Fire Risk Appears When Engine Starts, Subaru Withdraws 271.000 Ascent Products

Subaru Acnet, prone to fire. (photo: @subaru)

JAKARTA – Japanese car maker Subaru said Tuesday 13 December that it was recalling 271.000 Ascent sports vehicles from the 2019 to 2022 models due to the increased risk of fire. Subaru also urges owners to park their vehicles outside until repairs are complete.

The Japanese automaker says owners should park away from the structure and avoid leaving the vehicle unattended while the engine is running. Subaru says the wiring harness may have a manufacturing-related defect that could cause a fire while the heater is running.

There were two fires but no injuries or accidents have been reported recently. Subaru dealers will replace the heater ground screw and if necessary replace the ground wire and connector holder on Ascent models.

Reuters reported, the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said until the recall is complete, owners must park the vehicle outdoors. If owners notice or smell smoke coming from the dashboard or the driver's footwell area, they should immediately stop the vehicle and turn off the ignition.