The Recall Desk
Our severity:SevereNHTSA·21V955000·Announced 2021-12-09

Subaru Recalls 2019-2020 Models for Transmission Control Unit Programming Error

Subaru is recalling 2019-2020 Ascent, Legacy, and Outback vehicles because a programming error may cause the drive chain to slip and break, increasing crash risk.

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 in the drivetrain that can cause loss of drive power and increase the risk of a crash, meeting the criteria for a Severe rating.

Plain-English summary

Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2020 Legacy, and 2020 Outback vehicles. The recall addresses a programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) that may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.

An improperly secured drive chain may slip and break, causing a loss of drive power and increasing the risk of a crash. This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under 19V-855, which will need the new remedy performed once available.

Dealers will reprogram the TCU, inspect TCU data for chain slip, and visually inspect the chain guide. If evidence of chain slippage or damage is found, the transmission will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 19, 2022. 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 OUTBACK, ASCENT, LEGACY
Brand
SUBARU
Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
Category
Vehicle — Transmission/Drivetrain
Hazard
Affected units
198,255

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 (3)

  • OUTBACK
  • ASCENT
  • LEGACY

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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