What the Subaru windshield settlement covers

Subaru reached a settlement in 2023 over defective windshields that crack or shatter prematurely on certain model years. The settlement covers owners and leasees of 2011 to 2017 Subaru Outback, Legacy, Impreza, Crosstrek, Forester, and BRZ vehicles. If your windshield developed a crack or shatter without impact or collision, you may be within the affected group.

The settlement does not require you to prove how the damage happened — only that it occurred. Subaru agreed to reimburse owners for windshield replacement costs, either through direct payment or by covering the cost at authorized dealers. The program also extends to people who already paid for replacements before the settlement was announced.

This is a class action settlement, meaning a group of vehicle owners sued Subaru together rather than individually. The settlement was approved by a federal court, and Subaru set aside funds specifically for these claims. You do not need to have an active lawsuit to receive reimbursement — the settlement covers all owners of affected vehicles during the covered years.

Key Takeaways

  • The settlement covers 2011 to 2017 Subaru Outback, Legacy, Impreza, Crosstrek, Forester, and BRZ vehicles with defective windshields that cracked or shattered without impact.
  • You can receive reimbursement for windshield replacement costs, including replacements you already paid for before the settlement was announced.
  • Subaru will either reimburse you directly or cover the full cost of replacement at an authorized dealer, depending on which option you choose.
  • To file a claim, you will need your vehicle identification number (VIN), proof of ownership, and documentation of the windshield damage or replacement.

How to file a claim for windshield reimbursement

To file a claim, visit the settlement website or contact the claims administrator directly. You will need to provide your vehicle's VIN, which you can find on your registration, insurance card, or the driver's side door jamb. The claims administrator will verify that your vehicle falls within the affected model years and models.

Next, submit proof of ownership. This can be your vehicle registration, insurance policy, or a bill of sale if you purchased the vehicle used. If you already paid for windshield replacement, include your receipt or invoice from the repair shop or dealer. If you have not yet replaced the windshield, you can either submit a photo of the damage or schedule a replacement through Subaru's authorized network.

The claims administrator will review your submission and contact you within a few weeks. If your claim is approved, you will receive either a reimbursement check or authorization to have the windshield replaced at no cost at a participating Subaru dealer. Keep copies of all documents you submit for your records.

important date and claim windows

The settlement established a specific important date for filing claims. This important date has already passed for initial claims, but some settlements allow late claims under certain circumstances. Check the settlement website or contact the claims administrator to confirm whether your situation qualifies for a late filing.

If you miss the standard important date, you may still be able to file if you can show you did not receive notice of the settlement or had a valid reason for the delay. The claims administrator has the authority to consider these requests on a case-by-case basis. Contact them as soon as possible if you believe you have a reason for late filing.

What documents you will need to gather

Before you start the claim process, collect the following: your vehicle's VIN, your proof of ownership (registration or insurance policy), and any documentation related to the windshield damage or replacement. If you had the windshield replaced, gather the repair invoice or receipt showing the date, cost, and the shop or dealer that performed the work.

If you have not yet replaced the windshield, take clear photos of the crack or damage from multiple angles. Include photos that show the windshield damage without any impact point or collision damage elsewhere on the vehicle. These photos help the claims administrator understand that the damage was not caused by an accident.

If you purchased your vehicle used and do not have the original registration, a bill of sale or title transfer document will work as proof of ownership. Some claims administrators also accept insurance policies or loan documents that show your name and the vehicle's VIN.

Direct reimbursement versus dealer replacement

The settlement gives you two paths: receive a reimbursement check for the cost of replacement, or have Subaru cover the cost of a new windshield installed at an authorized dealer. If you choose reimbursement, you will receive a check based on the documented cost of replacement in your area. This amount varies by location and the type of windshield (original equipment versus aftermarket).

If you choose dealer replacement, contact a Subaru dealer and provide them with your claim approval number. The dealer will install a new windshield at no cost to you. This option is simpler if you have not yet replaced the windshield, because you avoid paying out of pocket and waiting for reimbursement. However, if you already replaced the windshield yourself or at an independent shop, reimbursement is your only option.

What happens if your claim is denied

If the claims administrator denies your claim, they will send you a written explanation of the reason. Common reasons for denial include: the vehicle is outside the affected model years, the damage was caused by impact or collision, or the documentation provided does not support the claim.

You have the right to appeal a denial. The settlement documents outline the appeal process, which typically involves submitting additional evidence or documentation to the claims administrator. If you believe your vehicle should be covered or that your documentation was incomplete, contact the claims administrator to ask about the appeal process and what additional information they need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to use a Subaru dealer to get my windshield replaced?

No. If you already had the windshield replaced at any shop, you can file for reimbursement with your receipt. If you have not yet replaced it and want reimbursement instead of dealer service, you can have it done anywhere and then submit the invoice. However, if you choose the dealer replacement option, it must be done at an authorized Subaru dealer.

What if I sold my vehicle — can I still file a claim?

You can file a claim if you owned the vehicle when the windshield damage occurred. You will need to provide proof of ownership during the time the damage happened. If you no longer own the vehicle, contact the claims administrator to ask whether the current owner can file on your behalf or whether you can still receive reimbursement for costs you paid.

How long does it take to receive reimbursement?

After your claim is approved, reimbursement checks typically arrive within four to eight weeks. Dealer replacements may be scheduled sooner, depending on dealer availability. Contact the claims administrator if you have not received your check within the stated timeframe.

Can I claim reimbursement if the windshield was replaced years ago?

Yes. The settlement covers replacements that happened before the settlement was announced, as long as you have documentation of the cost and date. Submit your old repair invoice or receipt along with your claim.

What if my windshield has a small crack but I have not replaced it yet?

You can still file a claim. Submit clear photos of the damage and your vehicle's documentation. Once approved, you can either request reimbursement authorization to have it replaced at a shop of your choice, or schedule replacement at a Subaru dealer at no cost.