The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced that Subaru of America is recalling certain 2026 Crosstrek and Forester vehicles, and owners of affected vehicles are being told not to drive them until repairs are made.

According to the NHTSA, the castle nut on the left-front lower control arm ball joint may be improperly fastened, which can lead to the ball joint separating from the lower control arm. A ball joint that separates can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

The recall does not cover every 2026 Crosstrek and Forester – only specific affected vehicles. Owners can check whether their vehicle is included by entering their VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or at subaru.com/recalls.html.

Owners of affected vehicles are advised not to drive until the remedy is completed. Dealers will inspect and replace the left-front lower control arm ball joint assembly as necessary, free of charge.

Owner notification letters are not expected to be mailed until December 16, meaning many affected owners may not yet know their vehicle is included. Owners may also contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru’s number for this recall is WRI26.