Subaru has recalled 541,237 vehicles because their federally required certification labels may show an incorrect maximum axle-load figure. The campaign concerns the label, not a broken axle.
What Is Being Recalled?
Subaru of America is recalling 541,237 vehicles because the certification label lists an incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating, or GAWR. The July 2026 filing covers certain model-year 2019–2026 Ascent, 2025–2026 Forester, 2025–2026 Forester Hybrid and 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid vehicles.NHTSA campaign 26V436 says the labels do not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 110. An incorrect rating can lead an owner to load more weight on an axle than the vehicle is designed to carry, increasing the risk of a crash. Subaru will provide a corrected overlay label free of charge.
Which Models and Years Are Included?
- Certain 2019–2026 Subaru Ascent vehicles
- Certain 2025–2026 Subaru Forester vehicles
- Certain 2025–2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid vehicles
- Certain 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid vehicles
What Does GAWR Mean?
GAWR is the maximum weight a particular axle is designed to carry, including the vehicle, passengers, cargo and any downward force from a trailer. It is different from the vehicle's total gross vehicle weight rating. The certification label, typically located near the driver's door opening, supplies these limits so owners can load the vehicle safely and select appropriate tires and rims.Subaru's filing describes a labeling noncompliance rather than a mechanical failure in the axle itself. Even so, relying on an overstated figure could lead to an overloaded axle, so owners should use the correct value once Subaru provides it.
How Will Subaru Fix the Recall?
Subaru plans to mail a corrective overlay label with installation instructions. Owners can place the overlay on the existing certification label themselves or have an authorized Subaru dealer install it at no charge. The filing anticipated interim owner letters beginning August 25, 2026 and remedy letters in January 2027.Until the corrected label arrives, avoid loading the vehicle close to the printed axle limit. Use the owner's manual and follow Subaru's interim notice if it provides a corrected value for the specific vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Subaru vehicles are included in recall WRH-26?
The recall covers certain 2019–2026 Ascent, 2025–2026 Forester, 2025–2026 Forester Hybrid and 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid vehicles. Owners should check the VIN.
What is wrong with the Subaru certification label?
The Part 567 certification label shows an incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating. Using that figure could contribute to vehicle overloading.
How will Subaru fix the label?
Subaru will mail a free corrective overlay label with installation instructions. Owners may install it or ask a Subaru dealer to install it free of charge.
Do owners need a receipt or claim form?
No. The recall is tied to the VIN and Subaru's owner records; no purchase receipt or claim form is required.
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