Subaru is recalling 271,694 model-year 2019-2022 Ascent vehicles due to a fire risk. The positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heater may have a production-related wiring connection defect that can cause a fire while the heater is in operation.
Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on February 6, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 844-373-6614 or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s vehicle safety hotline at 888-327-4236 to learn more.
To fix the problem, dealers will replace the PTC heater ground bolts and if necessary, replace the ground wire and the connector holder. Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside away from structures and avoid leaving the vehicle unattended while the engine is running until the recall repair is completed. If an owner notices or smells smoke coming from the dash or driver’s footwell area, they should immediately stop the vehicle and turn the ignition off.
Vehicle manufacturers are legally required to repair any recalled issues or replace the defective part for free under the Highway Safety Act of 1970. If the dealership refuses to fix the problem or attempts to charge you for the repair, contact the manufacturer immediately.
Lemon Law Group Partners can assist car owners if they encounter any problems during the recall process with the manufacturer. Our attorneys deal directly with the manufacturer on the client’s behalf to quickly resolve the problem. In many cases, the attorneys get paid directly from the manufacturer so the client does not have to pay any attorneys’ fees to obtain legal counsel. For more information and a free consultation call 888-668-8581.