Engine Control Trouble Drives Subaru Recall
» Posted December 13, 2019 • Resources | Share This Post
Subaru is recalling more than 400,000 vehicles over engine problems, the Japanese automaker recently announced.
Subaru wants to take another look at the cars to repair engine computers that may continue to power ignition coils after the motor has been turned off. That could cause big problems for anyone in the affected vehicles.
“If the ignition coil remains energized for too long, the internal temperature of the ignition coil may increase which could cause a short circuit and a blown fuse,” Subaru explained in a notice to dealers. “If a short circuit in the ignition coil occurs while the vehicle is in motion, the vehicle may experience a loss of motive power while driving without the ability to immediately restart the engine, increasing the risk of a crash.”
Some of the same vehicles also have aluminum positive crankcase ventilation valves that may disintegrate, allowing debris to get into the engine. Those valves will be replaced as part of the recall.
“Operation of a vehicle with a separated PCV valve may cause a visible change in the appearance and/or amount of tailpipe exhaust,” Subaru said in a notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “If driving under this condition continues, separated components from PCV valve may enter the engine and the vehicle may experience a loss of motive power, increasing the risk of a crash.”
The ignition coil recall covers 2017-2019 Subaru Imprezas and 2018-2019 Crosstreks. The valve recall covers 2017-2019 Imprezas and 2018 Crosstreks.
Legal Rights for California Car Owners, Lessors
This is not the first safety recall for Subaru. The company last year recalled 2,000 vehicles – and even offered to buy them back – because of “improperly applied spot welds.”
Unfortunately, many carmakers allow defective vehicles to leave their factories, creating a serious safety hazard for anyone on the road. The good news is that there are a number of legal protections for car owners and lessors stuck with a malfunctioning vehicle.
The California lemon law requires car manufacturers to make certain repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. The law also forces the manufacturer to buy back vehicles that it is unable or unwilling to adequately repair. A carmaker can instead offer to replace the vehicle, but it is up to the owner or lessor to decide whether to accept that option.
Speak with a California Lemon Law Attorney
If you are a car owner or lessor who is grappling with your car’s manufacturer over repairs, an experienced California lemon law attorney can help. A lawyer can help you weigh your rights and options to ensure that the carmaker is held fully accountable.
At the Bickel Law Firm, we have represented hundreds of clients in defective vehicle cases in Southern California and across the state. We work tirelessly to get the people we represent the compensation they deserve.
Our offices are conveniently located in Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco. Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a California lemon law attorney today.
