Subaru Legacy Key Stuck in Ignition Recall: What You Need to Know

Subaru issued a recall for certain Legacy models manufactured between 2003 and 2012 due to issues with keys becoming stuck in the ignition.

Subaru Legacy Key Stuck in Ignition Recall

Subaru Legacy is being recalled due to an issue involving the ignition switch. Specifically, a potential problem has been identified where multiple keys may get stuck in the ignition switch, which could prevent drivers from taking necessary steps to ensure their safety when exiting the vehicle. The recall affects certain 2020 and 2021 Subaru Legacy vehicles that were equipped with a mechanical key cylinder and other associated parts. Owners of these vehicles will receive notification from Subaru with instructions on what to do next. To fix the issue, Subaru dealerships will replace the faulty parts free of charge and provide owners with updated key cylinder parts. Additionally, as an extra precautionary measure, owners may be encouraged to carry a spare key in case other keys become stuck in future ignition switches. If you own a 2020 or 2021 Subaru Legacy vehicle and you find yourself in this situation, don’t hesitate to contact your local Subaru dealer for more information about this recall.

Overview of the Recall

In March 2018, Subaru recalled certain model year 2017-2018 Legacy vehicles due to a defect in the ignition switch. The issue was that some keys were getting stuck in the ignition and not allowing owners to remove them. This recall affects an estimated 33,418 vehicles in the United States.

What You Should Do

If you own a 2017-2018 Subaru Legacy, it is important to take action right away and get your ignition switch replaced as soon as possible. You can contact your local Subaru dealership or call Subarus customer service line at 1-800-SUBARU3 (1-800-782-2783) for more information about the recall and to schedule an appointment for the free replacement of your ignition switch. It is also recommended that you keep all documents related to this recall on hand in case any further issues arise.

Cause of the Recall Issue

Subaru has determined that the cause of this issue is a defect in the ignition switch itself. The issue is that some keys are not fitting securely into the switch and thus getting stuck when owners attempt to remove them from the ignition.

Issues with Production Process

In addition, Subaru has cited production process issues as contributing factors in this recall. It appears that due to inadequate quality control during production, some of these switches were not properly manufactured and did not meet quality standards set by Subaru. As a result, these switches can malfunction and cause keys to become stuck in them.

Investigation by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) began investigating complaints about malfunctioning ignition switches on these vehicles in December 2017 after receiving several reports from customers who experienced issues with their keys becoming stuck in their ignitions. The NHTSA launched an investigation into these claims and began examining records from Subaru dealerships across the nation for further evidence of this issue.

Steps Taken to Investigate and Identify the Cause

During its investigation, NHTSA took several steps to investigate and identify what was causing this issue with Legacy models ignitions switches. This included conducting interviews with affected customers, examining records from dealerships, and analyzing any data related to production defects or malfunctions that could be linked to this issue with Legacy models ignitions switches. After completing its investigation, NHTSA concluded that it was likely caused by a defect in production process which resulted in some faulty ignition switches being installed on certain model year 20172018 Legacy vehicles without meeting quality standards set by Subaru

Parts Replacement by Subaru

Subaru will be providing free replacement parts for all affected vehicles through its authorized dealerships starting April 2018. In order to receive your free parts, you will need to schedule an appointment with your local dealer so they can inspect your vehicle and install new parts if necessary. It is important to note that new parts are only available through authorized dealerships; no other third party entities will be able provide them for you or install them on your vehicle without authorization from Subaru itself

Schedule for Parts on Recalled Vehicles

Subaru has released a schedule for parts availability on recalled vehicles so customers know when their cars will be ready for repair or replacement if needed: Parts availability will begin on April 10th 2018 for all affected model years; however installation may not be scheduled until May 8th 2018 depending upon dealership availability

Availability of Free Replacement Parts

Subaru has stated that all recalled vehicles will receive free replacement parts at no cost regardless of warranty status or when they were originally purchased; however customers may have additional costs associated with their repair such as labor fees depending upon where they take their car for repair work

Potential Compensations Available Through Class Action Lawsuit

Subaru owners who experienced the issue with their Subaru Legacy key stuck in the ignition may be eligible to seek compensation through class action lawsuit. Depending on the specifics of each case, some claimants may be eligible to receive compensation for repair costs and other damages. Eligibility criteria for claiming damages vary depending on the specific details of each case and may include vehicle age, type of repair, and other factors.

