Subaru Fuel Pump Settlement: What Owners Need to Know About the Class Action and Compensation​

2025-11-01

If you own a Subaru vehicle, particularly models sold between 2010 and 2019, you may be eligible for compensation through a major class-action settlement addressing widespread fuel pump failures. This settlement, approved by a federal court in 2023, resolves allegations that Subaru knowingly installed defective fuel pumps in millions of vehicles, leading to dangerous stalling, engine failure, and safety risks. For affected owners, this means access to free repairs, reimbursement for past expenses, and cash settlements—depending on when and how the issue impacted them. Below, we break down everything you need to know to file a claim, understand your rights, and navigate the process.

The Root of the Problem: Why Subaru Fuel Pumps Failed

The core issue stems from a design flaw in Subaru’s electric fuel pumps, specifically in models equipped with certain Denso-made pumps. These pumps, used in vehicles from the 2010 to 2019 model years, were prone to premature wear. Over time, the pump’s internal components—including the impeller (a small rotating part that moves fuel) and motor—would degrade, causing reduced fuel pressure or complete failure.

Owners first reported problems around 2015, with complaints surging by 2018. Common symptoms included:

  • Engine stalling while driving (often at highway speeds or during acceleration);

  • Difficulty starting the vehicle, especially after sitting overnight;

  • Warning lights on the dashboard (e.g., “Check Engine” or “Reduced Power”);

  • Complete loss of power, requiring roadside assistance or towing.

These failures weren’t just inconvenient—they posed serious safety risks. A stalled engine while driving increases the chance of rear-end collisions, and the inability to restart the vehicle left many owners stranded in remote areas.

By 2020, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) had received over 1,200 complaints about Subaru fuel pumps, with some owners alleging the automaker ignored early warnings. Internal documents later revealed Subaru was aware of the defect as early as 2013 but delayed issuing a recall, opting instead for piecemeal repairs and limited service bulletins.

The Class-Action Lawsuit: Who Sued and Why

In 2021, a group of Subaru owners filed a class-action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. Plaintiffs argued Subaru violated state consumer protection laws (including California’s Unfair Competition Law) by selling vehicles with a known defective part without disclosing the risk. They also claimed the automaker failed to act promptly to fix the issue, causing unnecessary damage to vehicles and financial hardship for owners.

The lawsuit expanded to include nearly 3 million Subaru vehicles across the U.S., covering models such as:

  • Forester (2010–2019)

  • Outback (2010–2019)

  • Crosstrek (2010–2019)

  • Legacy (2010–2019)

  • Impreza (2010–2019)

  • WRX/WRX STI (2010–2019)

  • BRZ (2013–2019)

Subaru initially denied liability but agreed to settle in late 2022 to avoid protracted litigation. The final settlement, approved by Judge James V. Selna in March 2023, allocates $65 million to compensate affected owners—a figure that could grow if more claims are filed.

What Does the Settlement Cover? Eligibility and Benefits

The settlement is divided into two main components: ​repair coverage​ for unresolved issues and ​cash compensation​ for past harm. Here’s how it works:

1. Free Repairs for Defective Fuel Pumps

All eligible Subaru owners can have their fuel pump replaced free of charge, regardless of whether the pump has failed yet. Subaru will use updated pumps from a different supplier (not Denso) to prevent future failures. This benefit applies even if you’ve already paid for a repair out of pocket—more on reimbursement below.

2. Cash Compensation for Past Failures or Repairs

Owners who experienced a fuel pump failure beforethe settlement was approved (March 2023) can seek additional compensation. The amount depends on:

  • How many times the pump failed;

  • Whether they paid for repairs themselves;

  • The length of time they owned the vehicle during the defect period.

For example:

  • A single failure with no prior repair: Up to $1,500;

  • Multiple failures or out-of-pocket repairs: Up to $3,000;

  • Severe cases (e.g., accidents caused by stalling): Up to $5,000 (requires documentation like police reports).

3. Reimbursement for Previous Repairs

If you paid to replace the fuel pump before the settlement, you can submit receipts for reimbursement. Subaru will cover up to $2,000 per vehicle, provided the repair was done between January 1, 2015, and March 31, 2023.

How to File a Claim: Step-by-Step Guide

To participate, you must register with the settlement administrator by the deadline: ​December 31, 2024. Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Check If Your Vehicle Is Eligible

Visit the official settlement website (SubaruFuelPumpSettlement.com) and enter your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). The tool will confirm if your car is part of the class.

Note:Even if your pump hasn’t failed, you’re still eligible for a free replacement to prevent future issues.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Depending on your claim type, you’ll need:

  • Proof of ownership (vehicle title, registration, or insurance card);

  • VIN (found on your dashboard, driver’s side door jamb, or insurance documents);

  • Repair records (if seeking reimbursement or compensation for past failures—include invoices, receipts, or mechanic reports);

  • A statement describing your experience (e.g., when the pump failed, how it affected you).

Step 3: Submit Your Claim Online or by Mail

The easiest way is through the settlement website. Fill out the online form, upload documents, and track your claim status. If you prefer, you can mail a paper claim form to the administrator (addresses are listed on the site).

Step 4: Wait for Approval

Claims will be processed starting in early 2025. If approved, you’ll receive either:

  • A notice to schedule a free repair at an authorized Subaru dealer;

  • A check for compensation/reimbursement;

  • A combination of both.

What If My Car Already Had the Fuel Pump Replaced?

If Subaru replaced your fuel pump under a prior warranty or service campaign, you may still qualify for compensation if:

  • The replacement pump was also defective (documented via repair records);

  • You paid for the original repair (even if Subaru later covered it under warranty, you can seek reimbursement for any out-of-pocket costs).

Legal Recourse Beyond the Settlement

While most owners will resolve their claims through the settlement, a small number may opt out and pursue individual lawsuits. However, this is risky: the settlement covers nearly all potential claims, and individual cases would require proving Subaru’s negligence, which can be costly and time-consuming. Attorneys advise most owners to stick with the settlement, as it guarantees compensation without legal fees.

What Subaru Is Doing to Prevent Future Issues

As part of the settlement, Subaru has agreed to:

  • Extend the warranty on replacement fuel pumps to 10 years or 150,000 miles (whichever comes first);

  • Notify all affected owners via mail about the defect and free repair program;

  • Update its internal testing protocols for fuel system components to catch defects earlier.

Why This Settlement Matters for Subaru Owners

This isn’t just about money—it’s about holding automakers accountable for safety defects. For affected owners, the settlement provides:

  • Peace of mind: A free, reliable repair to prevent stalling or engine failure;

  • Financial relief: Reimbursement for past expenses and compensation for stress or inconvenience;

  • Safer roads: By forcing Subaru to address a known hazard, other drivers benefit from the automaker’s improved practices.

Final Tips for Subaru Owners

  • ​Act quickly:​​ The December 31, 2024, deadline is strict—don’t delay registering.

  • ​Save documents:​​ Even if you haven’t had a failure yet, keep copies of maintenance records in case you need them later.

  • ​Ask questions:​​ The settlement website has a FAQ section, and you can contact the administrator via phone or email with specific inquiries.

If you own one of the affected Subaru models, this settlement is your chance to get the compensation and repairs you deserve. Don’t leave money on the table—file your claim today.

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