Subaru, BMW Issue Safety Recalls Across Several Models

In 2018, there were over 900 recalls affecting over 33.5 million vehicles in the United States, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. Every vehicle recall is serious. Yet only about 75% of vehicles recalled in a given year are ever fixed. That puts your fleet drivers at risk.

While automakers work to reduce recalls, fleet operators need to remain vigilant and be on the lookout for the latest safety recalls. Recently, two manufacturers — Subaru and BMW — issued safety recalls for significant numbers of vehicles across various models. Following are the details you should know. 

Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru is recalling an estimated 165,026 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles because the low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.

In the event of a fuel pump failure, the engine may stall, which increases the likelihood of a collision. 

To fix the problem, dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump, at no cost to customers. Owner notification letters will be mailed September 13. 

Subaru and Toyota owners can reach customer service at (844) 373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRG-21. 

BMW of North America, LLC 

BMW is recalling approximately 50,024 2020 M340i, M340i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, X3 M40i, 2020-2021 X4 M40i, 745Le xDrive, 2019-2021 Z4 M40i, and 2020-2021 Toyota Supra vehicles for a braking problem. 

Specifically, during engine start, the engine management software may cause loss of braking assist. Loss of braking assist increases the risk of a crash. 

The automaker notes that full mechanical braking — without assist — remains available in these recalled vehicles. 

However, to remedy the loss of braking assist, dealers will update the engine management software, free of charge. 

Owner notification letters will be mailed October 1, 2021. Owners can reach BMW customer service at (800) 525-7417.