NHTSA Recall 19V149000: Switch (exterior lighting)

Subaru of America, Inc. reported this safety recall to NHTSA on February 28, 2019, covering an estimated 1,303,530 vehicles. It affects 4 models including the Subaru Crosstrek.

1,303,530

vehicles potentially affected

models affected

2019

owners notified (April 15)

NHTSA campaign	19V149000
Manufacturer campaign	WUE-90
Component	EXTERIOR LIGHTING › BRAKE LIGHTS › SWITCH
Report received	February 28, 2019
Owner notification	April 15, 2019
Initiated by	Manufacturer

Defect

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.

Safety 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.

Remedy

Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake light switch, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUE-90.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Vehicles covered by recall 19V149000

Make and model	Model years
Subaru Crosstrek	2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
Subaru Forester	2014, 2015, 2016
Subaru Impreza	2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016
Subaru WRX	2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.