2003 Subaru Legacy
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2003 Subaru Legacy. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
15 recalls name the 2003 Subaru Legacy. Newest first.
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 Legacy, Outback, 2009-2011 Legacy, Outback, Forester, 2006-2011 Impreza, Tribeca, 2003-2006 Baja, and 2006 Saab 9-2x vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 26, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Saab owners may contact GM at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-16.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2006-2008 Impreza, Tribeca, 2006 Saab 9-2x, and 2003-2006 Baja vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 24, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-16. Note: This notice is only for vehicles that were not covered by 16V-358 for Zone A.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, and Baja vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 24, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-16. Note: This recall covers vehicles that were not previously covered in 16V-358 for Zone A or 16V-359 for Zone B.
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 of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy and Outback vehicles, and 2003-2005 Baja vehicles sold, or ever registered, in geographic locations associated with high absolute humidity. Specifically, vehicles sold, or ever registered, in Puerto Rico, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, Saipan, American Samoa, Florida…
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passengers 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. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on January 15, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQP-51. Note: This recall supersedes recall 14V-471. This recall has been partially superseded by 15V-323. All 2005 model year Subaru Legacy and Outback vehicles will now be repaired under recall 15V-323.
Airtex Products LP (Airtex) is recalling certain model E8598M, E8518M, E8600M, E8596M, and E8597M fuel pumps manufactured July 26, 2013, and July 29, 2013 and used as aftermarket replacements on Subaru Baja's, Outback's and Legacy's. The affected fuel pumps were sold or installed into the aftermarket applications on or after July 26, 2013, and may may leak…
Risk and remedy
Risk
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Airtex will notify owners, and will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. Recall is expected to begin on January 2, 2014. Customers may contact Airtex at 1-800-880-3056. The recall is expected to begin during January 2014. This recall is being conducted by Airtex, not by Subaru.
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.
On some passenger and sport utility vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the states of connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, kentucky, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, virginia, west virginia, wisconsin, and the district…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the transverse link were to break due to rusting, control of the vehicle could be affected without prior warning, possibly resulting in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will apply anti-rust material to the left front transverse link. owner notification began august 1, 2003. owners should contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
This recall applies to certain passenger vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the states of connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, kentucky, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, virginia, west virginia, wisconsin, and the…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If such breakage occurs while the vehicle IS being operated, control of the vehicle could be affected, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will clean and rust-proof the rear suspension subframe. owner notification began july 14, 2003. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
Certain sport utility and passenger vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions were produced with an improperly manufactured transmission parking rod. when the transmission selector lever IS placed in the "p" (park) position, the transmission park mechanism, that IS intended to hold your vehicle, may not engage.
Risk and remedy
Risk
The vehicle could then move/roll without prior warning, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the automatic transmission parking rod assembly. owner notification january 8, 2003. an interim owner notification will be sent during november 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
On certain sport utility and passenger vehicles equipped with 4-cylinder engines, the water pump pulley center hole was improperly machined.
Risk and remedy
Risk
In some instances, the interference fit between the inner wall of the pulley center hole and the water pump drive shaft was not as tight as specified in the drawing specification. this could result in the water pump pulley dislodging from the water pump shaft, which can cause severe engine damage/seizure during vehicle usage.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the water pump. owner notification began september 12, 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
On certain passenger vehicles equipped with 6-cylinder engines, the aluminum wheels may have an off-center diameter.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This can result in the eventual loosening of the wheel hub-nuts during vehicle usage, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace all 4 aluminum wheels. owner notification began september 12, 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
Owner complaints
60 complaints4 involved a crash4 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Suspension
Dealer has reported rear subframe if broken. I googled this and found recall 03v153000 which seems applicable but subaru says it does not apply to my car. Problem description seems identical.
