Subaru Tribeca recalls

19 official safety recalls for the Subaru Tribeca from NHTSA (United States), DVSA (United Kingdom) and the EU Safety Gate, newest first. Recall repairs are normally free at the maker’s dealers.

Whether your car is affected and still needs the repair depends on its VIN or registration. Check it on the official site for your country:

  1. Ignition switch spring may break and shut off engine

    Reported April 11, 2019Model years 2006–2008NHTSA campaign 19V297000511 vehicles affected

    A broken spring may let the ignition switch move from Run to Accessory due to key ring weight or road conditions, shutting off the engine. In a crash, the air bag may not deploy, increasing injury risk. Dealers will inspect the switch and replace it if needed, free of charge.

    Official NHTSA recall text
    Component
    ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
    Defect
    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch installed as a replacement part. The ball spring inside the switch may break, reducing the strength of the ignition switch. If this occurs, the weight on the key ring and certain road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
    Consequence
    The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. If a crash occurs under this condition, the air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
    Remedy
    Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ignition switch, replacing the ignition switch, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 10, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUF-91.
    Notes
    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.
  2. Passenger air bag inflator may explode

    Reported January 9, 2019Model years 2010–2014NHTSA campaign 19V009000452,630 vehicles affected

    The passenger air bag inflator may explode when deployed, sending metal fragments into the vehicle and potentially seriously injuring or killing occupants. Dealers will replace the inflator, free of charge.

    Official NHTSA recall text
    Component
    AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
    Defect
    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
    Consequence
    An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
    Remedy
    Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-19.
    Notes
    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.
  3. Passenger air bag inflator may explode

    Reported January 9, 2019Model years 2010–2014NHTSA campaign 19V008000330,120 vehicles affected

    The passenger air bag inflator may explode when deployed, sending metal fragments into the vehicle and potentially seriously injuring or killing occupants. Dealers will replace the inflator, free of charge.

    Official NHTSA recall text
    Component
    AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
    Defect
    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, and Legacy vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
    Consequence
    An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
    Remedy
    Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-19.
    Notes
    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.
  4. Passenger air bag inflator may explode

    Reported January 9, 2019Model years 2010–2014NHTSA campaign 19V00700043,394 vehicles affected

    The passenger air bag inflator may explode when deployed, sending metal fragments into the vehicle and potentially seriously injuring or killing occupants. Dealers will replace the inflator, free of charge.

    Official NHTSA recall text
    Component
    AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
    Defect
    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Forester, 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, Legacy, and 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
    Consequence
    An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
    Remedy
    Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-19.
    Notes
    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.
  5. Front passenger airbag inflator may fail

    Reported April 30, 2018Model years 2007–2011DVSA recall R/2018/12239,600 vehicles affected

    The front passenger airbag inflator may fail. The inflator unit will be replaced.

    Official DVSA recall text
    Component
    FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG INFLATOR MAY FAIL
    Defect
    Front passenger air bag inflator may fail.
    Remedy
    On affected vehicles replace airbag inflator unit.
  6. Passenger air bag inflator may explode

    Reported January 9, 2018Model years 2009NHTSA campaign 18V01400072,150 vehicles affected

    The passenger air bag inflator may explode when the air bag deploys, sending sharp metal fragments into the vehicle and potentially causing serious injury or death. Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflators, free of charge.

    Official NHTSA recall text
    Component
    AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
    Defect
    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009 Tribeca, Impreza, Forester, WRX, Legacy, and Outback vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
    Consequence
    An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
    Remedy
    Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-18.
    Notes
    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.
  7. Passenger air bag inflator may explode

    Reported January 9, 2018Model years 2009–2010NHTSA campaign 18V01300093,209 vehicles affected

    The passenger air bag inflator may explode when the air bag deploys, sending sharp metal fragments into the vehicle and potentially causing serious injury or death. Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge.

    Official NHTSA recall text
    Component
    AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
    Defect
    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2010 Tribeca, Impreza, Forester, WRX, Legacy, and Outback vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
    Consequence
    An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
    Remedy
    Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-18.
    Notes
    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.
  8. Passenger air bag inflator may explode

    Reported January 9, 2018Model years 2009–2013NHTSA campaign 18V01200064,179 vehicles affected

    The passenger air bag inflator may explode when the air bag deploys, sending sharp metal fragments into the vehicle and potentially causing serious injury or death. Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge.

