2009 Subaru Forester
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Air bags is the leading concern among 178 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 12th highest complaint count among 26 Forester model years with reports.
Of the 2009 reports, 19 involved a crash and 7 involved a fire. 5 people were injured and 1 person died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Seat beltsNov 10, 2022
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles. The front seat belt assembly force-limiter may not operate correctly in the event of a crash.
The seat belt assembly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Dealers will inspect and replace the seat belt assembly, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 9, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRJ-22.
Campaign 22V838000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 2, 2020
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-20.
Campaign 20V003000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 2, 2020
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-20.
Campaign 20V002000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 2, 2020
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators with alternate inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-20.
Campaign 20V001000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, ignition, switchApr 11, 2019
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch installed as a replacement part. The ball spring inside the switch may break, reducing the strength of the ignition switch. If this occurs, the weight on the key ring and certain road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. If a crash occurs under this condition, the air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ignition switch, replacing the ignition switch, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 10, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUF-91.
Campaign 19V297000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 9, 2018
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009 Tribeca, Impreza, Forester, WRX, Legacy, and Outback vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-18.
Campaign 18V014000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 9, 2018
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2010 Tribeca, Impreza, Forester, WRX, Legacy, and Outback vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-18.
Campaign 18V013000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 9, 2018
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Legacy, Forester, Tribeca, WRX and Outback vehicles, and 2009-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-18.
Campaign 18V012000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 11, 2017
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Baja, 2009 Forester, Legacy and Outback and 2006-2009 Impreza (including WRX and STI models) and Tribeca vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger front air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2017. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-17.
Campaign 17V026000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 10, 2017
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Subaru Baja, 2006-2011 Impreza (including WRX and STI models), 2006-2012 Tribeca, 2009-2012 Forester, Legacy, Outback, and 2012 WRX vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2017. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-17.
Campaign 17V014000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical systemOct 13, 2016
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2008-2014 Impreza vehicles and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, all equipped with turbo-charged engines. The relay that controls the secondary air injection pump may fail, causing the pump to continuously operate and overheat.
If the air injection pump overheats, it may melt and increase the risk of a fire.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary air injection pump relay, free of charge. The recall began December 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTM-73.
Campaign 16V738000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleMay 25, 2016
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2009-2011 Legacy, Outback, Forester, 2006-2011 Impreza, Tribeca, 2003-2006 Baja, and 2006 Saab 9-2x vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." These vehicles may be equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 26, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Saab owners may contact GM at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-16.
Campaign 16V358000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulicDec 31, 2014
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Impreza, 2008-2014 WRX and STI, and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, currently, or formerly, registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia that were remedied under recall 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014. The brake lines may experience brake line corrosion due to salt water splashing on the brake lines through a gap in the fuel tank protector.
Brake fluid may leak due to the brake line corrosion and may result in longer distances being required to slow or stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will apply an anti-corrosion wax to the four-way joint connector area of the brake line system, free of charge. The recall began on January 27, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQQ-52. Notes: This recall is specific to affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI customers who had their car remedied under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014. Subaru has determined that this remedy was inadequate due to incomplete repair instructions provided to dealers. Affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI vehicles that were not repaired under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014 will continue to be processed under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311. Affected vehicles not currently, or formerly, registered in the salt belt states identified in this recall are eligible for repair, at no cost to the customer, upon request.
Campaign 14V830000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, foundation components, hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsJun 10, 2014
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Outback and Legacy, 2008-2011 Impreza and 2008-2014 Impreza WRX/STI, and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, currently, or formerly, registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. Salt water could splash on the brake lines through a gap in the fuel tank protector, resulting in excessive corrosion of the brake lines. Note that affected vehicles not currently, or formerly registered, in the salt belt states identified above are eligible for repair, at no cost to the customer, upon request.
Brake line corrosion may result in brake fluid leakage. Fluid leakage may result in longer distances being required to slow or stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will test the brake system by depressing the brake pedal and inspecting for brake fluid leaks. If no brake fluid seepage is observed, the affected areas will be rustproofed with anti-corrosion wax. If brake fluid seepage is observed, the brake lines will be replaced followed by rustproofing with anti-corrosion wax. These services will be performed free of charge. The recall began July 2014 and second notifications will run through November 2014. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's recall campaign number is WQK-47. Note: This recall supersedes recall 13V-110 which applied to certain 2005-2009 Legacy/Outback vehicles. Vehicles that were remedied under the previous campaign still need additional areas rust-proofed.
