Subaru Recalls More than 400,000 Imprezas, Crosstreks
Car Pro | October 25, 2019
Credit: Subaru
Subaru is recalling over 400,000 vehicles in two separate recalls involving engines. One involves a problem that could cause a short circuit. The other involves a valve that could fall apart and send debris into the engine.
#1 Impreza/Crosstrek Recall: Engine Issue
The largest recall involves 466,205Imprezas and Crosstreks:
2017-2019 Imprezas
2018-2019 Crosstreks
Subaru says an engine computer issue could cause a short circuit and blown fuse. (The problem being that the computer could keep powering the ignition coil after the motors are turned off.) To fix it, dealers will need to update software and replace coils and front pipes if needed.
NHTSA Campaign Number:19V743000 Manufacturer Subaru of America, Inc. Components ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Potential Number of Units Affected 466,205
Summary
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, which could result in a short circuit and blown fuse.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will update the ECM software and inspect and replace the ignition coil, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, on vehicles with confirmed ignition coil damage and a certain stored diagnostic trouble code (DTC), Subaru will replace the front exhaust pipe, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin December 13, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUQ-02.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
#2 Impreza/Crosstrek Recall: Debris Issue
The second, smaller, recall covers 205,000 Imprezas and Crosstreks:
2017-2019 Impreza
2018 Crosstreks
The issue here is that aluminum positive crankcase ventilation valves can fall apart. Debris can enter the engine and cause power loss. Dealers will replace valves if needed. If a valve has separated and parts can't be found, engines will be replaced.
NHTSA Campaign Number:19V744000 Manufacturer Subaru of America, Inc. Components ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING Potential Number of Units Affected 205,000
Summary
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Impreza and 2018 Crosstrek vehicles equipped with an aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve. The PCV valve may come apart, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, possibly resulting in a loss of power while driving.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the PCV valve, free of charge. If the PCV valve has separated and the components cannot be found, the engine will be replaced, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin December 13, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUP-01.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Plan tow a 4000 pound dry weight travel trailer with about 300 to 400 additional pounds for equipment and personal goods including 8 to 10 gallons of water with a SUV with 5000 pound towing capacity. Like the new Subaru Aspect but concern with only 4 cylinders and smaller. HP of engine compared to Toyota Highlander with 6 cylinders and about 20 extra horse power. Need advice and any other SUV in this class for towing. Additionally, is 5000 pound tow rating acceptable for towing 4300 to 4400 pound travel trailer ? P.S. do not plan to do much mountain traveling.
November 8, 2019 @ 3:07pm
The Car Pro
My experience is automakers understate towing capacity just to be safe, so a 5000 pound capacity should serve you well. Subaru Ascent seems to be a good tow vehicle according to listeners I've talked to. I would not go over 5000 pounds with it.
If you are more comfortable with a six cylinder, consider Kia Telluride.
