Last Updated on August 28, 2024
Imagine setting off on a routine drive in your trusty Subaru, only to be stranded roadside due to sudden engine failure. This scenario, unfortunately, isn’t just hypothetical for many Subaru owners. At the heart of this issue is the Subaru Thermo Control Valve Class Action Lawsuit. A legal battle stirring up concern amongst Subaru drivers nationwide.
The core of the problem lies in the thermo control valve (TCV) of certain Subaru models. This small but crucial component, designed to regulate engine temperature, has been failing unexpectedly in the 2019-2021 Crosstrek, Forester, Legacy, and Outback models. The result? Engine overheating, premature failure, and a raft of safety issues that no driver should ever have to face.
For Subaru owners, this lawsuit isn’t just a matter of legal proceedings. It’s a wake-up call to potential risks lurking under their hoods.
Understanding the implications of this lawsuit is crucial for every Subaru owner. It’s not just about the inconvenience of unplanned repairs and costs. But also the safety risks posed by a failing TCV during operation.
In this article, we delve into the intricacies of this legal showdown. We’ll uncover what every Subaru owner should know about the defect, the lawsuit, and the broader implications for vehicle safety and consumer rights.
What’s the Issue With the Thermo Control Valve?
At the heart of the lawsuit is a defect in the thermo control valve. The TCV in the affected Subaru vehicles is made from plastic and other materials inadequate for the high heat and vibration environment of the engine.
As such, this leads to premature failure and cracking. The defect allegedly leads to engine overheating, premature engine failure, and unexpected engine or cooling system failures.
This defect may pose a significant safety hazard, as it can leave drivers and passengers stranded.
Subaru’s Awareness and Response
According to the complaint, Subaru has been aware of this defect since at least 2021. This is evidenced by their attempt to update the design of the thermo control valves.
However, this update has been ineffective, leaving many vehicle owners to shoulder the cost of repairs themselves.
Warranty Concerns
Despite offering a three-year/36000 mile Limited Warranty and a five-year/60000 Powertrain Limited Warranty, Subaru reportedly avoids honoring these warranties for repairs related to the TCV defect.
As one can imagine, this avoidance has led to financial burdens on vehicle owners.
What Does the Thermo Control Valve do?
The TCV is a crucial component for maintaining the engine’s optimal temperature and preventing overheating. It’s an electronically-operated fluid control valve that responds faster to engine temperature changes than traditional thermostats, theoretically contributing to better fuel economy.
The TCV Defect’s Consequences
It has be alleged, that when the TCV fails, it cannot sense the engine’s temperature correctly, failing to circulate adequate coolant. This leads to several issues, including engine overheating, inconsistent engine temperatures, and catastrophic engine failure.
Moreover, safety features like Brake Assist and Eyesight Driver Assist Technology are disabled, posing further risks.
Should Subaru Owners be Concerned?
Yes, Subaru owners with the affected models (2019-2021 Crosstrek, Forester, Legacy, and Outback), should be concerned about the issues raised in the Thermo Control Valve Class Action Lawsuit. Here’s why:
- Safety Risks: The primary concern is safety. The defect in the thermo control valve can lead to engine overheating, which may cause unexpected engine failure. This not only increases the risk of being stranded but also poses significant safety hazards, especially if the vehicle fails while in motion.
- Vehicle Reliability: Owners of the affected models might face reliability issues. A failing TCV can lead to inconsistent engine temperatures and potential damage to engine components, compromising the overall reliability of the vehicle.
- Financial Implications: Many owners have reported that Subaru has not covered the repairs under warranty. This means owners might have to bear the cost of repairs, which can be substantial.
- Resale Value: The publicity surrounding the lawsuit and the defect might affect the resale value of the affected models, as potential buyers might be wary of purchasing these vehicles.
- Legal Rights: Owners should be aware of their rights in this situation. The class action lawsuit represents a collective legal response by affected owners, and understanding its progress and outcomes is important for anyone who might be impacted.
