Subaru Fuel Pump Settlement: Your Complete Guide to Compensation, Repairs, and What Owners Must Do Now

The recently finalized Subaru fuel pump settlement provides compensation and extended warranty coverage for owners affected by potentially defective Denso low-pressure fuel pumps in millions of vehicles. If you own or lease a 2013-2019 Subaru Impreza, XV Crosstrek, Forester, Ascent, Legacy, Outback, or BRZ, you may be eligible for reimbursement for past repairs, payment for future pump failures, and warranty protection up to 10 years from the vehicle's original purchase date. The deadline to submit claims for past repairs is approaching, making immediate action crucial.

This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Subaru Denso Fuel Pump Settlement – your eligibility, the vehicles involved, the compensation available, how to submit a claim, your warranty rights, and the critical steps you should take right now.

What Was the Problem? The Denso Fuel Pump Defect Explained

The core issue leading to the massive Subaru recall and subsequent settlement involved certain low-pressure fuel pumps manufactured by Denso Corporation, a major automotive supplier. These specific fuel pumps contained impellers (the rotating component that draws fuel) that were exposed to and dried by an improper solvent during the manufacturing process. Over time, this exposure could cause the impeller to swell, distort, and potentially crack.

A cracked or deformed impeller can cause the fuel pump to fail:

  1. Complete Failure: The pump stops working entirely, preventing fuel from reaching the engine. This results in an immediate engine stall. The vehicle will not start or will suddenly lose power while driving.
  2. Partial Failure: The pump may work intermittently or deliver insufficient fuel pressure. This can cause rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, loss of power, surging RPMs, and potentially lead to a stall.

Why is this dangerous? A sudden loss of engine power, especially while driving at highway speeds, merging onto a freeway, navigating intersections, or traversing difficult terrain, significantly increases the risk of a collision. Drivers could lose control of steering or braking assist, putting themselves, passengers, and others on the road in serious danger.

Which Subaru Models and Years Are Covered? The Full List

The Subaru Fuel Pump Settlement encompasses a vast range of popular models across model years 2013 to 2019. If you owned or leased any of the following vehicles during the specified time, you may be part of the settlement class:

  • 2013-2015 Subaru BRZ
  • 2013-2018 Subaru Crosstrek (including XV Crosstrek)
  • 2013-2019 Subaru Forester
  • 2013-2019 Subaru Impreza (including sedan and hatchback)
  • 2013-2019 Subaru Legacy
  • 2013-2019 Subaru Outback
  • 2019 Subaru Ascent

Important Note: Not every single vehicle within these model years necessarily contains the defective Denso fuel pump. The specific VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) determines inclusion. Always check your VIN using the official tools listed below to confirm your vehicle's status.

Understanding the Subaru Fuel Pump Settlement Terms: Compensation and Coverage

The settlement, approved by a court in September 2023, established a comprehensive program designed to compensate owners who incurred expenses due to the fuel pump defect and to protect owners who may experience failures in the future. The key components are:

  1. Reimbursement for Out-of-Pocket Repair Expenses:

    • Who Qualifies? Owners who paid for a replacement of the low-pressure fuel pump module on a covered vehicle BEFORE the recall repair was performed by a Subaru dealer. This includes situations where the pump failed and was replaced at your own expense.
    • What Can You Claim? You can seek reimbursement for the documented parts and labor costs associated with replacing the defective fuel pump module. This includes repairs done at independent shops or dealerships if Subaru did not cover the cost at the time.
    • Proof Required: You MUST provide documentation proving payment and the specific repair performed. This includes:
      • Detailed repair invoice showing the customer's name, VIN, date of service, description of work performed (must clearly state "fuel pump replacement" or similar), parts replaced (fuel pump module/assembly), and the amount paid by you.
      • Proof of payment: Receipt, credit card statement, canceled check, etc.
    • Deadline: Claims for reimbursement MUST be submitted by November 14, 2024. Missing this deadline forfeits your right to reimbursement. File ASAP if you have eligible repairs.

  2. Extended Warranty Coverage (Limited Warranty Extension):

    • What Does it Cover? Defects in the Denso low-pressure fuel pump module specifically related to the impeller issue leading to failure.
    • Duration: Coverage is extended up to 10 years from the vehicle's original purchase date OR 100,000 miles on the odometer, whichever occurs first.
    • What's Included? If the covered fuel pump module fails due to the defect during this extended warranty period, Subaru will repair or replace it at NO CHARGE to the owner (parts and labor).
    • Who Qualifies? All current and subsequent owners of covered vehicles, regardless of whether a previous recall repair was performed, as long as the vehicle is within the 10-year/100,000-mile period from its original purchase date.
    • Getting Repairs: If you experience symptoms of a failing fuel pump (see below), take your vehicle to an authorized Subaru dealership. The dealership will diagnose the problem. If it's determined to be a failure of the fuel pump module due to the specific covered defect, the repair will be performed free of charge under this warranty extension. You may be asked to pay for diagnosis if the problem is unrelated.

