Subaru Recall 900,000 Vehicles in North America
Subaru has issued two concurrent recalls affecting over 92,000 vehicles in Canada because of both rear suspension concerns and a software error related to the engine’s performance.
Date of recall: April 21, 2021
Vehicles affected
The first recall for the rear suspension affects 39,502 vehicles in Canada, plus about 405,000 in the United States. All of the affected vehicles fall under these models:
- 2018-19 Crosstrek
- 2019 Forester
The second recall for the engine software error affects 52,863 vehicles in Canada, including another 466,025 in the U.S. These are the affected models:
- 2017-19 Impreza
- 2018-19 Crosstrek
The Crosstrek is impacted by both recalls, though Subaru hasn’t reported any incidents related to either of these issues for any of the vehicles affected.
What’s the problem?
For the rear suspension defect, the issue specifically pertains to the rear stabilizer bracket bolts. Stabilizer bars, also known as “sway bars”, control each wheel’s suspension to make sure it stays level and doesn’t sway too far. Over time, the bolts on these vehicles could loosen to the point of detaching, raising the potential for a crash.
The software error is situated in the engine control module (ECM), which may have been programmed incorrectly at the factory to not to mitigate temperature increases in the ignition coils. That could lead to a short circuit or blown fuse when the engine is off. That could lead to the engine losing power and negating it from starting again.
Transport Canada says this also applies to a previous recall in 2019 that address software issues with the ECM. Any vehicles repaired under that recall are required to get this one, too.
What’s the fix?
Subaru will inspect the stabilizer bracket bolts, and tighten them where necessary. In case a bolt is completely missing, a new one will be installed.
Dealers will update the ECM software to program it properly. They will also inspect the ignition coil, and then replace it if it needs a new one. In the event of ignition coil damage with a DTO trouble code, they may also choose to replace the front exhaust pipe as well. All repairs will be done free of charge.
What do you do?
Subaru will notify affected owners in May with instructions on where to take their vehicles in for repair. Those wishing to learn more about what to do are encouraged to contact the automaker or their dealer for further details about your next steps.
Enter your Subaru VIN at this link to learn more about this recall and find out if there are other Service Actions related to your vehicle.
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