Before You Buy a Used Subaru, Check Its Open Recalls at VinNumber.net

About Subaru VINs

How Subaru VINs are built

Subaru vehicles assembled in Lafayette, Indiana carry a 4S3 or 4S4 prefix. Models imported from Japan begin with JF1 or JF2. Subaru Outback and Forester vehicles are popular in northern and mountain states, where road salt corrosion and hail damage are common findings in VIN history reports.

The first three characters identify the maker and plant region. In NHTSA's vPIC, 4S3 and 4S4 mark vehicles built at Subaru of Indiana Automotive in Lafayette (cars and SUVs/crossovers respectively on many model years). Japanese imports start with JF1 or JF2. The 11th character and the full decode confirm the plant.

Subaru vehicles manufactured for the US market carry VIN prefixes of 4S3, 4S4, JF1, JF2. The VIN number encodes the country of manufacture (Japan), production plant, vehicle line, body style, engine type, model year, and a unique production sequence number.

HQEbisu, Tokyo, Japan

Founded1953

US assemblyLafayette, Indiana

ParentSubaru Corporation

SignatureSymmetrical AWD

Also built inGunma, Japan

Sources: Brand: Subaru company · WMIs: NHTSA vPIC

NHTSA campaign data

Which model years each recall covers

Drag the year line to your car’s model year. Bars it crosses are the campaigns to confirm on the VIN.

Include known issues & CVT extensions

9 campaigns cross 2017

200620102014201820222026

SAFETY RECALL · 19V-149

Brake light switch may fail

2015–2019 Outback, 2015–2019 Legacy, 2014–2018 Forester, 2012–2016 Impreza, 2013–2017 Crosstrek, 2015–2019 WRX, 2019 Ascent. About 1.3 million vehicles (February 2019). Brake lights may not illuminate; cruise control and shift interlock can be affected.

What to askConfirm 19V-149 is closed on this VIN.

Coverage depends on build dates, equipment and (for Takata and brake-line campaigns) where the vehicle was sold or ever registered. A listed year doesn't mean every vehicle from that year is included; the VIN lookup decides. "Takata" marks EA15-001 campaigns. "Do not drive" and "Park outside" follow NHTSA's recall record.

Subaru Recalls: How to Check a Specific VIN

Enter the full 17-character VIN in the NHTSA recall lookup.
Then use Subaru's recall lookup.
On 2003–2014 models, check every Takata passenger campaign; coverage follows registration history.
If a do-not-drive or park-outside recall is open, follow it. Recall repairs are free at Subaru dealers.

