2004 Subaru Impreza
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2004 Subaru Impreza. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
8 recalls name the 2004 Subaru Impreza. Newest first.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2004-2005 Impreza and WRX vehicles that received replacement front passenger air bag inflators under a previous recall. The replacement air bag inflators may have been installed incorrectly.
Risk and remedy
Risk
An incorrectly installed inflator may not properly inflate the passenger air bag, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the passenger inflator and if necessary, install a new inflator kit, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 14, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRF-23.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators with alternate inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-20.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-20.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-20.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Subaru Baja vehicles manufactured January 22, 2003, to July 21, 2004, 2004-2005 Impreza vehicles manufactured January 28, 2003, to May 31, 2005, 2003-2008 Subaru Legacy vehicles manufactured January 22, 2003, to May 2, 2008, 2003-2008 Subaru Outback vehicles manufactured February 18…
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners and General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The Subaru recall began on June 17, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. The Saab recall began on July 27, 2015. Owners of Saab vehicles may call 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is WQR-53. Note: The recall completely supersedes recall 14V-399 (WQL-48) and partially supersedes recall 14V-763 (WQP-51) in that model year 2004 through 2005 Subaru Impreza and model year 2005 Saab 9-2x vehicles are now only part of this campaign. Note: On December 18, 2015 Subaru informed NHTSA of an expansion of this recall to include certain model year 2003-2004 Subaru Baja, 2003-2008 Subaru Legacy and 2003-2008 Subaru Outback vehicles.
Subaru IS recalling certain model year 2002-2007 impreza, model year 2003-2008 forester, and model year 2005-2006 saab 9-2X vehicles manufactured from september 5, 2000 through november 26, 2007 originally sold, or currently registered in, massachusetts, maryland, michigan, new hampshire, new york, pennsylvania, vermont, wisconsin, connecticut, delaware…
Risk and remedy
Risk
A broken control arm can result in the loss of control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Subaru will handle their vehicles and saab will handle theirs. dealers will inspect the degree of corrosion of the front lower control arms, and will either rustproof or replace them. this service will be performed free of charge. the safety recall IS expected to begin during december 2011. owners may contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Owners may contact saab at 1-800-955-9007.
On certain passenger and sport utility vehicles, the cover bolts for the engine oil control valve may not be sufficiently tightened, allowing oil to leak from around the cover gasket.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If leaking oil contacts components operating at high temperatures, a fire could result in the engine compartment.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and retighten the oil-flow control valve cover bolts. the recall began on october 8, 2004. owners should contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
On certain passenger sedans, wagons, and sport utility vehicles, the cruise control cable could come out of its track on the cruise control lever and lodge on the control lever tab when the accelerator pedal IS released. if this condition occurs, the throttle will not return to the idle position and will remain in an open position.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If this occurs during vehicle operation, the driver could lose control of the vehicle, which could result in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will install a cruise control cable retaining clip to the cruise control lever tab on the throttle shaft in order to prevent the cruise control cable from coming out of its track. owner notification began on april 12, 2004. owners should contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
Owner complaints
96 complaints7 involved a crash2 involved a fire6 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Suspension
The contact owns a 2004 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH and hard braking, the vehicle started shuddering violently and the steering wheel was not operating as needed. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to the residence at 20 MPH. The contact then inspected the vehicle…
The contact owns a 2004 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH and hard braking, the vehicle started shuddering violently and the steering wheel was not operating as needed. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to the residence at 20 MPH. The contact then inspected the vehicle and confirmed that the front driver's side control arm had fractured. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V464000 (Suspension). The dealer and the manufacturer were notified of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 235,000.
- Air bags
I have had this airbag recall repaired 8 years ago, yet the dealership (Autonation Subaru Arapahoe 9955 E Arapahoe Rd Centennial, CO 80112) REFUSES to submit the paperwork to complete the recall. I have contacted the dealership numerous times, I have had Subaru of America representatives come out…
I have had this airbag recall repaired 8 years ago, yet the dealership (Autonation Subaru Arapahoe 9955 E Arapahoe Rd Centennial, CO 80112) REFUSES to submit the paperwork to complete the recall. I have contacted the dealership numerous times, I have had Subaru of America representatives come out to my house to verify this airbag recall has been completed, yet I cannot get the recall status of my vehicle to be updated to show that the recall has been completed.
