Recall alert: Audi, Subaru announce recalls over possible power loss issues

DETROIT — Audi and Subaru announced recalls on Wednesday over concerns about potential power loss issues.

Subaru said it was recalling nearly 200,000 vehicles in the U.S. because a chain in the transmissions of certain 2020 Legacy and Outback models can break, causing the loss of power, according to The Associated Press. A software issue could allow the transmission to engage before the drive chain is properly secured, according to Consumer Reports. That can cause the chain to slip and break, increasing the risk of a crash.

Some 2019 and 2020 Ascent SUVs are also affected by the recall, according to the AP.

#Recall: Subaru has announced a recall of more than 198,000 Ascent SUVs from the 2019 and 2020 model years and Outback SUVs and Legacy sedans from the 2020 model year. A software problem could cause a chain to break if Drive or Reverse is quickly selected. https://t.co/FeMpiDM8n9
— Consumer Reports (@ConsumerReports) December 15, 2021

The Subaru recall includes 198,255 sedans and SUVs, according to Consumer Reports. There were 160,941 Subaru Ascents from 2019 and 2020, 2,057 Subaru Legacy vehicles from 2020 and 35,257 Subaru Ascents from 2020.

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Audi, meanwhile, is recalling 288,991 Q5 SUVs, including Sportback and SQ5 versions, because the engine could enter an emergency mode with reduced power because water can seep into a control computer under the vehicles’ back seats, according to Consumer Reports.

The moisture could come from a spilled drink or from a vehicle being caught in a rainstorm, the magazine reported.

#Recall: Audi is recalling 288,991 Q5 SUVs, including Sportback and SQ5 versions, because the engine could enter an emergency mode with reduced power if someone spills a drink or the car is caught in a rainstorm. https://t.co/8Bkis6YVA6
— Consumer Reports (@ConsumerReports) December 15, 2021

Subaru dealers will reprogram the transmission computer and inspect the chain guide. If dealers find evidence of slippage or damage, the transmission will be replaced at no cost to owners, according to the AP.

Owners will be notified by mail starting Feb. 7. The remedy is expected to be ready in April.

Audi introduced a protective cover on Nov. 12, 2021, according to Consumer Reports. All models built after that date are not included in the recall.

Audi officials said they are not aware of any crashes or injuries related to the water problem. Owners will be notified in late February 2022, according to the automaker.