2020–2021 Subaru Legacy, 2020–2021 Subaru Outback Recall: A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the…
NHTSA campaign 22V485000 · Power Train · filed Jul 8, 2022 · verified Jul 30, 2026
The defect
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.
The risk
An improperly secured drive chain may slip and break, causing a loss of drive power and increasing the risk of a crash.
Check whether your specific vehicle is affected
Recall campaigns often cover only certain VIN ranges. Enter your VIN on the official NHTSA site to confirm whether your vehicle is included and whether the repair is still open.
Check VIN on NHTSA →The fix — what to do
Dealers will reprogram the TCU, inspect TCU data for chain slip, and visually inspect the chain guide. If evidence of chain slippage or damage is found, the transmission will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 24, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRK-22. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 21V-955.
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Affected vehicles
Related recalls
More Subaru Legacy recalls
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- 2021 Subaru Crosstrek and 3 other models — An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor…
- 2023 Subaru Ascent and 3 other models — Center support bolts for the driveshaft may loosen…
- 2019–2020 Subaru Ascent and 2 other models — A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU)…
- 2019–2020 Subaru Ascent and 7 other models — Low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail
Other campaigns involving Subaru vehicles
Source: NHTSA recall database, campaign 22V485000 (manufacturer number WRK-22). Data last verified Jul 30, 2026.