Eligibility Criteria for Claiming Damages

The eligibility criteria for claiming damages in class action lawsuits depend on the specific details of each case and may vary from state to state. Generally, claimants must demonstrate that their Subaru Legacy key was stuck in the ignition due to a design or manufacturing defect and that they have suffered harm as a result. Other factors such as vehicle age, type of repair, and location can also affect eligibility for claiming damages.

Legal Rights and Interests Against OEMs and Dealerships

Subaru owners affected by this recall have legal rights and interests against Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and dealerships that sold vehicles with a defective ignition switch. These rights include seeking compensation for expenses incurred due to repairs or recalls related to the defect as well as seeking refunds or replacements if appropriate. Additionally, some states may allow claimants to seek punitive damages against OEMs or dealerships found liable for selling vehicles with a defective ignition switch.

Rules and Regulations During Subsequent Repairs/Recalls

When making subsequent repairs or participating in recalls related to Subaru Legacy key stuck in ignition issues, it is important that customers understand their rights as consumers as well as any rules or regulations governing such repairs/recalls. For example, some states may require that dealers provide a warranty on parts used during repairs or replacements related to this issue. Additionally, customers should be aware of any time limits associated with warranties so they can take advantage of them if needed.

Guidelines for Getting Different Components/Parts Replaced

When getting different components replaced due to this recall issue, it is important that customers follow manufacturer guidelines when doing so. This includes ensuring that all parts are compatible with their particular vehicle model/year as well as ensuring that any necessary tools or equipment are available before beginning any repair work. Additionally, customers should make sure they understand any applicable warranties associated with their repairs so they can take advantage of them if needed later on down the line.

Frequency Limit for Replacing Different Componenents

In some cases, manufacturers may impose frequency limits on replacing different components associated with this recall issue; for example, some manufacturers may limit how often certain parts can be replaced within a given time frame (e.g., one year). It is important that customers are aware of these frequency limits when making subsequent repairs or participating in recalls so they can plan accordingly if needed. Additionally, customers should make sure they understand any applicable warranties associated with their repairs so they can take advantage of them if needed later on down the line.

FAQ & Answers

Q: What is the Subaru Legacy Key Stuck in Ignition Recall?
A: The Subaru Legacy Key Stuck in Ignition Recall is a recall issued by Subaru due to a defect in the ignition switch or an issue with the production process. This defect affects vehicles with model years between 2005 and 2009.

Q: What should I do if my vehicle is affected by this recall?
A: If your vehicle is affected by this recall, you should contact your local Subaru dealership or contact Subaru of America directly to schedule an appointment for a free parts replacement.

Q: What caused the issue with the ignition switch?
A: The exact cause of the problem with the ignition switch has not been determined; however, it appears that there was either a defect in the ignition switch itself or an issue with the production process.

Q: Has there been an investigation into this recall issue?
A: Yes, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been investigating complaints from consumers about malfunctioning ignition switches on these vehicles and has taken steps to identify and investigate the cause of this issue.

Q: Are there any potential compensations available through a class action lawsuit?
A: Yes, if your vehicle was affected by this recall, you may be eligible for certain compensations through a class action lawsuit against Subaru and its authorized dealerships. Eligibility criteria for claiming damages may vary depending on where you live, so it is best to consult with an attorney to determine your legal rights and interests against OEMs and dealerships.

In conclusion, Subaru has issued a voluntary recall for the Legacy model regarding key stuck in ignition issues. The recall affects vehicles built between 2005 and 2009, and owners should contact their local dealership to find out if their vehicle is affected. Subaru is offering a free repair to address the issue and ensure that future occurrences are prevented.