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NHTSA Recall 21V955000: Chain/belt (power train) and power train: control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)

Subaru of America, Inc. reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 198,255 vehicles. It affects 3 models including the Subaru Ascent.

198,255
vehicles potentially affected
3
models affected
2022
owners notified (August 19)
NHTSA campaign21V955000
Manufacturer campaignWRK-21
ComponentsPOWER TRAIN › DRIVELINE › CHAIN/BELT; POWER TRAIN › AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION › CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
Report receivedDecember 9, 2021
Owner notificationAugust 19, 2022
Initiated byManufacturer

Defect

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2020 Legacy and Outback vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.

Safety risk

An improperly secured drive chain may slip and break, causing a loss of drive power and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will reprogram the TCU, inspect TCU data for chain slip, and visually inspect the chain guide. If evidence of chain slippage or damage is found, the transmission will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 19, 2022. This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under 19V-855. Vehicles previously recalled under 19V-855 will need to have the new remedy performed for this recall once available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRK-21.

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.nhtsa.gov.

Vehicles covered by recall 21V955000

Make and modelModel years
Subaru Ascent2019, 2020
Subaru Legacy2020
Subaru Outback2020

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.