Subaru Fuel Pump Settlement: A Comprehensive Guide for Affected Owners
A class-action lawsuit alleging that certain Subaru vehicles contained defective low-pressure fuel pumps has been resolved through a massive settlement. If you own or lease, or previously owned or leased, a 2017-2020 Subaru Impreza, 2018-2019 Subaru Legacy, 2018-2019 Subaru Outback, 2018-2020 Subaru BRZ, 2018-2020 Subaru Forester, 2018-2020 Subaru WRX, or 2019-2020 Subaru Ascent, you are likely a class member and may be eligible for reimbursement for past repairs or future fuel pump replacement. The deadline to submit a claim for past repairs is August 30, 2024.
This definitive guide provides a clear, step-by-step explanation of the Subaru fuel pump settlement, including which vehicles are involved, the specific defect alleged, what benefits are available to you, and exactly how to file a claim. We will break down the complex legal language into practical information you can use to protect your vehicle and your finances.
What is the Subaru Fuel Pump Lawsuit About?
The lawsuit, officially known as In re: Denso Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Litigation, revolved around fuel pumps manufactured by Denso Corporation and installed in millions of vehicles across several automakers, including Subaru. The plaintiffs alleged that these specific fuel pumps contained a critical defect.
The core of the problem lies in the impeller, a rotating component inside the pump that moves fuel. The impellers were made from a resin material that was allegedly improperly formulated. Over time, and particularly when exposed to certain fuel additives, this resin could absorb excess fuel. This absorption would cause the impeller to swell, deform, and crack. A cracked impeller creates excessive drag against the pump housing, leading to a significant drop in fuel pressure.
The Consequences of a Failing Fuel Pump
A low-pressure fuel pump is a crucial component of your vehicle's fuel system. Its job is to draw fuel from the gas tank and deliver it at a consistent, low pressure to the high-pressure fuel pump or the engine. When this pump fails, it can lead to a range of serious and potentially dangerous operational problems, including:
- Engine Stalling: The engine may stall while idling, driving at low speeds, or even at highway speeds. This is a significant safety hazard as it can lead to a loss of power steering and braking assist.
- Failure to Start: The vehicle may crank but fail to start because insufficient fuel is reaching the engine.
- Loss of Power: The engine may hesitate, jerk, or experience a noticeable loss of power and acceleration, especially under load.
- Check Engine Light: A diagnostic trouble code related to low fuel pressure will likely illuminate the check engine light.
The plaintiffs argued that Subaru was aware, or should have been aware, of this defect but failed to disclose it to consumers, who then bore the financial burden of diagnosing and repairing the issue.
Which Specific Subaru Models and Years Are Included?
The settlement includes a wide range of popular Subaru models from the 2017 through 2020 model years. It is critical to check your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to confirm eligibility, as not every vehicle within these model years is equipped with the specific Denso fuel pump in question.
The included vehicles are:
- 2017-2020 Subaru Impreza
- 2018-2019 Subaru Legacy
- 2018-2019 Subaru Outback
- 2018-2020 Subaru BRZ
- 2018-2020 Subaru Forester
- 2018-2020 Subaru WRX
- 2019-2020 Subaru Ascent
How to Check Your VIN: The most reliable way to see if your vehicle is included is to use the official VIN lookup tool on the settlement website. You can also find your VIN on your vehicle's registration, insurance card, or on a plate located on the driver's side dashboard, visible through the windshield.
What Does the Settlement Provide to Subaru Owners?
The settlement provides two primary forms of relief for class members: reimbursement for past expenses and coverage for future repairs.
1. Reimbursement for Past Fuel Pump Repairs and Related Costs
If you paid out of pocket to repair or replace the low-pressure fuel pump in your included Subaru vehicle before the date of the settlement's final approval, you can file a claim to be reimbursed. This is a key benefit for those who have already experienced the problem.
- Eligible Expenses: You can claim reimbursement for the cost of parts (the fuel pump), labor for diagnosis and replacement, and related costs such as towing or rental cars that were a direct result of the fuel pump failure.
- Required Documentation: To successfully file a claim, you will need to provide proof of the repair. This includes:
- Copies of paid invoices or receipts from the repair facility (dealership or independent shop).
