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2012 SUBARU Outback

16 recalls Risk Grade: A Most severe issue: Critical

All recalls are free to repair at your local dealership. Contact your dealer to schedule service.

Known Safety Recalls

Critical #18V626000 Plain English
Component

PARKING BRAKE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
Your vehicle's electronic parking brake is a system that helps hold your car in place when you park. In some 2010-2014 Subaru Legacys and Outbacks with a manual transmission, this system may not work properly.
Risk if Unfixed
If the parking brake fails to engage, your vehicle could roll away when you park on a slope, which could cause a crash.
Free Fix
Subaru will replace the faulty parking brake actuator assembly for free. Just visit your authorized Subaru dealer to schedule the repair, and they'll take care of it at no cost to you.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Subaru Legacy and Outback vehicles equipped with a manual transmission. The electronic parking brake (EPB) may not engage as intended, allowing the vehicle to rollaway if the transmission is not in the proper gear when parked.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
A vehicle rollaway can increase the risk of a crash.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the EPB actuator assembly, free of charge. The recall began July 19, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WTV-81.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Critical #11V562000 Plain English
Component

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES

Manufacturer
SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
What Happened
The brake master cylinder in your vehicle is a critical part that helps control your brakes. In some 2012 Subaru models, this cylinder might not work properly, making it harder to stop your car.
Risk if Unfixed
If the brake master cylinder fails, you might need to press the brake pedal further than usual to slow down or stop. This could happen suddenly and without warning, increasing the risk of a crash.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will inspect the brake master cylinder and replace it if necessary, at no cost to you. This repair will be done as soon as you schedule it, usually starting in December 2011.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 IMPREZA SEDANS AND WAGONS (EXCEPT WRX/STI MODELS), MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 21, 2011, THROUGH NOVEMBER 15, 2011, AND LEGACY AND OUTBACK VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 17, 2011, THROUGH NOVEMBER 23, 2011. THESE VEHICLES MAY BE EQUIPPED WITH A BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER THAT COULD MALFUNCTION AND CAUSE AN INCREASE IN THE AMOUNT OF BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL DISTANCE REQUIRED TO SLOW OR STOP THE VEHICLE.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
THE DRIVER MIGHT MISJUDGE THE AMOUNT OF BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL REQUIRED TO ACHIEVE THE DESIRED STOPPING DISTANCE. THIS COULD OCCUR UNEXPECTEDLY AND WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Original — Remedy
SUBARU WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER AND IF NECESSARY, REPLACE IT, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING DECEMBER 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #20V002000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The passenger airbag inflator in your vehicle is a critical safety device that deploys in the event of a crash. In certain 2003-2014 Subaru models, including your Forester, Impreza, or Legacy, this inflator may have been replaced previously due to a similar issue. However, it could still fail and explode in the future, causing serious harm.
Risk if Unfixed
If the inflator explodes, it will send sharp metal fragments flying into the vehicle, putting you and your passengers at risk of serious injury or even death.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the passenger airbag inflator with a new, safer one at no cost to you. You should schedule this repair as soon as you receive the recall notice – it's a crucial step to protect your safety on the road.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-20.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #20V003000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The airbag inflator in your vehicle is a critical safety component that could deploy in the event of a crash. In some older Subaru models, the inflator's propellant can degrade over time, especially in humid environments.
Risk if Unfixed
If the inflator fails, it could explode and send sharp metal fragments flying into the cabin, posing a serious risk of injury or even death to you or your passengers.
Free Fix
Your Subaru or Saab dealer will replace the faulty airbag inflator with a new, safer one at no cost to you. This repair is necessary to ensure your safety on the road, and you should schedule it as soon as possible.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-20.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #20V001000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The passenger airbag inflator in your vehicle is a critical safety device that deploys in the event of a crash. In certain Subaru models, this inflator may be prone to exploding due to aging and humidity, causing sharp metal fragments to fly towards you or your passengers.
Risk if Unfixed
If the inflator explodes, sharp metal pieces could hit you or your passengers, leading to severe injuries or even death. This is a life-threatening situation that requires immediate attention.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the faulty airbag inflator with a new, safer one at no cost to you. This is a free repair, and you should schedule it as soon as possible once you receive the recall notice.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators with alternate inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-20.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #19V008000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The air bag in your passenger seat is designed to protect you in a crash. In some 2010-2014 Subaru models, a part called the inflator module could fail and not work properly, even after years of normal use.
Risk if Unfixed
If this happens, the air bag might not deploy correctly, and sharp metal fragments could hit you or your passengers, causing serious injury or even death.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the faulty air bag inflator with a safe one, at no cost to you. Just schedule an appointment when you get the recall notice, and they'll take care of it.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, and Legacy vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-19.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #19V007000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The airbag in your vehicle's passenger seat is designed to protect you in the event of a crash. However, in certain Subaru models, the inflator that makes the airbag deploy could rupture, causing metal shards to fly towards you.
Risk if Unfixed
If the airbag inflator explodes, sharp metal fragments could hit you or other passengers, leading to serious injury or even death.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the faulty passenger airbag inflator with a safe one, free of charge. You should schedule the repair as soon as possible.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Forester, 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, Legacy, and 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-19.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #19V009000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The passenger air bag in your vehicle is designed to protect you in a frontal crash. The inflator module is a critical part that makes the air bag deploy correctly. In some Subaru models from 2010-2014, this part may not work properly due to exposure to humidity and temperature changes.
Risk if Unfixed
If the air bag inflator explodes in a crash, it could send sharp metal fragments flying towards you, the driver, or other passengers. This could cause serious injury or even be fatal.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the faulty air bag inflator with a new one at no charge to you. You should schedule the repair as soon as possible to ensure your safety on the road.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-19.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #18V012000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The passenger air bag inflator in your vehicle is the part that helps keep you safe in case of a crash. In some 2009-2013 Subaru models, this inflator could fail and explode, causing severe injury or death.
Risk if Unfixed
If the inflator explodes, sharp metal fragments could shoot out and hit you or other passengers, causing serious harm or even death.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the faulty air bag inflator with a new one, at no cost to you. The repair is free, and you should schedule it as soon as possible.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Legacy, Forester, Tribeca, WRX and Outback vehicles, and 2009-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-18.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #17V014000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The front passenger air bag in your vehicle is a safety feature that inflates in a crash to cushion your body. In certain 2005-2012 Subaru models, the air bag inflator could fail and rupture, releasing sharp metal fragments.
Risk if Unfixed
If the air bag inflator ruptures, metal shards could hit you or your passengers, causing serious injury or even death. This is a life-threatening scenario that requires immediate attention.
Free Fix
Subaru will replace the faulty air bag inflator with a new one, free of charge. You should schedule the repair as soon as possible to ensure your safety on the road.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Subaru Baja, 2006-2011 Impreza (including WRX and STI models), 2006-2012 Tribeca, 2009-2012 Forester, Legacy, Outback, and 2012 WRX vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2017. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-17.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #12V047000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

