The problem
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2012 legacy and outback vehicles, manufactured from December 1, 2011, through December 23, 2011. These vehicles May be equipped with side curtain air bags that contain an incorrect propellant mixture for the initiator component used, resulting in insufficient output of compressed gas.
The risk
The side curtain air bags May not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace one or both side curtain air bag modules, free of February 21, 2012. Owners May contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 12V-047 (12V047000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | WVZ-36 |
| Manufacturer | Subaru of America, Inc. |
| Component | Air bags › Side/window |
| Report date | February 9, 2012 |
| Owners notified | February 21, 2012 |
| Vehicles affected | 381 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the air bags
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 12V-047 repair free?
Yes. Subaru dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace one or both side curtain air bag modules, free of February 21, 2012. Owners May contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 381 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.