note: there are other models affected, I only listed the outback numbers.
Vehicle 1 : 2023-2023 Subaru Outback
Vehicle Type : LIGHT VEHICLES
Body Style : SUV
Power Train : GAS
Descriptive Information :
-Description of the issue: Some mounting surfaces for the propeller shaft center
support brace bolts may have been inadvertently painted during the supplier’s
manufacturing process. If these mounting surfaces are painted, the support brace
bolts may not retain the specified torque.
-The basis for how the recall population was determined: Vehicles potentially
equipped with an affected center support brace were identified using vehicle
production records.
-How the recalled products differ from products that were not included in the recall:
Vehicles equipped with a center support brace which was properly manufactured are
not affected.
The recall population includes certain 2023 model year Outback vehicles. The
number of potentially affected Outback vehicles is 2,490.
Production Dates : MAR 21, 2023 – MAR 31, 2023
VIN Range 1 : Begin : NR End : NR
Description of Defect :
Some mounting surfaces for the propeller shaft center support brace bolts may
have been inadvertently painted during the supplier’s manufacturing process.
If these mounting surfaces are painted, the support brace bolts may not retain
the specified torque.
Description of the Safety Risk : In the worst case, if both of the center support bolts completely come out due
to continuous vibration, the front end of the propeller shaft could separate,
increasing the risk of a crash.
Description of the Cause : Masking applied to the center support brace mounting surfaces prior to
painting may not have been fully seated on some of the bolt mounting surfaces.
Identification of Any Warning that can Occur :
Occupants may experience irregular sounds and/or vibrations from the
propeller shaft area during vehicle operation.
Description of Remedy :
For all the potentially affected vehicles, Subaru dealers will clean the bolt
seating surfaces of the center support brace, install new bolts and tighten
to the specified torque.
Subaru will provide reimbursement to owners for repairs according to the general plan submitted in May 2022.
Identify How/When Recall Condition was Corrected in Production :
Subaru began 100% inspection of propeller shaft center support assemblies on April 4, 2023.
Recall Schedule :
Dealer notification is expected to occur by September 22, 2023.
Owner notification is scheduled to begin on or about November 20, 2023.
Planned Dealer Notification Date : SEP 22, 2023 – SEP 22, 2023
Planned Owner Notification Date : NOV 20, 2023 – NOV 20, 2023
