Subaru Settles Buggy EyeSight Lawsuit—Plaintiffs Receive Only $5,000

Subaru Settles Buggy EyeSight Lawsuit—Plaintiffs Receive Only $5,000

Image: Subaru Settles Buggy EyeSight Lawsuit—Plaintiffs Receive Only $5,000 – Performance Comparison and Specifications

Subaru has finally put an end to the EyeSight lawsuit that has been simmering for years. While the automaker agreed to a settlement, the compensation figure—just $5,000 per plaintiff—has raised eyebrows across the automotive community. In this article, we break down what happened, why the payout is so modest, and what it means for current and future Subaru owners.

What Was the EyeSight Lawsuit About?

The controversy started when a group of owners reported that Subaru’s EyeSight driver‑assist system—an ADAS (Advanced Driver‑Assistance System) featuring adaptive cruise control, lane‑keep assist, and pre‑collision braking—experienced intermittent failures. In some cases, the cameras would freeze, causing the system to deactivate without warning. Owners argued that these glitches jeopardized safety and that Subaru’s warranty didn’t fully cover the necessary repairs.

Key Allegations

• Inconsistent performance of the stereo cameras.
• Failure of lane‑departure warnings during rain or low‑light conditions.
• Repair costs exceeding the original warranty coverage.

The Settlement Details

After months of negotiations, Subaru announced a settlement that includes:

• Cash payment of $5,000 to each qualified plaintiff.
• A warranty extension for any future EyeSight repairs.
• Reimbursement for certain out‑of‑pocket expenses.

For the full press release, see Autoblog.

Why Only $5,000?

The amount may seem low, but several factors shaped the figure:

1. Legal calculus: The court weighed the cost of the repairs against the projected future earnings from the affected models.
2. Warranty provisions: Subaru’s promise of an extended warranty and parts coverage reduces the need for a larger cash payout.
3. Precedent: Similar ADAS lawsuits in the industry have settled for comparable sums.

While the cash component is modest, the added warranty can save owners thousands over the lifespan of the vehicle.

What This Means for Subaru Owners

If you own a 2015‑2022 Subaru equipped with EyeSight, here’s what you should do:

• Check eligibility: Verify if your vehicle’s VIN falls within the settlement’s scope.
• Schedule a service: Take advantage of the extended warranty for any needed camera or sensor repairs.
• Document expenses: Keep receipts for any out‑of‑pocket costs to claim reimbursement.

Most dealerships have set up a dedicated portal to streamline the claims process.

Subaru’s EyeSight Technology Overview

EyeSight remains a flagship feature for Subaru’s lineup, especially on models like the Outback, Forester, and Legacy. Below are quick reference tables that illustrate how the system fits into the broader vehicle specs.

Feature Comparison

Engine Specifications

Price Comparison (USD)

Industry Reaction

Automotive analysts have called the settlement a “pragmatic compromise.” While the cash figure is modest, the extended warranty showcases Subaru’s confidence in its ADAS hardware. Consumer advocacy groups, however, argue that the payout doesn’t fully address the inconvenience and potential safety concerns experienced by owners.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Subaru’s ADAS

Subaru isn’t standing still. The next generation of EyeSight is rumored to incorporate lidar‑assisted detection and AI‑driven predictive braking. If those upgrades arrive, they could set a new benchmark for midsize crossover safety.

Conclusion

In the end, Subaru’s settlement puts a legal lid on the EyeSight controversy, but it also highlights the delicate balance automakers must strike between technology innovation and reliability. For owners, the key takeaway is to leverage the warranty extension and keep an eye on upcoming software updates. As ADAS becomes more prevalent across the industry, we can expect more scrutiny—and, hopefully, more robust solutions.

FAQ

1. What is Subaru EyeSight?

EyeSight is Subaru’s proprietary ADAS suite that includes adaptive cruise control, lane‑keep assist, and pre‑collision braking.

2. How many plaintiffs are part of the settlement?

Approximately 250 owners who filed claims met the eligibility criteria.

3. Can I still claim the $5,000 payout?

Only if your vehicle’s VIN is listed in the settlement documents and you file before the deadline (December 31, 2024).

4. Does the settlement cover all Subaru models?

No, it applies to models equipped with the 2015‑2022 EyeSight system.

5. What does the warranty extension cover?

It covers parts and labor for EyeSight camera, sensor, and software repairs for an additional two years.

6. Will Subaru’s future models have a better EyeSight?

Yes, the upcoming generation is expected to add lidar and enhanced AI algorithms.

7. How does this settlement compare to other ADAS lawsuits?

It’s in line with settlements from Honda and Nissan, which also offered modest cash plus extended warranties.

8. Should I be concerned about the safety of my current Subaru?

If your EyeSight system is functioning, there’s no immediate safety issue. However, schedule a diagnostic check if you notice anomalies.

9. Where can I find more information?

The official settlement page on Subaru’s website and the press release on Autoblog provide detailed guidance.

10. Will this affect resale value?

Potentially. Vehicles with the extended warranty may be more attractive to buyers, but the lawsuit’s publicity could also raise buyer caution.