2024 Subaru Impreza

I own a 2024 Subaru Impreza (base trim, FB24 engine). The engine has developed repeated oil leaks into the spark plug wells due to failed spark plug tube seals / valve cover sealing on the same engine. The first occurrence was around 24,000 miles. The dealer found engine oil in the spark plug tubes, diagnosed leaking spark plug tube seals (and/or valve cover gasket), and performed repairs under warranty. At that time, the car was relatively new and maintained on schedule. The second occurrence happened again around 30,000 miles. The dealer again found oil in the spark plug tubes, indicating repeat failure of the same type of seals on this low‑mileage engine. This has already happened twice within approximately 6,000 miles on a 2024 vehicle. Oil in the spark plug tubes can cause misfires, rough running, and potential damage to ignition coils and the catalytic converter. It also raises concerns about stalling or loss of power if the misfires worsen while driving. I am concerned that this may be a systemic defect in the FB‑series engines used in late‑model Subaru vehicles, not normal wear. I am requesting that NHTSA track this issue as a potential safety‑related defect involving engine sealing components (spark plug tube seals / valve cover gaskets) that allow engine oil to leak into the spark plug wells on 2024 Subaru Impreza models at low mileage.

On 12/12/2025, Subaru Orange Coast (Santa Ana, CA) service advisor stated via text: "Breaks feel fine, no issues there," "Tires no issues there," "Struts no leaks or issues," and "Car is ready for pick up." On 12/16/2025, Service Director confirmed: brake rotor defects, weak struts causing tire wear, and replaced both rear struts, tires, and "the other 2" components under warranty/customer satisfaction. CRITICAL SAFETY CONCERN: During a prior service visit, dealership performed tire rotation moving a compromised tire from rear axle to FRONT STEERING AXLE — where failure would cause loss of steering control. On 12/12/2025, technicians REFUSED to rotate tires because "wire was showing" — confirming visual identification of exposed steel cord as safety hazard. Dealership then attempted to SELL me replacement tires (profiting from condition their service created). Despite actual knowledge of exposed steel cord on steering-axle tire, service advisor texted "no issues" and attempted to release vehicle for highway operation. SEQUENCE OF DEALER CONDUCT: Rotated compromised tire to front steering axle (prior visit) Identified exposed steel cord on 12/12/2025 Refused rotation due to safety hazard Attempted to sell replacement tires Represented "no issues" via text Attempted release for public road operation DOCUMENTATION: Demand letter delivered to Subaru of America (tracking: [XXX] , received 12/16/2025). Text messages from service advisor preserved. Service Director's 12/16 acknowledgment of defects preserved. VEHICLE LOCATION: Subaru Orange Coast, Santa Ana, CA (not operated due to safety concerns) CONSUMER: [XXX] | [XXX] | [XXX] is AI and can make mistakes. Please double-check responses. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)