Owners have filed 75 complaints
about the 2011 Subaru Impreza with NHTSA between 2010 and 2026.
The largest single group is the airbags.
Across this model's run it ranks 11 of 31 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 34
Against the median year of the Subaru Impreza. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
21.3% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 96
56% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
36.3%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
612.5%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
714.6%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
1837.5%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
510.4%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
816.7%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
12.1%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Oct 2010peak 5Mar 2026
Recalls on the 2011 Subaru Impreza
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
20V003000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
20V001000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
20V002000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
19V297000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch installed as a replacement part. The ball spring inside the switch may break, reducing the strength of the ignition switch. If this occurs, the weight on the key ring and certain road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
Risk: The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. If a crash occurs under this condition, the air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
19V149000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and also preventing keyless ignition vehicles from starting and CVT/automatic transmissions from being able to be shifted out of Park.
Risk: Brake lights that do not illuminate properly will not alert other drivers that the vehicle is slowing or stopping, increasing the risk of crash.
19V007000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Forester, 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, Legacy, and 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
19V008000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, and Legacy vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
19V009000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 202000123,159 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: This recall is for certain vehicles that had an airbag inflator replaced as a part of an earlier recall campaign. This recall provides a final repair. Long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. If the airbag inflator ruptures, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants or cause damage to the airbag assembly, preventing its proper function. Safety Risk: If the vehicle is involved in a crash requiring an airbag deployment, the airbag inflator could rupture and create a risk of injury. Corrective Actions: Owners will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to inspect the passenger-front airbag inflator. The passenger-front airbag module or inflator will be replaced as necessary. Note: The Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. This recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk. It is expected that all airbag inflators will be replaced before their function would be affected.
Recall 2019191100 units in Canada
Electrical
Issue: A problem with certain replacement ignition switches may allow the key turn out of the “ON” position while driving. This could cause the engine to turn off suddenly. It could also cause the airbag system not to work properly in a crash. Note: This is a voluntary service campaign that is not being conducted under the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. This problem only affects certain parts used for replacement of original parts. Safety Risk: A sudden loss of engine power could increase the risk of a crash. An airbag system that does not work properly in a crash could cause an increased risk of injuries. Corrective Actions: The company will notify owners by mail and instruct them to take their vehicle to a dealer to inspect the ignition switch, and replace it as necessary.
Recall 2019104135,814 units in Canada
Brakes
Issue: On certain vehicles, the brake lamp switch could fail. This would cause the brake lamps not to turn on when the brakes are applied. Depending on the model, this could cause an inability to shift from park or to start using the push-button ignition. This may also cause problems with the following: anti-lock brake system (ABS), vehicle dynamics control (VDC), and/or Eyesight system. Safety Risk: If the brake lights do not work, a following driver may not to recognize that a vehicle ahead is braking, increasing the risk of crash. Corrective Actions: The company will notify owners by mail. Owners will be instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to have the brake lamp switch replaced.
Recall 2019013102,110 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. If the airbag inflator ruptures, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants or cause damage to the airbag assembly, preventing its proper function. Safety Risk: If the vehicle is involved in a crash requiring an airbag deployment, the airbag inflator could rupture and create a risk of injury. Corrective Action: Owners will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to have the passenger-front airbag inflator replaced. Note: The Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. This recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk. It is expected that all airbag inflators will be replaced before their function would be affected.
Recall 201458633,000 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain vehicles, the center and rear brake lines may become perforated due to corrosion. This would cause a leak in the brake system potentially increasing stopping distances, which could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will inspect vehicles and either apply an anti-corrosion coating to the 4-way joint connector and brake lines, or replace them as necessary. Note: This recall supersedes recall 2013092 and 2014223. Vehicles that were inspected and/or repaired under the previous recall will require re-inspection and/or repair.
