2012 Subaru Forester Included in Brake Line Recall

Jan 08, 2015 04:00 PM EST | Matt Mercuro

Subaru is calling back more than 198,000 vehicles in cold-weather states over brake lines that could experience brake line corrosion.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration confirmed on Thursday that the 2008-'11 Subaru Impreza, 2008-'14 WRX and WRX STI and 2009-'13 Forester are all involved in the recall.

No fatalities, injuries or crashes have been linked to the issue yet.

An issue could occur when salt water splashes on the brake lines through a gap in the fuel tank protector, according to the NHTSA.

"Brake fluid may leak due to the brake line corrosion and may result in longer distances being required to slow or stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash," NHTSA said in its recall summary.

There is some good news however. Some of the affected Impreza, STI and WRX vehicles might already be fixed under a previous recall. They will still need to be checked out to make sure everything is alright. 

Subaru dealers are being instructed to apply an anti-corrosion wax to the four-way joint connector area of the brake line system.

"Subaru has determined that this remedy was inadequate due to incomplete repair instructions provided to dealers," NHTSA said in its summary.

The automaker said that all drivers will be alerted to brake line leaks by a light on the instrument panel. Brakes will continue to work even if there's a leak, though some drivers might have to push down on the pedal harder than others to stop their vehicle, according to report by the Associated Press.

All repairs will be made free of charge. Approximately 198,900 vehicles are involved in the recall.

Affected vehicles are either located in or were registered at one point in the following places: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia.

The NHTSA said that the recall will begin officially starting on January 26. If you notice an issue with your car before the official recall date though don't hesitate to contact your local dealer.

Owners with more questions and concerns are welcome to call Subaru's customer service team at 1-800-782-2783.

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