Subaru Fuel Pump Settlement: A Comprehensive Guide for Owners
A massive class-action settlement has been reached regarding faulty fuel pumps in numerous Subaru vehicles. If you owned or leased certain 2017-2020 Subaru Ascent, 2018-2019 Impreza, 2018-2020 Legacy, 2018-2020 Outback, 2018-2020 BRZ, 2018-2020 WRX, 2019-2020 Forester, or 2019-2020 Subaru STI models, you are likely eligible for significant financial compensation. This settlement provides reimbursements for out-of-pocket repair expenses, potential payments for related damages, and an extended warranty covering the defective fuel pump for up to ten years from the vehicle’s original sale date. This article provides a detailed, step-by-step explanation of the settlement, your rights, and the actions you need to take, including how to file a claim before the upcoming deadline of November 8, 2024.
Background of the Defect and Lawsuit
The core issue revolves around a low-pressure fuel pump manufactured by Denso Corporation, a major automotive supplier. This specific pump, installed in millions of vehicles across several automakers, including Subaru, was found to be defective. The impeller within the fuel pump, a critical component responsible for drawing fuel from the tank and delivering it to the engine, was improperly manufactured. The material used for the impeller was susceptible to absorbing moisture from fuel over time. This absorption would cause the impeller to swell, deform, and ultimately crack. A cracked impeller severely impedes the pump's function, leading to a drastic reduction in fuel pressure.
This failure can manifest in a wide range of serious problems. Drivers might experience engine stalling, a failure to start, a loss of power while driving (especially during acceleration), or the engine simply shutting off without warning. These incidents are not mere inconveniences; they pose a severe safety hazard. A sudden loss of power or engine stall can happen at any speed and in any driving condition, dramatically increasing the risk of a collision. Numerous complaints were filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) by Subaru owners experiencing these issues, which ultimately led to investigations and the filing of several class-action lawsuits. These lawsuits were consolidated into a single case, which has now been resolved through this settlement agreement without Subaru or Denso admitting any wrongdoing.
Vehicles Included in the Settlement
It is crucial to determine if your specific Subaru vehicle is part of this settlement. The inclusion is based on model year and specific manufacturing periods. The following vehicles are included:
- 2017-2020 Subaru Ascent: Certain vehicles manufactured between September 13, 2018, and February 12, 2020.
- 2018-2019 Subaru Impreza: Certain vehicles manufactured between September 6, 2017, and February 12, 2020.
- 2018-2020 Subaru Legacy: Certain vehicles manufactured between September 6, 2017, and February 12, 2020.
- 2018-2020 Subaru Outback: Certain vehicles manufactured between September 6, 2017, and February 12, 2020.
- 2018-2020 Subaru BRZ: Certain vehicles manufactured between July 12, 2017, and February 12, 2020.
- 2018-2020 Subaru WRX: Certain vehicles manufactured between July 12, 2017, and February 12, 2020.
- 2019-2020 Subaru Forester: Certain vehicles manufactured between December 12, 2018, and February 12, 2020.
- 2019-2020 Subaru STI: Certain vehicles manufactured between July 12, 2017, and February 12, 2020.
The simplest way to confirm if your car is included is to visit the official settlement website and input your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Your VIN can be found on your vehicle’s registration, insurance card, or on a plate located on the driver’s side dashboard visible through the windshield.
Details of the Settlement Benefits
The settlement is designed to provide relief to owners in several ways, addressing both past expenses and future potential failures.
-
Reimbursement for Out-of-Pocket Repairs: If you have already paid to have the fuel pump replaced or repaired on your own dime due to this specific defect, you can be reimbursed. This includes labor costs and parts. You will need to provide proof of the repair, such as a paid receipt or invoice from the repair shop, and proof of payment. The repair must have been performed before the settlement's final approval date.
-
Extended Warranty Coverage: A central part of the settlement is the creation of an extended warranty program specifically for the fuel pump. This warranty is valid for ten years from the date of the vehicle’s original retail delivery (the in-service date) or 150,000 miles on the odometer, whichever occurs first. If the fuel pump fails due to the impeller defect during this period, Subaru will repair or replace it at no cost to the owner. This includes the parts and labor necessary for the replacement. This coverage is transferable to subsequent owners of the vehicle, which helps protect the car's resale value.
