Recall 19V-149: 2013–2017 Subaru Crosstrek, 2014–2016 Subaru Forester and 2 more

Subaru of America, Inc. recall for exterior lighting, reported to NHTSA on Feb 28, 2019, covering about 1,303,530 vehicles.

NHTSA number
19V-149
Report date
Feb 28, 2019
Vehicles affected
1,303,530
Owners notified
Apr 15, 2019

The problem

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and also preventing keyless ignition vehicles from starting and CVT/automatic transmissions from being able to be shifted out of Park.

The risk

Brake lights that do not illuminate properly will not alert other drivers that the vehicle is slowing or stopping, increasing the risk of crash.

The fix

Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake light switch, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUE-90.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Recall details

ManufacturerSubaru of America, Inc.
ComponentExterior Lighting › Brake Lights › Switch
Recall started bythe manufacturer
NHTSA campaign number19V149000

Vehicles in this recall

VehicleModel years
Subaru Crosstrek2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017All years
Subaru Forester2014, 2015, 2016All years
Subaru Impreza2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016All years
Subaru WRX2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014All years

Not every vehicle of these model years is included. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls ↗ or ask a dealer.

Frequently asked questions

What is recall 19V-149?

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and also preventing keyless ignition vehicles from starting and CVT/automatic transmissions from being able to be shifted out of Park.

How is recall 19V-149 fixed?

Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake light switch, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUE-90.

Is the recall repair free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized dealers. Check whether your vehicle is included with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.