Its Shop Time Mondays: Kias And Subarus Are Being Recalled

1. ECM Software May Cause Stall

A short circuit in the ignition coils may cause a stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V264000

Manufacturer Subaru of America, Inc.

Components ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Potential Number of Units Affected 466,205

Summary

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Subaru Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, causing a short circuit.

Remedy

Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will update the ECM software, replace the ignition coils and, if necessary, the front exhaust pipe, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 28, 2021. Owners can contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE-21. Note: This recall includes all vehicles previously repaired under Recall 19V743.

2. Rear Stabilizer Bracket Bolts May Detach

Missing bolts may allow the rear stabilizer bracket to shift, increasing the risk of a crash.

NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V263000

Manufacturer Subaru of America, Inc.

Components SUSPENSION

Potential Number of Units Affected 408,271

Summary

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Subaru Crosstrek, 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid, and 2019 Forester vehicles. The rear stabilizer bracket bolts may loosen and detach.

Remedy

Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will retorque and replace any missing bolts, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 14, 2021. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRD-21. 

3. Improperly Heat-Treated Piston Oil Rings

A damaged engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, oil may leak onto hot exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.

NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V259000

Manufacturer Kia Motors America

Components ENGINE

Potential Number of Units Affected 147,249

Summary

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Soul, and 2021 Seltos vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which may result in engine damage.

Remedy

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the engine, free of charge. In addition, Kia will deploy Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software. The recall is expected to begin June 11, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC209.