What brand of airbags does Subaru use?
Subaru does not rely on a single airbag brand. The automaker sources airbags from multiple suppliers, primarily Autoliv and Daicel, with Takata inflators used in older vehicles that have since been replaced under recall programs.
Airbag systems involve inflators, modules, and control units sourced from external manufacturers. Subaru’s choices have evolved over time due to industry consolidation and safety recalls, leading to a diversified supplier base across different models and markets.
Current airbag suppliers for Subaru
The following list highlights the main brands Subaru has used for its airbag systems in recent years. Note that exact suppliers can vary by model, market, and production year.
- Autoliv – A leading global supplier of airbags and restraint systems; Subaru uses Autoliv inflators and modules in several markets.
- Daicel Safety Equipment – A major inflator and safety component supplier for Subaru’s airbag systems in various regions.
- Takata (historical) – Inflators installed in older Subaru models before the global recall and replacement program; these have since been replaced with units from other suppliers.
In practice, Subaru’s airbag supply is diversified rather than tied to a single brand. For the exact supplier on a given vehicle, consult model-year documentation or a Subaru dealer.
Historical context: Takata recall and post-recall suppliers
From the mid-2010s onward, Subaru participated in the worldwide Takata airbag inflator recall. Affected inflators were replaced with units from other manufacturers, notably Autoliv and Daicel, as part of ongoing safety campaigns and model-year updates. This shift has contributed to Subaru’s current multi-supplier approach to airbags.
How to verify the airbag supplier for your Subaru
To confirm the exact airbag supplier for your vehicle, use these steps:
- Check the Safety Compliance Label on the driver’s door jamb for inflator and module information.
- Look in the owner’s manual or service records for airbag system details and part numbers.
- Ask a Subaru dealer or authorized service center to provide the specific supplier and part numbers for your VIN.
- Review recall notices and Subaru’s official safety communications for your vehicle’s year and model.
Knowing the supplier can help with parts identifications and warranty considerations, but the key takeaway is that Subaru uses a mix of reputable suppliers to maintain its airbag safety systems.
Summary
Subaru’s airbags come from more than one supplier, with Autoliv and Daicel being the primary current providers, and Takata inflators having been used in older models before replacement programs. Exact supplier information varies by model, year, and market, so checking your vehicle’s documentation or speaking with a Subaru representative is the best way to know the precise brand for your car’s airbags.
