2019-2022 Subaru Ascent – Potential Vehicle Fire

On 2022-12-16 12:45:48

Certain 2019-2022 Subaru Ascent vehicles may have a manufacturing defect that could result in the melting of the ground terminal of the Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater.

 

Subaru received the first report of smoke coming from the driver's side interior cabin in January 2022, only a few days after replacing production line battery-operated tools with air tools. An inspection of the vehicle identified the area in which the fire originated, but because of the significant fire damage, the exact cause could not be determined. Subaru conducted testing to determine the conditions required to generate enough heat necessary to cause the melting conditions being observed. They determined that contact surface area was the primary condition and low torque was a potential secondary condition.

 

According to the defect report, the ground bolt that secures the ground terminal of the PTC heater may have been improperly fastened during the assembly process. As a result, when the PTC heater is operated, an increased electrical resistance could lead to the generation of heat. If the contact surface between the ground terminal and ground bolt is sufficiently limited, the excessive heat generated could result in the melting the ground terminal and surrounding components. If the ground terminal melts, there is an increased risk of a vehicle fire.

 

WARNING: Drivers may notice a burning smell and/or smoke coming from under the driver’s side instrument panel area.

 

Owners are advised to park their vehicles away from structures and to avoid leaving the vehicle unattended while the engine is running. An owner who notices or smells smoke coming from the dash or driver's foot area should immediately stop operating the vehicle and turn the ignition switch to the "Off" position.

 

Dealers will replace the PTC heater ground bolts. They will inspect the ground wire and the connector holder for heat damage and will replace them as necessary. Subaru's number for this recall is WRL-22 and the NHTSA campaign number is 22V-907.