder. There were two other occupants in the car and the nearest roadside assistance was an hour away. There were no warning lights or messages prior, and my gas gauge said I had 80 miles until empty. This is the third time this has occurred. I believe this is related to a faulty fuel pump, because my gas tank was not empty. It has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police or insurance.
Mfg Campaign: 11420810
Recall Date: Jun 14, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
AIR BAGS
Potential Consequences:
This is a suspected problem with the side airbags located in the driver/front passenger seats. The seat upholstery has two straps that guide the airbag into the upholstery seam when the airbag deploys. Over time, the straps chafe on the sharp edges of the seat frame and wear through. As a result, there is a risk that the seat airbag will not deploy correctly. I discovered this problem when I was performing the following procedure https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2018/MC-10140486-9999.pdf.To be clear, my airbag has not deployed and I do not know what would happen had the airbag deployed. I'm attaching some photos. The photos show the two straps, one of which is mostly worn through. They also show the straps in their intended install location. There is a photo with some arrows and comments. Another thing to note is that I have seen multiple seats with this problem from cars with much lower mileage. I have another set of seats from a Subaru WRX that also has this issue. Subaru seats share a common architecture and the airbags are the same on Crosstrek/Impreza/WRX/Forester. In addition, a fix seems rather simple. This would involve applying some strong tape to the sharp edges of the seat frame to cover the sharp edges.
Corrective Action:
This is a suspected problem with the side airbags located in the driver/front passenger seats. The seat upholstery has two straps that guide the airbag into the upholstery seam when the airbag deploys. Over time, the straps chafe on the sharp edges of the seat frame and wear through. As a result, there is a risk that the seat airbag will not deploy correctly. I discovered this problem when I was performing the following procedure https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2018/MC-10140486-9999.pdf.To be clear, my airbag has not deployed and I do not know what would happen had the airbag deployed. I'm attaching some photos. The photos show the two straps, one of which is mostly worn through. They also show the straps in their intended install location. There is a photo with some arrows and comments. Another thing to note is that I have seen multiple seats with this problem from cars with much lower mileage. I have another set of seats from a Subaru WRX that also has this issue. Subaru seats share a common architecture and the airbags are the same on Crosstrek/Impreza/WRX/Forester. In addition, a fix seems rather simple. This would involve applying some strong tape to the sharp edges of the seat frame to cover the sharp edges.
Additional Notes:
This is a suspected problem with the side airbags located in the driver/front passenger seats. The seat upholstery has two straps that guide the airbag into the upholstery seam when the airbag deploys. Over time, the straps chafe on the sharp edges of the seat frame and wear through. As a result, there is a risk that the seat airbag will not deploy correctly. I discovered this problem when I was performing the following procedure https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2018/MC-10140486-9999.pdf.To be clear, my airbag has not deployed and I do not know what would happen had the airbag deployed. I'm attaching some photos. The photos show the two straps, one of which is mostly worn through. They also show the straps in their intended install location. There is a photo with some arrows and comments. Another thing to note is that I have seen multiple seats with this problem from cars with much lower mileage. I have another set of seats from a Subaru WRX that also has this issue. Subaru seats share a common architecture and the airbags are the same on Crosstrek/Impreza/WRX/Forester. In addition, a fix seems rather simple. This would involve applying some strong tape to the sharp edges of the seat frame to cover the sharp edges.
Mfg Campaign: 11420440
Recall Date: Jun 10, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 SUBARU CROSSTREK. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE HIGH TEMPERATURE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DCH SUBARU OF THOUSAND OAKS (3725 AUTO MALL DR, THOUSAND OAKS, CA 91362) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH THE ENGINE SHORT BLOCK NEEDING TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER, UPON RETRIEVING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE CORRECTLY WITH A LOUD KNOCKING SOUND WAS COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE SAME DEALER 4 MONTHS LATER TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VALVES NEEDED TO BE ADJUSTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND REFERRED THE CONTACT BACK TO THE SAME DEALER FOR ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 118,000.
Corrective Action:
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 SUBARU CROSSTREK. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE HIGH TEMPERATURE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DCH SUBARU OF THOUSAND OAKS (3725 AUTO MALL DR, THOUSAND OAKS, CA 91362) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH THE ENGINE SHORT BLOCK NEEDING TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER, UPON RETRIEVING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE CORRECTLY WITH A LOUD KNOCKING SOUND WAS COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE SAME DEALER 4 MONTHS LATER TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VALVES NEEDED TO BE ADJUSTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND REFERRED THE CONTACT BACK TO THE SAME DEALER FOR ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 118,000.
