The problem
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ascent vehicles. The ground bolt that secures the ground terminal of the Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater may have been improperly fastened, which could result in melting of the ground terminal and surrounding components.
The risk
A melting ground terminal increases the risk of a fire.
The fix
Owners are advised to park their vehicle away from structures and to avoid leaving the vehicle unattended while the engine is running. An owner who notices or smells smoke coming from the dash or driver's footwell area should immediately stop operating the vehicle and turn the ignition switch to the "Off" position. Dealers will replace the PTC heater ground bolts and if necessary, replace the ground wire and the connector holder, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed February 6, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRL-22.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 22V-907 (22V907000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | WRL-22 |
| Manufacturer | Subaru of America, Inc. |
| Component | Electrical system › Wiring › Interior/under dash |
| Report date | December 8, 2022 |
| Owners notified | January 25, 2023 |
| Vehicles affected | 271,694 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the electrical system
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 22V-907 repair free?
Yes. Subaru dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Owners are advised to park their vehicle away from structures and to avoid leaving the vehicle unattended while the engine is running. An owner who notices or smells smoke coming from the dash or driver's footwell area should immediately stop operating the…
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 271,694 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is it safe to drive?
Owners are advised to park outside and away from buildings until the repair is done, because of a fire risk.
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.