Subaru Wilderness Editions Lemon Law

Yes. Subaru markets Wilderness Editions specifically for off-road and rugged terrain use. If the CVT overheats during the type of driving Subaru advertises the vehicle for, it constitutes a defect that substantially impairs its use and value under the Song-Beverly Act. The manufacturer cannot market a vehicle as off-road capable and then deny warranty claims when it fails during off-road use within its stated capabilities.

No. The Song-Beverly Act does not contain any exceptions for vehicles used off-road within their design parameters. Subaru designs and warrants Wilderness Editions for enhanced off-road capability, and all factory warranty coverage applies regardless of terrain. If a defect arises during normal use consistent with the vehicle's intended purpose, your lemon law rights are fully intact.

Yes. Oil leaking onto a hot exhaust manifold creates a fire risk, which is a serious safety defect under the Song-Beverly Act. For safety-related defects, the lemon law presumption can apply after just two repair attempts. You should immediately document the leak, have the dealer note the fire risk on the repair order, and refrain from driving the vehicle until it is repaired.

No. Subaru specifically designs and markets Wilderness Editions for off-road use with upgraded ground clearance, skid plates, and all-terrain tires. Under both the Song-Beverly Act and the federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a manufacturer cannot void a warranty for using a vehicle in a manner consistent with its advertised intended use. If you used the vehicle within Subaru's own stated off-road capabilities, warranty coverage must be honored.