Subaru Worker Fails To Tighten Bolts To Specified Torque, Leads To 2017 Outback Recall

Subaru of America Inc. has informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of a safety recall that will be conducted on certain units of the 2017 Outback.

According to the letter sent by the Japanese manufacturer to the feds, the Outback vehicles manufactured from June 20 to June 23, 2016, may have improperly tightened attaching bolts for the right stabilizer clamp, wheel hubs and front brake calipers, which could loosen or detach.

The issue, which could make the SUVs unstable by reducing their braking capability and inevitably increasing the risk of a crash, was discovered by a worker at the brand’s Indiana factory, who noticed abnormal brake noise during a routine inspection. Investigating the matter helped Subaru trace the entire situation back to “one associate on the assembly line”, who did not properly torque the right front brake caliper.

In the meantime, the automaker has installed a new tool that will torque each bolt to the specific settings automatically, but it was already too late for the small batch of Subaru Outbacks, which will have to be taken back to the dealers, who will inspect the bolts for proper torque and replace any loose ones, free of charge.

The recall began on August 8, but owners of the above mentioned model who haven’t heard from Subaru yet can contact their Customer Service at 1-800-782-2783 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.