  3. Future Repair Compensation:

    • If a covered fuel pump fails AFTER you already had one replaced under warranty (either the original recall repair or under the extended warranty) AND that vehicle still falls under the extended warranty period (10yrs/100k mi from original purchase), you may be eligible for additional compensation for expenses directly related to the failure (like towing or rental cars) if it causes a breakdown that strands you. Documentation and proof will be required. Consult the official settlement administrator or Subaru customer service for details if this occurs.

The Recall: NHTSA Investigation ID 19V-709 & Subaru's Response

The settlement stems from a significant recall campaign initiated by Subaru in response to an investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), officially designated Recall ID 19V-709 and later expanded. Key recall events:

  • Initial Recall (June 2019): Subaru recalled select 2019 Ascent, Impreza, and Legacy/Outback models potentially equipped with defective Denso fuel pumps.
  • Recall Expansion (Dec 2019 / Jan 2020): Subaru dramatically expanded the recall to include hundreds of thousands more vehicles across the model years 2018-2019 Impreza, 2018-2019 Crosstrek, 2019 Legacy/Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, 2018-2019 Forester, and adding the 2013 Legacy/Outback/BRZ models.
  • Further Expansion (April/May 2020): Additional vehicle batches and model years were added, culminating in the near-million-vehicle scope covered by the settlement. The recall campaign code associated with this fuel pump defect is typically WWK-98 or WWL-90 (check your specific recall notice).

The recall involved inspecting the production date code of the installed fuel pump and replacing it free of charge with a new, non-defective pump module if it fell within the suspect date range.

How to Check If Your Subaru Vehicle Is Included & Recall Status

Determining if your specific Subaru is included in the fuel pump recall and settlement is straightforward:

  1. Use Subaru's Official Recall Lookup Tool: Visit Subaru's dedicated recall information website. Enter your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
    • Subaru VIN Lookup Page: subaru.com/recalls (Link publicly verifiable) - This is the most direct and reliable source.
  2. Use NHTSA's Official Recall Lookup Tool: Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's recall lookup page (nhtsa.gov/recalls) and enter your VIN. This government database aggregates recalls from all manufacturers.
  3. Check Your Mail: Subaru was required to send multiple mail notifications to registered owners of affected vehicles regarding both the original recall and the subsequent settlement. If you received this notice, your vehicle is included. Keep this notice for reference.

Your VIN is found: On your driver's side dashboard (visible through the windshield), driver's side door jamb sticker, vehicle registration, or insurance card.

What the Results Mean: If your vehicle is affected, the lookup tools will explicitly state that your VIN has an open recall for "Low Pressure Fuel Pump Replacement" (or similar wording) and provide instructions on getting the free repair.

Is Your Fuel Pump Failing? Symptoms to Watch For Immediately

Even if you haven't experienced problems yet, or if your vehicle hasn't had the recall repair performed, be vigilant for these warning signs indicating a potential fuel pump failure:

  1. Engine Stall While Driving: The most serious and dangerous symptom. The engine suddenly stops running while the vehicle is in motion.
  2. Failure to Start: The engine cranks (you hear the starter motor turning) but does not fire up or run. You might hear extended cranking without the engine starting.
  3. Loss of Power While Driving: A noticeable decrease in engine power, especially during acceleration or when going uphill.
  4. Engine Hesitation or Stumbling: The engine feels like it's missing or stumbling, particularly during acceleration from a stop or at low speeds. It may jerk or surge unexpectedly.
  5. Rough Idling: The engine runs unevenly or roughly when the car is stopped with the engine running (e.g., at a red light).
  6. Reduced Fuel Efficiency: A noticeable, unexplained decrease in miles per gallon could be related to an inefficient pump struggling to deliver fuel correctly.
  7. Engine Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine Light): While this light can illuminate for many reasons, a faulty fuel pump can trigger related trouble codes stored in the vehicle's computer.

If you experience ANY of these symptoms, especially engine stall or a severe loss of power:

  1. Safely Pull Over: Signal and maneuver to the side of the road or a safe location as soon as possible.
  2. Do Not Attempt to Restart Repeatedly: If the engine stalls and won't restart immediately, avoid cranking the engine excessively. This may drain the battery and doesn't fix a failed pump.
  3. Have Your Vehicle Towed: For safety, have your vehicle towed to the nearest authorized Subaru dealership for diagnosis and repair. Do not drive a vehicle experiencing these symptoms.

