The Recall Desk
Our severity:SevereNHTSA·15V794000·Announced 2015-11-24

Subaru Recalls 2016 Legacy and Outback for Drive Shaft Separation Risk

Subaru is recalling 2016 Legacy and Outback vehicles because improperly tightened nuts may allow the drive shaft to separate, potentially causing a fuel leak and fire.

What this means for you

Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 4/5 (Severe).

The hazard poses a serious risk of illness, injury, or structural failure. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural vehicle defect (driveline) that poses a significant risk of fire due to a potential fuel leak, meeting the criteria for a Severe rating.

Plain-English summary

Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2016 Legacy and Outback vehicles. The recall covers Legacy vehicles manufactured between October 24, 2015, and November 16, 2015, and Outback vehicles manufactured between October 24, 2015, and November 17, 2015.

The defect involves the improper tightening of securing nuts on the drive shaft. If the drive shaft detaches from the rear differential, it may strike the fuel tank, resulting in a fuel leak that increases the risk of a fire.

Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will inspect the fastening nuts and tighten or replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on December 10, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.

The recalled product

Product
SUBARU OUTBACK, LEGACY
Brand
SUBARU
Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
Category
Vehicle — Drivetrain
Hazard
Affected units
3,251

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 (2)

  • OUTBACK
  • LEGACY

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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