Subaru Outback recalled over mid-rear seat belt defect

Subaru Australia has recalled 27 examples of the latest-generation Outback from the 2025 model year over a manufacturing defect involving the middle rear seat belt. The issue affects vehicles fitted with a cargo barrier, where the middle seat belt bracket may sit in the wrong orientation and can fail to operate properly during a car collision.

The seventh-generation Subaru Outback was launched in Australia in early 2026, and the latest model features boxier, more SUV-like styling and brings highly requested off-road trims. The latest five-grade lineup is priced from $48,990 before on-road costs.

What’s the defect, and why is it so serious?

A manufacturing defect may have caused some Outback models with cargo barriers to receive a middle seat belt bracket installed in the incorrect orientation. As a result, the middle seat belt may not operate as intended when someone uses it.

If the seat belt fails to operate as intended, it could increase the risk of serious injury or death to the occupant.

Which vehicles are affected?

Make: Subaru

Model: Outback

Year range: 2025

Total units affected: 27

Recall number: REC-006709

Campaign number: CBR-001

A complete list of affected Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) is in this file: REC-006497-VIN-List-1.csv (CSV, 50.05 KB). Owners can check if their vehicle is impacted in this list.

What should car owners do now?

Subaru Australia will contact owners of affected vehicles in writing and owners will be asked to make an appointment with their preferred Subaru dealer to have the vehicle rectified. The repair will be carried out free of charge.

Need help? Here’s who to contact

Contact: Subaru Australia

Contact number: 1800 226 643

Email: feedback@subaru.com.au

Website: https://www.subaru.com.au/

Please have your VIN ready. You’ll find the VIN on your ownership documents or near the base of the windshield.

This recall is being overseen by Australia’s official automotive safety regulator, the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sports, and the Arts.