Additional Notes:
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 SUBARU CROSSTREK. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE HIGH TEMPERATURE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DCH SUBARU OF THOUSAND OAKS (3725 AUTO MALL DR, THOUSAND OAKS, CA 91362) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH THE ENGINE SHORT BLOCK NEEDING TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER, UPON RETRIEVING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE CORRECTLY WITH A LOUD KNOCKING SOUND WAS COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE SAME DEALER 4 MONTHS LATER TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VALVES NEEDED TO BE ADJUSTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND REFERRED THE CONTACT BACK TO THE SAME DEALER FOR ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 118,000.
Mfg Campaign: 11416134
Recall Date: May 11, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
HAD BEEN DRIVING FOR ABOUT 15 MINUTES, MAJORITY OF IT HAD BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY, AND I EXITED OFF THE HIGHWAY. I WAITED AT A STOP LIGHT AND THEN TURNED ONTO A SECONDARY ROAD. THE CAR ALL OF A SUDDEN GAVE ALL WARNING LIGHTS WITH THE HYBRID SYSTEM AND I LOST ACCELERATION IN THE VEHICLE. IT MADE IT VERY HARD TO STEER, AND WHEN STEPPING ON THE GAS IT BARELY HAD ANY POWER TO ACCELERATE THE VEHICLE. FELT LIKE I LOST THE MAIN POWER A D WAS USING ONLY THE HYBRID BATTERY TO POWER THE VEHICLE. I PULLED OFF ON A SIDE STREET PUT THE CAR IN PARK AND SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF. I WAITED A FEW MINUTES AND THEN TURNED THE CAR BACK ON AND EVERYTHING WAS FINE. THIS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING AND IF IT HAD HAPPENED TWO MINUTES EARLIER I WOULD'VE BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY AND IN REAL TROUBLE.
Corrective Action:
HAD BEEN DRIVING FOR ABOUT 15 MINUTES, MAJORITY OF IT HAD BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY, AND I EXITED OFF THE HIGHWAY. I WAITED AT A STOP LIGHT AND THEN TURNED ONTO A SECONDARY ROAD. THE CAR ALL OF A SUDDEN GAVE ALL WARNING LIGHTS WITH THE HYBRID SYSTEM AND I LOST ACCELERATION IN THE VEHICLE. IT MADE IT VERY HARD TO STEER, AND WHEN STEPPING ON THE GAS IT BARELY HAD ANY POWER TO ACCELERATE THE VEHICLE. FELT LIKE I LOST THE MAIN POWER A D WAS USING ONLY THE HYBRID BATTERY TO POWER THE VEHICLE. I PULLED OFF ON A SIDE STREET PUT THE CAR IN PARK AND SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF. I WAITED A FEW MINUTES AND THEN TURNED THE CAR BACK ON AND EVERYTHING WAS FINE. THIS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING AND IF IT HAD HAPPENED TWO MINUTES EARLIER I WOULD'VE BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY AND IN REAL TROUBLE.
Additional Notes:
HAD BEEN DRIVING FOR ABOUT 15 MINUTES, MAJORITY OF IT HAD BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY, AND I EXITED OFF THE HIGHWAY. I WAITED AT A STOP LIGHT AND THEN TURNED ONTO A SECONDARY ROAD. THE CAR ALL OF A SUDDEN GAVE ALL WARNING LIGHTS WITH THE HYBRID SYSTEM AND I LOST ACCELERATION IN THE VEHICLE. IT MADE IT VERY HARD TO STEER, AND WHEN STEPPING ON THE GAS IT BARELY HAD ANY POWER TO ACCELERATE THE VEHICLE. FELT LIKE I LOST THE MAIN POWER A D WAS USING ONLY THE HYBRID BATTERY TO POWER THE VEHICLE. I PULLED OFF ON A SIDE STREET PUT THE CAR IN PARK AND SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF. I WAITED A FEW MINUTES AND THEN TURNED THE CAR BACK ON AND EVERYTHING WAS FINE. THIS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING AND IF IT HAD HAPPENED TWO MINUTES EARLIER I WOULD'VE BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY AND IN REAL TROUBLE.
