Subaru recalls nearly 14,000 SUVs over fire risk

Subaru Canada has issued a recall for 13,954 Ascent vehicles due to an issue that could lead to an electrical fire.

The automaker noted that in Canada the recall affects Ascent vehicles from the model years between 2019 and 2022.

An improperly fastened ground bolt – part of the vehicle’s Positive Temperature Coefficient (PCT) heater – could result in the melting of the ground terminal and its surrounding pieces, which could lead to an electrical fire, Subaru Canada told CTV News in a statement.

“For all the potentially affected vehicles, Subaru retailers will replace the PCT Heater Ground Bolts and replace the ground wire and connector holder if necessary,” the car manufacturer said.

Subaru also mentioned that there have been no reported crashes or injuries related to this issue. Of the vehicles being recalled, the manufacturer said that an estimated 1% will need a ground and connector replacement. The inspection and repair will be completed at no charge to the customer.

The recall comes after Subaru of America last week announced a recall of 271,000 Ascent vehicles in the US for a similar issue. Reuters reported that in the US, there have been two fires related to the issue, but no injuries or crashes have been reported.

Meanwhile, in February, Nissan issued a recall for more than 793,000 of its Rogue SUVs in both Canada and the US over an issue about their exposed wiring, which also posed an electric fire risk.