Campaign 14V311000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lightingDec 26, 2012
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010 and 2011 Legacy and Outback vehicles, certain model year 2006 through 2012 Tribeca vehicles sold before January 2012, and certain model year 2009 through 2012 Forester vehicles sold before January 2012. Up to 78,650 of these vehicles may have been equipped with accessory puddle lights that, when illuminated, brighten the area under the doors of the vehicle. A short circuit can develop when either the puddle light or connector are exposed to an electrolytic moisture source (such as road spray that has road salt in it) and it penetrates the circuit board of the puddle light or the pins of the puddle light connector(s).
Over time, migration of the moisture into the circuit board and/or into the connector cavity, may result in a short circuit of the puddle light system. This may generate heat which may melt the plastic resulting in smoke or fire.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional fused-harness, free of charge. The recall began February 19, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
Campaign 12V602000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat belts, rear/otherMar 13, 2012
SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009-2012 FORESTER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 26, 2007, THROUGH MARCH 13, 2012. THE AUTOMATIC LOCKING RETRACTOR in the SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES LOCATED IN THE REAR CENTER SEATING OF THE AFFECTED VEHICLES DO NOT MEET LOCKABILITY REQUIREMENTS AND FAIL TO COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION. SPECIFICALLY, THE ASSEMBLIES MAY NOT PERMIT PROPER INSTALLATION AND SECURE ATTACHMENT OF A CHILD RESTRAINT IN THAT SEATING POSITION.
AN INSECURE INSTALLATION OF A CHILD RESTRAINT CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF INJURY TO A CHILD DURING A CRASH.
SUBARU WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR CENTER SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY WITH A NEWLY MODIFIED AUTOMATIC LOCKING RETRACTOR, FREE OF CHARGE. AN INTERIM LETTER WAS MAILED ON MARCH 26, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
Campaign 12V099000 on NHTSA.gov
EquipmentApr 2, 2009
THULE, INC. IS RECALLING 2,323 OWNER-INSTALLED ROOF-MOUNTED FIT KITS, MODELS 3068 AND 3069, MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JANUARY 1, 2008 AND FEBRUARY 28, 2009 THAT ARE USED WITH THULE PODIUM FOOT PACKS, MODELS 460 AND 460R. THESE FIT KITS WERE SOLD AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE BOLT(S) USED TO SECURE THE FOOT TO THE VEHICLE WAS MANUFACTURED TO A HARDNESS THAT MAY CAUSE THE BOLT(S) TO BE BRITTLE AND POTENTIALLY BREAK UNDER STRESS.
THIS MAY RESULT IN THE BOLT(S) SNAPPING OFF DURING USE OR WITHOUT A LOAD. THE UNSECURED RACK AND LOAD CAN THEN COME LOOSE WHILE DRIVING CREATING A POTENTIAL ROAD HAZARD, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
THULE WILL MAIL A RETRO FIT KIT ALONG WITH REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS TO OWNERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE APRIL 13, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THULE TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-238-2388.
Campaign 09E011000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine cooling, engineSep 11, 2008
SUBARU IS RECALLING 16,715 MY 2007-2008 LEGACY SEDANS AND WAGONS, MY 2008 IMPREZA SEDANS AND WAGONS, AND MY 2009 FORESTER VEHICLES. SOME VEHICLES MAY HAVE THE CYLINDER HEAD-SIDE OIL SUPPLY PIPE AND TURBOCHARGER-SIDE PIPE IMPROPERLY ASSEMBLED.
VIBRATION WOULD OCCUR WHILE DRIVING AND, OVER TIME, COULD EVENTUALLY RESULT IN CRACKING THE PIPE WHICH WOULD ALLOW OIL TO LEAK. IF LEAKING OIL CONTACTS COMPONENTS OPERATING AT HIGH TEMPERATURES, AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE COULD OCCUR.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR CRACKING OR AN OIL LEAK AT THE OIL SUPPLY PIPE AT THE CYLINDER HEAD-SIDE. AN ADDITIONAL BRACKET WILL BE INSTALLED TO INCREASE RIGIDITY OF THE PIPE AND THE PIPE ASSEMBLY WILL BE REPLACED WITH A MODIFIED PART. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 20, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
Campaign 08V460000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
178 reports, newest first.