For these reasons, it’s advisable for owners of the affected Subaru models to stay informed about the lawsuit’s developments, check their vehicles for symptoms of the TCV defect, and consider seeking professional advice if they suspect their vehicle is affected.
What Are The Symptoms of a Defective Thermo Control Valve?
If your Subaru is equipped with a potentially defective thermo control valve, there are several symptoms to watch out for. Being aware of these signs can help in early detection and possibly prevent more serious issues:
- Engine Overheating: The most prominent symptom of a failing TCV is engine overheating. The temperature gauge on your dashboard may show higher than normal readings.
- Illuminated Check Engine Light: A defective TCV often triggers the check engine light. This is usually one of the first indicators that something is wrong.
- Inconsistent Engine Temperatures: You may notice fluctuations in engine temperature readings, indicating that the TCV isn’t regulating the temperature effectively.
- Disabled Safety Features: In some Subaru models, a failing TCV can lead to the disabling of critical safety features like Brake Assist, Eyesight Driver Assist Technology, Lane Keep Assist, and others.
- Poor Cabin Heating: If the TCV fails, the heating system inside the car may not work properly, resulting in cold air blowing from the heaters even when the engine is warm.
- Unusual Noises from Engine: In some cases, a failing TCV can cause unusual noises from the engine area due to the strain on the engine components.
- Coolant Leaks: A defective TCV might lead to coolant leaks, which can be detected by a sweet-smelling liquid under the vehicle or a decrease in coolant levels.
- Vehicle Stalling or Reduced Performance: In severe cases, the car might stall or exhibit reduced performance, especially if the engine has overheated significantly.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your Subaru, especially if it’s a model mentioned in the lawsuit, it’s important to have it checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. Early detection and repair can prevent more extensive damage to your vehicle.
Subaru Models Affected
The following models are affected by the TCV defect.
- 2019 Crosstrek
- 2020 Crosstrek
- 2021 Crosstrek
- 2019 Forester
- 2020 Forester
- 2021 Forester
- 2019 Legacy
- 2020 Legacy
- 2021 Legacy
- 2019 Outback
- 2020 Outback
- 2021 Outback
Status of the Subaru Thermo Control Valve Class Action Litigation
Austerman v. Subaru of America, Case No. 1:23-cv-22626, in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey.
Filed by the law firm of: SauderSchelkopf.
The lawsuit contends that Subaru had prior knowledge of this defect, supported by internal testing, consumer complaints, and warranty claims. Despite this knowledge, the company has not provided a successful remedy.
A Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) was issued in February 2022, indicating Subaru’s awareness of the issue well before this date.
Update: TCV FAQs
Questions About This Lawsuit?
MyCarVoice.com is not counsel or the settlement administrator in this class action lawsuit. Our goal is to inform owners of these vehicles of the recent lawsuit. This post will be updated when/if new suit information is released.
Please considering subscribing to this post for critical updates.
Are you driving a Subaru and experienced overheating problems? If so, add your voice to this post in the comments below, or add your car complaint for review.
Managing Editor
Christopher is an automotive technical writer. When he’s not at the local autocross event, he can often be found working on one of his cars. Specializes in automotive class action law, industry trends, and automotive maintenance. Email me direct, or learn more about us
Elio P
February 19, 2026 at 7:06 pmThis just happened to me, Outback 2020 w/ 90k miles, car stopped right in the middle of an intersection and a kind bystander assisted to push the car out of traffic.
Took it to my go to shop and they mentioned the TCV could be the problem and take it to Subaru for a replacement and they should cover the cost which Subaru did. We take a lot of road trips and camping excursion luckily this happened while in town.
Definitely trading my car in for a Honda Passport now
Jane T
August 11, 2025 at 4:16 pmThis just happened to my 2020 Forester. It has only 30,322 miles and will cost $1200 to repair. I wonder how long this repair with another plastic part will last. I will be keeping all receipts.