Your Action Plan: Steps Every Covered Subaru Owner Must Take

  1. Check Your VIN: Use the Subaru or NHTSA lookup tools (subaru.com/recalls or nhtsa.gov/recalls) immediately to confirm if your vehicle is included in the fuel pump recall/settlement. This is the critical first step.
  2. If Eligible for Recall Repair & Not Yet Completed:
    • Schedule the Recall Repair IMMEDIATELY. Contact your local authorized Subaru dealership to schedule an appointment to have the fuel pump replaced free of charge. This is a critical safety repair.
    • Get the Repair Done Before Problems Arise: Don't wait for symptoms. The recall repair replaces the defective part proactively.
  3. If You Paid for a Fuel Pump Repair Previously (Before Recall Repair):
    • Gather Documentation Locate all repair records related to a low-pressure fuel pump module replacement on your covered Subaru. You need the detailed invoice and proof of payment showing you covered the cost.
    • Submit a Claim ASAP: Go to the official settlement website or request a claim form. Provide copies of your documentation. THE DEADLINE IS NOVEMBER 14, 2024. Submit well before this date. Do not delay.
    • Official Settlement Administrator: Information and claim forms can typically be found via the settlement administrator's designated website (search for "Subaru Denso Fuel Pump Settlement Administrator"). Contact the administrator if you need assistance.
  4. Understand Your Extended Warranty Coverage:
    • Know the Dates: Determine the original purchase date of your vehicle. The extended warranty period runs for 10 years from that date or 100,000 miles.
    • Save Documentation: Keep your vehicle purchase documentation (window sticker, bill of sale) to verify the original purchase date if needed.
    • Be Vigilant for Symptoms: If you experience symptoms consistent with fuel pump failure during the extended warranty period, contact a Subaru dealership immediately for diagnosis and potential free repair under this settlement warranty.
  5. Register Your Vehicle Contact Information: Ensure your current address and contact details are registered with Subaru (subaru.com/vehicle-resources) to receive any future communication about this or other recalls. This is essential for warranty work notifications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Subaru Fuel Pump Settlement

  • Q: Is my [Specific Model/Year] definitely included?
    • A: Only vehicles within the listed model years and confirmed by your VIN lookup are included. Always verify your specific VIN via subaru.com/recalls.
  • Q: I already had the recall repair done years ago. Do I need to do anything else?
    • A: You are covered by the Extended Warranty. If a new pump fails (which is unlikely if replaced with the corrected part but covered under the warranty terms) within the 10yr/100k mile period from the original purchase date, you can get it replaced again for free. No need to submit a claim unless you had a previous pump failure before the recall repair that you paid for yourself. You may also want to ensure your contact info is current with Subaru.
  • Q: I bought my car used. Am I covered?
    • A: Yes. The recall repair (if needed) and the extended warranty coverage apply to all current owners of covered vehicles, regardless of when or how you purchased it (new or used, from dealer or private party), as long as the vehicle is within the 10-year/100,000-mile window from its original first purchase date. The reimbursement benefit is for the person who paid for the previous repair.
  • Q: How long will the extended warranty repairs take?
    • A: Repair time at the dealership usually takes a few hours, assuming the pump is in stock. Availability of parts can sometimes cause delays – call your dealership ahead of time.
  • Q: How do I submit my reimbursement claim?
    • A: Visit the official settlement website established for claims (typically managed by an administrator like Angeion Group for this case - verify current details). Download the claim form, fill it out accurately, gather copies of all required proof (do NOT send originals), and submit by mail or electronically as specified. Instructions are on the form and website. Deadline: November 14, 2024.
  • Q: What if I experience a fuel pump failure after the extended warranty period?
    • A: The settlement only guarantees coverage up to 10 years or 100,000 miles. After that, any fuel pump repair would be considered a standard maintenance item and the owner would be responsible for the cost. Regular vehicle maintenance is always recommended.
  • Q: Where can I get official help or more information?
    • A:
      • Settlement Administrator: Check official court documents or search for "Subaru Denso Fuel Pump Settlement Administrator" for the latest contact info and website.
      • Subaru Customer Service: Call 1-800-SUBARU3 (1-800-782-2783).
      • Subaru Recall Website: subaru.com/recalls
      • NHTSA Website: nhtsa.gov/recalls
      • NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 1-888-327-4236.

Protecting Yourself and Your Vehicle: Act Now

The Subaru Fuel Pump Settlement represents a significant commitment to resolving a widespread safety issue. By understanding your rights under this settlement, checking your VIN, taking advantage of the recall repair if needed, submitting reimbursement claims promptly if eligible, and being aware of your extended warranty coverage, you protect yourself financially and ensure the safety and reliability of your Subaru vehicle.

Key Takeaways to Remember:

  • Check Your VIN NOW: Use subaru.com/recalls. If included, get the recall repair done immediately.
  • Past Repair Reimbursement Deadline: November 14, 2024. Gather your documents and file your claim if you paid for a fuel pump repair before the recall fix.
  • You Have Extended Warranty Coverage: Up to 10 years or 100,000 miles from the original purchase date for fuel pump module failure due to this specific defect. Keep proof of purchase date.
  • Know the Symptoms: Engine stall, failure to start, loss of power. If you experience these, get towed to a Subaru dealership immediately.

By staying informed and proactive, Subaru owners can navigate the complexities of this settlement effectively and ensure their vehicles remain safe and dependable for the road ahead.

Back to blog