Subaru recalls Legacys, Outbacks for loss of steering

Subaru has issued a recall of 5,400 of its cars in the United States because of a problem that could cause steering control loss.

The cars are 2013 Legacys and Outbacks. The steering shaft in the cars is made up of two pieces. In the recalled vehicles, the pieces can become separated, and the driver could lose the ability to steer the car.

Subaru discovered the problem in its Indiana factory and in a later complaint from a customer. The company has notified dealers and will begin notifying owners in 30 days.

The auto maker will replace the steering columns in the vehicles affected, and will make arrangements to tow the cars to the dealership if owners feel unsafe. Subaru is not aware of any accidents caused by the problem.

In April, Subaru recalled 200,000 cars for a problem that led brake lines to corrode when exposed to salted roads. Another recall in March led the company to recall 50,000 wagons because of a problem in which some cars started by themselves.