A Simple Typo Forces Subaru to Recall Nearly 500,000 Vehicles

Subaru is facing an embarrassing and costly mistake: a typographical error in its vehicle software is behind a massive recall affecting nearly half a million cars. The issue, which involves the automatic emergency braking system, was traced back to a single incorrect character in a line of code.

That small glitch can cause the system to fail to engage when needed, increasing the risk of a collision.

The recall covers several popular models, including the 2020-2022 Outback, Legacy, and Ascent, as well as the 2021-2022 Crosstrek and Forester. According to Subaru, the error was introduced during a routine software update intended to improve performance. Instead, a missing or misplaced letter in the programming language prevented the braking system from properly detecting obstacles at low speeds.

Subaru has not reported any crashes or injuries linked to the flaw, but the company is taking no chances. Dealers will update the affected vehicles’ software free of charge. Owners can expect notification letters starting in early April. In the meantime, drivers are advised to pay extra attention when backing up or parking, as the system may not respond as designed.

While the recall is a black eye for Subaru’s quality control, it serves as a reminder that even the smallest human error can have big consequences in modern cars. For Boca Auto Care customers, this underscores the importance of staying on top of manufacturer recalls. If you own one of these models, bring it in and we’ll help you check if your vehicle is affected and ensure the fix is applied promptly.