New Subaru Forester, Crosstrek, And Ascent Models Recalled Over Possible Engine Failure

Torque News reported earlier this week the new-generation Subaru Forester was being recalled in Australia over a defect in the 2.5-liter Boxer engine that could cause engine failure. Now Subaru of America is expanding that recall to the U.S. and will include certain 2019 Forester, Crosstrek, and Ascent vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports a total of 51,613 vehicles are affected in this new U.S. recall.

A total of 33,383 Subaru Forester compact SUV models are affected (manufactured between July 4, 2018-March 21, 2019), 37 Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid models (September 11, 2018-October 8, 2018), both are manufactured in Japan, and 18,193 Subaru Ascent 3-Row models (February 22, 2018-August 31, 2018) manufactured in the U.S. plant in Lafayette, Indiana are being recalled. All are 2019 model year vehicles.

2019 Subaru Forester

What is the issue?

Subaru says the aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve, an oil flow control device, can separate over time, allowing engine oil and components of the PCV valve into the combustion chamber, resulting in a visible change in appearance and/or the amount of tailpipe exhaust. If driving under this condition continues, separated components from the PCV valve may enter the engine.

If it fractures, it could cause excessive exhaust smoke and possibly unexpected loss of engine power and may result in an accident, or injury to vehicle occupants and other cars on the road. If the engine is contaminated with debris from the separated PCV valve, the engine short block will need to be replaced.

2019 Subaru Ascent

When it’s working properly, the PCV valve routes air and fuel from the crankcase back through the intake manifold to the cylinders rather than allowing them to escape into the atmosphere.

What should owners do?

Subaru will notify 2019 Forester, Crosstrek PHEV, and Ascent owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the PCV valve, free of charge. If the PCV valve has separated and the components cannot be found, the short block engine will be replaced, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on January 24, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUW-08.

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Denis Flierl has invested nearly 30 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. All of his reports are archived on our Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Subaru Report. Check back tomorrow for more Subaru news and updates!

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Photo credit: Subaru USA