Understanding the 2017 Subaru Impreza recall landscape is essential for current owners and prospective buyers of this popular compact sedan and hatchback. Like all modern vehicles, specific model years may be subject to manufacturer recalls addressing potential safety or performance issues. This overview details the most significant recalls associated with the 2017 model year, providing the context needed to assess your specific vehicle.
Major Recall Campaigns for the 2017 Model Year
The 2017 Subaru Impreza was involved in several notable recall campaigns initiated by Subaru and mandated by federal safety regulators. These recalls targeted specific component systems, ranging from critical safety features to powertrain functions. Staying informed about these specific issues is the first step in ensuring your vehicle remains safe and compliant with all safety standards.
Recall #1: Rear Drum Brake Parking Brake Cables
One of the most significant recalls for the 2017 Impreza concerned the rear drum brake parking brake cables. In certain vehicles, these cables could stretch or break over time. If a cable fails, the parking brake may not hold the vehicle securely, potentially causing it to roll away, which poses a serious safety risk. Subaru addressed this by inspecting and, if necessary, replacing the cables with an improved design to ensure proper parking brake function.
Recall #2: Key Fob Battery Terminal Corrosion
Another recall focused on the key fob battery terminals. Moisture intrusion could cause corrosion to build up on the terminals, leading to a failure in the key fob's functionality. This meant that the remote start system or panic button might not work when needed. The remedy typically involved inspecting the terminals and applying a corrosion inhibitor or replacing the battery case to prevent future moisture damage.
Recall #3: Sunroof Sealant Application
A manufacturing recall related to the sunroof involved an incorrect application of sealant during assembly. If the sealant was not applied correctly, it could lead to a leak around the sunroof headliner. While this primarily causes an inconvenience like water dripping into the cabin, it can eventually lead to more serious issues such as water damage to the headliner or electrical components if left unaddressed. Subaru dealers re-applied the sealant correctly to resolve this issue.
Checking Your Specific Vehicle's History
Not every 2017 Subaru Impreza will have experienced these specific issues, as recalls are applied on a model-by-model basis. The most accurate way to determine if your specific vehicle has any outstanding recalls is to check its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Subaru's official website and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database provide free lookup tools where you can enter your VIN to see the complete recall history for your car.