Full list: every campaign in this timeline

Selected Subaru recalls worth confirming on a used-car VIN (NHTSA campaign data)
Campaign	Issue	Models & years
16V-292	Do Not Drive Steering column may have been improperly machined; steering may fail	2016–2017 Legacy, 2015–2017 Outback. Built February 29 to May 6, 2016. Turning the wheel may have no effect. NHTSA's record tells owners not to drive the vehicle until it is repaired.
22V-444 · 23V-064	Do Not Drive Wheel hub bolts may loosen and the wheel can detach	2023 Solterra. Shared with Toyota bZ4X. Improperly tightened hub bolts after low-mileage use. NHTSA's record tells owners not to drive the vehicle until it is repaired.
21V-675	Do Not Drive Left-front lower control arm weld may fail	2021 Impreza. About 800 vehicles. Control arm can separate from the crossmember. NHTSA's record tells owners not to drive the vehicle until it is repaired.
22V-907	Park outside Ascent PTC heater ground bolt may melt and cause a fire	2019–2022 Ascent. About 272,000 vehicles. Improperly fastened ground bolt. NHTSA's record tells owners to park outside, away from structures, until it is repaired. Fire risk.
26V-106	Park outside Hybrid fuel cap seal may allow fuel to spill when the tank is near full	2026 Crosstrek, 2025 Forester. 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid and 2025 Forester Hybrid. Fuel can expand out of the filler neck. NHTSA's record tells owners to park outside, away from structures, until it is repaired. Fire risk.
15V-323 · 16V-358 · 16V-359 · 17V-014 · 18V-012 · 19V-008 · 20V-001	Takata passenger air bag inflator may rupture	2003–2014 Outback, 2003–2014 Legacy, 2009–2013 Forester, 2004–2011 Impreza, 2004–2014 WRX. Phased by registration zone from 2015 through 2020 (EA15-001). Also covers Tribeca and Baja. 23V-076 covers certain 2004–2005 Impreza/WRX whose earlier replacement inflator was installed incorrectly. Phased by region, starting with vehicles ever registered in hot, humid states. Filed under NHTSA's Takata inflator investigation (EA15-001).
13V-110 · 14V-311 · 14V-830	Brake lines may corrode and leak in salt-belt states	2005–2009 Outback, 2005–2009 Legacy, 2009–2013 Forester, 2008–2011 Impreza, 2008–2014 WRX. Vehicles sold or ever registered in listed northern/eastern states. Loss of braking.
19V-149	Brake light switch may fail	2015–2019 Outback, 2015–2019 Legacy, 2014–2018 Forester, 2012–2016 Impreza, 2013–2017 Crosstrek, 2015–2019 WRX, 2019 Ascent. About 1.3 million vehicles (February 2019). Brake lights may not illuminate; cruise control and shift interlock can be affected.
20V-218 · 21V-587	Low-pressure fuel pump may fail and stall the engine	2018–2020 Outback, 2018–2020 Legacy, 2018–2020 Impreza, 2019–2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018–2019 WRX, 2018–2019 BRZ. In-tank low-pressure pump. 21V-587 expands coverage.
24V-227 · 19V-701	Passenger occupant detection sensor may prevent air bag deployment	2020–2022 Outback, 2020–2022 Legacy, 2015–2018 Forester. 24V-227: cracked ODS capacitor on 2020–2022 Outback/Legacy. 19V-701: heated-seat ODS connection on 2015–2018 Forester.
21V-263	Rear stabilizer bracket bolts may loosen and detach	2018–2019 Crosstrek, 2019 Forester. About 408,000 vehicles.
19V-744 · 19V-856	PCV valve may separate and enter the engine	2017–2018 Impreza, 2018–2019 Crosstrek, 2019 Forester, 2019 Ascent. Loss of power or engine damage if parts enter the engine.
18V-772	Engine valve springs may fracture	2012–2014 Impreza, 2013 BRZ, 2013 Crosstrek. Also certain Scion FR-S. Engine malfunction or stall.
23V-755	Inhibitor switch weld may let water in and fail	2021–2023 Outback, 2021–2023 Legacy, 2022 Forester, 2021 Crosstrek. Water entry can cause the switch to fail.

Air bags

Subaru and Takata: what to check on a 2003–2014 Subaru

Subaru filed passenger-inflator Takata recalls in waves from 2015 to 2020, by the states where the car was sold or ever registered. A car that moved south still counts.

Core campaigns

15V-323, 16V-358/16V-359, 17V-014, 18V-012, 19V-008 and 20V-001 cover Outback, Legacy, Forester, Impreza, WRX, Tribeca and Baja.

Re-repair

23V-076: certain 2004–2005 Impreza and WRX whose earlier replacement inflator was installed incorrectly.

What to do

Run the VIN in NHTSA's lookup and confirm every Takata line is closed.

Salt-belt brakes

Separately, check brake-line corrosion campaigns 13V-110, 14V-311 and 14V-830 if the car ever lived in a salt state.

Sources: NHTSA recall records (EA15-001) · Subaru recall lookup

Subaru models

Subaru Models

Open a model for its VIN check, generations, recalls and owner complaints.

