2003 Subaru WRX
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Subaru › WRX › 2003
These records cover every 2003 Subaru WRX. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
2 recalls name the 2003 Subaru WRX. Newest first.
Subaru IS recalling certain model year 2002 and 2003 impreza WRX vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the states of south dakota, nebraska, north dakota, minnesota, idaho, iowa, montana, colorado, wisconsin, new york, wyoming, michigan, alaska, new hampshire, vermont, and maine. during cold starts, typically under extremely cold…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Fuel leaks, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the fuel line free of charge. the recall began on december 31, 2009. owners may contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
Certain aai motorsports combination lamps sold as replacement lamps for use on the above list passenger vehicles. combination lamps not equipped with amber side reflectors fail to conform with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."
Risk and remedy
Risk
Lack of amber side reflectors in the lamps will decrease lighting visibility to other drivers and may possibly result in a vehicle crash
Remedy
Aai motorsports will notify owners and replace the lamps free of charge. the recall began on august 1, 2006. owners may contact aai motorsports at 909-923-9188.
Owner complaints
60 complaints13 involved a crash2 involved a fire5 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Fuel/propulsion system
Car was recalled in approximately 2009 for a fuel leak which could cause and engine fire. I know because I've owned this car I bought it new in 2003. the problem has reoccurred. to fix it, the intake manifold had to be removed and 3 short fuel lines had to be replaced. work was done by alpine…
Car was recalled in approximately 2009 for a fuel leak which could cause and engine fire. I know because I've owned this car I bought it new in 2003. the problem has reoccurred. to fix it, the intake manifold had to be removed and 3 short fuel lines had to be replaced. work was done by alpine automotive in lake zurich, illinois. I've reached out to subaru who say they know of no issue. however, I found an article published in 2009 in us news & world report, saying that the warranty for this issue was being extended by 12 years , which puts the car still in warranty for this issue.. *bf
- Fuel/propulsion system
Fuel leaking onto my engine block could result in my car engulfing in flames, no recall for it on my car but I see it everywhere and it's a super common problem. The cabin of the car always smells like gas usually in the cold, but when I smell the engine it smells badly of raw gasoline.
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2003 subaru WRX. The contact noticed a strong fuel odor inside the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to byers airport subaru (located at 401 n hamilton rd, columbus, oh 43213). The dealer would not repair the vehicle per nhtsa campaign number: 09v468000 (fuel system, gasoline).…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 subaru WRX. The contact noticed a strong fuel odor inside the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to byers airport subaru (located at 401 n hamilton rd, columbus, oh 43213). The dealer would not repair the vehicle per nhtsa campaign number: 09v468000 (fuel system, gasoline). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and demanded the dealer to repair the vehicle; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The contact was advised that the recall had expired and he would have to pay for the repair. The failure mileage and vin were unknown. updated 10/24/17*lj updated 10/25/2017*js
- Fuel/propulsion system
When it get cold out, the fuel line starts leaking and there IS the smell of gas in the car. there has been a limited recall for this issue depending on where the vehicle was purchased. I live in a state not included in the recall area. this doesn't change the fact that it IS a serious safety…
When it get cold out, the fuel line starts leaking and there IS the smell of gas in the car. there has been a limited recall for this issue depending on where the vehicle was purchased. I live in a state not included in the recall area. this doesn't change the fact that it IS a serious safety issue and the manufacturer should correct it no matter what state I live in (illinois). this IS clearly a manufacturer's defect and ask that they fix this issue.