Recall 2014223105,649 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain vehicles, the center and rear brake lines may become perforated due to corrosion. This would cause a leak in the brake system potentially increasing stopping distances, which could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will inspect vehicles and either apply an anti-corrosion coating to the lines, or replace them as necessary. Note: This recall supersedes recall 2013092. Vehicles that were inspected and/or repaired under the previous recall will require re-inspection and/or repair.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Middletown, DEFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
National Highway Traffic Safety Admin March 9, 2026 I am submitted a vehicle safety complaint regarding a 2011 Subaru that I recently purchased on [XXX]. I purchased a used 2011 Subaru Impreza from Clear Cut Auto {241 S Dupont Hghwy – New Castle, DE 1920 (302-322-2050) on [XXX] for $5,147.04. The dealership person name was Erika Fernandez which reported the car was recently dropped of by a female owner a few days ago. The dealership issued temporary tags on the vehicle with the registration. The vehicle was sold as “as is”. Within three (3) days of purchase the vehicle On Sunday [XXX] while my [XXX] son was driving on a major highway, the vehicle suddenly showed a engine light which blink on and immediately went out. Thereafter, the car started smoking and was engulfed in flames ie: caught on fire. I am grateful that my [XXX] son was able to exit the vehicle safely and quickly to avoid injury. The car was completely destroyed by the result of the fire internally and externally. This created a serious life-threatening safety situation for my [XXX] son, which had to exit the vehicle quickly to avoid injury. Multiple people on the highway witnessed the fire. I am concerned that the vehicle sold to me by Clean Cut Auto (owner Lonnie and dealer Erika Fernandez) may have had a serious pre-existing defect involving the engine, electrical system or fuel system that caused the fire while the vehicle was being driven. I am submitting this complaint so that the incident can be investigated as a potential safety defect involving this vehicle model. 2011 Subaru Impreza VIN# [XXX] Fire Date: [XXX] Registration: [XXX] Location: [XXX] – [XXX] from [XXX] 3.04 miles from New Castle Municipality Police Report [XXX] Cpl Diprima -Troop 2 State Police 302-834-2620 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11723119 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Middletown, DEFire
ENGINE
National Highway Traffic Safety Admin March 9, 2026 I am submitted a vehicle safety complaint regarding a 2011 Subaru that I recently purchased on [XXX]. I purchased a used 2011 Subaru Impreza from Clear Cut Auto {241 S Dupont Hghwy – New Castle, DE 1920 (302-322-2050) on [XXX] for $5,147.04. The dealership person name was Erika Fernandez which reported the car was recently dropped of by a female owner a few days ago. The dealership issued temporary tags on the vehicle with the registration. The vehicle was sold as “as is”. Within three (3) days of purchase the vehicle On Sunday [XXX] while my [XXX] son was driving on a major highway, the vehicle suddenly showed a engine light which blink on and immediately went out. Thereafter, the car started smoking and was engulfed in flames ie: caught on fire. I am grateful that my [XXX] son was able to exit the vehicle safely and quickly to avoid injury. The car was completely destroyed by the result of the fire internally and externally. This created a serious life-threatening safety situation for my [XXX] son, which had to exit the vehicle quickly to avoid injury. Multiple people on the highway witnessed the fire. I am concerned that the vehicle sold to me by Clean Cut Auto (owner Lonnie and dealer Erika Fernandez) may have had a serious pre-existing defect involving the engine, electrical system or fuel system that caused the fire while the vehicle was being driven. I am submitting this complaint so that the incident can be investigated as a potential safety defect involving this vehicle model. 