If you are a Subaru owner, it’s important to keep up with any safety recalls or issues that may affect your vehicle. One such recall currently underway involves Subaru radios. In this article, we will provide an overview of the recall, which models and years are affected, and what steps you should take if your vehicle is impacted.
What is the Subaru Radio Recall?
In August 2020, Subaru issued a recall on over 188,000 vehicles due to a potential issue with the audio recall unit. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the display may not work correctly, which could cause problems with the rearview camera, defroster settings, and audio capabilities.
The issue stems from a faulty software program that can cause the audio system to reboot over and over again, which can drain the vehicle’s battery and even pose a fire risk if left unchecked. Therefore, it’s imperative to get the necessary repairs done as soon as possible if your vehicle is affected.
Which Models and Years Are Affected by the Recall?
The Subaru radio recall affects various models and years, including the:
- 2019-2020 Ascent
- 2019-2020 Forester
- 2019-2020 Impreza
- 2019-2020 Legacy
- 2019-2020 Outback
- 2020 Crosstrek
If you are unsure if your vehicle is included in the recall, you can check by entering your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the Subaru website or the NHTSA website.
What Should You Do if Your Vehicle is Impacted?
If your Subaru vehicle is affected by the radio recall, it’s crucial to take action as soon as possible. First, contact your nearest Subaru dealer to schedule a repair appointment and ask if they have the necessary parts in stock. The dealership will replace the audio unit at no cost to you.
Until you can get your vehicle to the dealership, the NHTSA recommends that you avoid using your rearview camera or any other features that rely on the audio system. Also, make sure to turn off the engine and engage the parking brake whenever the car is parked or not in use.
What Are Your Repair and Replacement Options?
If your Subaru radio is affected by the recall, the dealership will repair or replace the audio unit free of charge. The length of the repair may vary depending on your dealership’s availability of parts and their current schedule.
In the rare case that your dealership does not have the necessary parts in stock, they may offer an alternative solution, such as providing you with a loaner vehicle until the repair is done. You can also contact Subaru customer service directly if you have any concerns or questions about the repair process.
Final Thoughts
Overall, it’s critical to take any safety recalls seriously and take action immediately if your vehicle is impacted. The Subaru radio recall affects various models and years, but the repair process is relatively simple and free of charge. In conclusion, we hope this article has provided you with useful information about the recall and what steps to take next. Stay safe and keep your Subaru in top condition.
FAQ
What is the Subaru radio recall?
The Subaru radio recall involves an issue with certain models’ audio recall unit that can cause various features, including the rearview camera and defroster, to malfunction.
Which Subaru models are affected by the radio recall?
The Subaru radio recall affects various models and years, including the 2019-2020 Ascent, Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Outback, and 2020 Crosstrek.
What should you do if your vehicle is impacted by the radio recall?
First, check if your vehicle is affected by the recall by entering your VIN on the Subaru website or the NHTSA website. Then, contact your nearest Subaru dealer to schedule a free repair appointment.
Can you still use your Subaru while waiting for the repair?
Until the vehicle is repaired, the NHTSA recommends avoiding using the rearview camera or any other features that rely on the audio system. Additionally, make sure to turn off the engine and engage the parking brake whenever the car is parked or not in use.