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Subaru Forester, Ascent included in engine-related recall expansion

PCV valves remain the culprit.

Sean Szymkowski
It all started with Gran Turismo. From those early PlayStation days, Sean was drawn to anything with four wheels. Prior to joining the Roadshow team, he was a freelance contributor for Motor Authority, The Car Connection and Green Car Reports. As for what's in the garage, Sean owns a 2016 Chevrolet SS, and yes, it has Holden badges.
Sean Szymkowski
2019 Subaru Forester
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2019 Subaru Forester

All isn't well in some Foresters and Ascent models now.

Greg Jarem/Subaru

positive crankcase ventilation valves remain an issue for the automaker as the company expands a recall surrounding the component to thousands of vehicles.

The previous recall, filed back in October, included 205,000 Crosstrek and Impreza models from the 2017 and 2018 model years. The latest filing on Dec. 2 with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration adds 51,613 Crosstrek, Forester and Ascent vehicles from the 2019 model year.

The issue is this PCV valve may separate and let engine oil and other debris enter the engine's combustion chamber. If that happens, it could lead to a loss of power while driving, which increases risk of a crash.

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Like the other cars affected, there's an easy fix and a not so easy fix. After owners take their Crosstrek, Forester or Ascent to the dealer, a technician will replace the PCV valve and check to see if it separates. If it doesn't, all is well. If it does, the technician will remove the separator cover and oil pan to search for missing parts.

If those parts don't show up, owners will receive a new short block engine altogether. Of course, all of this will be done at no cost to owners. The recall kicks off on Jan. 24.

Watch this: Subaru Ascent long-termer: Final update