Manufacturer
SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
What Happened
The side curtain air bags in your Legacy or Outback are designed to protect you from side impacts. In some 2012 models built in a specific period, the air bags might not deploy as intended due to a faulty propellant mixture.
Risk if Unfixed
If you're in a side collision, the side curtain air bags might not deploy, which could leave you more vulnerable to injury, even with the seatbelt on.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the side curtain air bag modules with new ones, free of charge. You'll get a notification with the scheduled repair date, and you should contact them as soon as you receive it.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 LEGACY AND OUTBACK VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM DECEMBER 1, 2011, THROUGH DECEMBER 23, 2011. THESE VEHICLES MAY BE EQUIPPED WITH SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAGS THAT CONTAIN AN INCORRECT PROPELLANT MIXTURE FOR THE INITIATOR COMPONENT USED, RESULTING IN INSUFFICIENT OUTPUT OF COMPRESSED GAS.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
THE SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAGS MAY NOT DEPLOY, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
Original — Remedy
SUBARU WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE ONE OR BOTH SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAG MODULES, FREE OF FEBRUARY 21, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Moderate #19V297000 Plain English
Component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The ignition switch is the part that turns your engine on and off, and it's connected to your key. In some older Subaru models, the internal spring could break, making the switch less reliable,
Risk if Unfixed
If that happens, your engine could shut off unexpectedly while you're driving, and you might lose power steering and brakes. If you're in a crash, the airbag might not deploy, which could increase the risk of serious injury.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will inspect and replace the ignition switch, if necessary, at no cost to you. You'll also be notified by Subaru directly when the repair is ready.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch installed as a replacement part. The ball spring inside the switch may break, reducing the strength of the ignition switch. If this occurs, the weight on the key ring and certain road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. If a crash occurs under this condition, the air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ignition switch, replacing the ignition switch, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 10, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUF-91.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Moderate #16V694000 Plain English
Component

