NHTSA Complaint #11451796 — 2018 SUBARU FORESTER

ENGINE issue reported to NHTSA

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Fire

Complaint Details

ODI Number 11451796
Vehicle 2018 SUBARU FORESTER
Component ENGINE
Date of Incident
Date Filed
Mileage N/A miles
Crash No
Fire Yes
Injuries 0
Deaths 0
Vehicle Towed No
State OR

Consumer Description

I was driving on a normal roadway when a pulley began to make a loud screaming sound. Then I heard two loud pops. I pulled to the side of the road. I found a melted serpentine belt. I replaced the belt and began to drive at a low speed. I noticed the Vehicle started to sputter. I pulled over and checked the engine. When I opened the hood the AC compressor was sparking and 6-12 inch flames were shooting out. I turned off the engine and extinguished the fire. Vehicle operated like normal after replacing AC compressor. Concerned that it could have caught entire vehicle on fire. Condenser for same make and model is recalled but not for our specific vin. I have old AC pump as evidence. An argument could be made that my VIN should have been included in the recall.

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