Subaru will offer to buy back 41 cars as a result of a new recall. Subaru blames its supplier, PPG Kansai Automotive Finishes, for the possible detachment of Subaru Outback and Impreza windshields in the event of a crash. Per documents filed with the NHTSA, a container of incorrect clearcoat appears to have structurally compromised the windscreens.

These documents go on to state that the clearcoat in question was added to Subaru's paint line on July 15. Later, a post-paint inspection showed polish marks with "tackiness" in the finish. Upon investigating further, Subaru found that the material wasn't hard enough. Now, 27 Outbacks, seven Impreza sedans, and seven Impreza wagons could be bought back by Subaru.

By July 26, Kansai said stated the clearcoat delivered to Subaru was not up to snuff. On August 26, Subaru then began reviewing evidence of issues related to paint hardness, bonding, and other problems, like stress fractures. Come September 15, Subaru reaches a verdict. It finds that the affected Outback and Impreza models "may not comply with the requirements set forth in federal motor vehicle safety standard 212."

Subaru makes reference to its standards for windshield mountain and the risk of detachment in a crash at this point, documents filed with the NHTSA reveal. As of now, Subaru isn't aware of any injuries or crashes as a result of this.

All 41 vehicles that were recalled were models made between July 18 and 19 of this year. As a remedy, Subaru has told the NHTSA it will be offering two options to affected owners. First, as we stated above, Subaru will buy back your Outback, Impreza sedan, or Impreza wagon if you don't want it anymore.

Second, much like a T-shirt that doesn't fit right, you can simply exchange it for a new one. Here's how it reads in legalese: "Subaru will offer the option of either exchanging the vehicle or repurchase at no cost."

If you're sitting there reading this, wondering what the odds are that your new Subaru is one of the unlucky 41, fear not. Subaru will notify you within 60 days. Dealer notification began "on or about" September 26, and is still ongoing. Owners will be notified, again, "on or about" November 21 of this year.

Should you choose to exchange your now-defective Subie, it is not clear how the brand intends to go about this process. Subaru, like many others, is still hurting due to supply shortages. Ideally, new cars will be pulled from existing inventory to compensate the affected.