(September 12, 2011) Subaru is recalling certain Outback and Legacy cars from the 2010 and 2011 model years because of potential problems with their windshield wipers.

In a document filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the car maker, a unit of Fuji Heavy Industries, said the recall affects about 195,0080 vehicles built from Jan. 7, 2010, through May 20, 2011.

The company said parts inside the bottom cover of the wiper motor can overheat, which can cause the wipers to stop working suddenly. If this happens, the loss of the wipers can hamper the driver’s visibility and increase the risk of a crash. Under the recall, dealers will replace the front wiper motor bottom cover assembly free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in November. Owners can contact Subaru at 800-782-2783.

Separately, Subaru is recalling certain 2002-2007 Imprezas, 2003-2008 Foresters and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2x models, which are re-badged Imprezas sold under the Saab brand. The cars’ front lower control arms can break due to corrosion, which can result in a loss of control.

The recall affects 295,123 vehicles built from Sept. 5, 2000 through Nov. 26, 2007 that were sold or registered in the following “salt-belt” states, where road salt and other corrosive de-icing compounds are used to melt ice and snow during winter.

Dealers will either rustproof or replace the control arms, depending on the degree of corrosion. The recall is expected to begin in November.

Source: Wall Street Journal