2011 Subaru Impreza VIN# [XXX] Fire Date: [XXX] Registration: [XXX] Location: [XXX] – [XXX] from [XXX] 3.04 miles from New Castle Municipality Police Report [XXX] Cpl Diprima -Troop 2 State Police 302-834-2620 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11723119 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Middletown, DEFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
National Highway Traffic Safety Admin March 9, 2026 I am submitted a vehicle safety complaint regarding a 2011 Subaru that I recently purchased on [XXX]. I purchased a used 2011 Subaru Impreza from Clear Cut Auto {241 S Dupont Hghwy – New Castle, DE 1920 (302-322-2050) on [XXX] for $5,147.04. The dealership person name was Erika Fernandez which reported the car was recently dropped of by a female owner a few days ago. The dealership issued temporary tags on the vehicle with the registration. The vehicle was sold as “as is”. Within three (3) days of purchase the vehicle On Sunday [XXX] while my [XXX] son was driving on a major highway, the vehicle suddenly showed a engine light which blink on and immediately went out. Thereafter, the car started smoking and was engulfed in flames ie: caught on fire. I am grateful that my [XXX] son was able to exit the vehicle safely and quickly to avoid injury. The car was completely destroyed by the result of the fire internally and externally. This created a serious life-threatening safety situation for my [XXX] son, which had to exit the vehicle quickly to avoid injury. Multiple people on the highway witnessed the fire. I am concerned that the vehicle sold to me by Clean Cut Auto (owner Lonnie and dealer Erika Fernandez) may have had a serious pre-existing defect involving the engine, electrical system or fuel system that caused the fire while the vehicle was being driven. I am submitting this complaint so that the incident can be investigated as a potential safety defect involving this vehicle model. 2011 Subaru Impreza VIN# [XXX] Fire Date: [XXX] Registration: [XXX] Location: [XXX] – [XXX] from [XXX] 3.04 miles from New Castle Municipality Police Report [XXX] Cpl Diprima -Troop 2 State Police 302-834-2620 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11723119 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,000 milesMorgantown, WVCrash
AIR BAGS
WEARING MY SEAT BELT, I WAS DRIVING UP A HILL GOING 50 MPH AND REAR ENDED AN SUV IN FRONT OF ME AND SIDE SWIPED ANOTHER CAR ON THE DRIVERS SIDE. BOTH FRONT TIRES BUSTED, HOOD SMASHED IN, BOTH HEAD LIGHT BROKEN OUT, WINDSHIELD WIPER FLUID CONTAINER COMPLETELY ON GROUND, MOTOR PUSHED BACK INTO THE TRANSMISSION, BENT FRAME, EVERYTHING UNDER THE HOOD OF MY CAR WAS PUSHED BACK, DOORS JAMMED SHUT AND NOT A SINGLE AIR BAG DEPLOYED. NO AIR BAGS DEPLOYED, NO POWDER CAME OUT, NOTHING. LUCKILY I WASN'T HURT BUT THE WAY MY CAR IS SMASHED I SHOULD OF BEEN BADLY INJURED OR DEAD.
NHTSA complaint #11075801 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 75,000 milesNewtown, CTCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
AIRBAG DEPLOYED AND CAUSED LACERATION ON MY FACE- PLASTIC OR AIRBAG CUT MY FACE OPEN
NHTSA complaint #11040385 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 85,000 milesRenton, WAFire
SEATS
WITHIN 10 MINUTES OF STARTING THE VEHICLE ACTIVATING THE SEAT HEATER ASSOCIATED TO THE DRIVER SEAT A BURNING SMELL BEGAN TO BECOME APPARENT IN THE PASSENGER CABIN. EVENTUALLY THE SMELL DEVELOPED INTO PAIN IN THE LEGS AND THERE WAS A HOLE BURNED INTO THE DRIVER SEAT. THE SEAT HEATER WAS STILL OPERATING AT FULL CAPACITY AND SUPPLYING ENERGY TO THE SYSTEM AS IT WAS IGNITING THE DRIVER SEAT. THIS EVENT OCCURED ON 140TH IN RENTON, WASHINGTON. THE VEHICLE WAS ON THE ROADWAY TRAVELING WITH TRAFFIC WHEN IT OCCURED.