Seats, Jun 12, 2013
DRIVER SEAT FAILED/COLLAPSED ON LEFT SIDE WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH, I WEIGH 165 POUND WITH MY CLOTHES ON! *TR
Fuel system, Gasoline, Jun 3, 2013
THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON WHILE DRIVING AND STAYED ON. THAT MEANT SOMETHING WAS AMISS WITH THE EMISSIONS CONTROL SYSTEM, PROBABLY A LOOSE GAS CAP. I CHECKED THE CAP, TOOK IT OFF AND RETIGHTENED IT UNTIL I HEARD THE PROPER CLICKING SOUND. THE LIGHT REMAINED ON THE REST OF THE TRIP HOME. TWICE MORE BEFORE SERVICING, I REPEATED THE PROCESS OF CHECKING THE CAP. BOTH TIMES I HEARD THE CLICKING SOUND. THE LIGHT REMAINED ON. I HAD THE PROBLEM LOOKED AT BY A SUBARU DEALER. AFTER 2 HOURS THEY TOLD ME I WAS EITHER OVERFILLING THE TANK - I NEVER TOP OFF - OR NOT PUTTING THE CAP ON PROPERLY. I TOLD THEM I KNOW HOW TO PUT A GAS CAP ON, EXPLAINED HOW I DO IT, AND IF THERE IS A BETTER WAY, PLEASE SHOW ME. THEY ONLY REPEATED THAT IT MUST BE ME BECAUSE THE CAP WAS LOOSE ENOUGH TO BE LEAKING GAS. DESPITE MY INSISTING THAT SOMETHING ELSE WAS WRONG, THEY SAID BRING IT BACK IF IT HAPPENS AGAIN. I WILL REPEAT THAT THE GAS CAP WAS PUT ON AS PROPERLY AS IT CAN BE DONE. THERE IS SOMETHING ELSE GOING ON HERE AND IT IS POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS. I REPLACED THE OLD CAP WITH A NEW ONE AND HAVE NOT HAD A PROBLEM. *TR
Vehicle speed control, May 10, 2013, crash
IN A 2009 SUBARU FORESTER WHILE IN A SMALL PARKING LOT, AFTER BACKING OUT OF PARKING SPACE AND PREPARING TO MOVE FORWARD, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED, SHOT ACROSS THE LOT AND CRASHED INTO A PARKED CAR WHICH WAS SEVERELY DAMAGED AND DEEMED TOTALED. THE DRIVER WAS ONLY ABLE TO ATTEMPT TO STEER THE OUT-OF-CONTROL FORESTER AWAY FROM THE PARKING LOT EXIT TO AVOID IT LEAVING THE LOT, CROSSING THE SIDEWALK AND ENTERING THE ROADWAY.THE FORESTER SUSTAINED CONSIDERABLE DAMAGES WHICH WERE REPAIRED. THE OWNER (DRIVER) DROVE THE FORESTER ONLY ONE TIME SINCE THE ACCIDENT AND WOULD NOT CONTINUE TO USE IT FOR FEAR OF A REPETITION OF WHAT APPEARED TO HIM TO BE A SERIOUS DEFECT IN THE SPEED CONTROL. THIS HAS BEEN REPORTED BY OTHERS FOR THIS MAKE AND MODEL FOR 2009 AND OTHER YEARS.
