Blurred EyeSight

In May 2021, a class action suit was filed against Subaru, alleging that some of its cars had faulty EyeSight safety systems. The suit specifically claimed faults with the Pre-Collision Braking, Rear Automatic Braking, and/or Lane Keep Assist systems.

The 2021 class action lawsuit alleged that the systems placed in the car didn't operate properly and would sometimes fail to operate when needed (especially in the case of the Pre-Collision Braking). The class action says Subaru was unable to warn customers about problems with the EyeSight systems so that the automaker could make money. After a four-year battle, a settlement has finally been reached.

Subaru

Settling for Less

Car Complaints reports the plaintiffs and the brand have indeed settled. However, Subaru still claims that there is nothing wrong with the vehicles, and, in fact, the plaintiffs who sued settled for much less than they originally wanted.

This is the list of the year and models affected by the suit:

  • 2013-2022 Subaru Legacy
  • 2013-2022 Subaru Outback
  • 2015-2023 Subaru Impreza
  • 2015-2023 Subaru Crosstrek
  • 2014-2021 Subaru Forester
  • 2019-2022 Subaru Ascent
  • 2016-2021 Subaru WRX
  • 2022-2024 Subaru BRZ

The settlement comes in two forms: an extended warranty for the EyeSight system. Seems fair, but in reality, the customer still has to pay a small amount, as the dealer will only cover 75% of the repair for 48 months or 48,000 miles from the affected vehicle's in-service date. Any car already beyond the 48-month or 48,000-mile period will receive a warranty extension of four months beyond the class action settlement notice date, which has already passed.

For the second part of the settlement, affected owners will get an expense reimbursement. It will only cover covered repair, but (also) only within 48 months or 48,000 miles from the in-service date of the vehicle. Here is the settlement's definition of a covered repair:

"A 'covered repair' means repair or replacement (parts and labor) of a diagnosed and confirmed malfunction or failure of a Settlement Class Vehicle's Pre-Collision Braking, Rear Automatic Braking, and/or Lane Keep Assist feature of the EyeSight system that resulted from failure or malfunction of the EyeSight camera assembly and/or rear sonar sensors."

Here's the kicker: the plaintiffs will receive only $5,000 each after all is said and done.

Subaru