- Fuel system, gasoline › Fuel injection system › Throttlebody/manifold
The contact owns a 2004 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH, the vehicle stalled, and the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with an unknown code for the throttle body. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 162,000.
- Fuel/propulsion system
There is a recall for fuel lines for MY2002-2003 Imprezas and the issue was resolved or a fix was implemented on late MY2004 vehicles. Unfortunately this means early MY2004 vehicles are still impacted by the issue with no recall in place. During cold weather or during cold engine startup fuel…
There is a recall for fuel lines for MY2002-2003 Imprezas and the issue was resolved or a fix was implemented on late MY2004 vehicles. Unfortunately this means early MY2004 vehicles are still impacted by the issue with no recall in place. During cold weather or during cold engine startup fuel lines are prone to leaking onto cylinder head. Raw fuel can be observed dripping, and can be smelled in the engine bay and inside of the vehicle. This poses a fire risk during vehicle operation and the MY2002-2003 recall should be extended to MY2004 vehicles built prior to August 2003.
- Air bags · Suspension
The contact owns a 2004 Subaru Impreza. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 15V323000 (Air Bags) and 11V464000 (Suspension) however, the parts to do the recall repairs were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for…
The contact owns a 2004 Subaru Impreza. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 15V323000 (Air Bags) and 11V464000 (Suspension) however, the parts to do the recall repairs were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The dealer informed the contact that NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V464000 (Suspension) could not be completed due to excessive corrosion. The approximate failure mileage was 191,000. Parts distributions disconnect.
- Air bags
I have already visited my local Subaru dealer to remedy this recall. I have a physical invoice as proof that my vehicle was inspected & already has the correct air bag installed. I have called the recall line (855-371-5406) MANY times & no matter who I speak to the recall does not clear despite me…
I have already visited my local Subaru dealer to remedy this recall. I have a physical invoice as proof that my vehicle was inspected & already has the correct air bag installed. I have called the recall line (855-371-5406) MANY times & no matter who I speak to the recall does not clear despite me informing them I have already completed the repair. All representatives say the same thing claiming they will "take care of it or speak to a manager" & telling me to wait so it clears on its own over time. It has now been almost 2 years since my visit & I am still receiving an excessive amount of notices. The vehicle works as it should 100% with no issues.
- Fuel/propulsion system
Rubber fuel lines under the intake manifold leak fuel when the temperature falls below 40 degrees F. The smell permeates the cabin and fuel can be seen wetting nearby surfaces under the intake. An inspection can be performed. This represents a fire safety hazard that could occur while the…
Rubber fuel lines under the intake manifold leak fuel when the temperature falls below 40 degrees F. The smell permeates the cabin and fuel can be seen wetting nearby surfaces under the intake. An inspection can be performed. This represents a fire safety hazard that could occur while the vehicle is in motion, jeopardizing all surrounding traffic. The problem is widely noted on Subaru internet forums, but only a recall for 2002-2003 models has been reported. My car is a very early 2004, so it shares traits of the 2003 engines. There are no warning lamps or notifications, only the smell of raw gas when the car starts and is in motion in winter temperatures. This has happened repeatedly since the issue first occurred, so I avoid driving this vehicle if at all possible.