- Steering · Unknown or other · Vehicle speed control
My dream car demolished in split second. Could have very easily died as well as my passenger. I looked up the recalls when I got the car and it was not listed yet, the steel front control arms in the snow belt states rust out and cause the vehicle to loose control and or crash. Well it did both to…
My dream car demolished in split second. Could have very easily died as well as my passenger. I looked up the recalls when I got the car and it was not listed yet, the steel front control arms in the snow belt states rust out and cause the vehicle to loose control and or crash. Well it did both to me as well as excelerate my car. I was on a date that night for the first time in a while. And on our way home, we were coming around a slight bend, I was going probably 35-40 mph and right when I turned the steering wheel going around the bend I heard a crack/thud noise and instantly I swear on my dads grave that the car accelerated, it was obviously out of control, I could not stop the car it kept going the same way as the turn, and hit an embankment about 3 1/2 feet tall the front door opened somehow when I hit. It bent the complete door up and looked like a lamborghini door. Luckily we had are seat belts on! The car the proceeded to flip on to its roof. Back, front side windows blown out. Both upside down in awe. Made sure she was ok. She was cut up on her arm and had seatbelt marks. As for me I know I hit my head bad but I don't even remember, it happened so fast and unpredictable! I had that car paid off. Loved it so much but I'm very disappointed I was never aware of the recall. I looked up my vin the day or so after, and it said the control arms were never replaced. A month or so later I check again, and it says they were fixed.. Now come on, that's a little weird and convienent if I so happened to sue subaru. I also had my car at a local subaru dealer 3 months before for a overall maintenance check and look over... Why did they not know, why did they not even see the corrosion. I was so in shambles after the wreck, that when the insurance guy came to look at my car it was totaled obviously. I tried pointing out what happened, he really could of cared less.
- Fuel system, gasoline
In cold weather the fuel lines leak on the 2003 subaru impreza WRX! there was a limited recall in certain northern states, however it gets cold in many states where there was no recall. the car has become dangerous to drive b/c I can smell the gas which means there IS the danger of ignition. subaru knows of this issue and should issue a recall for all cars affected. *tr
- Fuel system, gasoline
On the morning of feb 3, 2014 I started my car and it smelled very strongly of raw gas. I turned off the car and had it towed to my local repair shop. The tow cost $84.70. I found out later that morning that subaru issued a recall beginning december 31, 2009 for 2002 and 2003 subaru wrxs where…
On the morning of feb 3, 2014 I started my car and it smelled very strongly of raw gas. I turned off the car and had it towed to my local repair shop. The tow cost $84.70. I found out later that morning that subaru issued a recall beginning december 31, 2009 for 2002 and 2003 subaru wrxs where the fuel line leaks in extreme cold. Unfortunately, the recall included only 16 states, and offered an extended warranty to the other 34 states not named in the recall (i reside in one of the 34 for the "extended warranty"). I promptly phoned subaru of america and my local dealership, webster groves subaru about the issue. The service department employee, [xxx], advised me to drive my vehicle over to have it checked out. Considering this IS talking about raw gas and at least one fire has been reported in relation to the recall, I do not agree with this suggestion. Both subaru of america and the dealership affirmed that the car would have to be taken to a dealership to see if it might be considered for the recall. After directly telling [xxx] I will not drive the vehicle since it IS dangerous (the recall even states that it IS dangerous!), she agreed to call her district manager then return my call. this IS not the whole of my concern. We have had colder weather all over the united states this year and I am very concerned about this issue. I was not notified of the extended warranty or the issue by subaru, and I gather other individuals were not as well and their safety could be at risk. While it would be ideal for subaru to pay for the necessary repairs to my vehicle, I ultimately hope they will notify all 2002 and 2003 subaru WRX owners of this potential hazard for the safety of everyone! This IS not just a small optional recall, but one that could cause serious harm to drivers, their passengers and fellow drivers. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6). *tr
- Engine and engine cooling
TL* the contact owns a 2003 subaru WRX. The contact stated the vehicle began leaking oil from the avcs line and would leak onto the manifold, creating a fire hazard. The manufacturer advised there were no recalls for the failure and any repairs would be the contact's expense. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileages were approximately 31,000.
