Subaru Issues Recall for Over 500,000 SUVs Over Labeling Errors

Federal safety officials have announced that Subaru is recalling more than 500,000 SUVs due to incorrect weight limit labels. This could lead drivers to inadvertently overload their vehicles, thereby heightening the chances of accidents.

The recall involves approximately 541,237 vehicles that do not comply with federal motor vehicle safety standards, as outlined in a notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) dated July 13.

Models impacted include the Ascent from 2019 to 2026, as well as the 2025-2026 Forester, Forester Hybrid, and 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid.

The problem lies with the safety certification sticker, which inaccurately indicates the gross axle weight rating (GAWR) for the rear axle.

The NHTSA highlighted that “Incorrect GAWR labels can result in overloading a vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.”

Officials warn that drivers relying on these incorrect figures might overload their vehicles with passengers or cargo, putting undue strain on tires and suspension systems. The agency had first alerted Subaru in May regarding the weight figures displayed on the rear axle label. Following an internal review, Subaru opted to initiate a safety recall in late June.

No accidents or injuries related to this labeling issue have been reported as of now.

Subaru plans to send out notification letters to affected owners beginning August 25. These letters will include a second notice at no extra cost, providing the corrected weight stickers and simple instructions for affixing them over the incorrect labels.

If owners prefer not to apply the stickers themselves, they are welcome to visit an authorized Subaru dealer where a technician will do it for free.

For further information, customers can reach out to Subaru Customer Service at 1-844-373-6614, mentioning recall code WRH-26. Additionally, they may contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or check their VIN online for updates.