The problem
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2015 Outback vehicles manufactured January 22, 2014, to August 18, 2014, and equipped with a Subaru accessory trailer hitch assembly. During installation, the trailer hitch mounting nuts may have been overtightened, potentially resulting in failure of the trailer hitch mounting studs.
The risk
The mounting nut(s) may not provide sufficient force to remain attached to the studs or the studs themselves might break. If this were to happen while a trailer is being towed, the driver might not be able to operate the vehicle as desired or the trailer may detach from the vehicle. Either situation could increase the risk of a crash.
The fix
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace all eight mounting nuts for the trailer hitch assembly, and will inspect all eight mounting studs for damage, free of charge. The recall began on October 7, 2014. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQN-50.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 14V-577 (14V577000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | WQN-50 |
| Manufacturer | Subaru of America, Inc. |
| Component | Trailer hitches |
| Report date | September 19, 2014 |
| Owners notified | October 7, 2014 |
| Vehicles affected | 56 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the equipment & accessories
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 14V-577 repair free?
Yes. Subaru dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace all eight mounting nuts for the trailer hitch assembly, and will inspect all eight mounting studs for damage, free of charge. The recall began on October 7, 2014.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 56 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.