The Recall Desk
SevereNHTSA·14V577000·Announced 2014-09-19

Subaru Recalls 2015 Outbacks Due to Trailer Hitch Mounting Nut Defect

Subaru is recalling 2015 Outbacks with accessory trailer hitches because overtightened mounting nuts may cause hitch failure. Owners should contact dealers to replace nuts and inspect studs.

What this means for you

Illness, injury, or structural failure has been reported. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural vehicle defect (trailer hitch mounting failure) that could lead to trailer detachment or loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash, which aligns with the 'Severe' criteria for structural defects and significant injury risk.

Plain-English summary

Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2015 Outback vehicles manufactured between January 22, 2014, and August 18, 2014. These vehicles are equipped with a Subaru accessory trailer hitch assembly. The recall addresses a defect where the trailer hitch mounting nuts may have been overtightened during installation.

The overtightening may result in the failure of the trailer hitch mounting studs. If the mounting nuts do not provide sufficient force to remain attached, or if the studs break while towing, the trailer may detach from the vehicle or the driver may be unable to operate the vehicle as desired. Either situation could increase the risk of a crash.

Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace all eight mounting nuts for the trailer hitch assembly and inspect all eight mounting studs for damage free of charge. The recall began on October 7, 2014. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.

The recalled product

Product
SUBARU OUTBACK
Brand
SUBARU
Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
Category
Vehicle — Trailer Hitch Assembly
Hazard
Affected units
56

Is your product affected?

Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.

Model numbers (1)

  • OUTBACK

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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