- Fuel system, gasoline
Fuel line leaks raw gasoline fumes into passenger compartment and outside of vehicle during cold weather. Gas fumes are overpowering inside the vehicle, and possibly creates a serious safety hazard of fire/ explosion. *Tr
- Fuel system, gasoline
Occasionally my WRX smells like raw gas. Three times when I have been driving to mt. Lemon, up a very steep road, I have had a very strong (unbearable) gas smell enter the car. I took it into the dealer and was told that I am just "overfilling the tank," however, I never try to fill the tank beyond…
Occasionally my WRX smells like raw gas. Three times when I have been driving to mt. Lemon, up a very steep road, I have had a very strong (unbearable) gas smell enter the car. I took it into the dealer and was told that I am just "overfilling the tank," however, I never try to fill the tank beyond the automatic shutoff point on the gas pump. I have also smelled gas occasionally when driving but never as strong as when I drive to mt. Lemon. *Tr
- Tires
There has been no accident or crash. This IS an ongoing safety problem with a model of tires. The tires are kumho spt 225/45r-17. these tires have serious directional stability issues. They make the car very scary to drive in cross winds. In corners, the car always feels like it IS squirming…
There has been no accident or crash. This IS an ongoing safety problem with a model of tires. The tires are kumho spt 225/45r-17. these tires have serious directional stability issues. They make the car very scary to drive in cross winds. In corners, the car always feels like it IS squirming around and you never really know what direction it IS going to go. I've aligned the car twice, both times adding more rear toe in to increase stability. This has had almost no effect. I've tried a number of different tire pressures. Higher pressures (above 40psi) help, but do not fix the problem. I've used several other type and brand of tires on the car and never had any stability issues with any of them. There IS no problem with any of the components in the suspension system. I've spent over one month with kumho trying to resolve this problem with the tires. In that time, I have received a single one sentence response to my e-mails. Kumho has repeatedly not returned the majority of my phone calls to resolve this problem. Apparently they do not think there IS a problem with the tires, as they have absolutely no interest in helping to figure out the problem or even looking at the tires. *Tr
- Fuel system, gasoline
2003 subaru WRX, raw fuel smell in cabin before engine IS warm and coolant temperatures are warm. Happens infrequently but would like to get rid of the smell. Seems like it's a popular problem for the cars in this production range. First noticed it on the date shown but occurs more often when temperatures are below 50F. *Tr
- Fuel system, gasoline
I have a 2003 subaru WRX wagon. as temperatures approach freezing the fuel lines on the passenger side of the engine begin to leak, heavily, during cold start up. this causes raw fuel smell to enter the cabin as well as creating a potentially hazardous situation with raw fuel openly pooling on…
I have a 2003 subaru WRX wagon. as temperatures approach freezing the fuel lines on the passenger side of the engine begin to leak, heavily, during cold start up. this causes raw fuel smell to enter the cabin as well as creating a potentially hazardous situation with raw fuel openly pooling on the engine. Subaru and their dealers are aware of the situation and it IS fixable, however it requires removal of the intake manifold - a very labor intensive job - which makes it a costly repair for the consumer to bear. I acquired the car last year and the problem occurred throughout last winter and has recurred already once this fall. *Tr
- Fuel system, gasoline
I would like to file this complaint after reading all of the complaints related to the same problem I am having with my 2003 subaru WRX. Very strong raw gasoline fumes inside the passenger compartment during cold weather startup. I am the original owner of this car. This problem just started this…
I would like to file this complaint after reading all of the complaints related to the same problem I am having with my 2003 subaru WRX. Very strong raw gasoline fumes inside the passenger compartment during cold weather startup. I am the original owner of this car. This problem just started this winter. Yes subaru of america it's happening on the 2003 models also. I would appreciate some direction as how to proceed with this developing safety problem with my car. Thank you. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling
Took my vehicle in for routine maintenance when it was found to have a significant gas leak. specifically the fuel rail had something like 16 leaks. while I never had an engine fire the possibility for that happening was very real. this IS my family car, which I transport my children in. from…