Ang
September 3, 2025 at 1:57 pmJane – It just happened to my 2020 Forester also and I have 40,100 miles. I took it to my Subaru dealer and they fixed it at no charge as said it is still covered under warranty. I would look into it if I were you as the warranty now covers the part to 15 years or 150,000 miles
Cherie
July 29, 2025 at 2:19 pmI have a 2019 Forester and just had it diagnosed as needing a Thermal Control Valve. My car has 187k miles (99% hwy miles) and because my car is 37k miles over their warranty extension for this known problem am having to pay $1,723.26. I even opened a case with their customer advocacy group, which was a joke. This is our 3rd Subaru and all 3 we bought cash out brand new and continued to use the dealership for service needs, even after factory warranty was gone. I have looked the part up and found it on several Subaru sites for about $350 (pt # 21319AA040), which tells me I am paying a crap ton for labor. I too feel that Subaru should have and probably still should offer complete parts replacement for this, especially since the fixed the issue in their later models.
Thomas Danis
June 26, 2025 at 12:06 amHad the same problem this week with my ’19 Forester. Started fine, but the dash lit up like a Christmas tree. Luckily, the Subaru dealership was only a mile away. They diagnosed it as TCV issue. They have the car now, but gave me a ’25 Outback as a free loaner. The way they talk it may take a couple of weeks before I see the Forester again. They informed me that all costs involved are covered under my Subaru warranty. So far, I’m not raising Cain, but I am concerned by what others are writing about further TCV issues down the road. They can only honor the “warranty” so long.
Helen ODaly
August 4, 2025 at 8:36 pmMy Subarus Forester 2021 started acting up a few days ago. Eyesight is disabled, check engine light is on. Other dashboard lights remain on. Luckily I have not been stranded. Calling the dealer tomorrow. Of course it is out of warranty.
Donna L Dumas
May 30, 2025 at 8:27 pmMine failed at 75,000 miles. My engine light went on and my eye assist did not work. I drove to Subaru right away. They paid for the cost to fix it, and gave me a loaner. I just wonder if any long-term damage has or will occur because of it or if this will happen again.
Jarett Hill
June 14, 2025 at 12:19 amwhat did you say to them in order for them to replace it at no cost? Mine just went out today, the same thing that you described but my Forester has 73900. I just want to be prepared in case they say it will cost me an arm and a leg
Robert Ruf
July 18, 2025 at 1:21 pmmy 2021 forester just did the do and they will fix it under warranty up to 150,000 miles and added years. call the dealer, mine is getting towed and fixed first thing Monday, or so they say. So far, great service but disappointed in Subaru having changed the proven system, with this plastic crap, that they have returned to the last year or so. Wonder what value is diminished?
Bill Slaunwhite
August 11, 2025 at 9:45 amMy 2020 Forester’s dashboard lit up and I discovered it needs the TCV part replaced as well after I dropped by the dealership without an appointment. I am an hour away from a Subaru dealer. They told me I shouldn’t drive my vehicle more than 100 kilometres (I live in Canada). So they sent me home and I made an appointment for August 21st and the parts replacement and labour is covered under an extended warranty. I am worried that I will have driven my Subaru 71 kms each way, three times in order to figure this out and get it fixed. This is my first Subaru and this should have been a recall, for safety reasons. No wonder there is a Class Action Lawsuit.
James
May 16, 2025 at 6:45 pmMine failed while on holiday (3hr drive from home). Dropped at the closest dealership and was told the part had to be ordered and would take 2 weeks. My 5-year warranty had expired 3 months earlier, but to Subaru’s credit, they repaired the vehicle at no cost. I was still out of pocket for a car rental and an additional 6hr round trip to retrieve the vehicle. However, seeing that others paid significantly more for their repairs makes me feel lucky???
Candela!