Engine, Apr 23, 2013
LOUD KNOCKING SOUND NOTED COMING FORM ENGINE WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY. PULLED OFF OF HIGHWAY THEN ALL THE WARNING LIGHTS ON DASHBOARD FLICKERED ON AND ENGINE DIED. HAD TO TOW TO DEALER. INFORMED THAT A ROD HAD KNOCKED LOOSE RELATED TO FAULTY BEARINGS HAD TO HAVE ENGINE REPLACED. *TR
Service brakes, Apr 4, 2013
SINCE FROM THE BEGINNING, I HAVE TO PUSH MY BRAKE PEDAL TOO DOWN TO APPLY THE BRAKES, I REPORTED IT SEVERAL TIMES TO MY SUBARU DEALER BUT THEY SEEMS TO BE NOT SERIOUS IN DEALING THIS. *TR
Seat belts, Mar 24, 2013
DRIVERS SEAT BELT WILL NOT RELEASE . YOU HAVE TO KEEP WORKING WITH IT & PULLING ON IT TO FINALLY GET IT TO RELEASE . THIS HAPPENS WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STOPPED AT 0 MPH . THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR THE LAST 4 MONTHS .I FELL THIS IS VERY UNSAFE INCASE OF FIRE, OR FOR ANOTHER REASON YOU NEED TO GET OUT OF THE VEHICLE IN A HURRY . *TR
Seats, Mar 7, 2013
THIS VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN INVOLVED IN ANY ACCIDENTS. I AM OF AVERAGE HEIGHT AND WEIGHT. UPON ENTERING MY VEHICLE AT A PARKING LOT ONE NIGHT, THE SEAT BOTTOM COLLAPSED AND FELL TO THE FLOOR. I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE HOME, BUT WAS VERY UNCOMFORTABLE TRYING TO REMAIN POSITIONED PROPERLY IN THE SEAT. CLOSER EXAMINATION OF THE SITUATION PERFORMED THE NEXT MORNING REVEALED A PORTION OF THE SEAT FRAME WAS BROKEN. LOU FUSZ SUBARU IN CREVE COEUR, MO CONFIRMED THE BROKEN FRAME AND TRACED TO FAILURE OF A SPOT WELD. THEY WANTED $1,000. TO REPLACE THE SEAT BOTTOM PORTION OF THE SEAT. ALL THE CONTROLS ARE STILL FUNCTIONAL, ALBEIT NOT FLAWLESSLY DUE TO MISALIGNMENT OF THE STRUCTURE. WHEN ASKED IF THE FRAME COULD BE WELDED THE SERVICE ADVISER SAID THIS WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE TO ASSESS UNLESS WE AGREED TO PAY FOR SEVERAL HOURS LABOR TO DISSEMBLE THE SEAT SO THE WELDER COULD INSPECT THE FRAME DESPITE THE SERVICE TECHNICIAN BEING ABLE TO SEE AND DIAGNOSE THE DAMAGE WITHOUT DIS-ASSEMBLY. WE HAVE ASKED THE SERVICE ADVISER TO CONTACT THE FACTORY REPRESENTATIVE TO RESOLVE WHAT WE BELIEVE IS A SAFETY SITUATION. WE BELIEVE THE SEAT FAILURE DIRECTLY AFFECTS OUR ABILITY TO MAINTAIN THE REQUIRED LEVEL OF COMFORTABLE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE - ESPECIALLY IF ANOTHER PORTION OF THE SEAT STRUCTURE FAILS. INDEPENDENT RESEARCH ON THE SUBARU OWNERS WEBSITE HAS REVEALED THAT OURS IS NOT AN ISOLATED INCIDENT. SIMILAR FAILURES, AT APPROXIMATELY THE SAME MILEAGE POINT, LEAD US TO QUESTION IF THERE WAS A FAULT IN THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS OF THE STEEL SEAT FRAME. *TR
Seats, Mar 2, 2013
I AM 195 LBS AND BEGAN ENTERING THE VEHICLE IN MY GARAGE AND SAT DOWN ON THE DRIVERS SEAT AND HEARD A SOUND FROM THE BOTTOM OF THE LEFT FRONT SIDE OF THE SEAT. FELT THAT THE SEAT WAS LOWER THAN THE RIGHT SIDE AS WELL. INSPECTED TO FIND THAT THE FRONT LEFT BRACKET THAT SUPPORTS THE BOTTOM OF THE SEAT HAD BROKEN. IT APPEARS THAT TWO VERY SMALL WELDS HOLD THE BRACKET TO THE SEAT AND BOTH HAD BROKEN AND ARE UNABLE TO SUFFICIENTLY SUPPORT THE SEAT. ATTEMPTING TO RAISE AND/OR LOWER THE SEAT DOES NOT WORK AS WELL SINCE THE LEFT FRONT SIDE CANNOT FUNCTION CORRECTLY. *TR