- Proof of payment (credit card statement, cancelled check).
- The invoice must clearly show your VIN, the date of repair, the nature of the repair (e.g., "replaced low-pressure fuel pump"), and the amount you paid.
- Deadline for Reimbursement Claims: The deadline to submit a claim for a past repair is August 30, 2024. Claims submitted after this date will not be accepted.
2. Extended Warranty and Future Repairs
For current owners, the settlement establishes an extended warranty program specifically for the low-pressure fuel pump.
- Extended Warranty Period: The settlement extends the warranty coverage for the fuel pump to 10 years from the vehicle's original in-service date (the date it was first sold or leased) and unlimited mileage.
- What is Covered: If the fuel pump in your eligible Subaru vehicle fails within this 10-year period, Subaru will repair or replace it free of charge (parts and labor) at an authorized Subaru dealership.
- No Claim Form Needed for Future Repairs: You do not need to file a separate claim with the settlement administrator for a future repair. If your pump fails within the 10-year window, you simply take your vehicle to a Subaru dealership, and they will handle the repair under the terms of this extended warranty program.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Claim for Reimbursement
If you have already paid for a fuel pump repair, follow these steps to get reimbursed.
- Gather Your Documents. Locate all receipts, invoices, and proof of payment related to the fuel pump repair. Ensure the documents clearly show your VIN, the date of service, and a description of the work performed.
- Visit the Official Settlement Website. The primary source for all information and the claims portal is the website established by the settlement administrator: http://www.SubaruFuelPumpSettlement.com. Avoid third-party sites that may charge fees or provide incorrect information.
- Complete the Claim Form. On the website, locate the claim form for reimbursement. You will need to provide your personal information, your vehicle's VIN, and details about the repair.
- Submit Your Documentation. You will be able to upload digital copies (photos or scans) of your receipts and proof of payment directly through the claims portal. Alternatively, you can mail the documents to the address provided on the claim form.
- Submit by the Deadline. Ensure your claim is submitted online or postmarked no later than August 30, 2024.
What Are Your Other Options as a Class Member?
It is important to understand that by being a class member, you are automatically included in the settlement. However, you have three legal rights:
- Do Nothing and Stay in the Class: If you are eligible for future repairs, you will receive the extended warranty coverage automatically. If you want to file a claim for a past repair, you must do so by the deadline. By taking no action, you give up the right to sue Subaru independently over this specific issue.
- Exclude Yourself from the Settlement (Opt-Out): If you wish to retain the right to file your own lawsuit against Subaru regarding the fuel pumps, you must formally "opt-out" of the settlement class. The deadline for excluding yourself has passed; it was March 25, 2024. If you did not opt-out by that date, you are bound by the settlement's terms.
- Object to the Settlement: The deadline to object to the terms of the settlement has also passed (March 25, 2024).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know if my vehicle has the defective fuel pump?
A: The only sure way is to check your VIN on the official settlement website. Not all vehicles within the listed model years are affected.
Q: My vehicle is included, but my fuel pump hasn't failed. What should I do?
A: You do not need to take any proactive action. Your vehicle is covered by the 10-year/unlimited-mileage extended warranty. If the pump fails within that period, you can have it repaired at no cost at a Subaru dealership. There is no recall that requires a preemptive replacement.
Q: What if I sold my Subaru before learning about the settlement?
A: If you owned an eligible vehicle during the class period and paid for a qualifying repair out of pocket, you can still file a claim for reimbursement by the August 30, 2024, deadline. You will need the repair documentation and the VIN of the vehicle you sold.
Q: Where can I get more information?
A: The definitive source of information is the official settlement website: http://www.SubaruFuelPumpSettlement.com. The site contains the full settlement agreement, court documents, a detailed FAQ, and the VIN lookup tool. You can also call the settlement administrator at 1-888-353-0152.
Conclusion
The Subaru fuel pump settlement provides a substantial remedy for owners of affected vehicles. If you have already incurred expenses, be sure to gather your documents and file your reimbursement claim before the August 30, 2024, deadline. For current owners, the extended warranty offers long-term peace of mind, ensuring that if the fuel pump fails, the repair will be covered. By understanding your rights and the procedures outlined in this settlement, you can ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable while protecting your financial interests.