NHTSA complaint #10945798 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Middletown, DEFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
National Highway Traffic Safety Admin March 9, 2026 I am submitted a vehicle safety complaint regarding a 2011 Subaru that I recently purchased on [XXX]. I purchased a used 2011 Subaru Impreza from Clear Cut Auto {241 S Dupont Hghwy – New Castle, DE 1920 (302-322-2050) on [XXX] for $5,147.04. The dealership person name was Erika Fernandez which reported the car was recently dropped of by a female owner a few days ago. The dealership issued temporary tags on the vehicle with the registration. The vehicle was sold as “as is”. Within three (3) days of purchase the vehicle On Sunday [XXX] while my [XXX] son was driving on a major highway, the vehicle suddenly showed a engine light which blink on and immediately went out. Thereafter, the car started smoking and was engulfed in flames ie: caught on fire. I am grateful that my [XXX] son was able to exit the vehicle safely and quickly to avoid injury. The car was completely destroyed by the result of the fire internally and externally. This created a serious life-threatening safety situation for my [XXX] son, which had to exit the vehicle quickly to avoid injury. Multiple people on the highway witnessed the fire. I am concerned that the vehicle sold to me by Clean Cut Auto (owner Lonnie and dealer Erika Fernandez) may have had a serious pre-existing defect involving the engine, electrical system or fuel system that caused the fire while the vehicle was being driven. I am submitting this complaint so that the incident can be investigated as a potential safety defect involving this vehicle model. 2011 Subaru Impreza VIN# [XXX] Fire Date: [XXX] Registration: [XXX] Location: [XXX] – [XXX] from [XXX] 3.04 miles from New Castle Municipality Police Report [XXX] Cpl Diprima -Troop 2 State Police 302-834-2620 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11723119 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Middletown, DEFire
ENGINE
National Highway Traffic Safety Admin March 9, 2026 I am submitted a vehicle safety complaint regarding a 2011 Subaru that I recently purchased on [XXX]. I purchased a used 2011 Subaru Impreza from Clear Cut Auto {241 S Dupont Hghwy – New Castle, DE 1920 (302-322-2050) on [XXX] for $5,147.04. The dealership person name was Erika Fernandez which reported the car was recently dropped of by a female owner a few days ago. The dealership issued temporary tags on the vehicle with the registration. The vehicle was sold as “as is”. Within three (3) days of purchase the vehicle On Sunday [XXX] while my [XXX] son was driving on a major highway, the vehicle suddenly showed a engine light which blink on and immediately went out. Thereafter, the car started smoking and was engulfed in flames ie: caught on fire. I am grateful that my [XXX] son was able to exit the vehicle safely and quickly to avoid injury. The car was completely destroyed by the result of the fire internally and externally. This created a serious life-threatening safety situation for my [XXX] son, which had to exit the vehicle quickly to avoid injury. Multiple people on the highway witnessed the fire. I am concerned that the vehicle sold to me by Clean Cut Auto (owner Lonnie and dealer Erika Fernandez) may have had a serious pre-existing defect involving the engine, electrical system or fuel system that caused the fire while the vehicle was being driven. I am submitting this complaint so that the incident can be investigated as a potential safety defect involving this vehicle model. 2011 Subaru Impreza VIN# [XXX] Fire Date: [XXX] Registration: [XXX] Location: [XXX] – [XXX] from [XXX] 3.04 miles from New Castle Municipality Police Report [XXX] Cpl Diprima -Troop 2 State Police 302-834-2620 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11723119 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Middletown, DEFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
National Highway Traffic Safety Admin March 9, 2026 I am submitted a vehicle safety complaint regarding a 2011 Subaru that I recently purchased on [XXX]. I purchased a used 2011 Subaru Impreza from Clear Cut Auto {241 S Dupont Hghwy – New Castle, DE 1920 (302-322-2050) on [XXX] for $5,147.04. The dealership person name was Erika Fernandez which reported the car was recently dropped of by a female owner a few days ago. The dealership issued temporary tags on the vehicle with the registration. The vehicle was sold as “as is”. Within three (3) days of purchase the vehicle On Sunday [XXX] while my [XXX] son was driving on a major highway, the vehicle suddenly showed a engine light which blink on and immediately went out. Thereafter, the car started smoking and was engulfed in flames ie: caught on fire. I am grateful that my [XXX] son was able to exit the vehicle safely and quickly to avoid injury. The car was completely destroyed by the result of the fire internally and externally. This created a serious life-threatening safety situation for my [XXX] son, which had to exit the vehicle quickly to avoid injury. Multiple people on the highway witnessed the fire. I am concerned that the vehicle sold to me by Clean Cut Auto (owner Lonnie and dealer Erika Fernandez) may have had a serious pre-existing defect involving the engine, electrical system or fuel system that caused the fire while the vehicle was being driven. I am submitting this complaint so that the incident can be investigated as a potential safety defect involving this vehicle model. 2011 Subaru Impreza VIN# [XXX] Fire Date: [XXX] Registration: [XXX] Location: [XXX] – [XXX] from [XXX] 3.04 miles from New Castle Municipality Police Report [XXX] Cpl Diprima -Troop 2 State Police 302-834-2620 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11723119 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tyrone, PA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Smoke starting coming from around the ignition.
