Editor’s note: Early reports suggested a higher number of vehicles were affected and needed to be scrapped. Subaru has since clarified that “the cars in question can be and will be repaired, they will not be junked or scrapped.”
Subaru and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identified a poor weld that poses ‘an increased risk of injury’ in case of an accident.
An improperly cleaned welding tip at Subaru’s Indiana factory has led Subaru to recall an estimated 200 brand new Outbacks and Legacy Sedans. This represents a fraction of earlier estimates from the NHTSA that cited the poor weld impacted more than 2,000 vehicles, the vast majority of which were Outbacks.
Subaru also estimates 12-20 vehicles included in this recall were purchased by U.S. buyers. According to the automaker, preliminary information that suggested every vehicle would be scrapped has since changed. The brand said it will offer replacement vehicles to owners impacted by the recall. According the NHTSA report, vehicles with the defective weld will need to go back to the manufacturing plant for repair.
Subaru Recalls New Outbacks for Faulty Weld
The issue involves a piece of sheet metal that separates the engine from the passenger compartment. Inadequate spot welds on the duct below the cowl (the area that supports the bottom of the windshield and part of the hood) “reduce the vehicle’s body strength,” according to Torque News, which reported the issue last week.
In the event of a crash, the weak weld may increase the risk of injury, the (NHTSA) said.
Subaru says it will send alerts to affected consumers. However, those who believe they may be impacted can go to the NHTSA website and enter their vehicle’s VIN number to confirm. Owners can also contact Subaru by calling 1-844-373-6614.
