Component
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Manufacturer
SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
What Happened
The puddle lights under your vehicle's doors, which brighten up the area when you're parked, could be faulty. This is an accessory feature, not a standard part of your vehicle, but it's still a potential safety concern.
Risk if Unfixed
If moisture gets inside the puddle light circuit, it could cause a short circuit and start a fire. This could happen if you drive through areas with road salt, like during winter months, and the moisture seeps into the circuit board or connector.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will install a new, fused harness to prevent the short circuit, completely free of charge. When you get the recall notice, schedule an appointment to have this repair done to keep you and your vehicle safe.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010 and 2011 Legacy and Outback vehicles, certain model year 2006 through 2012 Tribeca vehicles sold before January 2012, and certain model year 2009 through 2012 Forester vehicles sold before January 2012. Up to 78,650 of these vehicles may have been equipped with accessory puddle lights that, when illuminated, brighten the area under the doors of the vehicle. A short circuit can develop when either the puddle light or connector are exposed to an electrolytic moisture source (such as road spray that has road salt in it) and it penetrates the circuit board of the puddle light or the pins of the puddle light connector(s).
Original — Risk if Unfixed
Over time, migration of the moisture into the circuit board and/or into the connector cavity, may result in a short circuit of the puddle light system. This may generate heat which may melt the plastic resulting in smoke or fire.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional fused-harness, free of charge. The recall began February 19, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
View full recall details →
Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →