Subaru of America has announced a recall of 69,153 hybrid crossovers—specifically the 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid and 2025 Forester Hybrid. The issue stems from a potential fuel leak through the fuel filler cap. If a vehicle is parked with a nearly full tank and exposed to a significant rise in ambient temperature, the fuel can expand, increasing pressure in the tank. If the cap's seal is insufficient, gasoline can rise up the filler neck and leak out.

A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source raises the risk of fire. Subaru notes there have been no reported fires or injuries related to the defect. According to the company, there have been 33 technical reports regarding leaks in the U.S.

The investigation began in December 2025 after receiving a report from the U.S. market. Engineers were able to replicate the leak condition and determined the problem was due to insufficient sealing between the cap body and its gasket. The fix involves installing an improved gasket with an additional O-ring to enhance sealing.

Until the repair is completed, owners are advised to park their vehicles outdoors away from structures and to limit the fuel level to about 50% of the tank's capacity.

Dealers were notified on February 16, 2026, and owner notification letters will begin mailing on March 25. Production of the Crosstrek Hybrid will be updated in March 2026, and all vehicles in dealer inventory will be repaired before being delivered to customers.