NHTSA complaint #11714471 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 92,860 milesMidvale, UT
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that while driving approximately 50-55 MPH, the sunroof exploded without impact. The contact was able to pull over safely. There were no reported injuries. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 92,860.
NHTSA complaint #11685042 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Albany, CA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
None
NHTSA complaint #11590793 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 84,000 milesHenderson, CO
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V738000 (Electrical System). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was 84,000.
NHTSA complaint #11510774 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Mexico, NY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Battery won’t hold a charge, randomly leaves driver stranded
NHTSA complaint #11446679 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vestal, NY
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2011 Subaru WRX STI would not start, the fuel pump connector power pin on the fuel pump melted also burned the connector. Gas now is entering the fuel pump connecter. This is a fire hazard.
NHTSA complaint #11426506 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Minneapolis, MN
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I experienced a sudden acceleration issue when parking my car in January 2020. As I was pulling into my parking spot and removed my foot from the gas pedal to the brake the gas pedal quickly went all the way to the floor and the car sped forward despite the fact that my foot was on the brake. The car was stopped by a large pile of snow. There was some damage to the bumper. Took the car to the dealership and was told they couldn't find any issue with the car. The problem only happened once to mee but I read of similar things happening with other makes and models of Subarus so I wanted to report it.
NHTSA complaint #11417397 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70,000 milesPainesville, OH
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
THE GAS TANK IS SLOWLY LEAKING NEAR THE SEAM DUE TO CORROSION FROM SALT AND MOISTURE BEING CAUGHT UP IN THERE FROM THE SAME PLASTIC GAS TANK COVER WITH HOLES IN IT THAT CAUSED THE BRAKE LINE CORROSION RECALL. LEAKS WHEN IT IS OVER HALF FULL.
NHTSA complaint #11257127 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dillingham, AK
AIR BAGS
TAKATA RECALL, BRAKE LAMP SWITCH FAILURE. WE LIVE IN A SMALL ALASKAN BUSH TOWN CALLED DILLINGHAM THAT'S NOT ON THE ROAD SYSTEM. WE (MYSELF AND AROUND 30+ OTHER RESIDENTS) HAVE BEEN TRYING TO GET SUBARU TO SEND A TECHNICIAN OUT FOR 2 YEARS NOW TO FIX OUR DEFECTIVE AIRBAGS. JUST TODAY WE RECEIVED A RECALL FOR OUR BRAKE LAMP SWITCH. WE CANNOT SIMPLY 'GO TO A DEALER'S AS THERE IS NONE. WE'D HAVE TO SEND OUR CAR AS FREIGHT TO ANCHORAGE (WHICH COSTS THOUSANDS AND CAN TAKE UPWARDS OF A MONTH) AND MOST OF THE TOWN CANNOT AFFORD TO DO SO. WE EVEN HAVE A FACEBOOK GROUP OF PEOPLE WHO NEED RECALLED CARS FIXED FROM SUBARU, HONDA AND TOYOTA. WE'VE BEEN CALLING AND WRITING FOR 2 YEARS AND NOTHING HAS EVER BEEN DONE. WE'RE JUST TOLD THAT 'THEYLL SEND SOMEONE OUT'. SOMEONE SHOULDN'T HAVE TO BE KILLED BY A DEFECTIVE AIRBAG OR IN AN ACCIDENT JUST TO GET THESE ISSUES FIXED.
