Subaru Calls Back 71,000 Cars Over Fuel Caps

Subaru is recalling some 71,000 hybrid sport utility vehicles, citing a defect that could lead to gas leaks and fires.

The recall includes 2026 Crosstrek and 2025 Forester hybrid SUVs, Subaru recently told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The vehicles are at particular risk when their gas tanks are nearly full and outside temperatures are high, the company said in a recall notice.

“If the affected vehicles are left parked when the fuel tank is near full capacity and the vehicle is exposed to a significant rise in ambient temperature such that the fuel temperature and tank pressure increases, the affected vehicles may leak fuel from the filler cap,” Subaru said. “A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a vehicle fire.”

Subaru contacted owners of recalled cars in March, warning them to keep their SUVs’ gas tanks at no more than half full and to park vehicles outside until the problem is resolved. The automaker also wants owners to bring their cars to authorized service providers for inspection and repair. 

“For all the potentially affected vehicles, Subaru dealers will replace the gasket of the fuel filler cap with an improved one,” the company said.

The move is the latest in a rash of fire-related recalls across hybrid and electric vehicles. 

Mercedes-Benz recently recalled 12,000-plus EQB electric sport utility vehicles due to fire risks associated with their high-voltage battery systems. It marked the second time Mercedes-Benz has recalled the 2022-2024 SUVs for the same issue.

Stellantis late last year said it was recalling certain Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe and Wrangler 4xe SUVs. Debris in the vehicles’ engines could cause them to stall or catch fire, the global auto manufacturer said at the time.

California Lemon Law Rights for Subaru Drivers

Californians have some important rights and protections when it comes to malfunctioning and defective cars. You do not need to wait around for a recall to get your car fixed, with the vehicle manufacturer picking up the tab.

The California lemon law generally requires carmakers to perform various repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. It also forces them to buy back covered vehicles that they are unable or unwilling to fix. That includes compensating the owner for the car’s purchase price, as well as financing fees, rental car costs, and other related expenses.

There is no specific number of repair requests or attempts required before the buyback or replace requirement kicks in. An experienced lemon law attorney can help you understand your rights and take action.

Talk with an Orange County Lemon Law Attorney

If you have been stuck with a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, an Orange County lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you fight back. Our attorneys combine decades of experience in these cases and have a strong track record of successful results.

Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with an Orange County lemon law attorney.