Alton Brobst Subaru Impreza enthusiasts were shocked to discover that the 2017 model was catching fire. It is not just a safety concern for drivers of the car, but also a cause of curiosity as to what could be causing it.
As a responsible driver, you must know what causes car fires, why it is happening in 2017 Subaru Impreza, and how to prevent it. In this article, we will not only discuss the reasons behind the Subaru Impreza catching fire but also give you tips on how you can prevent it from happening.
What Causes Car Fires in General?
Car fires are caused by a variety of reasons, including:
- Electrical System Malfunctions: Short circuits in wires, charging systems, and battery can cause fires.
- Fuel System Leaks: Leaks in the fuel system can cause fires because of the combustible nature of gasoline.
- Mechanical Faults: Engine oil leaks, overheating, and faulty brakes can also cause fires.
- Collisions: If a vehicle is involved in an accident or collision, it can cause a fire due to the impact.
Why is 2017 Subaru Impreza Catching Fire?
The reason behind 2017 Subaru Impreza catching fire is due to a manufacturing defect in the car. The company has recalled thousands of cars due to a faulty Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve. This valve can malfunction and cause a leak in the engine’s oil system, leading to a fire.
How to Prevent Car Fires from Happening?
Now that you know the reasons for car fires in general and the specific reason for 2017 Subaru Impreza catching fire, let’s discuss how to prevent such incidents from happening.
- Regular Maintenance Checks: Regular maintenance checks and servicing can help identify potential issues that may cause fires.
- Electrical Checks: Ensure that the electrical system of your car is in good condition by checking the battery, wiring, and charging system.
- Fuel System Checks: Check the fuel system regularly and look for signs of leakage or any other associated defects, such as malfunctioning of the fuel tank and lines.
- Mechanical Checks: Regular checks of the engine oil system, cooling system, belts, and brakes can help prevent any mechanical faults.
- Safe Driving Measures: Safe driving measures such as avoiding overloading the car, driving at recommended speeds, and driving on well-maintained roads can reduce the chances of collisions.
Important Safety Measures to take while driving a car
Apart from regular maintenance checks and safe driving measures, there are a few important safety measures that you should take while driving a car to prevent any untoward incident. Here are some of them:
- Carry a Fire Extinguisher: Keep a fire extinguisher in your car. A car-specific extinguisher is recommended. According to experts, a car fire can double in size every thirty seconds, so having a fire extinguisher on hand can help put out the fire before it becomes worse.
- Park in Safe Place: Avoid parking your car in places with dry foliage or areas close to flammable materials.
- Pay Attention to Warning Lights: Always pay attention to warning lights on the dashboard and take immediate action if you notice any unusual noise or hazard.
- Shut Off the Engine in Case of Suspected Fire: If you notice smoke or fire from the car while driving, immediately pull over, turn off the engine, and evacuate the car as quickly as possible.
FAQs
Q: Is 2017 Subaru Impreza still catching fire?
A: Subaru has issued a recall for Impreza models from 2017 to 2019. Contact your local Subaru dealership to find out if your vehicle is affected by the recall.
Q: How common are car fires?
A: Car fires are not common, but they are not rare either. In the US, car fires cause an average of 200 deaths and over $1 billion in property damage each year.
Q: Can a car fire start spontaneously?
A: Yes, it is possible for a car fire to start spontaneously, but it is rare. It usually happens due to a malfunction in the electrical or fuel system.
Q: Can car fires be prevented?
A: Yes, car fires can be prevented by following regular maintenance checks, safe driving measures, and taking some important safety measures while driving.
Conclusion
It is essential to know the reasons behind car fires and how to prevent them. While we hope that you never experience a car fire, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Regular maintenance checks, electrical and fuel system checks, mechanical checks, safe driving measures, and important safety measures can go a long way in preventing car fires. Stay safe on the roads!
