Subaru Expands Recalls for Moonroof, Windshield Wiper Issues
March 18, 2013

by Jenna Reed, jreed@glass.com

Subaru of America has expanded recalls on 2012 models of the Outback and Legacy, citing possible issues with the moonroof and windshield wipers, according to reports from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Michael McHale, a Subaru spokesperson, tells glassBYTEs.com™, "In both cases, 2012 model-year preproduction vehicles (a total of 26 vehicles) were identified and added. Because the amendment occurred within a different calendar year from the original recall submission, NHTSA technically treats it as a 'new' recall."

Both recalls cover vehicles manufactured April 6 through May 12, 2011.

The earlier moonroof recall occurred in September 2011 after Fuji Heavy Industries, a part of Subaru's parent company, notified NHTSA of a possible issue. This recall covered the same issue.

NHTSA writes, "The moonroof glass may come loose or detach. The amount and position of the adhesive between the glass and retainer was inadequately applied."

In a letter to NHTSA, John Frooshani, safety activities manager for Fuji Heavy Industries USA, writes, "Assembly process of glass and retainer was changed at supplier from another vendor during summer shutdown in 2010. Application management of primer and seal was inappropriate."

The recall campaign on the wipers and was first announced in September 2011.

"If the components overheat, the wiper motor bottom cover may melt and potentially catch fire," NHTSA says.

This story is an original story by AGRR™ magazine/glassBYTEs.com™. Subscribe to AGRR™ Magazine.
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