Subaru is recalling new Outback and Legacy for possible fire risk

Recall notice: 2015-2016 Subaru Outback and Legacy models. Why is there a possible fire risk in these models?

Subaru is recalling 2015-2016 Outback wagons and 2015-2016 Legacy sedans because of a power-train issue involving a potential transmission oil leak that could possibly cause a fire. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this could occur if the transmission fluid leaks from a deformed seal cap on the propeller shaft and hits the exhaust pipe and could ignite and start a fire.

NHTSA says 2015-2016 Outback and Legacy models manufactured between July 3, 2015, to July 27, 2015 are the vehicles that are being recalled by Subaru of America. These vehicles are built at the Subaru plant in Lafayette, Indiana and a stop-sale order is in effect in the U.S. until the propeller shaft on these vehicles can be replaced.
 
There has not been any information made available whether there have been any fires, injuries, crashes or fatalities linked to this Outback and Legacy recall. Both models were completely redesigned for the 2015 model year and 2015 Outback and Legacy models equipped with EyeSight were also recalled for an automatic pre-collision braking component issue in June. This recall has been finished.

For the latest transmission fluid leak issue, Subaru of America will notify 2015-2016 Outback and Legacy owners, and dealers will replace the propeller shaft, free of charge. NHTSA says the recall will begin on Friday, August 28, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru’s Customer Service at 1-800-782-2783 to get additional information. Owners will need to reference Subaru’s recall #WQU-56.

Media source: NHTSA