Modern cars constantly consume energy — even when parked, telematics modules, communication systems, and control units are operating. But Subaru owners believe that for a number of models, this process goes beyond the norm. A class-action lawsuit has been filed against the company in the USA due to the constant discharge of 12-volt batteries.
The document names Subaru Outback, Forester, Legacy, WRX, Ascent, Crosstrek, and Impreza models from various years. The plaintiffs claim that the cars' electronics do not enter a minimal power consumption mode after the ignition is turned off. This results in a so-called parasitic current leakage, which gradually "kills" the battery even while parked.
Some owners report not only being unable to start the engine in the morning but also sudden vehicle shutdowns while driving. One plaintiff stated that his Outback completely lost power right in traffic and required towing. Meanwhile, dealers often limited themselves to replacing the battery, although the problem later returned.
Interestingly, Subaru has already faced similar claims. In 2023, the company settled a previous class-action lawsuit for 2015–2020 vehicles, offering extended warranties and compensation to owners.
The current lawsuit is important not only for Subaru. The more digital services and constantly active communication modules a car has, the more difficult it is for manufacturers to control power consumption in standby mode. For owners, this means the risk of sudden vehicle failure even with a working battery.
Read more materials:
- Rejection of "battery-only"? Auto giants are increasing their bet on hydrogen and synthetic fuel — what is changing in practice
- 5 auto giants from China with trillions in revenue, who are they? — XPeng CEO gave his forecast
- Geely goes to Australia "like Toyota, but from China": but BYD is still far away