The problem
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2017 Legacy and Outback vehicles manufactured September 21, 2016, to September 23, 2016. In the affected vehicles, the knee guard bracket may not be properly attached to the steering beam assembly.
The risk
If the knee guard is not properly attached and the driver is not wearing a seatbelt, the knee guard may not be able to properly restrain the driver's lower body in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the knee guard welding on each vehicle's steering beam, replacing the beam as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 14, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTL-72.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 16V-716 (16V716000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | WTL-72 |
| Manufacturer | Subaru of America, Inc. |
| Component | Air bags › Knee bolster |
| Report date | October 6, 2016 |
| Owners notified | November 14, 2016 |
| Vehicles affected | 54 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the air bags
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 16V-716 repair free?
Yes. Subaru dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the knee guard welding on each vehicle's steering beam, replacing the beam as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 14, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service 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 54 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.