Subaru owners of 2019-2023 models are involved in a class action lawsuit over alleged defects in the Starlink infotainment system. The lawsuit claims that the infotainment system malfunctions, causing the head units to freeze and become unresponsive, resulting in drivers losing access to essential features.

Learn more about the lawsuit’s details, the affected Subaru models, the specific problems related to the Starlink system, and the potential safety risks involved here.

 

Subaru Class Action Lawsuit Filed in New Jersey

Subaru of America is facing a class action lawsuit filed by four plaintiffs who claim that the automaker sold certain vehicles with defective Starlink infotainment systems. The lawsuit alleges that the systems have become partially or wholly inoperable.

This current class action is an extension of a previous case involving the Starlink infotainment system. In the earlier lawsuit, called Udeen v. Subaru, owners of 2017-2018 Subaru vehicles filed a class action alleging defects in the Harman-manufactured Starlink head units.

Subaru later changed to using Starlink head units made by Denso. However, the four plaintiffs in the new lawsuit claim that the Denso Starlink head units have the same defects as the previous Harman units.

 

What Is Starlink?

Starlink is described as a “touchscreen multimedia and video interface” by the class action lawsuit. It serves as Subaru’s infotainment system, responsible for operating various functions within the vehicle. These functions include controlling the audio and radio system, managing cell phone connectivity, displaying the visual feed from the backup camera, providing weather information, and facilitating navigation, among other features.

 

Why Was This Lawsuit Filed?

According to the class action lawsuit, the Starlink infotainment systems in certain Subaru vehicles have malfunctioned in several ways, including freezing, shutting off, or not working at all.

The plaintiffs allege that the defective Starlink systems have caused inconvenience, frustration, safety concerns, and financial losses. They claim Subaru is aware of the problem but has failed to provide adequate repairs, replacement, or software updates to address the issue.

 

EyeSight Feature Failure

In addition to the issues with the infotainment system, the lawsuit alleges that a safety feature called EyeSight can also fail.

EyeSight is a system designed by Subaru to enhance driver safety by monitoring the road for potential dangers, optimizing cruise control, and issuing warnings when the vehicle deviates from its lane. In emergency situations, EyeSight applies full braking force to help avoid or mitigate frontal impacts.

According to the plaintiffs, the infotainment system problems can only be resolved by replacing the display screen. Still, even these replacements are reported to be faulty, rendering them as defective as the original units.

 

Subaru Vehicles In The Class Action Lawsuit

The following vehicles have updated Starlink systems manufactured by the Japanese supplier Denso:

• 2019-2023 Subaru Outback
• 2019-2023 Subaru Forester
• 2019-2023 Subaru Legacy 
• 2019-2023 Subaru WRX

 

What Are the Plaintiffs Seeking?

The plaintiffs in the class action want compensation for the expenses related to the faulty Starlink systems and for the inconvenience, frustration, and safety issues they faced. They also seek a court order for Subaru to recall the defective Starlink systems.

The lawsuit alleges that Subaru has been selling and leasing the affected 2019-2023 models without addressing the problem or informing consumers about the defect.

 

Subaru’s Response

Subaru hasn’t responded to the class action lawsuit, but they issued a statement affirming their commitment to delivering the best ownership experience for their customers. They also mentioned their ongoing efforts to enhance the Starlink system.

 

What Does This Mean for Subaru Owners?

If you own a Subaru vehicle with Starlink and have encountered the abovementioned issues, inform Subaru about the problem. You might also want to consider participating in the class action lawsuit.

On the other hand, if you believe your car is a lemon due to the defective Starlink system, you could be eligible for compensation under California’s lemon law. Contact our knowledgeable lemon law attorneys at Norman Taylor & Associates to better understand your rights.

 

Does Your Subaru Have Starlink Issues?

The best way to hold car manufacturers accountable is through legal action when they have treated you unfairly.

For 35 years, our founding attorney, Norman Taylor, has been assisting clients in obtaining the compensation they deserve while safeguarding consumer rights. Whether you suspect you have a lemon car or want to explore your legal options, call 818-244-3905 today for a FREE case evaluation!

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