Tires, Feb 15, 2013
WE ARE 15,000 MILES INTO 4 NEW (APRIL 2012 PURCHASED, MOUNTED MAY 2012) P225/55ZR -17 PIRELLI P6 ALL-ROAD 2007 PRODUCTION TIRES. I HAVE HAD THE TIRES INSPECTED AND BALANCED AT REGULAR SERVICE INTERVALS AND ON THIS OCCASION (FEB2013) WAS ASKED HOW OLD MY TIRES WERE BECAUSE THEY WERE IN NEED OF REPLACEMENT AND WOULD LIKELY RESULT IN A TICKET BY GERMAN POLICE IF STOPPED. BY OUR MECHANICS ESTIMATE OUR TIRES LOOKED THREE-FOUR YEARS OLD. BECAUSE WE LIVE OCONUS WE PURCHASED OUR TIRES THROUGH TIRERACK.COM. HE RECOMMENDED WE TRY WORKING WITH THEM TO SEEK RESOLUTION, BECAUSE OUR TIRES ARE NOT IN COMPLIANCE WITH GERMAN LAW AND POTENTIALLY UNSAFE. *TR
Power train, Dec 4, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, A VIBRATION HARMONIC BUZZ WAS HEARD FROM UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR REPAIR. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THE HEAT SHIELD NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER A SECOND TIME FOR THE SAME FAILURE AND SAME REPAIRS WERE DONE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 85,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 90,000...UPDATED 01/14/13 *BF UPDATED 1/15/2013 *JS
Engine and engine cooling, Power train, Nov 23, 2012
I WAS DRIVING TO WORK, AND THE CAR WOULDN'T ACCELERATE, IT ALSO HANDLED ROUGHLY. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, CRUISE CONTROL LIGHT WAS FLASHING, ALONG WITH VEHICLE DYNAMICS CONTROL WARNING LIGHT. I HAD MY CAR TOWED, AS IT WASN'T DRIVABLE. MY LOCAL GARAGE REPAIRED MY CAR, I RECEIVED 4 NEW SPARK PLUGS, AND AN AIR FILTER. 9 DAYS LATER THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, AS WELL AS THE CRUISE CONTROL LIGHT, AND THE VEHICLE DYNAMICS WARNING LIGHT, AGAIN IT WAS REPAIRED, THIS HAD TO DO WITH THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER MESSAGE, BUT ALL MY LOCAL GARAGE COULD FIND WAS A SMALL LEAK NEAR THE MANIFOLD THAT THEY REPAIRED. 2 DAYS LATER THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WENT ON AGAIN, I NOW CALLED MY SUBARU DEALERSHIP, THEY REPLACED A FAULTY CATALYST CONVERTER, AND AF SENSOR, THE ALSO CHANGED MY OIL, AS IT WAS DUE, AND SUGGESTED I HAVE A TRANSMISSION FLUID FLUSH AND REFILL, AND THAT MY REAR AND FRONT DIFFERENTIALS, NEEDED A DRAIN AND REFILL. 5 DAYS PASSED ANOTHER CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, THIS TIME IT WAS FLASHING, I HAD TO HAVE MY CAR TOWED, THE SUBARU DEALERSHIP DISCOVERED THE WRONG SPARK PLUGS WERE PUT IN INITIALLY, AND REPLACED THEM WITH PLATINUM TIP SPARK PLUGS THAT MY MODEL TAKES. 4 DAYS PASSED ANOTHER CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, WITH BEING UNABLE TO ACCELERATE, I WAS GOING UP HILL, SO I CONTINUED ON, TO REACH A PARKING LOT, I COULD STOP IN BUT SUDDENLY, IT FELT LIKE SOMETHING UNBLOCKED, THIS MADE THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT GO AWAY, UNTIL 2 DAYS LATER, ANOTHER CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, I ONCE AGAIN BROUGHT MY CAR BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP, THE MENTIONED SOMETHING ABOUT THE CATALYST CONVERTER, BUT SAID IT WAS 'TOO SOON" SO THEY LEFT THE WORK ORDER OPEN , IN CASE IT OCCURRED AGAIN,AND GAVE ME THIS LECTURE ABOUT THE GRADE OF GAS I AM BUYING. 