- Suspension
The passenger side lower control arm failed due to corrosion. There was a previous recall to address this issue with an anti corrosion coating, but it did not prevent the control arm from corroding and failing. I had this addressed at the dealer, and they mentioned the issue was addressed. Recall NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V464000
- Fuel/propulsion system
There IS a strong fuel/gasoline smell coming thru the air vents from the engine when the temperature goes under 30-25 degrees farenheit. I've checked under the hood and there IS two fuel hoses that start leaking when it gets cold outside. This has been happening every winter since I got my car back…
There IS a strong fuel/gasoline smell coming thru the air vents from the engine when the temperature goes under 30-25 degrees farenheit. I've checked under the hood and there IS two fuel hoses that start leaking when it gets cold outside. This has been happening every winter since I got my car back in 2016. I had the clamps on the hoses retightened by a subaru dealership but that didn't solve the problem. I'm writing this complaint because there IS an open recall for this issue on the 2002 and 2003 WRX, but not on the later models. There's many people on the internet with the same issue and it seems to be happening to other years of WRX and even other models of subaru. It's really stressful and annoying having the strong smell of fuel coming in to your car. Also it's a fire hazard having gasoline pooling up on the engine block. This issue has been known to subaru of america but they only took care of the 2002 and 2003 WRX models. I'm hoping this can somehow help other subaru owners get this problem fixed as it can be something that could end up getting worst.
- Service brakes
Similar to recall campaign #wqk-47 the hard brake line near my gas tank has corroded and leaked all of my brake fluid. Had I been on the highway this could have been catastrophic. The vehicle was in motion, I noticed the brake pedal was traveling farther than normal. When I got home, there was…
Similar to recall campaign #wqk-47 the hard brake line near my gas tank has corroded and leaked all of my brake fluid. Had I been on the highway this could have been catastrophic. The vehicle was in motion, I noticed the brake pedal was traveling farther than normal. When I got home, there was almost no braking ability left in the car, pedal went to the floor. Checked master cylinder, it was empty, added fluid, pressed on brakes, could hear the fluid leaking out. Checked around car to find fluid. This IS a common problem on subaru's and there IS a recall for newer wrx's for the same issue.
- Fuel/propulsion system
I arrived at a gas station where I filled up my subaru impreza RS 2.5L with 87 unleaded mid grade fuel and from that point on still till today my vehicle has has the check engine light on, when the air conditioner IS turned on and I'm going 55 mph or higher gasoline can be smelled within…
I arrived at a gas station where I filled up my subaru impreza RS 2.5L with 87 unleaded mid grade fuel and from that point on still till today my vehicle has has the check engine light on, when the air conditioner IS turned on and I'm going 55 mph or higher gasoline can be smelled within the vehicle. When refueling the gas pump continously stops as if the fuel chamber IS full. After refueling the vehicle fails to turn over or staggers weakly to start.
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2004 subaru impreza. The contact stated that the check engine indicator illuminated. Also, when the contact filled up the fuel tank, there was a strong odor inside the vehicle. The contact also located fuel inside the vehicle on the rear driver's side. The vehicle was taken…
TL* the contact owns a 2004 subaru impreza. The contact stated that the check engine indicator illuminated. Also, when the contact filled up the fuel tank, there was a strong odor inside the vehicle. The contact also located fuel inside the vehicle on the rear driver's side. The vehicle was taken to paul miller subaru (3469 US-46, parsipanny, nj) where it was diagnosed that fuel was leaking from all the fuel lines under the vehicle. The manufacturer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 110,000.
- Fuel/propulsion system
Driver side fuel line that IS connected to the fuel rail underneath the turbo inlet hose leaks gas. The smell IS very noticeable and I'm pretty sure it's dangerous since it could cause an engine fire.
- Fuel/propulsion system
During cold weather a strong smell of fuel can be detected coming from the engine bay while both moving and stationary. This problem only occurs during colder weather.
- Fuel/propulsion system
During the past 8+ winters, there IS a strong fuel smell. I've called subaru of america and they said that only the two previous models were recalled for this problem. According to my resarch, it sounds like this problem persists with many subaru models. I've been able to close the air vents to…
During the past 8+ winters, there IS a strong fuel smell. I've called subaru of america and they said that only the two previous models were recalled for this problem. According to my resarch, it sounds like this problem persists with many subaru models. I've been able to close the air vents to keep the smell out in previous years. Today, white smoke started to come out of my hood while driving and stationary. The temperature IS in the single negative digits.i believe there IS now enough fuel leakage onto the manifold that it IS starting the smoke.
