Recalls/18V-846
    critical165,000 units

    FA20 Valve Spring Fracture

    NHTSA 18V-846 • Subaru WQU-65

    Defect

    Improperly heat-treated valve springs may fracture under operation.

    Consequence

    Valve drops into cylinder, destroying the engine; possible stall and crash.

    Remedy

    Dealer replaces all 16 valve springs at no charge.

    Look up your VIN at NHTSA →

    FAQ

    Is recall 18V-846 free to fix?

    Yes — Subaru pays for the repair at any authorized dealer. Bring your VIN.

    Which Subaru models are affected?

    BRZ, Forester XT, WRX, Legacy from model years 2012-2014. 165,000 units in total.

    What is the safety risk?

    Valve drops into cylinder, destroying the engine; possible stall and crash.

    How do I check if my Subaru is part of this recall?

    Enter your 17-digit VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls — results are instant and free.

    Ready to buy or refresh your current build?

    Pull the WRX Problems Guide to schedule your maintenance sprint, then jump to the forthcoming Legacy GT and Outback hubs for adjacent research.

    Next up: Legacy GT + Outback hubs, followed by WRX media upgrades — check back as new guides drop.