May 29, 2025 at 7:42 pmMay 2025. Today, my 2021 Crosstrek with 40,000 miles experienced catastrophic engine failure just 15 minutes into the drive to work. All lights came on, the engine stalled, and the car lost power completely. I had to tow it 60 miles to the nearest Subaru dealer, where a Thermal Control Valve issue was diagnosed. Now, I’m on a rental for at least two weeks, hoping the extended warranty will cover the costs. I’ve already paid for towing and several Uber rides. Subaru should have recalled and fixed these TCVs. Thankfully, I broke down just before hitting heavy traffic on the turnpike.
Jim
April 12, 2025 at 2:53 pmToday I had the catastrophic failure that others are describing. 2021 Subaru Outback with 41,000 miles. It is crazy they decided to disable the vehicle when the Thermo Control Valve fails.
Debbie Fry
February 13, 2025 at 2:32 pmWhile driving on I-95, my 2019 Subaru Forester (42,250 miles) decided to go berzerk! BRAKES ENGAGED (while cruising at 70 MPH), check engine light came on, every light on the dash was flashing, chimes all beeping, engine sputtering. Luckily it was near an offramp and I safely got to the shoulder. It cost me $315 for the tow to the dealershp. So happy I didn’t cause an accident, though💥.
It turned out to be the TCV, a known defective part, for which Subaru had extended the warranty — so the repair cost me nothing. One would hope there’d be a recall, but I guess it’s a numbers game; maybe not enough people have died yet. Is that the industry standard?
Bob
January 6, 2025 at 9:20 pmThanks for posting TCV problem symptoms. I to have all lights displayed inc EYESITE NOT ON.
Mine is 2021 crosstreck with 28k miles. Scheduled to subaru dealership.
Have the 36k warranty. Hoping I can negotiate for the extended warranty that you say will cover.
Any advice is appreciated. Thx
Christopher Rossen
January 7, 2025 at 4:03 pmSorry to hear this.
Donna
February 10, 2025 at 3:30 pmJust had this happen to my Forrester…2019. The dealership says it will cost me nothing.
Marv
February 19, 2025 at 6:28 pmThese “misguided” engineering decisions started in the Gen-5 2015 FB25 Engine Models with their CRAP Batteries, and their redicious ECM-Battery-Charging mis-adventure : they got by with crapping on AND defaming the American Owners with that “problem, and have only gotten worse since.
This is not just an Engineering Problem; it is a Management Problem that goes all the way back to Home-Base, half-way around the World …. !
Teri Hyre
September 24, 2025 at 9:45 pmThis is the second time in just over two week that the dashboard of my Subaru Forster has lit up like a Christmas tree. Both times I received a call from Subaru wanting to know if I wanted to schedule an appointment. First time iit resolved itself, gas cap issue. This time I said yes, to which I was told it would be Oct 8, two weeks away. Not happy. I took my car to a foreign car repair shop. I walked in without an appt. They hooked up my car and minutes later diagnosed the TCV. I will be going,to, not calling, my dealership to tell them the situation. I’m crossing my fingers that it is fixed free of charge and I have a loaner provided to me. Subaru has been a great company to deal with. This is my third forester/ 4 th Subaru. If I didn’t buy a Subaru, I’m unsure what I’d buy.
Jason
November 19, 2024 at 5:58 pmAdd my 2020 Forester (25,000 miles) to the list. Driving on a busy highway on 11/17/2024, “Eyesight Disabled”, “Check Engine” and other lights came on. Suddenly the car would only move in short lurches of a few feet. I was stuck in the left lane of a highway in heavy traffic, impossible to try to maneuver to the shoulder. Waited 2.5 hours for tow truck.
Subaru Service said it was a bad Thermal Control Valve, they would replace at no cost to me under the extended 15-year warranty. Repair cost on invoice was $1400.
Subaru’s noble attempt to prevent catastrophic engine damage from overheating adds a measure of catastrophic danger by instantly disabling the car.
Subaru should recall all cars with these bad TCVs. A sudden failure and breakdown in heavy traffic is very dangerous (and terrifying); same for a breakdown on a remote road, a dangerous neighborhood, etc.
I’m out $244 for the towing charge.
