Subaru has just issued a recall of some Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent SUVs, along with Impreza hatchbacks and sedans. The problem is that a faulty positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve could allow oil to enter and damage engine components. If this happens, the engine might suddenly lose power while you’re driving.
It is unclear whether there have been crashes or injuries due to this defect.
Drivers should be especially concerned if they notice an increase in the amount of tailpipe exhaust, particularly if that exhaust is bluish or grayish in color, according to Consumer Reports. An increase or change in color of the exhaust could indicate oil in the engine.
If you own or lease one of the affected vehicles, you should return it to a Subaru dealer. The dealer will inspect the engine to determine whether it has the faulty part and whether oil has escaped into any engine components. Dealers will replace the faulty part, along with any parts of the engine that have been damaged, including the entire engine, at no cost.
Vehicles affected by this recall
This vehicle affects tens of thousands of vehicles, including
- 83,499 2018 Subaru Crosstrek SUVs
- 80,219 2017-2018 Subaru Impreza hatchbacks
- 41,282 2017-2018 Subaru Impreza sedans
- 33,383 2019 Subaru Forester SUVs
- 18,193 2019 Subaru Ascent SUVs
- 37 Subaru Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid SUVs manufactured between Sept. 11, 2018 and Oct. 8, 2018
If you own a Crosstrek or Impreza, you should already have received a notice from Subaru. Owners of the other vehicles can expect Subaru to reach out starting on Jan. 24 of next year.
In the meantime, you can contact Subaru customer service at 844-373-6614 for more information.
For the 2017-2018 Crosstreks and Imprezas, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)’s recall number is 19V744. For the other vehicles, the NHTSA recall number is 19V856.
Check online if your vehicle is subject to recall
To check online whether your vehicle is affected by this or another recall, you should obtain your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The VIN appears in several places on your vehicle, including at the base of the dashboard and on the inside of the driver’s door. Enter this information at NHTSA’s recalls look-up web page.
Consumer Reports notes that automakers recall vehicles on a somewhat frequent basis, including older models. Therefore, you should check the recalls look-up web page regularly.
Even when a carmaker issues a recall, it can still be liable for losses and injuries caused by a defective part or vehicle. If you have been injured and believe a vehicle malfunction may have caused your crash, you should contact an attorney who handles product liability cases.