4 DAYS LATER THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT RETURNED, THIS TIME SUBARU DISCOVERED THE MY OTHER O2 SENSOR WAS FAULTY, AND THEY WOULD REPLACE IT, WHEN THE PART COMES IN. *TR
Electrical system, Aug 30, 2012
I WENT TO THE GROCERY STORE TODAY; IT WAS OFF AND ON RAINY WEATHER, SO I HAD BEEN RUNNING MY WINDSHIELD WIPERS A LITTLE. TURNED OFF CAR; WENT IN STORE, CAME BACK OUT, STARTED CAR UP - I NOTICED THE TIME/TEMP/MILEAGE DISPLAY WAS BLACK, THEN, I NOTICED THE RADIO HAD LOST POWER; THEN I NOTICED THE WIND SHIELD WIPERS DID NOT WORK, BUT NOT UNTIL I WAS OUT IN THE HIGHWAY AND NEEDED TO USE THEM. THIS WAS DANGEROUS AND SHOULD NEVER HAVE HAPPENED. I MADE ANOTHER STOP, TURNED OFF CAR, WENT IN STORE, CAME BACK OUT, STARTED UP CAR - AT THAT TIME, THE WIPERS, RADIO AND DISPLAY WERE BACK TO NORMAL ??? THIS UNDEPENDABLE WILL NOT DO. SUBARU NEEDS TO REPAIR MY CAR AT NO CHARGE. I BELIEVE MY LOVE AFFAIR WITH SUBARU IS OVER, ESPECIALLY AFTER READING ALL THESE COMPLAINTS AND WHAT I EXPERIENCED. *TR
Vehicle speed control, Jul 30, 2012, crash
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SUBARU FORESTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE REVERSING, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE CONTACT SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL AND THE VEHICLE STOPPED MOVING AT THAT POINT. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 17,000.
Other or unspecified, May 23, 2012
AFTER A DAY OF HEAVY RAIN WE FOUND A PUDDLE OF WATER ON THE PASSENGER SIDE FLOOR, WITH ALL WINDOWS AND DOORS CLOSED. NO SUNROOF. THIS HAPPENED ONCE BEFORE WITH HEAVY RAIN AUGUST 2011. *TT
Engine and engine cooling, Power train, Apr 26, 2012
FOR SOME ODD REASON ON MONDAY, APRIL 23 MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, MY AWD INDICATOR, AND THE CRUISE CONTROL LIGHT STARTED FLASHING ALL AT ONCE. I CAME INTO WORK AND GOOGLED THE ABOVE ITEMS ALONG WITH MY MAKE AND MODEL OF THE CAR...MUCH TO MY SURPRISE MULTIPLE LINKS, ITEMS, AND THREADS APPEARED. SO I READ MOST OF THEM AND THIS APPEARS TO BE A SYSTEMIC PROBLEM WITH SUBARU'S THROUGHOUT THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA. I BECAME CONCERNED BECAUSE NO RECALL WAS ISSUED AND IT SEEMS MORE THAN COINCIDENCE THAT MANY PEOPLE ARE HAVING THE SAME ISSUE. PLEASE ADVISE SINCE I CALLED THE SUBARU DEALER AND THEY COULD HAVE CARED LESS. *TR
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Mar 7, 2012
THE ISSUE WITH MY VEHICLE IS THAT WE HAVE TO PUSH THE BRAKES TOO FAR BEFORE THE BRAKES START WORKING. I REPORTED THE MATTER TO SUBARU SERVICE DEALER IN RAPID CITY, SD AND TO SUBARU (COMPLAINED THROUGH THEIR WEBSITE), THE SUBARU DEALER CHECKED THE BRAKES AND THEY SAY THEY ARE ALL GOOD AND NORMAL. SO FAR WE DID NOT HAVE ANY INCIDENT CAUSED BY THIS BUT WE ARE NOT HAPPY AND DO NOT FEEL SAFE. WE HAVE DRIVEN A NO. OF VEHICLES BUT THIS IS THE ONLY VEHICLE WHERE WE NEED TO PUSH THE BRAKES SO MUCH DOWN. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Mar 5, 2012
