Subaru Fuel Pump Settlement: A Complete Guide for Affected Owners
A class action settlement has been reached regarding defective low-pressure fuel pumps in approximately 2.5 million Subaru vehicles. This settlement provides compensation to owners and lessees for repairs, out-of-pocket expenses, and potential future pump failures. If you own or lease a 2017-2020 Subaru Ascent, 2018-2019 Subaru BRZ, 2015-2019 Subaru Forester, 2014-2019 Subaru Impreza, 2013-2019 Subaru Legacy, 2013-2019 Subaru Outback, 2015-2018 Subaru WRX, or 2019 Subaru STI, you are likely included and may be eligible for benefits.
This article provides a comprehensive, plain-English guide to the settlement, its terms, your rights, and the steps you need to take. We will break down the complex legal documents into actionable information, ensuring you understand exactly what this means for you and your vehicle.
Understanding the Core Problem: The Defective Fuel Pump
The lawsuit at the heart of this settlement alleged that certain Subaru vehicles were equipped with defective low-pressure fuel pumps manufactured by Denso. The internal impeller within these pumps was made from a material that could absorb excessive fuel, causing it to swell and deform. Over time, this deformation could lead to the pump failing.
A failing fuel pump can cause a range of serious operational problems and safety hazards. Symptoms may include:
- Engine stalling while driving
- Inability to start the engine
- Loss of power while accelerating
- Rough idling or hesitation
An engine stall at highway speeds or in traffic dramatically increases the risk of a crash. Subaru and Denso have denied any wrongdoing or that the pumps pose a safety risk, but they agreed to the settlement to resolve the litigation.
Detailed List of Covered Subaru Vehicles
The settlement includes a wide range of popular Subaru models from several model years. It is crucial to check your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for definitive inclusion, but the following models and years are part of the class:
- 2017-2020 Subaru Ascent
- 2018-2019 Subaru BRZ
- 2015-2019 Subaru Forester
- 2014-2019 Subaru Impreza (including sedan and hatchback)
- 2013-2019 Subaru Legacy
- 2013-2019 Subaru Outback
- 2015-2018 Subaru WRX
- 2019 Subaru STI
To confirm your vehicle's eligibility, you must use the VIN lookup tool on the official settlement website or contact the Settlement Administrator. Not every vehicle within these model years is affected, as the specific fuel pump part was used in certain production batches.
Breakdown of Settlement Benefits and Compensation
The settlement establishes several forms of relief for current and former owners and lessees of the covered vehicles. The benefits are designed to address past expenses and provide coverage for future repairs.
1. Warranty Extension for Future Repairs:
The most significant benefit is an extended warranty program specifically for the low-pressure fuel pump. Subaru will extend the warranty coverage for the fuel pump to 10 years or 150,000 miles from the vehicle's original in-service date, whichever occurs first. If your fuel pump fails within this extended warranty period, Subaru will repair or replace it free of charge (parts and labor) at an authorized Subaru dealership. This is a crucial protection that goes beyond the standard new vehicle limited warranty.
2. Reimbursement for Past Out-of-Pocket Expenses:
If you have already paid to diagnose or repair a failed fuel pump related to this defect, you can file a claim for reimbursement. This covers:
- Repair or replacement of the low-pressure fuel pump.
- Diagnosis of fuel pump-related issues.
- Towing expenses directly related to a fuel pump failure.
- Rental car expenses incurred while your vehicle was being repaired for this issue.
You must provide proof of payment, such as a detailed repair invoice from a service center, and the work must have been performed before the settlement's effective date.
3. Customer Support Program for Related Damage:
In rare cases, a failing fuel pump could potentially cause damage to other engine components, such as the high-pressure fuel pump or catalytic converter. The settlement includes a Customer Support Program to address these related repairs on a case-by-case basis for up to 10 years or 150,000 miles. You must contact Subaru of America directly to pursue a claim under this program, and approval is not guaranteed.
4. Cash Payment for Previous Pump Replacement:
If you previously had the fuel pump replaced under a specific Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) before May 31, 2023, you may be eligible for a flat cash payment. The amount is 15** for those who had the work done at a Subaru dealership, and **50 for those who had it done elsewhere. This acknowledges the inconvenience of an earlier repair.
Important Deadlines You Must Know
Adhering to the court-ordered deadlines is critical to receiving any benefits.
- Claim Filing Deadline: The deadline to submit a claim for reimbursement or a cash payment has now passed. The court-approved deadline was December 25, 2024.
- Objection or Exclusion Deadline: The deadline to formally object to the settlement terms or to exclude yourself ("opt-out") from the settlement has also passed. This was October 11, 2024.
- Extended Warranty Effective Date: The 10-year/150,000-mile warranty extension is now in effect for all eligible vehicles, regardless of whether you filed a claim. It is automatically applied to your VIN in Subaru's system.
Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing Your Benefits
For ongoing and future benefits, here is what you need to do:
1. For the Extended Warranty:
This benefit is automatic. No enrollment is required. If you experience symptoms of a failing fuel pump (engine stalling, no start, loss of power), you should:
- Contact your local authorized Subaru dealership.
- Schedule a diagnostic appointment.
- Inform the service advisor that your vehicle is covered under the Fuel Pump Settlement Extended Warranty.
- The dealership will confirm your VIN eligibility and perform the repair at no cost if the fuel pump is found to be defective.
2. If You Missed the Reimbursement Claim Deadline:
Unfortunately, if you did not submit a claim for past expenses by December 25, 2024, you are no longer eligible for reimbursement. The court-set deadline is binding.
3. For the Customer Support Program (Related Damage):
If you believe other components were damaged due to the fuel pump defect, you must:
- Gather all repair records and documentation.
- Contact Subaru of America Customer Advocacy Department directly at 1-800-782-2783.
- Explain the situation and reference the Fuel Pump Settlement Customer Support Program.
- Be prepared to submit your documentation for their review and decision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I know for sure if my Subaru is included?
A: Use the VIN lookup tool on the official settlement website. Your VIN is found on your vehicle's registration, insurance card, or on the driver's side dashboard visible through the windshield.
Q: I sold my covered Subaru. Can I still file a claim?
A: The reimbursement claim deadline has passed. For past expenses incurred while you owned the vehicle, you would have needed to file by December 25, 2024.
Q: What if my fuel pump fails after the 10-year/150,000-mile period?
A: After the extended warranty expires, you will be responsible for the cost of any repairs, as with any other component outside of warranty.
Q: Do I need to hire a lawyer?
A: For the benefits provided by the settlement (extended warranty, reimbursement), you do not need your own lawyer. Class Counsel was appointed by the court to represent all class members. They were paid separately from the settlement fund.
Q: Where can I get the most official and up-to-date information?
A: The definitive source is the official settlement website, maintained by the court-appointed Settlement Administrator. You can also contact the Administrator by phone or mail as listed on the site.
The Bottom Line for Subaru Owners
The Subaru fuel pump settlement provides a substantial and automatic benefit in the form of a long-term warranty extension, offering peace of mind for current owners. While the deadlines for cash reimbursement have expired, the core protection for your vehicle's fuel pump remains in place for up to 10 years or 150,000 miles. If you experience any symptoms of fuel pump failure, contact a Subaru dealership immediately and reference this settlement. Keep your vehicle's maintenance records, and always ensure Subaru has your current contact information on file for any future communications regarding safety recalls or service campaigns. Staying informed and proactive is the best way to protect your investment and ensure your safety on the road.