The Recall Desk
SevereNHTSA·16V292000·Announced 2016-05-11

Subaru Recalls 2016-2017 Legacy and Outback for Steering Column Defect

Subaru is recalling 48,819 Legacy and Outback vehicles because an improperly machined steering column may cause loss of steering control, increasing crash risk.

NHTSA safety advisory

Do not drive this vehicle

NHTSA advises owners to stop driving this vehicle until the recall repair has been completed.

This is the agency’s own advisory, not our assessment. Contact the manufacturer or a dealer, and see the official NHTSA notice for the current guidance.

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 (steering column) that results in loss of steering ability, which the source text states would increase the risk of a crash.

Plain-English summary

Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Legacy and Outback vehicles manufactured between February 29, 2016, and May 6, 2016. The recall involves 48,819 vehicles. The steering column on these vehicles may have been improperly machined, which could result in the steering wheel having no effect on the direction of the wheels when turned.

The loss of steering ability would increase the risk of a crash. Until the vehicles have been inspected, owners are advised not to drive their vehicles.

Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the lot number on the steering column, replacing the steering column, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 13, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783 or visit http://www.wtd65.service-campaign.com. Subaru's number for this recall is WTD-65. Owners may also contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or go to www.safercar.gov.

The recalled product

Product
SUBARU OUTBACK, LEGACY
Brand
SUBARU
Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
Category
Vehicle — Steering
Hazard
Affected units
48,819

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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