The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions. Due to poor welds, ignition keys can stick, shift levers/linkages can break and shift levers can move.
The risk
This condition can cause unexpected movement of the vehicle increasing the risk of a crash or property damage.
The fix
Dealers will replace the automatic transmission shift lever assemblies (except the handle grip).
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 98V-042 (98V042000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Subaru of America, Inc. |
| Component | Power train › Automatic transmission › Gear position indication (PRNDL) |
| Report date | February 20, 1998 |
| Owners notified | June 15, 1998 |
| Vehicles affected | 19,386 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the transmission & drivetrain
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 98V-042 repair free?
Yes. Subaru dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the automatic transmission shift lever assemblies (except the handle grip).
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 19,386 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.