NHTSA complaint #11205871 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dillingham, AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TAKATA RECALL, BRAKE LAMP SWITCH FAILURE. WE LIVE IN A SMALL ALASKAN BUSH TOWN CALLED DILLINGHAM THAT'S NOT ON THE ROAD SYSTEM. WE (MYSELF AND AROUND 30+ OTHER RESIDENTS) HAVE BEEN TRYING TO GET SUBARU TO SEND A TECHNICIAN OUT FOR 2 YEARS NOW TO FIX OUR DEFECTIVE AIRBAGS. JUST TODAY WE RECEIVED A RECALL FOR OUR BRAKE LAMP SWITCH. WE CANNOT SIMPLY 'GO TO A DEALER'S AS THERE IS NONE. WE'D HAVE TO SEND OUR CAR AS FREIGHT TO ANCHORAGE (WHICH COSTS THOUSANDS AND CAN TAKE UPWARDS OF A MONTH) AND MOST OF THE TOWN CANNOT AFFORD TO DO SO. WE EVEN HAVE A FACEBOOK GROUP OF PEOPLE WHO NEED RECALLED CARS FIXED FROM SUBARU, HONDA AND TOYOTA. WE'VE BEEN CALLING AND WRITING FOR 2 YEARS AND NOTHING HAS EVER BEEN DONE. WE'RE JUST TOLD THAT 'THEYLL SEND SOMEONE OUT'. SOMEONE SHOULDN'T HAVE TO BE KILLED BY A DEFECTIVE AIRBAG OR IN AN ACCIDENT JUST TO GET THESE ISSUES FIXED.
NHTSA complaint #11205871 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 26,250 milesCranston, RI
ENGINE
3 TIMES MY ENGINE HAS NEEDED A SHORT BLOCK REPLACEMENT. I HAVE BROUGHT CAR IN FOR ALL SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE AND HAVE CHANGED THE OIL EVERY 3500-4000 MILES. THE FIRST ENGINE PROBLEM OCCURRED AT 26,250 MI. I NOTICED A KNOCKING SOUND AND BROUGHT TO SUBARU DEALER. DIAGNOSIS: "BEARING DAMAGE TO CONNECTING ROD BEARING FOR CYLINDER 2." SHORT BLOCK REPLACED, UNDER WARRANTY. (SEE DOCS) 2ND INCIDENT OCCURRED AT 51,232 MILES. THIS TIME THERE WAS NO WARNING AND I WAS ON AN INTERSTATE WHEN THE ENGINE SEIZED AND ALL POWER WAS LOST. TOWED TO A SUBARU DEALER. NO DIAGNOSIS WAS GIVEN AT THAT TIME BUT SHORT BLOCK WAS AGAIN REPLACED. THIS TIME I HAD TO PAY FOR THE TEARDOWN ($222) BUT SUBARU, AFTER NUMEROUS PHONE CALLS AGREED TO DO THE WORK AS A "GOOD WILL GESTURE." (SEE DOCS) THE 3RD & LAST MALFUNCTION OCCURRED AT 58,700 MILES, A MERE 7,000 MILES SINCE THE LAST ENGINE WAS REPLACED. AGAIN, I WAS ON THE INTERSTATE AND WITH A MOMENTS NOTICE (REDUCTION IN POWER) THE ENGINE SEIZED. IT WAS SHEER LUCK THAT I WAS NOT KILLED TRYING TO MOVE OVER 6 LANES WITH NO POWER OR STEERING TO GET OFF THE HIGHWAY. TOWED TO A SUBARU DEALER. I DO NOT HAVE ANY PAPERWORK FROM THIS LAST INCIDENT. SUBARU SAID THEY WOULD PAY FOR ENTIRE REPAIR. BUT BEFORE I COULD MAKE AN INFORMED DECISION, I ASKED FOR WRITTEN DOCUMENTATION OF THE PROBLEM, CAUSE AND A DETAILED REPAIR DESCRIPTION. I HAVE NOT RECEIVED THIS INFORMATION & DID NOT GIVE CONSENT TO REPAIR CAR. JUST GOT A CALL FROM THE DEALER SAYING CAR WAS REPAIRED AND READY FOR PICKUP. THE ONLY INFORMATION I HAVE REGARDING THIS LAST SEIZURE WAS FROM A SUBARU OF AMERICA CUSTOMER SERVICES REP WHO VERBALLY TOLD ME THAT "THE CYLINDER 4 ROD WAS THROWN." THE CAR IS CURRENTLY AT THE DEALER. THERE IS SOMETHING SERIOUSLY WRONG WHEN A VEHICLE WITH ONLY 58000 MILES NEEDS 3 ENGINES. I REFUSE TO DRIVE THIS VEHICLE AGAIN. I WILL NOT JEOPARDIZE MY LIFE AND OF THOSE AROUND ME.
