What is the recall on the Subaru clutch?
There is no single nationwide recall titled "Subaru clutch" that covers all models. Clutch-related recalls are issued for specific model-year ranges and configurations, and only affected owners will receive notices. To determine if your Subaru is impacted, you must check your VIN against official recall records.
How recall notices are issued and what they cover
Recall programs announced by regulators and automakers address safety-related defects. For clutch systems, issues can involve sticky pedals, hydraulic leaks, or misadjusted components that could prevent the clutch from disengaging, potentially leading to unpredictable gear engagement or stall. The exact risk and remedy depend on the model and year.
To verify whether your vehicle is affected, use these steps.
- Check your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN against official recall databases (NHTSA SaferCar.gov) to see if any open recalls pertain to your car. NHTSA recall database.
- Enter or register your VIN on Subaru’s official recall portal to view model-specific notices and remedies. Subaru recalls.
- Contact your local Subaru dealer and provide your VIN to have recalls checked and scheduled for repair if needed.
- Review any recall notices you've received by mail or email, and check your maintenance records or Subaru owner portal for updates.
If a recall is found, the remedy (repair, replacement, or service) is generally performed at no charge to the owner and may require an appointment that the dealer can arrange.
Where to look up recalls by model and VIN
Because recall status is tied to precisely identified VINs, the most reliable sources are federal safety databases and the manufacturer’s own recall portal. Here are the best starting points.
- NHTSA recall database: SaferCar.gov — search by VIN or model to find open recalls and the required remedies. Visit NHTSA.
- Subaru official recall page: Subaru's website lists current recalls by model and year and provides VIN-based lookup. Visit Subaru recalls.
- Authorized Subaru dealers: A dealer can pull the most recent recall information for your VIN and schedule service at no cost to you.
If a recall exists for your vehicle, acting promptly helps ensure the problem is addressed before it can lead to a safety issue or breakdown.
What this means for Subaru owners today
For owners of older or newer Subaru models, the takeaway is to check early and regularly. Clutch-related recalls are not universal and are limited to specific vehicles. In many cases, notices are only issued to owners whose VIN matches the affected batch. Stay informed through official channels and respond quickly if a recall is announced.
Common questions about clutch recalls
What models have been affected in the past, and how often are recalls updated? Each recall is model-year and VIN-specific, so there is no single answer. The safest approach is to use VIN-based lookups and consult the dealer. Remedial work is performed free of charge at the dealership, regardless of ownership status, as long as the recall is active.
Summary
There is no blanket Subaru clutch recall. To determine if your vehicle is affected, check your VIN against NHTSA and Subaru recall records, and consult a dealership for confirmation and scheduling. Remember: recalls are model-year and VIN-specific, and remedies are provided at no cost to the owner.
How long should a clutch last on a Subaru?
50,000 miles
When properly maintained, a Subaru clutch should last at least 50,000 miles. However, if you live in the city, you may wish to pay close attention to your transmission.
Which Subaru models are being recalled?
Recent Subaru recalls include the 2023-2025 Solterra for potential wheel detachment, the 2025 Forester for a defogger issue, and 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy models for their passenger seat ODS sensors. Other recalls involve the 2024 Crosstrek and Impreza for turn signal problems and 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018-2020 Impreza/Legacy/Outback for fuel pump failures. To find recalls specific to your vehicle, use the VIN lookup tool on Subaru's official recall page.
Recent recalls by model year
- 2025 Subaru Forester: Recalled for a defroster/defogger system issue.
- 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and Impreza: Recalled for a problem with the turn signal exterior lighting.
- 2023-2025 Subaru Solterra: Recalled because improperly tightened hub bolts can cause wheels to detach.
- 2020-2022 Subaru Outback and Legacy: Recalled to replace the Occupant Detection System (ODS) sensors on the front passenger seat.
- 2021 Subaru Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, and 2021-23 Legacy and Outback: Subject to various recalls depending on the specific component and issue.
Other notable recalls
- 2019-2020 Subaru Ascent; 2018-2020 Subaru Impreza, Legacy, and Outback: Recalled due to a low-pressure fuel pump failure.
- 2023 Subaru Solterra: Also had a recall for issues with the front control arms.
- Various models (e.g., 2017-2019 Impreza): Recalled for problems with headlights, potentially increasing the risk of a crash.
How to check for recalls
- Use the VIN: The most accurate way to check for recalls is by using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on Subaru's official recall lookup tool or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.
- Contact a dealer: You can also contact a Subaru dealership and provide them with your VIN to see if your vehicle is affected by any recalls.
What year Subaru has a CVT recall?
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) has initiated this safety and emissions Recall for certain 2019 - 2020 model year Ascent vehicles, 2020-2021 model year turbo Legacy vehicles, and 2020-2021 model year turbo Outback vehicles in which the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) chain may slip and/or break.
Am I eligible for the Subaru class action lawsuit?
You are a Settlement Class Member if you are a resident of the continental United States, Alaska, or Hawaii, who currently owns or leases, or previously owned or leased, a Settlement Class Vehicle originally purchased or leased in the continental United States, Alaska, or Hawaii.
