Safety Concerns Over Incorrect Weight Labels
Subaru has issued a recall for more than 540,000 SUVs following a discovery by federal safety regulators regarding inaccurate weight limit documentation. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an incorrect gross axle weight rating (GAWR) on the rear axle certification sticker poses a significant safety risk.
The regulatory body warns that drivers relying on these incorrect figures may unintentionally exceed the vehicle's capacity.
«An incorrect GAWR label may lead to an overloaded vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash,»the NHTSA stated in its official notice.
Affected Vehicle Models
The recall involves an estimated 541,237 vehicles that do not align with federal safety standards. The affected lineup includes:
- 2019–2026 Subaru Ascent
- 2025–2026 Subaru Forester
- 2025–2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid
- 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
Recall Process and Owner Information
The issue was brought to Subaru's attention in May, prompting an internal review that led to the decision to initiate a recall in late June. Fortunately, there have been no reports of accidents or injuries linked to this labeling discrepancy thus far.
Subaru plans to begin notifying affected owners via mail starting August 25. The remedy process will be handled as follows:
- Owners will receive a corrected sticker by mail at no cost, which includes instructions for manual application.
- Those who prefer professional assistance can visit an authorized Subaru dealership, where a technician will apply the updated label free of charge.
For further assistance, owners may contact Subaru Customer Service at 1-844-373-6614, citing recall code WRH-26. Additionally, individuals can verify if their specific vehicle is included in the recall by checking their VIN on the official NHTSA website or by calling the agency's vehicle safety hotline.