Mfg Campaign: 11414754
Recall Date: May 1, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
HAD BEEN DRIVING FOR ABOUT 15 MINUTES, MAJORITY OF IT HAD BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY, AND I EXITED OFF THE HIGHWAY. I WAITED AT A STOP LIGHT AND THEN TURNED ONTO A SECONDARY ROAD. THE CAR ALL OF A SUDDEN GAVE ALL WARNING LIGHTS WITH THE HYBRID SYSTEM AND I LOST ACCELERATION IN THE VEHICLE. IT MADE IT VERY HARD TO STEER, AND WHEN STEPPING ON THE GAS IT BARELY HAD ANY POWER TO ACCELERATE THE VEHICLE. FELT LIKE I LOST THE MAIN POWER A D WAS USING ONLY THE HYBRID BATTERY TO POWER THE VEHICLE. I PULLED OFF ON A SIDE STREET PUT THE CAR IN PARK AND SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF. I WAITED A FEW MINUTES AND THEN TURNED THE CAR BACK ON AND EVERYTHING WAS FINE. THIS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING AND IF IT HAD HAPPENED TWO MINUTES EARLIER I WOULD'VE BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY AND IN REAL TROUBLE.
Corrective Action:
HAD BEEN DRIVING FOR ABOUT 15 MINUTES, MAJORITY OF IT HAD BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY, AND I EXITED OFF THE HIGHWAY. I WAITED AT A STOP LIGHT AND THEN TURNED ONTO A SECONDARY ROAD. THE CAR ALL OF A SUDDEN GAVE ALL WARNING LIGHTS WITH THE HYBRID SYSTEM AND I LOST ACCELERATION IN THE VEHICLE. IT MADE IT VERY HARD TO STEER, AND WHEN STEPPING ON THE GAS IT BARELY HAD ANY POWER TO ACCELERATE THE VEHICLE. FELT LIKE I LOST THE MAIN POWER A D WAS USING ONLY THE HYBRID BATTERY TO POWER THE VEHICLE. I PULLED OFF ON A SIDE STREET PUT THE CAR IN PARK AND SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF. I WAITED A FEW MINUTES AND THEN TURNED THE CAR BACK ON AND EVERYTHING WAS FINE. THIS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING AND IF IT HAD HAPPENED TWO MINUTES EARLIER I WOULD'VE BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY AND IN REAL TROUBLE.
Additional Notes:
HAD BEEN DRIVING FOR ABOUT 15 MINUTES, MAJORITY OF IT HAD BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY, AND I EXITED OFF THE HIGHWAY. I WAITED AT A STOP LIGHT AND THEN TURNED ONTO A SECONDARY ROAD. THE CAR ALL OF A SUDDEN GAVE ALL WARNING LIGHTS WITH THE HYBRID SYSTEM AND I LOST ACCELERATION IN THE VEHICLE. IT MADE IT VERY HARD TO STEER, AND WHEN STEPPING ON THE GAS IT BARELY HAD ANY POWER TO ACCELERATE THE VEHICLE. FELT LIKE I LOST THE MAIN POWER A D WAS USING ONLY THE HYBRID BATTERY TO POWER THE VEHICLE. I PULLED OFF ON A SIDE STREET PUT THE CAR IN PARK AND SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF. I WAITED A FEW MINUTES AND THEN TURNED THE CAR BACK ON AND EVERYTHING WAS FINE. THIS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING AND IF IT HAD HAPPENED TWO MINUTES EARLIER I WOULD'VE BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY AND IN REAL TROUBLE.
Mfg Campaign: 11414754
Recall Date: May 1, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
HAD BEEN DRIVING FOR ABOUT 15 MINUTES, MAJORITY OF IT HAD BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY, AND I EXITED OFF THE HIGHWAY. I WAITED AT A STOP LIGHT AND THEN TURNED ONTO A SECONDARY ROAD. THE CAR ALL OF A SUDDEN GAVE ALL WARNING LIGHTS WITH THE HYBRID SYSTEM AND I LOST ACCELERATION IN THE VEHICLE. IT MADE IT VERY HARD TO STEER, AND WHEN STEPPING ON THE GAS IT BARELY HAD ANY POWER TO ACCELERATE THE VEHICLE. FELT LIKE I LOST THE MAIN POWER A D WAS USING ONLY THE HYBRID BATTERY TO POWER THE VEHICLE. I PULLED OFF ON A SIDE STREET PUT THE CAR IN PARK AND SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF. I WAITED A FEW MINUTES AND THEN TURNED THE CAR BACK ON AND EVERYTHING WAS FINE. THIS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING AND IF IT HAD HAPPENED TWO MINUTES EARLIER I WOULD'VE BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY AND IN REAL TROUBLE.
