Center seat automatic locking retractor/fmvss 208
Defect Summary
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 forester vehicles manufactured from november 26, 2007, through march 13, 2012. the automatic locking retractor in the seat belt assemblies located in the rear center seating of the affected vehicles do not meet lockability requirements and fail to comply with federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 208, occupant crash protection. specifically, the assemblies may not permit proper installation and secure attachment of a child restraint in that seating position.
Safety Consequence
An insecure installation of a child restraint can increase the risk of injury to a child during a crash.
Corrective Action
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear center seat belt assembly with a newly modified automatic locking retractor, free of charge. an interim letter was mailed on march 26, 2012. owners may contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
Similar Recalls
Other recalls from Subaru Of America, Inc. or involving Seat Belts.
FAQ: Recall 12V099000
Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.
What is recall 12V099000?
NHTSA recall 12V099000 was issued by Subaru Of America, Inc. on March 13, 2012. It addresses: Center seat automatic locking retractor/fmvss 208. The recall affects approximately 326,014 vehicles, with the defect involving the Seat Belts component.
How do I get this recall repaired?
Contact any authorized Subaru Of America, Inc. dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 12V099000 or the manufacturer campaign number WQA-37. Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.
Is my vehicle included in this recall?
The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.
How long do I have to get a recall repair done?
There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.
Where does the data on this page come from?
All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.