    Official NHTSA recall text
    Component
    AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
    Defect
    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Legacy, Forester, Tribeca, WRX and Outback vehicles, and 2009-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
    Consequence
    An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
    Remedy
    Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-18.
    Notes
    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.
  9. Passenger air bag inflator may rupture

    Reported January 11, 2017Model years 2006–2009NHTSA campaign 17V02600069,529 vehicles affected

    In a crash, the passenger air bag inflator may rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, risking serious injury or death. Dealers will replace the inflator free of charge.

    Official NHTSA recall text
    Component
    AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
    Defect
    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Baja, 2009 Forester, Legacy and Outback and 2006-2009 Impreza (including WRX and STI models) and Tribeca vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
    Consequence
    An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
    Remedy
    Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger front air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2017. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-17.
    Notes
    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.
  10. Passenger air bag inflator may rupture

    Reported January 10, 2017Model years 2006–2008NHTSA campaign 17V01600062,764 vehicles affected

    Long-term exposure to humidity and temperature changes may degrade the inflator propellant, causing the passenger air bag inflator to rupture in a crash. Metal fragments could strike occupants, causing serious injury or death. Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator free of charge.

    Official NHTSA recall text
    Component
    AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
    Defect
    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Baja, 2006-2008 Impreza (including WRX and STI models), Tribeca, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles, originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
    Consequence
    An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
    Remedy
    Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 8, 2017. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-17.
    Notes
    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.
  11. Passenger air bag inflator may rupture

    Reported January 10, 2017Model years 2006–2012NHTSA campaign 17V01400053,480 vehicles affected

    Long-term exposure to humidity and temperature changes may degrade the inflator propellant, causing the passenger air bag inflator to rupture in a crash. Metal fragments could strike occupants, causing serious injury or death. Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator free of charge.

    Official NHTSA recall text
    Component
    AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
    Defect
    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Subaru Baja, 2006-2011 Impreza (including WRX and STI models), 2006-2012 Tribeca, 2009-2012 Forester, Legacy, Outback, and 2012 WRX vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
    Consequence
    An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
    Remedy
    Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2017. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-17.
    Notes
    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.
  12. Bonnet lock may seize and open

    Reported August 1, 2016Model years 2006–2014DVSA recall R/2016/142EU Safety Gate A12/0876/16744 vehicles affected

    The bonnet lock mechanism may seize, allowing the bonnet to open while driving and obstructing the driver's vision. The mechanism will first be lubricated and freed; it will be replaced when parts are available.

    Official DVSA recall text
    Component
    BONNET CATCH MAY OPEN
    Defect
    The bonnet lock mechanism my seize and allow the bonnet to open whilst the vehicle is in motion causing a loss of vision.
    Remedy
    In the first instance lubricate and free off the bonnet lock mechanism. When parts become available replace bonnet lock mechanism.
  13. Passenger airbag inflator may rupture

    Reported May 25, 2016Model years 2006–2008NHTSA campaign 16V359000146,010 vehicles affected

    In a crash that deploys the front airbags, an inflator may rupture and send metal fragments into the vehicle, potentially seriously injuring or killing occupants. Dealers will replace the passenger airbag inflator free of charge.

    Official NHTSA recall text
    Component
    AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
    Defect
    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2006-2008 Impreza, Tribeca, 2006 Saab 9-2x, and 2003-2006 Baja vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." These vehicles may be equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
    Consequence
    An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
    Remedy
    Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 24, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-16. Note: This notice is only for vehicles that were not covered by 16V-358 for Zone A.
    Notes
    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.
  14. Passenger airbag inflator may rupture

    Reported May 25, 2016Model years 2006–2011NHTSA campaign 16V358000302,127 vehicles affected

    In a crash that deploys the front airbags, an inflator may rupture and send metal fragments into the vehicle, potentially seriously injuring or killing occupants. Dealers will replace the passenger airbag inflator free of charge.