Corrective Action:
HAD BEEN DRIVING FOR ABOUT 15 MINUTES, MAJORITY OF IT HAD BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY, AND I EXITED OFF THE HIGHWAY. I WAITED AT A STOP LIGHT AND THEN TURNED ONTO A SECONDARY ROAD. THE CAR ALL OF A SUDDEN GAVE ALL WARNING LIGHTS WITH THE HYBRID SYSTEM AND I LOST ACCELERATION IN THE VEHICLE. IT MADE IT VERY HARD TO STEER, AND WHEN STEPPING ON THE GAS IT BARELY HAD ANY POWER TO ACCELERATE THE VEHICLE. FELT LIKE I LOST THE MAIN POWER A D WAS USING ONLY THE HYBRID BATTERY TO POWER THE VEHICLE. I PULLED OFF ON A SIDE STREET PUT THE CAR IN PARK AND SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF. I WAITED A FEW MINUTES AND THEN TURNED THE CAR BACK ON AND EVERYTHING WAS FINE. THIS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING AND IF IT HAD HAPPENED TWO MINUTES EARLIER I WOULD'VE BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY AND IN REAL TROUBLE.
Additional Notes:
HAD BEEN DRIVING FOR ABOUT 15 MINUTES, MAJORITY OF IT HAD BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY, AND I EXITED OFF THE HIGHWAY. I WAITED AT A STOP LIGHT AND THEN TURNED ONTO A SECONDARY ROAD. THE CAR ALL OF A SUDDEN GAVE ALL WARNING LIGHTS WITH THE HYBRID SYSTEM AND I LOST ACCELERATION IN THE VEHICLE. IT MADE IT VERY HARD TO STEER, AND WHEN STEPPING ON THE GAS IT BARELY HAD ANY POWER TO ACCELERATE THE VEHICLE. FELT LIKE I LOST THE MAIN POWER A D WAS USING ONLY THE HYBRID BATTERY TO POWER THE VEHICLE. I PULLED OFF ON A SIDE STREET PUT THE CAR IN PARK AND SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF. I WAITED A FEW MINUTES AND THEN TURNED THE CAR BACK ON AND EVERYTHING WAS FINE. THIS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING AND IF IT HAD HAPPENED TWO MINUTES EARLIER I WOULD'VE BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY AND IN REAL TROUBLE.
Mfg Campaign: 11414754
Recall Date: May 1, 2021
Subaru Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
KEY IS UNABLE TO BE REMOVED FROM IGNITION AFTER SHIFTING TO PARK. SOMETIMES REQUIRES YOU TO SHIFT IN AND OUT OF PARK SEVERAL TIMES TO GET THE KEY TO RELEASE. SEEMS TO BE A COMMON COMPLAINT AND A DEFECTIVE PARK POSITION SENSOR.
Corrective Action:
KEY IS UNABLE TO BE REMOVED FROM IGNITION AFTER SHIFTING TO PARK. SOMETIMES REQUIRES YOU TO SHIFT IN AND OUT OF PARK SEVERAL TIMES TO GET THE KEY TO RELEASE. SEEMS TO BE A COMMON COMPLAINT AND A DEFECTIVE PARK POSITION SENSOR.
Additional Notes:
KEY IS UNABLE TO BE REMOVED FROM IGNITION AFTER SHIFTING TO PARK. SOMETIMES REQUIRES YOU TO SHIFT IN AND OUT OF PARK SEVERAL TIMES TO GET THE KEY TO RELEASE. SEEMS TO BE A COMMON COMPLAINT AND A DEFECTIVE PARK POSITION SENSOR.
Mfg Campaign: 11413676
Recall Date: Apr 24, 2021
Need Legal Help?
Featured Attorneys
Barry Edzant
Edzant Price LLC
Valencia, CA • 36 yrs
Focus: Lemon Law, Personal Injury