Subaru Recalls 32K Imprezas Over Airbag Issue

Stephen Elmer
by Stephen Elmer

Subaru is calling back about 32,000 Impreza sedans over an issue with the airbag sensor.

In the affected 2012 Impreza models, the airbag sensor in the passenger seat can malfunction, causing the airbag to turn off even when someone is in the seat.

Specifically, a capacitance sensor functions incorrectly when someone in the car uses a cell phone, if their clothes are damp while seated or if that passenger is touching a grounded part of the vehicle like the seat adjustment lever. A cell phone left sitting on the seat, or getting water directly on the seat can also cause the issue.

SEE ALSO: Top 5 Weirdest Subarus of All Time

Subaru initiated the recall after NHTSA opened a formal investigation into the issue following 26 complaints from owners. The Japanese brand says that it has paid more than 25000 warranty claims related to the problem.

Subaru dealers will reprogram the sensor to fix the issue.

Discuss this story at our Subaru Forum

Stephen Elmer
Stephen Elmer

Stephen covers all of the day-to-day events of the industry as the News Editor at AutoGuide, along with being the AG truck expert. His truck knowledge comes from working long days on the woodlot with pickups and driving straight trucks professionally. When not at his desk, Steve can be found playing his bass or riding his snowmobile or Sea-Doo. Find Stephen on <A title="@Selmer07 on Twitter" href="http://www.twitter.com/selmer07">Twitter</A> and <A title="Stephen on Google+" href="http://plus.google.com/117833131531784822251?rel=author">Google+</A>

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