Subaru battery drain problems have been reported since 2015. The company issued several technical service bulletins (TSBs) warning of dead batteries after repeated short trips. Experts disagree on the root cause, but some believe it may be faulty electrical systems that cause batteries to fail prematurely. A lawsuit alleged that Subaru violated customer protection laws and breached warranties, but the company denied those claims. Subaru maintains that its vehicles are not defective and replaced potentially defective batteries and provided warranty coverage in many cases. However, a proposed settlement has been reached, and the final approval hearing occured on January 24, 2023. The settlement website provides class action settlement details.
Subaru Battery Settlement
Why was there a class action lawsuit targeting Subaru Batteries?
Which Subaru Models are Included in the Settlement Class?
Vehicles with owners residing in the continental United States, including Alaska and Hawaii, and currently or previously leased or owned one of the following Subaru Vehicles:
- 2019-2020 Subaru Ascent
- 2015-2020 Subaru Forester
- 2015-2020 Subaru Legacy
- 2015-2020 Subaru Outback
- 2015-2020 Subaru WRX
What was provided to the settlement class members?
Extended warranties were provided for all qualifying vehicles and reasonable cash payments for those who were stranded, towed or had out of pocket expenses for battery replacements or repairs prior to the settlement close date.
Can I still submit a battery settlement claim?
Claims may longer be submitted passed the May 8, 2023 deadline but you still may be entitled to a battery replacement or extended warranty. Settlement Class Members can still call 1-855-606-2625 or email info@SubaruBatterySettlement.com to get information on qualifying battery events or instruction on which forms are needed to obtain an extended warranty. There is a dedicated website to the settlement where you can examine FAQ, important documents, or contact the settlement administrators.
How long is my battery covered under warranty?
All Subaru batteries are automatically covered for an initial three years or 36,000 miles. If your vehicle is part of the settlement class and you've suffered from a dead battery in the last 6 months you may be entitled to free battery diagnostics and may qualify for an extended warranty. You can check your specific vehicle by using the extended warranty battery service form.
If you have experienced random battery failures or have needed a jump from a fellow traveler it would be prudent to have your battery inspected by our team of certified technicians. We can diagnose any problems and provide further instructions. Please feel free to give us a call or you can schedule service online.
