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Uh oh, there could be a problem in Subieville. Nearly a million Subaru Crosstek, Forester, and Impreza models are at risk due to two different recalls. About 466,000 models have issues with the engine control module, and 405,000 vehicles have loose bolts on the rear stabilizer bracket. The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek is affected by both problems. 

Recall for the Subaru Crosstrek, Forester, and Impreza 

According to Cars.com, the first recall for 2017 – 2019 Subaru Impreza sedans and hatchback models and 2018 – 2019 Subaru Crosstrek SUVs, the ignition coils may degrade over time. 

2021 Subaru Impreza driving
2021 Subaru Impreza | Subaru

As a result, the engine may fail to start or stall in traffic, increasing the risk of accidents. To be more specific, the engine computer may keep powering the ignition coil after the motors have been shut off, leading to a short circuit or a blown fuse. 

Subaru stated that it’s unaware of any accidents or injuries that have been caused by this issue. Incident rates of this recall have been extremely low, but they are conducting this recall out of an abundance of caution. 

If your Subaru model is at risk, dealers will inspect your vehicle and update the engine control module (ECM) programming, and replace all ignition coils if needed for free. It’s better to be safe than sorry. 

The second Subaru recall 

The second recall involves 2019 Subaru Forester and Crosstrek SUVs. The bolts on the rear stabilizer bracket may become loose over time. As a result, the loose bracket could impact other components, including the suspension, causing damage and increasing the risk of accidents. 

2021 Subaru Forester parked in front of a mountain home
2021 Subaru Forester | Subaru

Subaru is currently unaware of any incidents or injuries related to this issue. If your Subaru Crosstrek or Forester is at risk, then dealerships will examine the bolts and re-torque them if necessary, free of charge. 

What to do if your Subaru model is at risk 

Both recalls are expected to begin in about 60 days. You will be notified via mail if your vehicle is at risk. Owners should be notified by June 14th. However, you don’t have to wait until then. You can contact the automaker with any questions that you may have by calling 844-737-6614. 

You can also call the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHSTA) vehicle safety hotline at 888-327-4236. Plus, you can visit the website here to enter your 17 digit vehicle identification number (VIN) and learn more. 

You don’t have to return to the same dealership where you purchase your Subaru Crosstrek, Forester, or Impreza to receive maintenance. Any local Subaru dealership should be fine. The mechanics will be happy to help. 

A pearl-white 2021 Subaru Crosstrek subcompact SUV traveling on a dusty country road along rolling hills and brown wooden fences
2021 Subaru Crosstrek | Subaru of America, Inc.

We recommend calling ahead or checking online to schedule an appointment in advance. Doing this may help you avoid long wait times at the dealership. Doing so will also allow you to see what Coronavirus (COVID-19) precautions the dealership is taking in case you need to wear a mask. 

Luckily these Subaru recalls involve quick fixes, so your Subaru SUV or sedan shouldn’t be out of service for too long. Once your bracket bolts or ignition coils have been replaced, it should be smooth sailing from there. 

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