- Fuel/propulsion system
It recently been cold in colorado and now I have this raw fuel smell in cabin during cold weather. Fuel line leaking coming from the rubber hose connector located under the intake manifold, between two direct feed line to the injector.
- Fuel/propulsion system
Under cold conditions (40F or less) the rubber fuel rails will contract under the intake manifold and will slowly leak gasoline causing an overwhelming smell and possibility for a fire. This happens when the car IS both stationary and under motion. This problem was acknowledged in the year 2009 for…
Under cold conditions (40F or less) the rubber fuel rails will contract under the intake manifold and will slowly leak gasoline causing an overwhelming smell and possibility for a fire. This happens when the car IS both stationary and under motion. This problem was acknowledged in the year 2009 for the 2002-2003 year models for the subaru impreza WRX and a recall was enacted. However, this recall did not include the 2004-2005 models even though the same engine with the same fuel rails were used. This problem has been consistent and predictable for the 3 winters that I have owned the car. I have also heard from others with the same year car that they are having similar problems. The pictures I included show the screw that clamps the rubber hoses. The gas leaks at this connecting point but it was hard to get a picture of the actual hoses. I have contacted subaru of america and they directed me to bring this up with nhtsa. thank you!
- Suspension
While driving at about 30 mph, the car began to shake uncontrollably. upon inspection of the front end I saw that the lower suspension arm had cracked.
- Suspension
Dealer claims to have properly performed a recall repair, but the problem persists I own a 2004 subaru impreza. There IS a recall on the front suspension for a severe corrosion issue. I brought my car in to haddad subaru for the recall service in 2011 I was recently informed by my mechanic (not…
Dealer claims to have properly performed a recall repair, but the problem persists I own a 2004 subaru impreza. There IS a recall on the front suspension for a severe corrosion issue. I brought my car in to haddad subaru for the recall service in 2011 I was recently informed by my mechanic (not dealer mechanic) that the suspension IS dangerously corroded and it "does not look like the recall was performed on this car." I had this opinion confirmed a second mechanic. I raised this issue with haddad subaru. They confirm the suspension IS dangerously corroded, but will not replace it without authorization from subaru I raised this issue with subaru america and they state the recall was performed previously by hadad subaru and they have no further responsibility to address the issue. I am dubious the recall repair was correctly performed by hadad subaru in 2011 and that IS why there IS a problem now. It IS a safety issue, so I have fixed it myself for nearly $1,000
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2004 subaru impreza. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v323000 (air bags); however, the part needed to repair the vehicle was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall…
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2004 subaru impreza. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v323000 (air bags); however, the part needed to repair the vehicle was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Suspension
Lower control arm failed causing a complete loss of steering due to rust.car was starting out just after traffic light turned green so a very slow speed.this would have been much worse if I was traveling at a faster speed. car was previously recalled for this same issue and the repair was to…
Lower control arm failed causing a complete loss of steering due to rust.car was starting out just after traffic light turned green so a very slow speed.this would have been much worse if I was traveling at a faster speed. car was previously recalled for this same issue and the repair was to inspect and spray rust proofing on lower control arms. This was not an acceptable repair as it failed anyway. I have a 2006 same make and model with the same recall and it was sprayed with rust proofing. I expect it will fail also if something more IS not done like replacing them. So far dealer refuses to replace them.
- Air bags
Subaru recall campaign wqr-53 nhtsa recall no. 15V-323 called the dealer three times to have it replace. No called back what or where do I go from here.
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2004 subaru impreza. The contact received a recall notification for nhtsa campaign number: 15v32300 (air bags) and stated that the part was not available within a reasonable time frame to schedule the recall repair. The dealer did not give a specific date for…
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2004 subaru impreza. The contact received a recall notification for nhtsa campaign number: 15v32300 (air bags) and stated that the part was not available within a reasonable time frame to schedule the recall repair. The dealer did not give a specific date for when the part would become available. The manufacturer could not provide an estimated date for when the contact's vehicle would receive the recall repair. The contact was not experiencing a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available.