-
Compensation for Related Damages: The settlement acknowledges that a failing fuel pump can lead to other problems. Therefore, you may also be eligible for compensation for related damages that resulted from the fuel pump failure. This is more complex and requires strong evidence of causation. Examples could include towing expenses required to get your vehicle to a repair facility after a stall, reimbursement for rental cars or ride-sharing services used while your car was being repaired, and even repair costs for other vehicle components that were damaged as a direct result of the fuel pump failure (e.g., certain engine components). You must provide documentation, such as receipts and a clear explanation linking the expense directly to the fuel pump defect.
-
Cash Payment for Previous Repairs by Subaru: Some owners may have had their fuel pump replaced by a Subaru dealer before any official recall was announced. In these cases, Subaru may have charged the owner for a portion of the repair cost under a "goodwill" gesture. The settlement allows for a cash payment to these owners to cover any amount they were charged for those specific repairs.
How to File a Claim
To receive any monetary reimbursement, you must actively file a claim. The process is managed through the official settlement administrator. You cannot file a claim through Subaru dealerships or corporate offices. Here is the process:
- Step 1: Gather Documentation. Collect all relevant records. This includes your vehicle’s registration, repair invoices, receipts for related expenses (towing, rental car), and proof of payment (credit card statements, canceled checks).
- Step 2: Locate the Claim Form. The claim form, formally called the "Proof of Claim and Release," is available for download on the official settlement website. You can also request a form be mailed to you by calling the settlement administrator.
- Step 3: Complete the Form. Fill out the form completely and accurately. You will need to provide your personal information, your vehicle’s VIN, and details about the repairs and expenses you are claiming.
- Step 4: Submit the Form and Documentation. Mail the completed claim form along with copies (not originals) of your supporting documentation to the address specified on the form. Ensure your submission is postmarked on or before the deadline: November 8, 2024.
It is highly recommended to make copies of your entire claim packet before mailing it. You can also check if the settlement administrator offers an online claim submission portal, which can provide a confirmation of receipt.
Important Deadlines and Key Dates
Adherence to deadlines is critical in class-action settlements.
- Claim Submission Deadline: The absolute last day to postmark or submit a claim for reimbursement is November 8, 2024. Claims received after this date will be rejected, and you will forfeit your right to compensation.
- Objection or Exclusion Deadline: The deadline to formally object to the settlement terms or to exclude yourself from the settlement has already passed. This means that if you did not previously exclude yourself, you are bound by the terms of the settlement and you give up your right to sue Subaru or Denso separately over this same issue.
- Final Fairness Hearing: The court has already held the final fairness hearing and granted final approval to the settlement. The administration process is now active.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know if my car has a defective fuel pump?
A: The most common symptoms are engine hesitation, stalling, a no-start condition, or a loss of power while driving. If you experience these, you should contact a Subaru dealership immediately. You can also check your VIN on the official settlement website or on the NHTSA recall website to see if your vehicle is included.
Q: What if I sold my Subaru before learning about the settlement?
A: If you owned the vehicle during the time you paid for a qualifying repair, you are still eligible to file a claim for reimbursement for that expense. You will need the documentation from the repair.
Q: Is there any cost to participate in the settlement?
A: No. There is no cost to file a claim or to have the fuel pump replaced under the new extended warranty.
Q: What if my fuel pump fails now?
A: Contact your local authorized Subaru dealership. The repair should be covered under the extended warranty provision of the settlement. You should not be charged for the diagnosis or repair if it is confirmed to be the specified defect.
Q: Where can I get more information?
A: The primary source of information is the official settlement website, which is maintained by the court-appointed administrator. It contains the full settlement agreement, claim forms, and detailed updates. You can also call the settlement administrator at the phone number provided on the website. Avoid relying on information from unofficial sources or forums that may be incomplete or inaccurate.
This settlement represents a significant outcome for Subaru owners affected by a dangerous component failure. By understanding your rights and taking prompt action before the November 2024 deadline, you can ensure you receive the compensation and protection you are entitled to.