Subaru Safety Recall Prompted by Weight Rating Snafu

Subaru is recalling more than 540,000 vehicles across four models, the automaker recently announced.

Certification labels inside the cars list an incorrect gross axle weight rating, or GAWR, Subaru told federal regulators. This could lead drivers to unknowingly overload their vehicles, increasing the risk of crashes, Subaru said. 

The recall covers the following models:

• 2019–2026 Subaru Ascent
• 2025–2026 Forester Hybrid 
• 2025–2026 Forester 
• 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid 

U.S. vehicle safety law requires that every car sold in the country have a certification label, which is typically found on the driver's side door jamb. The label provides a range of information, including the gross axle weight rating. The GAWR is the maximum weight each axle is designed to safely carry.

An owner following the label on a recalled car could load the vehicle beyond its true capacity without realizing it. Overloading puts stress on tires, brakes, and suspension components and can make it harder to handle the vehicle.

Subaru said it has not received complaints from drivers and is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to the incorrect labels. Instead, it said the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration flagged the problem.

The fix is fairly easy. Subaru will notify owners of recalled cars by August 25 and mail new labels that they can affix over the incorrect labels. Owners can also bring the new label to an authorized service provider to have it applied.

How the California Lemon Law Protects Subaru Drivers

The new recall highlights the wide range of snafus that can increase safety risks. It is far from the only problem for Subaru and people who drive its cars.

The automaker recently recalled nearly 70,000 Forester sport utility vehicles whose moonroofs could fall off, for instance. Subaru said at the time that the moonroofs were wrongly assembled.

There is some good news for Subaru drivers: The California lemon law gives you some strong rights and protections. 

The lemon law, known formally as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, requires carmakers to perform a wide range of repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. It also requires auto manufacturers to buy back (or replace, in some cases) covered vehicles that they are not able to repair or simply refuse to fix. That includes compensating the owner for the purchase price, as well as financing fees, rental car costs, and other related expenses.

There is no specific number of repair requests or attempts that must happen before the buyback or replace requirement kicks in. That is one reason why it is important to consult an experienced California lemon law attorney, who will help you understand your rights and take action.

Talk with a Los Angeles Lemon Law Attorney

If you have been stuck with a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, a Los Angeles lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you fight back.  

Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a Los Angeles lemon law attorney.