    Official NHTSA recall text
    Component
    AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
    Defect
    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2009-2011 Legacy, Outback, Forester, 2006-2011 Impreza, Tribeca, 2003-2006 Baja, and 2006 Saab 9-2x vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." These vehicles may be equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
    Consequence
    An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
    Remedy
    Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 26, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Saab owners may contact GM at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-16.
    Notes
    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.
  15. Hood may open unexpectedly while driving

    Reported February 3, 2016Model years 2006–2014NHTSA campaign 16V06000077,017 vehicles affected

    A possible fault in the hood safety and lock systems may allow the hood to open while driving and obstruct the driver's view, increasing crash risk. Dealers will inspect, clean and lubricate the systems, replace a faulty latch if needed, then install improved systems.

    Official NHTSA recall text
    Component
    LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
    Defect
    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2006-2014 Tribeca vehicles manufactured November 16, 2004, to January 27, 2014. Due to a possible malfunction of the hood safety system and hood lock system, the hood may open unexpectedly while driving.
    Consequence
    If the hood unexpectedly opens while driving, it may interfere with the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Remedy
    Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will complete this recall in two phases. Phase one will involve inspection, cleaning, and lubricating the hood safety and hood lock systems. If after this is performed the hood latch does not operate properly, it will be replaced with a new current style part. Phase two will involve installing an improved hood safety system and hood lock system. Interim notification was mailed March 4, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQX-59 (phase one) and WQY-60 (phase two).
    Notes
    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.
  16. Transmission parking rod may come loose

    Reported August 1, 2013Model years 2013NHTSA campaign 13V336000202 vehicles affected

    The parking rod may come loose inside the transmission. The vehicle may become stuck in Park, or the parking mechanism may fail to engage and allow it to roll away. Dealers will replace the transmission free of charge.

    Official NHTSA recall text
    Component
    POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
    Defect
    Subaru of America is recalling certain model year 2014 Legacy 3.6R and Outback 3.6R and 2013 Tribeca vehicles manufactured June 12, 2013, through June 28, 2013 and equipped with 5-speed automatic transmissions. In the affected vehicles, the parking rod may come loose inside the automatic transmission.
    Consequence
    As a result of the parking rod detaching, the transmission may not be able to be moved from the "park" position preventing the vehicle from being moved or driven. Furthermore, even with the transmission shifted into the 'park' position, the parking mechanism may not engage, and the vehicle may roll away while in the "park" position, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Remedy
    Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the transmission, free of charge. The recall began during August 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's recall number is WQJ-46.
    Notes
    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.
  17. Puddle light short circuit may cause smoke or fire

    Reported December 26, 2012Model years 2006–2012NHTSA campaign 12V602000633,842 vehicles affected

    Moisture and road salt may cause a short circuit in the puddle light or its connector. Heat could melt plastic and cause smoke or fire. Dealers will install an additional fused harness, free of charge.

    Official NHTSA recall text
    Component
    EXTERIOR LIGHTING
    Defect
    Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010 and 2011 Legacy and Outback vehicles, certain model year 2006 through 2012 Tribeca vehicles sold before January 2012, and certain model year 2009 through 2012 Forester vehicles sold before January 2012. Up to 78,650 of these vehicles may have been equipped with accessory puddle lights that, when illuminated, brighten the area under the doors of the vehicle. A short circuit can develop when either the puddle light or connector are exposed to an electrolytic moisture source (such as road spray that has road salt in it) and it penetrates the circuit board of the puddle light or the pins of the puddle light connector(s).
    Consequence
    Over time, migration of the moisture into the circuit board and/or into the connector cavity, may result in a short circuit of the puddle light system. This may generate heat which may melt the plastic resulting in smoke or fire.
    Remedy
    Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional fused-harness, free of charge. The recall began February 19, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
    Notes
    Subaru's recall campaign number is WQE-41.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.
  18. Front door latch cable may unlatch the door

    Reported March 18, 2010Model years 2010NHTSA campaign 10V1080001,585 vehicles affected

    A latch cable may catch in the window regulator and unlatch a front door as the window moves. A door could open unexpectedly, or the latch could fail to operate. Dealers will reposition and secure the cables in both front doors free of charge.