Outback Forester Impreza Crosstrek Legacy Ascent BRZ WRX

About Subaru

🎙️ Listen to this article

The Journey of Subaru: From Humble Beginnings to Automotive Icon

In the bustling post-war era of Japan, a small company named Fuji Heavy Industries emerged, setting the stage for what would become one of the most distinct automotive brands in the world. It was 1953 when Subaru, under the auspices of Fuji Heavy Industries, was officially founded. The brand name Subaru, which translates to "unite" or refers to the Pleiades star cluster, symbolized the merging of several companies to form this new entity. This was a fitting metaphor for a brand that would soon unite car enthusiasts under the banner of innovation, reliability, and performance.

Key Milestones in Subaru's History

Subaru's first automobile, the Subaru 360, was introduced in 1954. This compact car, affectionately known as the "ladybug," marked the beginning of Subaru's commitment to producing vehicles that were not only affordable but also efficient. As the years progressed, Subaru's focus shifted towards engineering excellence and pioneering technology, which led to the development of the Boxer engine in the 1960s. This horizontally opposed engine would become a staple for Subaru, offering a lower center of gravity and improved stability.

The 1970s saw Subaru enter the American market, making a significant impact with models like the Subaru Leone. It was during this decade that Subaru began to carve out its niche as a producer of reliable, all-wheel-drive vehicles. The introduction of the Subaru Outback in the mid-1990s further cemented Subaru's reputation as a manufacturer of versatile vehicles, perfectly suited for both urban commutes and rugged terrains.

Subaru's Presence in the US Market

From its initial entry into the United States in the late 1960s, Subaru has grown to become a significant player in the American automotive landscape. The brand's appeal lies in its ability to offer vehicles that are both practical and adventurous, qualities that resonate particularly well in regions like Colorado and the Pacific Northwest. These areas, known for their diverse weather conditions and outdoor lifestyles, have become strongholds for Subaru's loyal customer base.

Subaru's commitment to safety, innovation, and customer satisfaction has never wavered. The introduction of the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology in the early 2010s exemplified Subaru's dedication to enhancing vehicle safety. This technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking, has been a game-changer in the industry.

Best-Selling and Notable Models

Several models have stood out in Subaru's lineup over the years, with the Outback and Forester leading the charge. The Subaru Outback, introduced in 1994, quickly became a favorite due to its unique combination of station wagon practicality and SUV capability. Its rugged design and all-wheel-drive system make it a perfect companion for those who love adventure.

The Subaru Forester, another iconic model, has been a best-seller since its launch in 1997. Renowned for its spacious interior, excellent visibility, and off-road capability, the Forester appeals to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Both the Outback and Forester have played crucial roles in establishing Subaru's identity as a brand that thrives on versatility and durability.

Subaru's Impreza, particularly in its WRX and WRX STI forms, has also left an indelible mark on the automotive world, thanks in large part to Subaru's rally racing success. With multiple World Rally Championship titles under its belt, the Impreza has brought Subaru's rally DNA to the streets, offering high-performance thrills to everyday drivers.

Interesting and Surprising Facts About Subaru

One might be surprised to learn that the Boxer engine, a defining feature of Subaru vehicles, was initially inspired by the engineering prowess of aircraft design. This unique engine layout contributes to the brand's reputation for balanced handling and stability.

Subaru's commitment to environmental sustainability is another fascinating aspect of the brand. The company's manufacturing plant in Indiana was the first automotive assembly facility in the United States to achieve zero-landfill status, reflecting Subaru's dedication to reducing its environmental impact.

Subaru has also cultivated a strong sense of community and loyalty among its customers, often referred to as "Subaru Nation." This community is characterized by a shared passion for adventure and a commitment to supporting causes such as animal welfare and environmental conservation, further solidifying the brand's bond with its customers.