STOPPED TO FILL UP CAR WITH GAS ON WAY TO WORK AND WHEN I RESTARTED THE ENGINE I HEARD A REAL LOUD KNOCKING NOISE. AS I PULLED AWAY THE CAR WAS VERY SLUGGISH AND THE NOISE FROM THE ENGINE STARTED GETTING LOUDER. I WENT TO GET OFF THE ROAD AND TURN INTO A PARKING LOT AND THE CAR DIED AND I NARROWLY MISSED HITTING A BALTIMORE CITY WORK TRUCK AS THE POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES WERE NON RESPONSIVE BECAUSE THE ENGINE HAD CUT OFF. I WAS VERY LUCKY TO NOT CRASH INTO THE WORK TRUCK. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO VALLEY MOTORS SUBARU IN COCKEYSVILLE AND THEY CALLED TO INFORM ME THAT I NEED A NEW AT LEAST A NEW LOWER BLOCK IF NOT A WHOLE ENGINE REPLACEMENT. I LOOKED ONLINE FOR SOME INFORMATION ON ANY KNOWN ISSUES WITH STYLE OF CAR AND ENGINE AND WAS SHOCKED TO SEE THAT IN APRIL 2008 A " STOP SALE" WAS ISSUED BY SUBARU OF AMERICA ON MY EXACT CAR. LEGACY VEHICLES HAVE BEEN ADDED TO THE STOP SALE WE REGRET TO INFORM YOU THAT WE MUST PLACE AN IMMEDIATE STOP SALE ORDER ON ALL OF THE 2008/2009 SUBARU IMPREZA, FORESTER AND LEGACY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 2.5L TURBO ENGINE PRODUCED WITH THE BEGINNING CHASSIS NUMBER AND LATER AS SHOWN BELOW. MODEL BODY TYPE CHASSIS NUMBER PRODUCTION DATE FORESTER WAGON 701045 OR LATER 2008/01/08 OR LATER THE REASON FOR THIS IMMEDIATE QUALITY ASSURANCE ACTION IS THAT THERE HAVE BEEN SEVERAL REPORTS OF "ENGINE KNOCKING NOISE" FROM OTHER MARKETS ON VEHICLES PRODUCED AFTER THE PRODUCTION DATES LISTED. INITIAL INVESTIGATION CONFIRMS AN INTERNAL WEAR ISSUE ON THE FAILED UNITS. I BOUGHT MY CAR IN OCTOBER 2009 AND YOU CAN SEE THE VIN # IS PRETTY CLOSE IN THE RANGE AND I HAVE READ IN FORUMS OF PEOPLE WITH ALMOST IDENTICAL VIN'S AS MINE OF HAVING THE SAME EXACT ISSUE. *TR
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Feb 19, 2012
2009 SUBARU FORESTER ENCOUNTERED REAR BRAKE FAILURE AT 22555 MI.. BRAKE PADS DESTROYED BY CALIPER HARDWARE THAT WOULD NOT DISENGAGE DUE TO CORROSION. BRAKE ROTORS SCORED AND REQUIRED REPLACEMENT BECAUSE FAULTY WEAR SENSORS DESIGN FAILED TO ALERT TO PROBLEM. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Jan 12, 2012
2009 SUBARU FORESTER. PRODUCTION DATE: 02-14-08. INITIAL DIAGNOSIS IS INTERNAL TURBO FAILURE. THE CAR HAS 34,000 MILES ON IT AND OIL AND FILTERS ARE MAINTAINED. MY WIFE WAS DRIVING WITH OUR 2YR. OLD IN THE CAR WHEN IT STARTED MAKING A HORRIBLE GRINDING SOUND. SHE DESCRIBED IT AS IT SOUNDED AND FELT LIKE SHE WAS DRAGGING SOMETHING. SHE LIMPS HOME WITH THE CAR AND I TAKE IT FOR A TEST DRIVE. IT SOUNDED FINE AT START UP. NO TAPPING OR GRINDING. AS SOON AS I START UP THE ROAD I COULD FEEL THERE WAS NO ACCELERATION. LIKE I WAS DRIVING IN MUD. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, THE TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT AND THE CRUISE CONTROL LIGHT ALL STUCK ON. I HAVE READ MANY CASES OF THIS SAME THING HAPPENING WITH OTHER 2.5 TURBO ENGINES. THERE WAS A STOP SALE AND A RECALL BUT, ACCORDING TO SUBARU MY CAR WAS NOT AFFECTED. THE REPORTS I'VE READ INDICATE OTHERWISE. THE PRODUCTION DATE AND THE VIN# FALL INTO THE RANGE OF THE STOP SALE. I AM VERY WORRIED ABOUT THE OUTCOME AS THE DEALERSHIP I BOUGHT THE CAR FROM AND SOA HAVE NOT BEEN HELPFUL. I HAD TO CALL SUBARU MYSELF TO GET THEM TO RESPOND TO THE DEALERSHIPS CASE CONCERNING MY CAR. IT'S BEEN A WEEK NOW AND JUST TODAY I GOT A CALL FROM SUBARU REQUESTING PERMISSION TO TEAR DOWN THE ENGINE TO FIND THE SOURCE. A WEEK AND IT'S JUST SITTING THERE. NO OFFER OF A RENTAL. NOTHING. THIS ISSUE IS NOT RESOLVED YET AND I HOPE SUBARU DOES THE RIGHT THING AND LIVES UP TO ITS REPUTATION OF BEING A RELIABLE, LONG LASTING CAR. *TR
Power train, Dec 20, 2011
FAILS TO FUNCTION IN DRIVE WHEN PARKED OVERNITE AND THE OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE IS BELOW 40 DEGREES. AFTER A WARM UP PERIOD THE DRIVE GEAR ENGAGES AND THE CAR IS DRIVABLE EXCEPT FOR A CLUNKING AND SLIPPAGE OF THE TRANSMISSION, ALSO REVERSE APPEARS OK UNTIL YOU PLACE THE CAR IN DRIVE AND YOU A RATTLING CLUNK. THE TRANSMISSION RPM GOES INTO THE RED ZONE AT TIMES WHILE DRIVING THE CAR . *TR
Latches/locks/linkages, Child seat, Apr 23, 2011
THE SUPERLATCH LOOSENS AS SOON AS YOU TOUCH THE ADJUSTER OR BUMP THE SEAT. IT DOES NOT LOCK AT ALL IN MY VEHICLE. (RELATED VEHICLE INFORMATION: MODEL YEAR=2009, MAKE=SUBARU, MODEL=FORESTER). *TR
Fuel system, Gasoline, Feb 24, 2011
GASOLINE ODOR INSIDE VEHICLE WHEN STOPPED AT TRAFFIC LIGHTS CAUSING HEADACHES,AND FEAR OF FIRE! *TR
Vehicle speed control, Dec 25, 2010, crash
SUDDEN ACCELERATION ON A 2009 SUBARU FORRESTER. MY WIFE WAS PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE WHEN THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED, CRASHING THRU A BRICK WALL, OVER A LARGE A/C UNIT AND INTO A BUILDING. *TR
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Sep 27, 2010
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SUBARU FORRESTER. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL INDEPENDENTLY WENT TO THE FLOORBOARD ABNORMALLY AND THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO DECELERATE BUT DID NOT COME TO A STOP. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE EXHIBITED AN UNUSUALLY LOUD NOISE. THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND FOUND THAT THE REAR PASSENGER BRAKES WERE COMPLETELY GONE. THE DEALER ADVISED HE BRING THE VEHICLE IN FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING HOWEVER, THE CONTACT DID NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT BRAKE PADS WERE NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY AND WOULD PROVIDE ANY FURTHER ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 40,000.
Power train, Sep 3, 2010, crash
DRIVER WAS BACKING UP VEHICLE, WHEN IT ACCELERATED RAPIDLY, CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL AND TRAFFIC CRASH WHERE A PEDESTRIAN WAS BACKED OVER, PINNED AND KILLED. DRIVE HAD NO EXPLANATION OF WHY THIS HAPPENED. PASSENGER IN VEHICLE CLAIMS THERE HAD TO HAVE BEEN MECHANICAL DEFECT. *TR