Subaru Recalls Over 250,000 Cars That Could Lose Power While Driving
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Subaru is recalling certain Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent SUVs and Impreza hatchbacks and sedans because they can suddenly lose power while driving, which could cause a crash.
A faulty part in the engine could allow oil to enter places it shouldn't. Pieces of the part could also separate and damage other engine components, which could cause the engine to suddenly lose power. If this happens, drivers would notice an increased amount of tailpipe exhaust, potentially a bluish or grayish color.
Subaru dealers will inspect the recalled vehicles and replace the faulty part at no cost. If the problem has caused damage to engine parts, dealers will replace the faulty parts or the entire engine at no cost.
Subaru didn't immediately respond to questions from CR about whether there have been any crashes or injuries because of this problem.
The Details
Vehicles recalled:
2018 Subaru Crosstrek SUVs manufactured from May 9, 2017, through April 3, 2018—83,499
2017-2018 Subaru Impreza hatchbacks manufactured from Oct. 20, 2016, through March 2, 2018—80,219
2017-2018 Subaru Impreza sedans manufactured from Nov. 4, 2016, through March 5, 2019—41,282
2019 Subaru Forester SUVs manufactured from July 4, 2018, through March 21, 2019—33,383
2019 Subaru Ascent SUVs manufactured from Feb. 22, 2018, through Aug. 31, 2018—18,193
37 Subaru Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid SUVs manufactured from Sept. 11, 2018, through Oct. 8, 2018
The problem: A faulty positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve may allow engine oil to enter the combustion chamber. Parts of the PCV valve may also separate and enter the engine. The PCV valve is an emissions device that keeps pollutants created by an engine from being released into the atmosphere. It also helps keep the engine oil clean and prevents crankcase pressure from building up. (Learn more about PCV valves in the Consumer Reports Car Repair Encyclopedia.)
The fix: Dealers will replace the faulty part and/or replace any parts damaged by the recall condition—including the entire engine—at no cost.
How to contact the manufacturer: Subaru has already contacted owners of the 2017-2018 Crosstrek and Impreza. The automaker will also reach out to owners of the other vehicles starting on Jan. 24, 2020. Owners can call Subaru customer service at 844-373-6614.
NHTSA campaign number: For the 2017-2018 Impreza and Crosstrek, the recall number is 19V744. For all other vehicles, the recall number is 19V856.
Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has recalls that need to be addressed.
If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have any. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly.
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