Janet Tuchscher
August 21, 2024 at 10:46 pmHappened to my 2021 Outback on 8/20/24. Check engine light on, eyesight turned off along with cruise control disabled, Xmode light blinking and inability to turn it on/off as the option was greyed out. Took to dealer the next day and was told it was the Thermo Control Valve and the cost to replace is covered under an extended warranty (not something I bought) that Subaru is covering. (My Outback has 35,000 miles) I saw the $850 invoice and my eyes nearly fell out of my head. I buy a new car after driving used cars for 40 years and this happens? So they keep giving us a faulty replacement part?
Steven Meadows
August 10, 2024 at 10:08 amI also own a 2020 Forester and currently dealing with replacement of TCV. Failure happened two days after oil change. Thankfully, I was on a country road when it happened. I shudder to think what would have happened had I been on the interstate. I have lost all confidence in this vehicle.
Jeanne
August 1, 2024 at 10:05 pmMy car suddenly started shaking and lurching horribly and the dash lights lit up like a Christmas tree. Luckily I was able to park on the street til the tow truck arrived to take it to the dealer. It was a bad TCV and covered under an ‘extended warranty.’ It’s scary and infuriating that this could happen again when I’m somewhere remote. Furious. They need to replace it with a metal part.
Christopher Rossen
August 2, 2024 at 8:07 amMetal would be an upgrade.
Jean Johnson
July 29, 2024 at 1:29 pmI just found out that my 2020 Subaru Forester needs a new Thermo Control Valve a few days after having it serviced (oil change, filter, coolant added). Only 23,500 miles on this car! I was getting ready to go on vacation when I got the news! The check engine light disabled eyesight and the safety features that I was so happy to have when I purchased this car new. Now I must wait for the part and the dealer for over 2 weeks to get a new one installed (They said it was a 2hour process.) my only saving grace….I purchased and extended warranty on this car. Had I known then what I know now, I would have never purchased this car!
Mike Harris
June 18, 2024 at 2:26 amI have a forester and an outback. I bought a Subaru because they have always been a dependable car. Now I worry ever time I get in my car.
Kim
July 4, 2024 at 12:51 pmDropping my 2019 Subaru Forester off this weekend for a thermo valve control replacement, same issues: check engine light came on deactivated RAB and other. Test came back thermo valve control estimated repair at $1300. Not happy at all with this, bought the car going by Subaru’s past reputation of “quality built vehicles”, very sad.
David
September 17, 2025 at 6:28 pm2020 Subaru Forester, perfectly taken care of. It was supposed too be the last car thru retirement. Nope…..The check engine light came on, can’t adjust anything on the dash. We find out Monday what the dealership is going to do for us.
Khamsu
June 12, 2024 at 1:02 pmMy 2021 Subaru forester came up flashing all kind of lights on my dash. With OBD readerII it says the spark plug was at fault and after replacing spark plug still the same. And soon I came to notice that my ingine oil is heating up to 216 f which I only notice when I am going up hill and ingine is working hard. And I Just got the warranty letter from Subaru about the TCV fault which is weird. So am gonna take it to diagnose and see if they are still dying “ oh it’s the spark plug” I can’t trust Subaru anymore. I thought Subarus are reliable. I have my Hyundai Sonata bought at 38k used and now it’s 130k running smooth like butter.
Phil
June 4, 2024 at 12:23 pmMy 2020 Forester @4.5 years with only 21,000 miles failed. Even low mileage didn’t save me from this TCV fiasco. Why on Earth Subaru replaced a metal TCV with the convoluted plastic contraption is anyone’s guess. I’m sitting in the dealership now having just been told the TCV faulted and noticed a ton of exhaust coming out where the car normally runs clean, so I suspect further engine damage. Luckily I bought the extended warranty because the standard warranty wouldn’t cover this.
Bill Bellerjeau
June 8, 2024 at 5:59 pmI received a letter today from Subaru extending the tcv warranty 15 years from the date of purchase. Mine is a 2021 crosstrek. I had the tcv replaced at the end of April 2024. About 8k miles, as I don’t drive it much. So it seems like this is the only fix they are going to do. Just keep replacing a defective part with another defective part.