- Air bags
Takata recall - I received a recall letter dated july 2015. having received no update I called the dealership, duteau subaru, in lincoln, ne this fall. they said they had no parts. on subaru's website today I read instructions to call the dealership and make an appointment for repair. calling the dealership I was unable to make an appointment. they did offer to put my name on a waiting list should parts arrive.
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2004 subaru impreza. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v323000 (air bags). The part was not available within a reasonable time frame to schedule the recall repair. The dealer did not give a specific date for when the part would…
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2004 subaru impreza. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v323000 (air bags). The part was not available within a reasonable time frame to schedule the recall repair. The dealer did not give a specific date for when the part would become available. The manufacturer could not provide an estimated date for when the vehicle would receive the recall repair. The contact was not experiencing a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and…
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field failures was found in vehicles produced by these five additional manufacturers.Nonetheless, at ODI's insistence, all 10 vehicle manufacturers initiated a regional recall within approximately two weeks of the opening of the investigation.The regions recalled initially included Florida, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, areas with high absolute humidity and climatic conditions believed to be a significant factor in the inflator ruptures.As part of the recall actions, inflators removed from remedied vehicles are to be returned to Takata for testing.Takata's initial test results on passenger inflators from remedied vehicles indicated a much higher than anticipated rupture frequency for inflators returned from Florida.Accordingly ODI requested all 10 manufacturers expand the regional recalls for passenger inflators to include other geographic areas where high absolute humidity conditions exist, including the Gulf States and other coastal areas.Takata's testing of the passenger inflators to date continues to indicate this geographic area as having the highest risk, with no ruptures occurring from inflators returned from outside the expanded recall regions.During PE14-016 four additional passenger inflator field events occurred, all in vehicles from the same expanded geographic region.Also during PE14-016 four additional driver inflator field events occurred including two in vehicles from regions not known for high absolute humidity, specifically California and North Carolina.Accordingly, ODI requested all five of the affected vehicle manufacturers currently using the subject Takata driver inflators expand to nationwide recalls.Significantly, neither of the affected vehicle manufacturers or Takata provided any explanation to account for these two driver air bag inflator ruptures outside the area of high absolute humidity.Takata testing of returned driver inflators indicates a lower rupture frequency as compared to passenger inflator testing.All test ruptures reported by Takata to date have occurred on inflators returned from high absolute humidity areas.The investigation now includes all manufacturers and vehicles known to be affected at this time.ODI's investigation will focus on, among other things, root cause analysis, other potential defect consequences, identification of affected vehicles scope, and adequacy of the remedy.The five ODI reports cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification numbers: 10537899, 10568848, 10585224, 10605877, 10651492
- Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and…
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field failures was found in vehicles produced by these five additional manufacturers.Nonetheless, at ODI's insistence, all 10 vehicle manufacturers initiated a regional recall within approximately two weeks of the opening of the investigation.The regions recalled initially included Florida, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, areas with consistently high absolute humidity and climatic conditions believed to be a significant factor in the inflator ruptures.As part of the recall actions, inflators removed from remedied vehicles are to be returned to Takata for testing.Takata's initial test results on passenger inflators from remedied vehicles indicated a much higher than anticipated rupture frequency for inflators returned from Florida.Accordingly, ODI requested all 10 manufacturers expand the regional recalls for passenger inflators to include other geographic areas where high absolute humidity conditions exist, including the Gulf States and other coastal areas.Takata's testing of the passenger inflators to date continues to indicate this geographic area as having the highest risk, with no ruptures occurring from inflators returned from outside the expanded recall regions.During PE14-016, four additional passenger inflator field events occurred, all in vehicles from the same expanded geographic region.Also during PE14-016, four additional driver inflator field events occurred including two in