NHTSA complaint #11192459 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fairfax, VA
AIR BAGS
TAKATA RECALL: PER THE NOTIFICATION I RECEIVED IN THE MAIL, I ATTEMPTED TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE TO HAVE THE NECESSARY WORK PERFORMED ON MY VEHICLE. THE DEALERSHIP WAS FARRISH SUBARU IN FAIRFAX, VA. I SCHEDULED MY APPOINTMENT LAST NIGHT FOR MARCH 25. I RECEIVED TWO EMAILS TODAY FROM THE DEALERSHIP. THE FIRST ADVISED ME THAT THEY HAD CANCELED MY APPOINTMENT. THE SECOND STATED THAT THEY PLANNED ON SCHEDULING ALL RECALL APPOINTMENTS FOR THE FIRST WEEK OF MAY, ALMOST TWO MONTHS FROM NOW, WHICH SEEMS LIKE AN UNACCEPTABLE AMOUNT OF TIME TO WAIT. I DO NOT HAVE ALTERNATIVE FORMS OF TRANSPORTATION READILY AVAILABLE AND I FREQUENTLY HAVE PASSENGERS RIDING IN MY CAR. I HAVE ATTACHED SCREENSHOTS OF THE EMAILS I RECEIVED FROM FARRISH SUBARU.
NHTSA complaint #11189787 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Malden, MA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
RECEIVED A RECALL REGARDING BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH BUT DEALERSHIP (SUBARU WAKEFIELD) HAS SAID THAT THEY DO NOT HAVE PARTS AND HAVE NO PLANS. I'VE ASKED FOR A REPLACEMENT VEHICLE UNTIL THIS SAFETY ISSUE CAN BE ADDRESSED AND I WAS DENIED. I WANT MY CAR REPAIRED OR REPLACED WITH A LOANER.
NHTSA complaint #11185557 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Malden, MA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
RECEIVED A RECALL REGARDING BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH BUT DEALERSHIP (SUBARU WAKEFIELD) HAS SAID THAT THEY DO NOT HAVE PARTS AND HAVE NO PLANS. I'VE ASKED FOR A REPLACEMENT VEHICLE UNTIL THIS SAFETY ISSUE CAN BE ADDRESSED AND I WAS DENIED. I WANT MY CAR REPAIRED OR REPLACED WITH A LOANER.
NHTSA complaint #11185557 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Malden, MA
SERVICE BRAKES
RECEIVED A RECALL REGARDING BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH BUT DEALERSHIP (SUBARU WAKEFIELD) HAS SAID THAT THEY DO NOT HAVE PARTS AND HAVE NO PLANS. I'VE ASKED FOR A REPLACEMENT VEHICLE UNTIL THIS SAFETY ISSUE CAN BE ADDRESSED AND I WAS DENIED. I WANT MY CAR REPAIRED OR REPLACED WITH A LOANER.
