Will Subaru replace my battery for free?
In most cases, Subaru will not automatically replace a battery for free. A free replacement typically hinges on warranty status, whether the battery failure is considered a defect, or if there is an active recall or service campaign. The specifics depend on whether you’re dealing with a conventional 12V battery or a high‑voltage battery in a hybrid/plug‑in/electric Subaru, as well as your model year and region.
Understanding how Subaru handles battery coverage requires distinguishing between 12V batteries and the high‑voltage batteries used in hybrids and electric vehicles, checking for any recalls or campaigns, and confirming your individual warranty terms with a dealer. The following sections outline how coverage generally works and how you can verify your specific situation.
Understanding Subaru Battery Coverage
12V Battery Coverage
Key points to know about the conventional 12V battery are below. The exact terms depend on your model year and location, so verify with your dealer or in your warranty booklet.
- If the 12V battery fails due to a defect within Subaru’s bumper‑to‑bumper warranty period (commonly around 3 years / 36,000 miles in the U.S.), the replacement is typically free at a Subaru dealership. Failures due to normal wear, aging, improper maintenance, or external damage are usually not covered.
- Some situations may involve goodwill adjustments or special arrangements at the dealer’s discretion, but this is not guaranteed and will vary by dealer and region.
- Outside the warranty period or for non‑defect reasons, you would generally pay for a replacement or maintenance service.
In practice, always check the specific warranty terms for your vehicle’s year and model, and ask the service adviser to confirm coverage for your VIN before proceeding with any replacement.
High‑Voltage Battery Coverage
High‑voltage batteries in Subaru hybrids and electric models are treated under a separate, typically longer‑duration warranty. Terms vary by model, year, and region, so confirm with the dealer for your exact vehicle.
- On many Subaru hybrid or plug‑in/electric models, the high‑voltage (battery) warranty runs longer than the 12V coverage (commonly around 8 years or 100,000 miles, though terms differ by model and market). Replacements due to manufacturing defects within that extended window are generally free.
- Normal wear, degradation over time, or battery end‑of‑life outside the warranty period is typically not covered, and pricing will depend on the dealer policy and the specific situation.
- If the battery issue is related to a safety recall or service campaign, the replacement or repair is performed at no cost to the owner.
Because there is notable variation by model and region, verify the exact high‑voltage battery warranty terms for your Subaru with the selling dealer or by consulting Subaru’s official owner resources for your vehicle year and model.
Recall and Campaigns
Regardless of battery type, recalls and service campaigns can override standard coverage, offering free replacement or repair when applicable.
- To determine if there’s an active recall or service campaign that affects your battery, check the NHTSA recall database or your Subaru owner portal by entering your vehicle’s VIN.
- If a recall or service campaign applies to your vehicle, the dealer will perform the required replacement or repair at no charge.
- If there are no recalls, ask the dealer about any current goodwill offers or regional campaigns that might cover battery replacement in your case.
Always verify with an authorized Subaru dealer or Subaru Customer Service to obtain an official determination on your VIN’s coverage and any required steps.
How to Check Your Coverage and What to Do Next
Use the following steps to confirm whether your battery replacement is free or billable, and to prepare for a service visit.
- Review your warranty documents for the exact terms and durations applicable to your model year and region.
- Look up recalls and campaigns tied to your VIN on the NHTSA recall site or Subaru’s official owner portal.
- Call or visit your local Subaru dealer with your VIN, mileage, and a description of the battery issue to get a precise quote and confirmation of coverage.
- If coverage is uncertain, request a formal warranty determination in writing and ask about any goodwill options the dealer might offer.
Having your VIN handy and documenting any symptoms (panel lights, voltage readings, or intermittent failures) helps the service adviser assess whether the issue falls under warranty, recall, or potential goodwill coverage.
What to Expect When You Visit the Dealer
Preparation can smooth the process if a service appointment is needed to address a battery issue.
- Bring your vehicle’s warranty booklet, current registration, and proof of ownership.
- Be clear about the battery symptoms (e.g., slow crank, warning lights, or charging issues) and how long the issue has been present.
- Request a VIN‑specific coverage determination and a written estimate that outlines what is covered under warranty or recall versus what would be charged.
- Ask about any potential goodwill adjustments if the issue is borderline for coverage or if you’re near the end of a warranty term.
Dealers can provide the definitive answer on coverage, so reaching out ahead of time helps you avoid surprise costs at the service bay.
Summary
Summary: Subaru battery replacements are not automatically free; eligibility depends on battery type (12V vs high‑voltage), defect‑based warranty coverage, and any active recalls or campaigns. The 12V battery is generally covered only if it fails due to a defect within the bumper‑to‑bumper warranty period, while high‑voltage batteries in hybrids and electrics typically enjoy longer coverage. Always verify with a Subaru dealer using your VIN and review the model‑year specific terms. If there’s a recall, campaign, or goodwill program, those can lead to a free replacement or repair. Checking current notices and consulting your local dealer will provide the definitive answer for your vehicle.
What happens when a Subaru battery dies?
The engine may not turn over at all, or it may turn over very slowly. In either case, if you have a Subaru dead battery, you will need to jump-start the car. The engine may turn over very quickly but not start. This is because the starter needs more power than a dead battery.
Is the battery included in the Subaru warranty?
How long is my battery covered under warranty? All Subaru batteries are automatically covered for an initial three years or 36,000 miles.
Is battery replacement free under warranty?
1Warranty Period: Comprises of FREE REPLACEMENT and PRO-RATA. The label on every Exide battery specifies the total number of months covered by the free replacement period and the Pro-Rata period for batteries fitted in private cars, multi-utility vehicles*, two-wheelers, inverters, gensets and solar applications.
Are Subaru loaners free?
We value your business and are proud to provide the convenience of complimentary loaner vehicles while your Subaru is in our Service Center. Never miss a beat and avoid interruptions to your routine by taking one of our loaner vehicles to cover your transportation needs during maintenance or repairs.