vehicles from regions not known for high absolute humidity, specifically California and North Carolina.Accordingly, ODI requested all five of the affected vehicle manufacturers currently using the subject Takata driver inflators expand to nationwide recalls.Significantly, neither of the affected vehicle manufacturers or Takata provided any explanation to account for these two driver air bag inflator ruptures outside the area of high absolute humidity.Takata testing of returned driver inflators indicates a lower rupture frequency as compared to passenger inflator testing.All test ruptures reported by Takata to date have occurred on inflators returned from high absolute humidity areas.The PE is now closed/upgraded to an Engineering Evaluation (EA15-001) to include all manufacturersand vehicles known to be affected at this time.ODI's EA investigation will focus on, among other things, root cause analysis, other potential defect consequences, identification of affected vehicles scope, and adequacy of the remedy.The recalls related to this PE are: 14V343, 14V344, 14V348, 14V351, 14V353, 14V655, 14V700, 14V701, 14V752, 14V763, 14V770, 14V773, 14V787, 14V802 and 14V817.The number of vehicles affected are an estimate since some vehicles may have both the driver and passenger side inflators recalled. The five ODI reports cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification numbers: 10537899, 10568848, 10585224, 10605877, 10651492
- Front suspension control arm failure
On September 6, 2011, Fuji Heavy Industries USA, Inc, on behalf of Subaru of America, Inc notified the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) it would be conducting a safety recall of certain model year (MY) 2002 through 2007 Subaru Impreza, MY 2003 through 2008 Subaru Forester, and MY 2005 through 2006 Saab 9-2X…
On September 6, 2011, Fuji Heavy Industries USA, Inc, on behalf of Subaru of America, Inc notified the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) it would be conducting a safety recall of certain model year (MY) 2002 through 2007 Subaru Impreza, MY 2003 through 2008 Subaru Forester, and MY 2005 through 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold or currently registered in one the salt belt states including the District of Columbia (DC). For the purpose of this investigation, salt belt states include Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and DC.ODI's analysis of consumer complaint data identified 11 reports alleging failure of either the right or left lower control arm due to excessive corrosion. All of these complaints were associated with vehicles currently registered or originally sold in a salt belt state. Through a similar analysis of complaint and warranty data submitted to ODI by Subaru, ODI identified 18 consumer complaints and 6 warranty claims associated with failure of the left or right front lower control arm due to excessive corrosion. All of these consumer complaints associated with vehicles either currently registered of originally sold in a salt belt state.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.
- Fuel line leak
Complainants report fuel leakage most frequently in winter during initial cold engine startup.owners will either notice a fuel odor inside the occupant compartment or fuel odor/leakage at the fuel lines on the right side atop the engine. Once the engine has warmed, the odor/leakage may cease.subaru revised the fuel…
Complainants report fuel leakage most frequently in winter during initial cold engine startup.owners will either notice a fuel odor inside the occupant compartment or fuel odor/leakage at the fuel lines on the right side atop the engine. Once the engine has warmed, the odor/leakage may cease.subaru revised the fuel pipe/hose design for model year (my) 2003-04 WRX vehicles produced after august 2003.subaru also introduced a my 2004 impreza STI vehicle with a different engine and fuel pipe/hose layout.out of the total of 994 complaints, 944 concern my 2002-03 WRX vehicles built through august 2003.subaru also reports one fire on a my 2002 WRX vehicle that occurred in february 2006.in march 2009, odi inspected and video taped a my 2002 WRX vehicle with a fuel leak during cold engine start up.the video was provided to subaru and IS in the investigation file. This investigation IS being upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea09-011) to further study this issue.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11010925This annocement is to inform dealers to the Gen 3.1 Head Unit OTA will be available via Wi-Fi. The update will take place in multiple batches with the first beginneing November 15th and the last being Decemeber 3rd. This update is for approximatelt 714,000 VINs.
- 11009701This bulletin details an important regulation issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which impacts the way some vehicles with accessories are sold. This regulation applies to any automobile retailer installing accessories on a vehicle prior to its first sale.
- 11009685This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11008283This Service Information Bulletin announces the preferred practices to be used when handling vehicles equipped with Gen2 Telematics which are enrolled in the Subaru STARLINK Security Plus Service featuring Stolen Vehicle Recovery Plus with Immobilizer.
