What is the recall on the Subaru electronic parking brake?
There is no nationwide recall currently covering Subaru’s electronic parking brake (EPB) across all models. Recalls tied to EPB tend to be limited to specific model years and markets, and eligibility depends on your vehicle’s VIN.
Electronic parking brakes replace traditional handbrakes with an electronically controlled mechanism that can be affected by software, wiring, or actuator faults. When a fault is detected, the system may illuminate warning lights, fail to hold the vehicle, or in rare cases engage unpredictably. Subaru has conducted targeted recalls related to EPB components in certain markets and model years, but status varies by country and by VIN. Owners should verify recalls on their exact vehicle rather than rely on the model year alone.
How to check if your Subaru is affected
If you’re concerned about the EPB, you can confirm whether your car is under a recall by using official sources tailored to your vehicle and location. The steps below help you verify quickly and accurately.
- Look up your vehicle by VIN on government recall databases. In the United States, use the NHTSA SaferCar recall lookup to enter your VIN and see any active campaigns.
- Check Subaru’s official recall notices or the MySubaru/owner portal for your region by entering your VIN. Subaru publishes model-year and region–specific recall information here.
- Call or visit your local Subaru dealership’s service department with your VIN to get a transmission of recall status and any required repair appointments scheduled at no cost to you.
- Set up recall alerts with official sources (NHTSA, Subaru) to receive updates if new EPB-related campaigns are announced for your vehicle.
Recalls must be repaired by an authorized dealer at no charge to the vehicle owner, and the service typically involves inspection of the EPB module, wiring, and related components, followed by any necessary software updates or replacements.
What to do if you see EPB warning indicators
If the EPB warning light or fault codes appear on your dashboard, treat the issue as potentially safety-critical. Avoid relying on a malfunctioning EPB and contact a Subaru service center promptly to determine whether a recall is applicable and whether a repair is required for free under an active recall.
Owners should not attempt to bypass or disable the EPB system, as this can compromise vehicle safety. In cases where the EPB engages unexpectedly or fails to release, seek roadside assistance and arrange a tow to an authorized dealer if necessary.
Summary
At present, there is no universal Subaru EPB recall affecting all models, but certain EPB-related campaigns exist for specific model years and regions. The safest course is to check your VIN against official recall databases (NHTSA in the U.S., Subaru’s regional portals) and contact a local dealer if you receive any recall notices or warning lights. recalls are performed free of charge, and staying informed through official channels helps ensure timely, safe repairs.