- Suspension
The contact's daughter owns a 2003 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made squeaking sounds. Upon inspection, the contact noticed that the rear lateral link had detached from the rear subframe, and that the rear strut was…
The contact's daughter owns a 2003 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made squeaking sounds. Upon inspection, the contact noticed that the rear lateral link had detached from the rear subframe, and that the rear strut was leaning against the rear driver's side tire. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the rear subframe was corroded and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 03V153000 (Suspension) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
- Engine
The contact owns a 2003 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated while driving 30 mph, the vehicle began to stall and then seized. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated a police officer assisted to push the vehicle out of the roadway. The contact stated…
The contact owns a 2003 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated while driving 30 mph, the vehicle began to stall and then seized. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated a police officer assisted to push the vehicle out of the roadway. The contact stated he was able to restart the vehicle and drive to his destination. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer who was unable to duplicate the failure. The contact stated he and his daughter continued to experience the failure while driving the vehicle. The contact then took the vehicle to Fairway Subaru (2209 Laurens Rd, Greenville, SC 29607, (864) 242-5060) and the mechanic was unable to duplicate the failure. The contact stated he continued to experience the failure. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
- Service brakes
For the last 2 years the front brakes stalled 4 times on the high way. I had to pull over, wait 20 minutes and the brakes are working again. The mechanic's computer doesn't find anything wrong.
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting · Fuel/propulsion system
The electrical in my car sometimes works and sometimes not while driving the lights for notification of brake or ans go off and on. My headlights will occasionally blink too.
- Service brakes
Brake line at rear wheel connector rusted through and literally broke a hole through the very rusted metal while driving at about 30 mph, but luckily this was on empty road and it eventually stopped, but the brake pedal lost effectiveness and the usability IS now dangerous, so it IS parked at home, while my registration, tax and inspection lives are only half used.
- Air bags
Deadly defective passenger airbag! Air bag recall. Reported on local news channel.
- Air bags
I have an airbag recall on this vehicle and have received a notice to get it serviced. When calling my local subaru dealership they told me I'D be put on a waiting list and that they are booked out through the end of the year. In the notice it states that this could kill me or my passengers.…
I have an airbag recall on this vehicle and have received a notice to get it serviced. When calling my local subaru dealership they told me I'D be put on a waiting list and that they are booked out through the end of the year. In the notice it states that this could kill me or my passengers. Waiting till the end of the year doesn't seem like they care about my safety. The dealership was gustman subaru of appleton wisconsin.
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2003 subaru legacy. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v358000 (air bags). The vehicle was towed to hudiburg subaru (210 e interstate 240 service rd, oklahoma city, ok 73149, (844) 629-1630) where it was determined that the air bags…
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2003 subaru legacy. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v358000 (air bags). The vehicle was towed to hudiburg subaru (210 e interstate 240 service rd, oklahoma city, ok 73149, (844) 629-1630) where it was determined that the air bags were not takata air bags; therefore, they did not need to be replaced. The dealer stated that they would return the vehicle and wanted to charge the contact to tow the vehicle back to him. The manufacturer offered to possibly reimburse the contact for the towing cost. The contact felt that he was getting the run around and was out of a vehicle for a week. The contact had not experienced a failure.
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2003 subaru legacy. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v358000 (air bags). The vehicle was taken to suburban subaru (14 hartford turnpike, vernon, ct 06066, 860-406-7281) where the contact stated that the air bag was inspected, but…
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2003 subaru legacy. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v358000 (air bags). The vehicle was taken to suburban subaru (14 hartford turnpike, vernon, ct 06066, 860-406-7281) where the contact stated that the air bag was inspected, but was not replaced. Approximately one month later, when the vehicle was started, the air bag indicator illuminated. The dealer was not called. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated that the air bag illumination was unrelated to the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 132,800.
- Air bags
Are the dealers required to turn in the old air bags that they replace on recall? after the dealer "checked" my airbag serial number, which took all day, even though all they had to do IS open the glove compartment and look, the dealer had me sign two identical pieces of paper with large…
Are the dealers required to turn in the old air bags that they replace on recall? after the dealer "checked" my airbag serial number, which took all day, even though all they had to do IS open the glove compartment and look, the dealer had me sign two identical pieces of paper with large dollar amounts on them. The piece of paper I received had all zeros for the dollar amounts, since the dealer lied to me about having to remove the dashboard to check the airbag, I am suspicious. could the dealer use the papers I signed to claim to have replaced the airbag, but not done so??? the likelihood of them getting caught would be very low. I know that the dashboard was not removed because of cobwebs that were not disturbed between the dash and the car. the dealer told me that the airbag did not need to be replaced after they checked the serial number.