Thomas McCall
August 2, 2024 at 9:13 amDo you live in Canada? I saw where this is a Canadian recall “only”.
E H Combs
May 23, 2024 at 9:22 amSubaru SHOULD recall all cars with the subpar control & install one designed to last even tho the 2025 models are back to thermostat as 2018’s. The engineer that pushed this change should be fired.
An owner plays Russian roulette when driving away from home. Subaru owners will NOT forget.
Phil
June 4, 2024 at 12:25 pmI hear you: however, a recall wouldn’t fix the design failure since even the upgraded/redesigned TCV on newer models is STILL plastic. 🤦🏻♂️
Phil
June 4, 2024 at 12:27 pmThis being said, Subaru should be offering lifetime replacement for free at a minimum.
Nancy
May 22, 2024 at 12:06 pmThis has just happened to us, A 2020 Forrester we bought used last year. Have an appointment with the dealer on Friday. We will see what happens
Jim L.
May 30, 2024 at 11:24 amBought my 2020 Forester certified used last June (2023). Got the letter from Subaru about extending the TCV warranty first week of May, and then of course a few days later (5/10/24), it failed driving home from work. Luckily I had just left and was able to pull over into a parking lot right away. Dash lit up like a Christmas tree, car wouldn’t go over 10 MPH, and engine revving up and down non-stop. Dealer confirmed that the TCV failed, and also found a faulty intake manifold. Both replaced under warranty at no cost to me. When I got it back, the car ran great, although it seemed to run a bit rough when starting cold, and smoothed out when warmed up. Had the car back for 14 days, and again, leaving work had the same issue, minus the engine revving high and low. Dealer says there was some carbon buildup, and they are doing a “deep decarbonization” of the engine, and also caught a misfire on cylinder 3. Not sure if these are related to the TCV, but the car ran absolutely perfect until the TCV failed. Hopefully I’ll get it back in the next day or so…yikes.
Mike White
May 14, 2024 at 4:33 pmAny TCV issues reported with 2022-2024 Subarus? I have a 2022 Legacy Limited.
Randy Mullenix
January 6, 2025 at 10:38 pmI have a 2022 Outback 2.5L. It’s going to the dealer in a couple of days for them to do their own diagnosis and repairs. My local shop already informed me it’s the TCV.
BB
May 13, 2024 at 8:40 amI have a 2019 Outback and I haven’t seen this happen yet, but I was wondering if the vehicle could be repaired proactively by simply retrofitting with the traditional thermostat?
Oscar
May 7, 2024 at 9:58 pmOur 2019 Forester is having this issue. Local Autozone read the code as P2682 defective thermo control valve. We are going to take the car to the dealer tomorrow.
Mitch
May 7, 2024 at 9:52 pmMy 2020 Forester had its TCV fail mid March with milage 90k, Got lucky that it failed cold vs hot but wasn’t covered under warranty, due to it disabling all other safety related items eyesight etc. I filed safety report with NHTSA the day the dealer told me it was nearly 2k after taxes to repair, Today 5/7 received the extended warranty letter and have submitted for reimbursement.
John Donaldson
May 5, 2024 at 8:19 pmI had this problem with my 2020 Outback in January. Car crapped out while my wife was being discharged from the hospital after suffering a bout of RSV. Fortunately, I was able to get her home without it dying completely and I got a phone call from Subaru the following morning telling me they saw the codes and asked me to get the car to the dealer ASAP. Other than the inconvenience of being without transportation for a day, it was covered by the warranty.
Sam
May 4, 2024 at 8:33 am2020 Crosstrek. Same thing a week ago. Check engine light on, strange noises from engine. Took to dealership yesterday and was quoted $1,300 for them valve replacement. After agreeing to the repair but researching cost online while in waiting room I pushed back. 20 minutes later was told no charge and that they would extend the warranty. No explanation why. Well thanks to this page I now know! Sad that I would have been charged $1,300 for a known issue and the dealer clearly caved once they realized I may take things further. Feels to me like the dealers are well aware of the issue but since there is no formal recall they can still try to squeeze the customer for the full bill. Repairing a defective part with the another defective part does not solve anything. Will watch closely for the class action resolution.