    Official NHTSA recall text
    Component
    LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
    Defect
    SUBARU HAS NOTIFIED NHTSA ABOUT A DEFECT IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 TRIBECA PASSENGER CARS MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 4, 2009 THROUGH MARCH 8, 2010. THE DOOR LATCH CABLES LOCATED INSIDE THE VEHICLE'S DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER DOORS WERE IMPROPERLY POSITIONED DURING PRODUCTION. AS A RESULT, A CABLE CAN CATCH IN THE DOOR GLASS REGULATOR WHEN A WINDOW IS OPENED OR CLOSED. SHOULD THAT OCCUR, IT MAY UNLATCH THE DOOR, CAUSING IT TO COME OPEN UNEXPECTEDLY WHEN RAISING OR LOWERING THE WINDOW.
    Consequence
    IF A DOOR WERE TO UNLATCH, IT COULD OPEN SUDDENLY AND WITHOUT WARNING, CREATING A RISK THAT AN OCCUPANT COULD BE EJECTED AS WELL AS A RISK THAT THE DRIVER MAY BECOME DISTRACTED, LEADING TO A CRASH. THIS CONDITION MAY ALSO RESULT IN THE FAILURE OF A DOOR LATCH TO OPERATE, IN WHICH CASE OCCUPANTS WOULD BE UNABLE TO OPEN THE DOOR TO EXIT THE VEHICLE.
    Remedy
    SUBARU WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS AND WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES BY REPOSITIONING AND SECURING THE LATCH CABLE IN BOTH FRONT DOORS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 19, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-SUBARU3 (1-800-782-2783) MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY BETWEEN 8:30 AM AND 7:00 PM EST AND FRIDAY BETWEEN 10:30 AM AND 5:00 PM EST.
    Notes
    SUBARU'S RECALL CAMPAIGN NUMBER IS WVO-25.OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO <A HREF=HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV>HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV</A> .
  19. Vehicle dynamics sensor may be installed backwards

    Reported December 9, 2008Model years 2008–2009NHTSA campaign 08V6450005,130 vehicles affected

    A backwards vehicle dynamics sensor may cause unexpected or unstable handling during hard braking, sudden turns or other quick manoeuvres. In extreme conditions, the driver could lose control and crash. Dealers will inspect the sensor, reinstall it if needed and reprogram the system.

    Official NHTSA recall text
    Component
    ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
    Defect
    SUBARU IS RECALLING 5,130 MY 2008-2009 TRIBECA PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC) G-SENSOR WAS IMPROPERLY INSTALLED. THIS SENSOR IS DESIGNED TO BE MOUNTED IN A FORWARD FACING DIRECTION BUT MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED BACKWARDS DURING PRODUCTION.
    Consequence
    IF THE SENSOR WAS IMPROPERLY INSTALLED, VEHICLE HANDLING CHARACTERISTICS DURING HARD BRAKING, SUDDEN TURNS OR OTHER QUICK MANEUVERS COULD CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO REACT IN AN UNEXPECTED MANNER OR RESULT IN UNSTABLE HANDLING. UNDER EXTREME CONDITIONS, THE DRIVER COULD LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND A CRASH COULD OCCUR.
    Remedy
    DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE POSITION OF THE VDC G-SENSOR. IF THE SENSOR IS FOUND TO BE INSTALLED CORRECTLY, NO FURTHER ACTION IS NEEDED. IF THE SENSOR IS FOUND TO BE INSTALLED INCORRECTLY (BACKWARDS), THE SENSOR WILL BE REMOVED AND REINSTALLED IN THE CORRECT POSITION. THE VDC SYSTEM WILL ALSO BE REPROGRAMMED TO ENSURE PROPER OPERATION. THE RECALLBEGAN ON DECEMBER 19, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
    Notes
    SUBARU RECALL NO. WVG-17.CUSTOMERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

Sources: NHTSA (US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), DVSA (UK Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) and the EU Safety Gate (European Commission) recall data. Each recall covers vehicles sold in that market; models sold elsewhere may differ.

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