- Air bags
Takata recall. I am active duty military stationed overseas. I have been in touch with subaru america for over a year at this point trying to get my airbag replaced, and they have been unable to deliver on this. I have been driving a potentially unsafe car around since I was notified in sept…
Takata recall. I am active duty military stationed overseas. I have been in touch with subaru america for over a year at this point trying to get my airbag replaced, and they have been unable to deliver on this. I have been driving a potentially unsafe car around since I was notified in sept 2016. I have called and emailed back and forth multiple times, and they have failed to do anything or follow through on their promises as well as treated me disrespectfully on the phone.
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2003 subaru legacy. The contact stated that there was an abnormal fuel odor within the vehicle without warning. In addition, the contact observed a leak of fluid located under the front passenger side of the hood. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 subaru legacy. The contact stated that there was an abnormal fuel odor within the vehicle without warning. In addition, the contact observed a leak of fluid located under the front passenger side of the hood. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The contact mentioned that the odor was more stringent when the vehicle was idling. The dial for the air/heat was fractured and could not be turned off. The failure mileage was approximately 175,192.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2003 subaru legacy. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v358000 (air bags); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. Subaru of sonora in…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 subaru legacy. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v358000 (air bags); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. Subaru of sonora in sonora, california was made aware of the recall and stated that the parts were currently unavailable and would become available in 90 days. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Air bags
This system says my car IS 2003 subaru legacy. This IS not correct. my car IS a 2003 subaru outback and has been recalled at least once. the vin as entered IS correct.
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2003 subaru legacy. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v361000 (air bags); however, the part needed for the repair was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2003 subaru legacy. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v358000 (air bags); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Air bags
Takata recall - I have been waiting for several months after responding to the recall notice and still no new airbag, dealership can't tell me when it will be fixed. this makes it difficult to keep driving this vehicle. *tr
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2003 subaru legacy. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v358000 (air bags); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2003 subaru legacy. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v361000 (air bags); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Fuel/propulsion system
For at least 3 yrs now, we've been experiencing very strong raw fuel smell in the cabin in cold weather especially when the temp drops near freezing point in the winter. the fuel smell in the cabin happened when engine was on and the car was either stationary, in motion of any speed in cold…
For at least 3 yrs now, we've been experiencing very strong raw fuel smell in the cabin in cold weather especially when the temp drops near freezing point in the winter. the fuel smell in the cabin happened when engine was on and the car was either stationary, in motion of any speed in cold weather. we didn't notice the fuel smell in the summer or in warm weather months. the fuel smell was so bad that at time we had to open the windows in the winter to air it out. our biggest concern IS that it might catch on fire and compromise our safety. subaru has recall no. Wvk-21 for 2002-2003 subaru WRX models, but not for other models with the same engine and model years. please see that subaru investigates the problem and makes the appropriate repairs. many thanks, andrew
- Fuel/propulsion system
Fumes accumulate in the passenger compartment when driving in temperatures below freezing. dealer states 'didn't smell any fumes'. replacing exhaust system didn't fix the problem.
- Fuel/propulsion system
Car will leak gas as temperatures go below freezing. leak IS located in the engine compartment passenger side. *tr
- Fuel system, gasoline
TL* the contact owns a 2003 subaru legacy. The contact stated that during colder weather, gasoline fuel fumes emitted into the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 113,000.
- Tires · Wheels
I have had several studs break off over the years and had to replace all of the studs on my 2003 subaru legacy last summer. The last event occurred last summer 2013. By the time I arrived at my 400 mile destination, I had only one stud holding my tire on. Either this IS a huge metal defect with the…
I have had several studs break off over the years and had to replace all of the studs on my 2003 subaru legacy last summer. The last event occurred last summer 2013. By the time I arrived at my 400 mile destination, I had only one stud holding my tire on. Either this IS a huge metal defect with the studs or a potential criminal event against our family. I have kept all records from various garages which have replaced the studs over the years. *tr
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
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).
- 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
- 10234899Front 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 Legacy model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.