From Steering Locks to Squirrel Fires: Indianapolis Owner vs. 2021 Subaru Legacy

DEAR SUZANNE

By Suzanne Henderson
LETTER 200 – From Gary M. from Indianapolis, IN

Dear Suzanne,

Ever felt like your car is out to get you? That’s where I’m at with mine. The saying “When it rains, it pours” sums up my experience. It started with small issues, which quickly spiraled into a series of bigger problems. From squirrels setting up camp to stubborn parts, my 2021 Subaru Legacy has been a real headache. Buckle up for this journey—it’s quite a ride.

The Steering Lock Conundrum

First, the steering wheel locked with the key in the ignition, leaving me stuck in the school parking lot where I teach. Normally, I can wiggle the key to unlock it, but this time it was hopelessly jammed. I had to get the Subaru dealership involved, and they ended up using pliers, twisting my key into a piece of modern art. They towed the car to their shop, and two days later, I had a new key.

A Touchscreen That Won’t Respond

Next up, the navigation and radio touchscreen stopped working. The physical buttons still worked, but the touchscreen was unresponsive. I thought it might have something to do with a recent car battery replacement. I tried everything from restarting the car to poking the screen like summoning a genie, but no luck. Back at the dealership, they found and fixed an electrical wiring issue.

Transmission Troubles

Then came the transmission problems. The car started making a rubbing noise that sped up as the car did. At just 23,000 miles, this was concerning. The dealership told me it was a transmission issue and they needed to go through it piece by piece. I had to leave my car with them for over a month. The warranty covered the repairs, but my confidence in the car was fading fast.

Squirrels Everywhere

Things got weirder when my engine started overheating randomly. Back at the dealership, the car spent four days, and squirrels moved in, nesting under the hood. By the time I got back, they had chewed through important wiring. These rodents even made themselves at home in my driveway, lounging in my engine bay. Despite using peppermint spray, rodent repellent, and noise machines, nothing worked—until a fire broke out.

The Day of the Fire

One frosty morning, I discovered the frayed wires had sparked a fire under the hood. The car erupted in flames, and I rushed to get a fire extinguisher while my sister called the fire department. The fire truck arrived just in time to prevent more damage. The dealership later confirmed the fire was caused by frayed wires.

Seeking Advice

I don’t understand how squirrels could nest in my car while it was at the dealership. Shouldn’t they have noticed while working under the hood? 

I’m at a loss and need help. Should I take advantage of the Indiana Lemon Law now? Do I qualify? If I do, will they give me a new car, or fix this one? I’m not even sure I want my Subaru back, to be honest.

What do you suggest I do?

Gary M. from Indianapolis, IN

Your 2021 Subaru Legacy Problems and Indiana Lemon Law Solutions

Dear Gary,

Wow, it sounds like your Subaru Legacy has been giving you quite the ride, and I’m sorry to hear it’s been such a nightmare. Between squirrels treating your car like their home, transmission problems, and even a fire, it’s clear that you’re dealing with a lemon.

Dealing with the complexities of car troubles is tough enough without the added stress of such bizarre and persistent issues. Let’s see how the Indiana Lemon Law can provide some relief.

Should I Take Advantage of the Lemon Law Now?

Based on your letter, it sounds like your car qualifies as a lemon under the Indiana Lemon Law. Since you have experienced multiple defects that impair the use, value, or safety of your vehicle, and it’s been out of service for a significant amount of time, you are likely eligible for relief. You’ve given the dealership ample opportunities to fix the issues, but the problems persist.

Do I Qualify?

Given the persistent and serious nature of your car’s defects, you do qualify under the Lemon Law. The vehicle was purchased in Indiana, weighs less than 10,000 pounds, and the defects were reported within 18 months or 18,000 miles of the vehicle’s life. You’ve met the criteria for repair attempts and days out of service, so you are definitely within your rights to pursue a claim.

Will They Give Me Another Car?

If your claim is successful, the manufacturer must either replace your defective vehicle with a comparable one or refund the purchase price. This means you might receive a new car or get your money back. Considering the extent of the issues you’ve experienced, getting a refund might be the better option. It would give you the flexibility to choose a different model or even switch to a different auto brand entirely, ensuring you have a reliable vehicle moving forward.

Consulting with a Lemon Law Attorney

Given your situation, I strongly recommend consulting with a knowledgeable Lemon Law attorney. They can provide expert guidance, advocate on your behalf, and help you navigate the process effectively. An attorney can also ensure that you receive fair compensation for your troubles.

If you’ve had enough of your 2021 Subaru Legacy and its issues, don’t hesitate to consider your legal options. The design of the Lemon Law gives you a way out of situations just like this one. Best of luck!

Suzanne

Tired of Your 2021 Subaru Legacy Lemon Car? Fix it Now!

Dear reader, are your vehicle problems ruining your life? Confused about what legal route to take? We’re here to help! Find information about Texas’ lemon law protections here, fill out the form on this page, or give us a call at (833) 743-1990 to discuss your situation with someone who understands how frustrating it can be to have a lemon car, and what to do about it.

DEAR SUZANNE is a weekly column written by Suzanne Henderson and published in LemonLawyers.ORG. If you have a defective lemon vehicle and have questions about Indiana Lemon Lawyer or how to file a claim, please write to [email protected]. While not guaranteed, we will try to feature your letter in this column to provide you the answers you need, as well as enlighten other consumers who may have lemon problems similar to yours.

Disclaimer: Suzanne Henderson is not a lawyer and the points discussed here are intended for general information and reference purposes only and not to be construed as legal advice. Please consult a Indiana Lemon Lawyer to get proper legal advice about your lemon law claim.

Related Articles:

• Electrical Woes With A Leased 2022 Subaru Outback
• The Role of Arbitration in Indiana Lemon Law Claims
• Understanding Indiana Lemon Law: A Comprehensive Guide

Featured Images:

• 2021 Subaru Legacy ©Tokumeigakarinoaoshima (CC BY-SA 4.0)