Before You Buy a Used Subaru

Run the VIN through our free VIN decoder to confirm what the car was when it left the factory (model, model year, engine and assembly plant, from NHTSA's vPIC database) and to see NHTSA safety recalls for that model year. The Subaru model pages on this site add owner complaints, service bulletins, defect investigations, EPA fuel economy and crash ratings where NHTSA publishes them. We don't provide vehicle history reports, so accidents, title brands and odometer readings aren't part of the lookup. For title brands, the federal NMVTIS program is the official source, and an independent mechanic's pre-purchase inspection is worth the cost.

Subaru U.S. annual vehicle sales 2018-2023 — Subaru U.S. annual sales

Top U.S. states for Subaru vehicle ownership — Top states for Subaru ownership

Used-car checklist

What to Verify on a Used Subaru

Six checks specific to used Subarus.

Takata

2003–2014 Outback/Legacy and related models: zone Takata campaigns and 23V-076. See the Takata section.

Salt-belt brake lines

13V-110, 14V-311, 14V-830. Follow registration history, not today's state.

Brake light switch

19V-149 (~1.3 million vehicles, 2012–2019 models).

Fuel pump

20V-218/21V-587 on 2018–2020 Outback, Legacy, Impreza, Ascent and others.

Do-not-drive / park-outside

Steering 16V-292; Solterra hubs 22V-444/23V-064; Ascent PTC 22V-907; hybrid fuel spill 26V-106.

ODS / passenger sensing

Outback/Legacy 24V-227; Forester heated seats 19V-701.

World Manufacturer Identifier

Subaru VIN prefixes (WMI)

Prefix registrations and example decodes come from NHTSA's vPIC database.

4S3 / 4S4

Subaru of Indiana Automotive · Lafayette

US-built Legacy, Outback, Ascent and many Impreza/Crosstrek models decode to Lafayette, Indiana.

JF1 / JF2

Subaru Corporation · Japan

Japanese-built WRX, BRZ and some Foresters decode under JF1/JF2.

Worked example

Worked example: reading a Subaru VIN

Example VIN (demo only): 4S4BSANC0K3400000

4S4BSANC0K3400000

4S4

1–3 · WMI

Subaru of Indiana, SUV/crossover.

BSANC

4–8 · VDS

Model / body / restraint / engine codes (Outback pattern).

0

9 · Check digit

Federal check digit.

K

10 · Model year

K = 2019

3

11 · Plant

Lafayette plant code.

400000

12–17 · Serial

Demo serial.

Buyer check: a 2019 Outback can be covered by brake-light switch 19V-149, fuel pump 20V-218/21V-587 and (if Takata-era prior owner history) older campaigns do not apply — but confirm the VIN. Lafayette 4S4 is expected.

Buyer notes by model

Top Subaru Models: What to Check

Open a model for the checks that matter most.

Subaru Outback

2003–2014: Takata. 2005–2009: salt-belt brake lines. 2015–2019: brake-light switch 19V-149. 2015–2017: steering 16V-292 (do not drive). 2018–2020: fuel pump. 2020–2022: ODS 24V-227.

Subaru Outback VIN check →

Subaru Forester

2009–2013: Takata and brake lines. 2014–2018: brake-light switch; 2015–2018 ODS 19V-701. 2018 fuel pump; 2019 stabilizer 21V-263, PCV. Hybrid 2025: fuel spill 26V-106.

Subaru Forester VIN check →

Subaru Impreza, Crosstrek and WRX

Impreza/WRX Takata; valve springs 18V-772; 2021 Impreza arm 21V-675. Crosstrek: brake switch, stabilizer, PCV, hybrid fuel spill. WRX: backup-light switch 22V-522.

Impreza → · Crosstrek → · WRX →

Subaru Ascent, Legacy and Solterra

Ascent: PTC heater 22V-907 (park outside), fuel pump, TCU 21V-955. Legacy: same Takata/brake/fuel/ODS pattern as Outback; steering 16V-292. Solterra: hub bolts 22V-444/23V-064 (do not drive).

