The Recall Desk
SevereNHTSA·19V297000·Announced 2019-04-11

Subaru Recalls Vehicles Due to Ignition Switch Spring Failure Risk

Subaru is recalling specific 2005-2014 models because a broken spring in the ignition switch could cause the engine to turn off unexpectedly, increasing crash risk.

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 where the engine can turn off unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash and preventing airbag deployment, which aligns with the criteria for significant injury risk.

Plain-English summary

Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain 2005-2014 Subaru Legacy, Outback, Impreza, Forester, WRX, and Tribeca vehicles. The recall affects vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch that was installed as a replacement part. The affected model years are 2005-2014 for Legacy and Outback, 2008-2011 for Impreza, 2009-2013 for Forester, 2008-2014 for WRX, and 2006-2008 for Tribeca.

The defect involves a ball spring inside the ignition switch that may break, reducing the switch's strength. If the spring breaks, the weight of a key ring and certain road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move from the run position to the accessory position. This action turns off the engine while the vehicle is in motion.

An unexpected engine shutdown can increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, if a crash occurs under these conditions, the air bag may not deploy, which increases the risk of injury. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ignition switch and replace it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began on May 10, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.

The recalled product

Product
SUBARU LEGACY, OUTBACK, IMPREZA, FORESTER
Brand
SUBARU
Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
Category
Vehicle — Ignition System
Hazard
Affected units
511

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 (6)

  • LEGACY
  • OUTBACK
  • IMPREZA
  • FORESTER
  • TRIBECA
  • WRX

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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