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    Subaru Legacy and Outback Recalled to Fix Faulty Airbags

    The passenger airbag may not deploy in a crash

    2020 Subaru Outback, static, in forest Photo: Subaru

    Subaru is recalling over 118,000 Outback station wagons and Legacy sedans from the 2020 through 2022 model years because their passenger airbags may not go off in a crash. If this happens, it could increase the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.

    The problem is due to defective occupant detection sensors (ODS). If they fail, the vehicle will turn off the airbag because it won’t be able to tell whether there’s a person in the passenger seat. Both the airbag warning and “passenger airbag off” lights will illuminate if the passenger airbag is shut off. The faulty airbag sensors, made by automotive supplier Aisin, were also used by Toyota and Honda, which have also recalled vehicles for similar issues.

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    Subaru dealerships will fix this problem by replacing faulty sensors with new ones, free of charge. Subaru may also reimburse some owners who paid for this repair out of their own pockets. 

    Owners will likely have to wait for a free fix. The automaker says that sufficient replacement parts are not yet available to repair all the recalled vehicles, so owners will get a second recall notice when they can bring their car in to get the recall work done.

    In documents provided to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the automaker says it is aware of 253 warranty claims and no injuries related to this issue.

    Stay informed about recalls that might affect your vehicle using our Car Recall Tracker. Create a free account now to become a CR member.

    Subaru Airbag Recall Details

    Vehicles recalled: 2020-2022 Subaru Legacy sedans and Outback wagons manufactured between June 16, 2020 and July 12, 2021

    The problem: Due to a manufacturing defect, the passenger occupant detection sensors (ODS) could crack and allow moisture in, which could cause a short circuit. If this happens, the passenger airbag may not deploy in a crash.

    The fix: Subaru dealerships will replace all four ODS, free of charge. The repair will not be available immediately.

    How to contact the manufacturer: Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614.

    NHTSA campaign number: 24V227. Subaru’s own number for this recall is WRA-24.

    Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls that need to be addressed.

    If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have any open recalls. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly to see whether your vehicle has had a recall issued.

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    Keith Barry

    Keith Barry has been an auto reporter at Consumer Reports since 2018. He focuses on safety, technology, and the environmental impact of cars. Previously, he led home and appliance coverage at Reviewed; reported on cars for USA Today, Wired, and Car & Driver; and wrote for other publications as well. Keith earned a master’s degree in public health from Tufts University. Follow him on BlueSky @itskeithbarry.bsky.social.