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
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 (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
- 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.
Related recalls
Same brand · SUBARU
- High
- High2026 Subaru Solterra battery electric vehicles loss of drive power
NHTSA · 2026-06-18
- High2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid power moonroof glass panel detachment
NHTSA · 2026-05-28
- SevereSubaru Recalls 2025-2026 Hybrid Vehicles for Fuel Cap Seal Defect
NHTSA · 2026-02-23
- High2026 Subaru Forester Rear Hatch Support Bracket Detachment Risk
NHTSA · 2025-12-18
Same manufacturer · Subaru of America, Inc.
See all →- SevereSubaru Forester child seat anchor bolts may come loose
NHTSA · 2025-06-19
- SevereSubaru Forester alloy wheels may be improperly attached losing stability
NHTSA · 2025-01-23
- HighSubaru Outback and Legacy occupant sensors may prevent airbag deployment
NHTSA · 2024-03-22
Same hazard · fire
See all →- HighKibbi Recalls 2026-2027 Renegade RVs Due to Fire Risk
NHTSA · 2026-09-05
- SevereAmana Through-The-Wall Air Conditioners Recalled Due to Fire Risk
CPSC · 2026-09-03
- Severe
- High
- SevereTiffin Recalls 2026-2027 Wayfarer RVs Due to LP Tank Defects
NHTSA · 2026-08-31