If you drive a Subaru, we have some important news for you: The company is recalling as many as 633,842 vehicles for potential problems with accessory puddle lights that can lead to smoke or even fire. According to documents filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the recall potentially affects some Forester vehicles (model years 2009 through 2012), all Legacy and Outback vehicles (model years 2010 through 2012), and some Tribeca vehicles (model years 2006 through 2012).
Right about now you might be wondering: What exactly ARE puddle lights and what could happen if I drive my Subaru? Will they burst into flame?! Don't worry, there have been no reports of accident or injury related to the problem as of yet. Now, to answer your question about the purpose of puddle lights ...
Puddle lights are accessory lights which, when lit, illuminate the areas under doors (where puddles might be lurking, presumably). Handy, right? Except sometimes, explains a NHTSA spokesman, "a short circuit can develop when the light or connector are exposed to an electrolytic moisture source such as road spray that has road salt in it. That can cause heat that could melt the plastic, resulting in smoke or fire."
Owners can expect to be notified by Subaru beginning next month. Dealers will install an additional harness.
Are you a Subaru owner who might be affected by this recall?
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