Tony E.
May 2, 2024 at 2:15 pmI just had this issue happen to me yesterday. All the lights on dash were turned on and vehicles kept stalling. Had to keep it under 20mph to get home. Luckily we were only about .25 miles away from the house. Almost would have had to call a tow. Took it into dealership and luckily they said it’s under warranty. Will see how it goes once I get the vehicle back.
Shannon Maldonado
April 21, 2024 at 4:28 pmThis just happened to my 2020 Legacy. Stranded on the side of the road 10.5 hours into a 12.5 hour trip. Had to get towed over 100 miles to a dealership near where we were staying. Thank God for AAA! The part and labor were covered under my warranty but I still had to pay for the coolant flush.
Ross
April 16, 2024 at 8:00 amI just had this happen to my 2020 Outback
Bill
April 11, 2024 at 9:12 pmI just had this problem fixed on my 2021 Subaru crosstrek today. I’m concerned now though as my 3 year warranty expires in august. The dealership told me Subaru knows about the issue, wether or not the new tcv holds up is anyone’s guess. Was thinking of extending my warranty. Funny thing, 2 weeks ago I took it in for a recall for an inhibitor switch that they replaced. 10 days later I had this tcv issue.
Bill Bellerjeau
April 23, 2024 at 12:35 pmSupposedly they fixed it. Not even 12 days later it happened again.
Christopher Rossen
April 23, 2024 at 12:44 pmReplacing failed part with defective part won’t solve the issue unfortunately.
Chelsea Hernandez
March 5, 2024 at 3:35 pm2020 Subaru Forester with 112K, got this same problem yesterday (3/4/2024). Check Engine Light with its other triggers turned on at the same time, deactivating EyeSight and ABS system. I brought it into the Dealer yesterday and it was the TCV. $1200 including labor. Picking it up in a week since they are busy and I live 2 hours away.
Christopher Rossen
March 5, 2024 at 3:59 pmKeep us posted Chelsea.
Eduardo Cuevas
February 28, 2024 at 10:35 pm02-28-2024 I just started with this same problem, I have an appointment for tomorrow in Subaru Evergreen Park IL. I will post a comment once I have an update
Christopher Rossen
February 29, 2024 at 11:14 amKeep us posted Eduardo.
J w Gerrard
February 27, 2024 at 10:32 amAll the same symptoms on my 2019 Forrester, so far promptly handled by my dealer, near the end of warranty. My concern is the replacement an improved version or do we jump thru a new set hoopes when the next one fails?
Joe
February 19, 2024 at 9:46 amSitting in Subaru Service shop at this moment with the identical issues for a 2019 Subaru Forrester. First tech said there was no remedy. After reading this feedback (and many other sites) and making a lot of inquiries, another tech chimed in and said ” hey, I know Subaru is issuing some form of resolution very soon. Either a recall or warranty extension”. Final resolution–Subaru of America is taking care of it. Nearly $1600 estimate! Yeah, to one of my favorite service techs–she has been awesome in the past and just saved me a crap-load of $$$. Thanks and keep up the good fight.
Christopher Rossen
February 19, 2024 at 9:52 amThanks Joe for the feedback! This is why we spend time writing these articles – to help bring awareness to the problem car owners are having, and also put public pressure on the auto manufacturers to do the right thing.
Megan Gersbach
February 15, 2024 at 11:01 pm95K miles 2021 Subaru Forester. Mechanic says engine control valve failure. $1,400 repair cost.