- 11008282This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11008281This Service Information Bulletin announces the diagnostic procedures to be followed when diagnosing engine oil leakage on FA and FB type engines.
- 11008280This Service Information bulletin is being released as guidance for proper testing and charging of vehicle batteries.
- 11008279This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
- 11008276The CP1.5 RCs OTA is available for all mid and high grade CP1.5 head units.
- 11008267This bulletin announces availability of the NEW genuine Subaru engine oil filter.
- 11008259This bulletin outlines the judgment criteria to be used when inspecting front transverse link bushings to reduce unnecessary bushing replacement.
- 11006935This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure for 2025MY vehicles.
- 11006934The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
- 11006932This Service Information Bulletin announces important diagnostic information to utilize when the Data Communication Module (DCM) is being tested as a dark current/standby current source.
- 11006931This Bulletin provides additional diagnostics to follow when addressing a Telematics-related DTC B2A16.
- 11005624This annoucement provides parts personnel information about remanufactured transmissions that will no longer be available.
- 11005615This announcement provides information for retailers to install the latest infotainment system software for Denso CP 1.5.
- 11005614This bulletin announces important diagnostic information to utilize when testing the Data Communication Module (DCM) as a dark current/standby current source. All models equipped with Telematics except Solterra.
- 11005609This announcement provides information on Takata Recall Escalated Towing Program.
- 11005608This thermo control valve video contains information on the replacement of thermo control valve.
- 11005599This Bulletin provides SOA paint codes to help eliminate possible confusion for 2025 MY vehicles.
- 11005595This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11005593This Bulletin provides guidance for diagnosing a leaking front or rear suspension strut.
- 11002730This information announces reprograming file availability for Gen 4.5 Denso CP1.5 Audio and Navigation systems. Inprovement for CarPlay concerns with hands-free calls when the receiving party is not able to hear the caller.
- 11002725This bulletin provides diagnosis and procedure information to be applied when diagnosing potential fluid leaks on front and rear brake calipers. This information has been developed to reduce unnecessary brake caliper replacement.
- 10248223SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. has determined that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in certain 2003-2014 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2003-2006 model year Baja vehicles, 2009-2013 model year Forester vehicles, 2004-2011 model year Impreza vehicles, and 2004- 2014 WRX (including STI) vehicles equipped with a non-desiccated Takata-sourced passenger-side frontal air bag containing the propellant Phase Stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (PSAN).
- 10248221"Takata Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Replacement. UPDATE April 2016: New and different inflators are available for affected 2004-2005 Impreza, WRX, and STI vehicles."
- 10244915SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. has determined that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in certain 2003-2014 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2003-2006 model year Baja vehicles, 2009-2013 model year Forester vehicles, 2004-2011 model year Impreza vehicles, and 2004- 2014 WRX (including STI) vehicles equipped with a non-desiccated Takata-sourced passenger-side frontal air bag containing the propellant Phase Stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (PSAN).
- 10241801The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
- 10240110This bulletin announces the recommended cleaning procedures to followed when encountering vehicles with long time exposure to pollen on painted surfaces on vehicles imported from Japan. This bulletin does not apply to SIA built vehicles.
- 10237234Takata Front Passenger Airbag Module / Inflator Like for Like Recall
- 10235890WQM?49 Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Recall (NHTSA ID 14V?471)
- 10235830Repair Procedure for High-Pitched Sound
- 10235277Takata Front Passenger Airbag Module / Inflator Like for Like Recall
- 10234957Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Replacement
- 10234956Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Replacement
- 10234900Regional Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Replacement
- 10234898Update: WQL?48 Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Recall (NHTSA ID 14V?399)
- 10234829Repair Procedure for High-Pitched Sound from Extension Housing Area Using Latest Generation Production Parts
- 10234828This Bulletin provides production change, repair procedure and parts information to address a customer concern of a high-pitched sound coming from the transmission extension housing area.
Every Subaru Impreza model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.