Subaru’s Massive Recall: A Simple Labeling Error Hits Over Half a Million Vehicles

Subaru is calling back more than 540,000 vehicles across three popular models, the Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent, and the reason is surprisingly simple: a typo. According to reports, the issue isn't mechanical or electrical, but rather a misprint on the vehicle’s certification label.

The label, located inside the driver’s door jamb, incorrectly states the gross vehicle weight rating, which could cause confusion during load calculations.

While no crashes or injuries have been reported, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration flagged the error because an incorrect weight rating could lead to overloading, potentially affecting handling and tire safety. The recall covers certain 2020 through 2024 model years, with the majority being Foresters and Crosstreks.

Subaru dealers will replace the faulty label free of charge, a fix that takes just a few minutes.

For owners, this is more of an administrative headache than a dangerous defect. Subaru will mail notification letters starting in late February, and owners can also check their vehicle’s eligibility online using the VIN. If you drive one of these models, keep an eye on your mailbox, but don’t panic.

It’s a paperwork problem, not a breakdown waiting to happen.