Which Subaru models are being recalled?
The exact Subaru models under recall vary over time and depend on each vehicle’s VIN. To know precisely which models are recalled today, check official sources such as the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall database and Subaru’s own recall pages. Entering your VIN will confirm any active recalls affecting your vehicle.
This article explains how recalls work, where to verify current notices, and what steps to take if your Subaru is listed. Remember that recalls are VIN-specific and can involve several model years across different regions.
What a recall means for owners
A recall is a safety or defect notification issued by a manufacturer or regulator indicating that certain vehicles may have a defect or noncompliance with safety standards. When a recall is issued, the manufacturer is required to provide a remedy—often a free repair, replacement, or software update—to affected vehicles. Whether your car is affected depends on its VIN, not just the model and year.
How to check current Subaru recalls
To verify active recalls, use these official sources that allow you to search by model, year, or VIN.
- U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall database — search by make (Subaru) or enter your VIN to see all campaigns that apply to your exact vehicle.
- Subaru of America’s official recalls page — provides current campaigns and an integrated VIN lookup tool for Subaru owners in the United States.
- Contact a local Subaru dealer — dealers can run Subaru’s internal recall system for your VIN and schedule the appropriate remedy at no cost to you.
Using these sources helps ensure you know whether your specific vehicle is part of an active recall and what remedy is available.
Remedies and next steps if you’re affected
If your vehicle is listed in a recall, follow these steps to get it remedied promptly and safely.
- Do not ignore a recall. If the issue involves critical safety systems, follow the dealer’s instructions about driving the vehicle until a remedy is performed.
- Contact your local Subaru dealer to schedule a recall repair. Provide your VIN and recall campaign number if you have it.
- Bring any recall notices or letters you’ve received and your VIN to the service appointment. The VIN ensures the exact remedy is applied to your vehicle.
- All recall repairs are typically performed at no cost to the vehicle owner, including parts and labor.
- Keep documentation of the recall repair and any correspondence from Subaru or the dealer for your records.
Acting promptly helps ensure your vehicle is repaired with the proper remedy and maintains its safety and performance.
VIN basics and how recalls are assigned
A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a 17-character code that uniquely identifies your specific car, including its model year, manufacturing plant, body style, and option packages. Recalls may cover all units of a model year or only certain VIN ranges; therefore, checking by VIN is essential for accuracy.
Summary
Subaru recalls are dynamic and vary by VIN. The most reliable way to determine which models are affected is to search the NHTSA recall database and Subaru’s official recall pages using your vehicle’s VIN, or to contact a local Subaru dealer for a VIN-backed review. Stay proactive: check recalls regularly, especially before long trips or if you notice any unusual vehicle behavior.