Ascent → · Legacy →

FAQ

Common questions about Subaru VINs

What VIN prefix do Subaru vehicles use?

Subaru vehicles assembled in Lafayette, Indiana carry VIN prefixes of 4S3 (many cars) or 4S4 (many SUVs and crossovers). Models imported from Japan begin with JF1 or JF2. The 11th character and the full NHTSA vPIC decode confirm the plant. A VIN starting with something other than 4S or JF was not built for the US market under a normal Subaru WMI.

Where is the VIN on a Subaru?

Subaru places the VIN on a plate at the lower driver side of the windshield, readable from outside, and on a sticker inside the driver door jamb. Many models also have a stamped VIN on the bulkhead in the engine bay. On used examples, match the windshield plate, the door-jamb sticker and any stamped locations before you buy.

Which Subaru models have the most documented recalls?

Outback and Legacy lead Subaru's NHTSA campaign counts because of long production runs and the Takata passenger-inflator recalls that covered 2003–2014 models by registration zone. Forester and Impreza add salt-belt brake-line campaigns and the large 2019 brake-light switch recall (19V-149, about 1.3 million vehicles). Ascent has a park-outside PTC heater campaign (22V-907). Solterra shares hub-bolt do-not-drive recalls with the Toyota bZ4X.

What does a free Subaru VIN check on VinNumber.net show?

The free decoder reads the VIN in NHTSA's vPIC database and returns the model, model year, body, engine, drive type and assembly plant. Subaru VINs in vPIC start with prefixes such as 4S3, 4S4, JF1 and JF2. The same lookup lists NHTSA safety recalls for that make, model and model year. Each of our 8 Subaru model pages adds what NHTSA and the EPA have published: owner complaints, technical service bulletins, defect investigations, fuel economy and, where NHTSA has tested the car, NCAP crash ratings. It is not a vehicle history report: it doesn't show accidents, title brands, odometer readings or theft records.

Do Subaru brake-line recalls only apply in salt-belt states?

Yes. NHTSA campaigns 13V-110, 14V-311 and 14V-830 cover certain 2005–2014 Legacy, Outback, Impreza, WRX and Forester vehicles sold or ever registered in listed northern and eastern states. A car that later moved south still counts, so check the VIN rather than the current address. Separately, brake-light switch recall 19V-149 is nationwide.

Which Subarus are under a do-not-drive or park-outside warning?

Do-not-drive: steering-column recall 16V-292 (certain 2015–2017 Outback and 2016–2017 Legacy), Solterra hub-bolt recalls 22V-444 and 23V-064, and 2021 Impreza control-arm recall 21V-675. Park-outside: Ascent PTC heater recall 22V-907 (2019–2022) and hybrid fuel-spill recall 26V-106 (2025 Forester Hybrid / 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid). If the VIN shows one open, follow the advisory until a Subaru dealer closes it.

Do Subaru Takata recalls only apply in hot states?

They were filed by zone, starting with hot, humid states, but later campaigns covered cooler states too. Coverage follows every state the vehicle was sold or ever registered in — not where it sits today. Check the VIN in NHTSA's lookup for every Takata line, including re-repair 23V-076 on certain 2004–2005 Impreza and WRX models.

What is the Subaru brake light switch recall?

Recall 19V-149 (February 2019, about 1.3 million vehicles) covers certain 2012–2019 Impreza, Crosstrek, Forester, Legacy, Outback, WRX and 2019 Ascent models whose brake light switch can fail. Brake lights may not come on, and cruise control or the shift interlock can be affected. Confirm it is closed on the VIN.

Are Subaru brake line recalls limited to salt states?

Yes. Campaigns 13V-110, 14V-311 and 14V-830 cover certain 2005–2014 Legacy, Outback, Impreza, WRX and Forester vehicles sold or ever registered in listed northern and eastern salt-belt states. A car that later moved south still counts, so check the VIN rather than the current address.

Subaru VIN Number Check