NHTSA complaint #11185557 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 93,274 milesLincolnwood, IL
POWER TRAIN
RECENT 90K MILE SERVICE REVEALED THE NEED FOR TRANSMISSION LINE REPLACEMENT BECAUSE IT IS STARTING TO LEAK. WITH TWO PREVIOUS RECALLS ON 2011 SUBARU IMPREZA FOR BRAKE LINE CORROSION (WQK47 AND WQQ52), WOULD THE TRANSMISSION LINE ALSO BE SUSCEPTIBLE TO SIMILAR CORROSION PROBLEMS?
NHTSA complaint #11090187 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,000 milesMorgantown, WVCrash
AIR BAGS
WEARING MY SEAT BELT, I WAS DRIVING UP A HILL GOING 50 MPH AND REAR ENDED AN SUV IN FRONT OF ME AND SIDE SWIPED ANOTHER CAR ON THE DRIVERS SIDE. BOTH FRONT TIRES BUSTED, HOOD SMASHED IN, BOTH HEAD LIGHT BROKEN OUT, WINDSHIELD WIPER FLUID CONTAINER COMPLETELY ON GROUND, MOTOR PUSHED BACK INTO THE TRANSMISSION, BENT FRAME, EVERYTHING UNDER THE HOOD OF MY CAR WAS PUSHED BACK, DOORS JAMMED SHUT AND NOT A SINGLE AIR BAG DEPLOYED. NO AIR BAGS DEPLOYED, NO POWDER CAME OUT, NOTHING. LUCKILY I WASN'T HURT BUT THE WAY MY CAR IS SMASHED I SHOULD OF BEEN BADLY INJURED OR DEAD.
NHTSA complaint #11075801 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Arvada, CO
AIR BAGS
"TAKATA RECALL" NEED TO KNOW IF MY AIRBAG WILL HARM ME IF EVER INFLATED.
NHTSA complaint #11043950 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 75,000 milesNewtown, CTCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
AIRBAG DEPLOYED AND CAUSED LACERATION ON MY FACE- PLASTIC OR AIRBAG CUT MY FACE OPEN
NHTSA complaint #11040385 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 40,000 milesKennewick, WA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
THE HEAT SHIELDS ON THE EXHAUST PIPES AND THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER RATTLE AT TIMES VERY LOUD, ANY RE-CALLS?
NHTSA complaint #11033344 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
SAN Francisco, CA
AIR BAGS
TAKATA RECALL. AFTER INFORMING ME IN JULY 2016 THAT THE AIRBAG HAS BEEN RECALLED, SUBARU HAS STILL NOT REPAIRED THE DEFECT AND WILL NOT GIVE A TIMELINE ON WHEN THE PARTS WILL BE AVAILABLE. I KNOW THAT OTHER PEOPLE WITH SUBARUS HAVE BEEN ABLE TO GET THEIRS REPAIRED IN A TIMELY MANNER, BUT I HAVE NOW GONE OVER 14 MONTHS WITHOUT THE USE OF MY FRONT, PASSENGER SIDE SEAT. PUTNAM SUBARU IN SAN FRANCISCO SENT ME AN EMAIL IN APRIL 2017 TELLING ME TO MAKE A SERVICE APPOINTMENT TO GET IT FIXED, BUT AFTER THREE ATTEMPTS AT SETTING A TIME, THEY HAVE CALLED ME TO CANCEL SAYING THAT THEY STILL DO NOT HAVE THE PARTS AND THAT I'M ON A WAITLIST. THEY INSIST THAT THEY CANNOT PROVIDE A TIMELINE FOR WHEN PARTS WILL BE AVAILABLE EVEN THOUGH THEY SAY THEY HAVE BEEN ABLE TO MAKE SOME REPAIRS.
NHTSA complaint #11024719 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Glendale, CA
AIR BAGS
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU IMPREZA. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V358000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE RECALL NOTICE STATED THAT OWNERS WOULD RECEIVE A SECOND NOTICE ONCE REMEDY PARTS BECOME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT RECEIVED A SECOND NOTICE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
NHTSA complaint #10969402 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.