Recall Service Program WQE-41 Optional Genuine Subaru Puddle Lights
A Message to Our Valued Owners:
We would like to thank you for your selection of a Subaru vehicle. At Subaru, we take pride in our products and are committed to your continued satisfaction. It is with your continued satisfaction in mind that we are announcing the following recall service program.
Subaru has determined that some 2006 through 2012 model year vehicles that have been equipped with optional left and right side puddle lights may develop a short circuit and cause the related components to overheat and potentially melt. A short circuit can develop when either the puddle lights or connectors are exposed to an electrolytic moisture source (i.e., - salt water) and it penetrates the circuit board of the puddle light or the pins of the puddle light connector(s). If the puddle lights or connectors were to overheat, they could melt and pose a risk of a fire.
WQE-41 Recall Service Campaign FAQs:
Q: Does my vehicle have puddle lights?
A: Puddle lights are mounted in your vehicle’s left and right rocker panel trim and automatically illuminate the ground in the area near the doors when you enter and exit the vehicle. (See illustration) The interior door illumination is not affected.
Q: Does this affect ALL Subaru models?
A: No. This campaign affects some 2006 through 2012 model year Subaru vehicles equipped with optional Genuine Subaru Puddle Lights.
Q: What will be done to the vehicle?
A: To correct this condition, Subaru will inspect and if necessary repair the puddle lights. If in-line fuses for both the left and right side puddle lights are not already installed, they will be added as a precautionary measure at no cost to you.
Q: Is this a safety-related issue?
A: Yes. You should immediately contact your Subaru Dealer for an appointment to have this repair performed at no cost to you.
There are several important precautions you should take until this repair has been performed:
• If you notice or smell smoke in the left or right rocker panel area of the vehicle, be sure the ignition switch is in the “off” position and do not operate the vehicle. Immediately contact your Subaru dealer for assistance.
• As a precautionary measure, it is highly recommended that you not park your vehicle in a garage, car port or other structure.
Q: How much will this repair cost?
A: This repair will be performed free of charge at any authorized Subaru dealership.
Q: Is it important that I have this update done immediately?
A: Yes. You should immediately contact your Subaru Dealer for an appointment to have this repair performed at no cost to you.
Q: Do I need to make an appointment?
A: Yes. Please contact your servicing Subaru dealership to set up an appointment to ensure that the dealer is able to perform the repair in a timely fashion.
Q: How much time should I allot to have this performed?
A: The inspection will take approximately 30 minutes to complete. If repairs are needed, then up to 1 hour will be required. However, it may be necessary for you to leave your vehicle longer on the day of your appointment to allow your dealer flexibility in scheduling.
Q: What should I do until I get an appointment?
A: There are several important precautions you should take until this repair has been performed:
• If you notice or smell smoke in the left or right rocker panel area of the vehicle, be sure the ignition switch is in the “off” position and do not operate the vehicle. Immediately contact your Subaru dealer for assistance.
• As a precautionary measure, it is highly recommended that you not park your vehicle in a garage, car port or other structure.
Q: Do I have to return to the dealer where I bought the car?
A: No. Any authorized Subaru dealer will be able to perform this update free of charge for you.
Q: Can I have this service program completed at an independent repair facility?
A: No, only an authorized Subaru dealership can perform this repair free of charge.
Q: What if I have previously paid for this repair?
A: If you have already paid for repairs associated with this condition, you may be eligible for reimbursement. Reimbursement consideration will be based on the amount an authorized Subaru dealer in your area would charge for performing those repairs.
Please send the original service repair order, which has the name of the repair facility, date of repair, mileage at the time of repair, complete vehicle identification number (17 digits), and your name, with correct mailing address and telephone number to the address listed below.
Subaru of America, Inc.
Customer Dealer Services Department
Attention: WQE-41 Recall
P.O. Box 6000
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034-6000
Please send original receipts only and retain a photocopy for your records. Please be assured that we will attempt to process your reimbursement request as quickly as possible, but it may take up to 60 days for this process to be completed.
Q: Who can I contact if I have more questions?
A: To locate the nearest Subaru Dealer you can access our website at www.subaru.com and select “Find a Dealer”. If you need additional assistance, please contact us directly:
Q: If I no longer own the vehicle what should I do?
A: If you have moved or sold your vehicle, please complete the prepaid postcard enclosed with your notification letter and mail to us.