Dominic DelGrande
August 31, 2024 at 3:07 pmJust got back from the dealer The TCV I’m my 2021 Subaru Legacy limited failed Thankfully I got the 7 year/100,000 mile extended warranty When I bought it I dread to think what that cost would have been I’m thinking this will be the last Subaru I purchase
Hillary
February 12, 2024 at 7:53 pm2019 Forester: Check Engine Light, car malfunctioning, inconsistent heat issue, loud noises etc. Still under full warranty with less than 20,000 miles. Supposedly “Repaired ” by Subaru approximately 2 weeks ago. Same problem re-occured today. Service appointment scheduled. I want to be part of the class action suit. I can not afford to pay for repairs and am fearful to drive my car. This is my only means of transportation.
E H Combs
May 23, 2024 at 9:23 amSubaru SHOULD recall all cars with the subpar control & install one designed to last even tho the 2025 models are back to thermostat as 2018’s. The engineer that pushed this change should be fired.
An owner plays Russian roulette when driving away from home. Subaru owners will NOT forget.
Bob Eicholz
February 7, 2024 at 2:56 amMy 2020 Outback has all of these symptoms. I’d like to follow all actions against Subaru.
Christopher Rossen
February 7, 2024 at 12:44 pmHi Bob. This is a class action so all effective parties will benefit if an agreement is reached. Please subscribe to this post to be notified of when news breaks.
Dave
February 2, 2024 at 6:44 pm2020 Subaru Forrester sport here and well maintained. TCV valve failed at 61,000 miles just past the 60k powertrain warranty. Out of pocket expense 1300 after replaced with a new one by dealership. It’s a shame for something to happen like this for many owners for such a reliable brand. I will save my receipt in hopes of getting reimbursement in the future; in the meantime I won’t be buying another Subaru.
Ron Rubin
January 23, 2024 at 1:48 pmThanks for the information. I have 2019 Forester with approximately 33000 miles. All noted symptoms appeared, ie. check engine light, disabled eyesight, collision icons. Diagnosed at Subaru dealer as defective TCV. $1600 repair cost out of my pocket. Service dept. stated not aware of class action. Emphasized no warranty claim and…”good luck with suit…”.
Moe
January 19, 2024 at 8:01 amhaving same problem with y 2020 outback
James Taylor
January 18, 2024 at 8:42 amDaughter’s 2020 Forester valve failed at 71,000. $2000+ to replace at Subaru dealer. Picking up today but will be following Class action suit as well. Hopefully will recover some if not all of repair cost. Seems if backup cameras were a recall item, something like a valve that could destroy engine would certainly be. Question I have is why isn’t this covered by Emissions warranty as the EGR valve is affected as well?
Christopher Rossen
January 18, 2024 at 9:52 amThanks for sharing your voice to this case. Yes, I suspect we will hear something from Subaru soon about this problem.
Jon
January 17, 2024 at 8:41 amYep. Hit me last night.
Keith Sparzak
January 7, 2024 at 11:58 amAlso, I had the codes read by Auto Zone—Likely cause is Heater Control Valve Malfunction
Keith Sparzak
January 7, 2024 at 11:56 amI’m having this issue now: Check Engine Light Illuminated; Eyesight feature disabled; X-Mode disabled; Temperature gauge not functioning; Cabin heat under-performing.
Please keep me posted!
Keith Sparzak
January 7, 2024 at 11:43 amI am having this very issue with my 2020 Outback: Engine light illuminated, Eyesight function has been disabled; Even traction control feature; Testing by code reader reveals that the likely problem is “Heater Control Valve Malfunction”.
Sandra Thomas
January 2, 2024 at 10:33 pmI am having issue with engine temp in my 2020 Forrester. Eye sight, lane change disabled, low cabin heat, checkbl engine light and engine temp light. What do I need to do to join the claim. I can’t afford to get it repaired.
Christopher
January 3, 2024 at 7:29 amHi Sandra, nothing you need to do to join the class action. But keep all receipts of any work performed for this issue, and would recommend subscribing to this post for news announcements.
Brian Albano
December 28, 2023 at 7:28 amI have a 2020 Outback 65k miles. I’m having this issue now