A Subaru Ascent with a misprinted certification label on the rear axle.

Over Half A Million Subarus Recalled Over A Wrong Sticker

Stephen M 2 min read

Subaru recalls over 541,000 SUVs due to misprinted certification labels listing incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating.

Key Takeaways

  • Subaru is recalling over 541,000 SUVs due to misprinted certification labels.
  • The recall affects 2019-2026 Ascent models, 2025-2026 Foresters, 2025-2026 Forester Hybrids, and the 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid.
  • The problem is a printed weight rating, not the vehicle itself.
  • Owners can fix it with a mailed overlay sticker themselves.
  • Subaru plans to mail owners a corrected certification overlay label along with instructions.

What’s the Reason for the Recall?

The recall is due to a misprinted certification label that lists an incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR), putting the vehicles out of compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 110.

The incorrect rear axle weight rating could mislead owners into carrying more cargo or passengers than the axle is actually rated to handle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Which Vehicles Are Affected?

The recall affects 2019-2026 Ascent models, 2025-2026 Foresters, 2025-2026 Forester Hybrids, and the 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid.

A total of 541,237 vehicles are covered in the recall.

How Will the Problem Be Fixed?

Subaru plans to mail owners a corrected certification overlay label along with instructions explaining how to apply it over the existing sticker.

Anyone uncomfortable doing that can still have the label installed by a dealer at no charge.

What Led to the Discovery of the Problem?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) raised concerns about the rating in May, prompting Subaru to review the calculated GAWR values for its vehicles dating back to the 2003 model year.

Specifications

SpecificationValue
Affected Models2019-2026 Ascent, 2025-2026 Forester, 2025-2026 Forester Hybrid, 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid
Total Vehicles Affected541,237

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the reason for the recall?

The recall is due to a misprinted certification label that lists an incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR), putting the vehicles out of compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 110.

Q: Which vehicles are affected?

The recall affects 2019-2026 Ascent models, 2025-2026 Foresters, 2025-2026 Forester Hybrids, and the 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid.

Q: How will the problem be fixed?

Subaru plans to mail owners a corrected certification overlay label along with instructions explaining how to apply it over the existing sticker.

Related Articles