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The windshield wiper motor in your Legacy or Outback is the part that helps your windshield wipers move back and forth. In some 2010-2014 models, a buildup of debris can cause the motor to malfunction.
Risk if Unfixed
If the motor overheats, your windshield wipers could fail, making it hard to see while driving and increasing the risk of a crash. In the worst case, the motor cover could melt, potentially causing a fire.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the faulty wiper motor cover with a new one, at no cost to you. The repair is free, and you should schedule it as soon as you get the recall notice.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Legacy vehicles manufactured November 26, 2008, to June 7, 2013, and 2010-2014 Outback vehicles manufactured January 9, 2009 to June 7, 2013. Due to contamination, components within the windshield wiper motor bottom cover may interfere with each other. If an obstruction, such as a buildup of snow or ice prevents the wiper arms from being able to stop in the parked position, the wiper motor may overheat and the bottom cover may melt.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
If the windshield wiper motor overheats, the wipers may fail, reducing driver visibility and increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, the wiper motor cover may melt, increasing the risk of a fire.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the windshield wiper motor bottom cover assembly, free of charge. The recall began October 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTK-71. Note: This recall supersedes recall 11V-469. All vehicles that were remedied under that campaign are affected by this campaign, and need to have their wiper motor bottom cover replaced again.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Moderate #13V078000 Plain English
Component

VISIBILITY/WIPER

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The wiper motor in your Outback or Legacy is a small part that helps your windshield wipers work. In some 2012 models, the components inside this motor can get too hot and melt.
Risk if Unfixed
If these components melt, the wiper motor could catch fire, which could spread to other parts of your vehicle and cause a serious accident.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the wiper motor bottom cover assembly for free. This is a free repair, and you should schedule it as soon as possible to avoid any risks.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2012 Outback and Legacy vehicles manufactured from April 6, 2011, through May 12, 2011. Components inside the wiper motor bottom cover may overheat.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
If the components overheat, the wiper motor bottom cover may melt and potentially catch fire.
Original — Remedy
Subaru has notified all affected owners, and dealers will replace the front wiper motor bottom cover assembly free of charge. The safety recall began February 22, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Moderate #13V077000 Plain English
Component

VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
Your Outback or Legacy has a moonroof that lets in sunlight and fresh air. The glass that makes up the roof could be loose because the adhesive that holds it in place wasn't applied correctly.
Risk if Unfixed
If the moonroof glass comes loose while you're driving, it could fly off and become a hazard on the road, making it harder for other drivers to avoid it and increasing the risk of a crash.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will inspect the moonroof's adhesive and either add more adhesive or replace the glass for free. You should schedule the fix as soon as possible.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2012 Outback and Legacy vehicles manufactured from April 6, 2011, through May 12, 2011. The moonroof glass may come loose or detach. The amount and position of the adhesive between the glass and retainer was inadequately applied.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
The moonroof glass can loosen and detach from the vehicle during driving, resulting in a potential road hazard for other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.
Original — Remedy
Subaru has notified the affected owners, and dealers will inspect the glass adhesion condition and either apply additional adhesive or replace the moonroof glass, free of charge. The safety recall began February 22, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Moderate #13V061000 Plain English
Component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The remote engine starter (RES) fob in your vehicle is the small device that allows you to start your car from a distance. In certain Subaru models from 2010-2013, the RES fob might malfunction and send a start signal even when you haven't pressed the button.
Risk if Unfixed
If the fob malfunctions, your engine could start on its own and run for up to 15 minutes, even if you're not in the vehicle. This could cause carbon monoxide to build up in an enclosed area, potentially leading to headaches, dizziness, or even loss of consciousness.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the RES fob with a new one, free of charge. This repair is a precautionary measure to ensure your safety, and you should schedule it as soon as possible.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Legacy and Outback vehicles equipped with an automatic or CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory, certain model year 2012-2013 Impreza vehicles equipped with a CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory, and certain model year 2013 XV Crosstrek vehicles equipped with a CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory. Additionally included are certain model year 2013 Legacy and Outback vehicles that may have received replacement RES fobs. If the RES fob is dropped, the fob may malfunction and randomly transmit an engine start request without pressing the button.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
The engine may inadvertently start and run for up to fifteen minutes. The engine may continue to start and stop until the fob battery is depleted, or until the vehicle runs out of fuel. If the vehicle is parked in an enclosed area, there is a risk of carbon monoxide build-up which may cause headaches, dizziness or, in extreme cases, unconsciousness and/or asphyxiation.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the RES key fobs, free of charge. The recall began on April 22, 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 →

Browse by Component

AIR BAGS
9 recalls
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 recalls
VISIBILITY
2 recalls
PARKING BRAKE
1 recall
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
1 recall
VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 recall

Other SUBARU Outback Years

2019
3 recalls
2018
3 recalls
2017
4 recalls
2016
4 recalls
2015
5 recalls
2014
10 recalls
2013
12 recalls
2011
16 recalls
2010
18 recalls
2009
13 recalls
2008
8 recalls
2007
8 recalls
2006
7 recalls
2005
9 recalls
2004
11 recalls
2003
15 recalls
2002
5 recalls
2001
4 recalls
2000
2 recalls

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