Took my vehicle in for routine maintenance when it was found to have a significant gas leak. specifically the fuel rail had something like 16 leaks. while I never had an engine fire the possibility for that happening was very real. this IS my family car, which I transport my children in. from reading other experiences about this I have found it to be a flaw in design with the 2003 subaru WRX. I would hope that subaru would value its customers safety and make a safety recall about this issue. *Tr
- Fuel system, gasoline
I have a 2003 subaru WRX. My car started to smell like something was burning a few days ago in the engine bay. I have also noticed that when the temperature goes below 30 degrees the inside cabin starts to strongly smell like raw fuel. The vapors can cause harmful and even deadly consequences. I…
I have a 2003 subaru WRX. My car started to smell like something was burning a few days ago in the engine bay. I have also noticed that when the temperature goes below 30 degrees the inside cabin starts to strongly smell like raw fuel. The vapors can cause harmful and even deadly consequences. I have done some research on this issue and it seems that its a widely common issue with subaru wrx's from 2002 to 2004. I took the car to a mechanic shop and got the car examined. The mechanic told me that the clamps that hold the gas lines intact were very loose. He said that the during high fuel pressure the fuel lines could separate and cause a engine fire. I have called subaru of america and they told me there's a bulletin on this issue. It seems that this can be a very dangerous safety issue, and it sounds to me that subaru of america IS not willing to repair the $500 issue. I have noticed that there was another fuel issue with another subaru model (nhtsa campaign ID number: 03v303000). The subaru outback had a recall because there was a loose clamp at the filler cap that could have caused a fuel leak. Why IS there no recall for the fuel leak in the wrxs? The leak happens very close to the engine. Any type of heat or ignition could cause a fire or even death! Please research this issue as it could become a very dangerous problem! *Tr
- Fuel system, gasoline
I am writing with respect to the investigations concerning fuel leaks in the 2002-2003 models of the subaru impreza WRX models. I purchased a WRX in february of 2003. like other reports, my car initially emitted a fuel odor only on cold days. I took the car to my local subaru dealership, bel air…
I am writing with respect to the investigations concerning fuel leaks in the 2002-2003 models of the subaru impreza WRX models. I purchased a WRX in february of 2003. like other reports, my car initially emitted a fuel odor only on cold days. I took the car to my local subaru dealership, bel air subaru, to have the problem investigated. they informed my that I had a faulty fuel line, replaced the fuel line, and charged me $800.00. the following week I still smelled fuel. I took the car back to the dealership; they informed me that they could not find another leak. I was told by the sales manager to "wait for the problem to fully manifest itself." in the meantime, I researched the issue on your website. my interpretation of the report was that this was not a safety concern, so I initially dropped the issue. however, as the problem progressed, the fuel leak began to occur even in warm weather and even when the engine was warm. now, approximately 18 months from the initial repair, I am being told by the dealership that I have a leak in my fuel hoses. the dealership insists that this IS a separate repair issue that did not exist when they looked at the car the first time. again, I have been quoted a price of $800.00 to have the problem fixed. I am reluctant to spend $800.00 more dollars to try to eliminate the fuel leak after the results I got last time. in light of the fact that the fuel leaks in these vehicles progress to a leak that IS no longer simply a cold weather problem, IS this now considered a safety issue? subaru has been unhelpful in helping me solve this dilemma. can you help? *tr
- Engine and engine cooling · Steering
As I pulled into a parking space, the engine died and flames about 2' tall shot out from between the hood and cowl and out of the intercooler inlet in the center of the hood. The flames were followed by about 10 seconds of a huge smoke cloud. It took me about 90 seconds to get a fire extinguisher…
As I pulled into a parking space, the engine died and flames about 2' tall shot out from between the hood and cowl and out of the intercooler inlet in the center of the hood. The flames were followed by about 10 seconds of a huge smoke cloud. It took me about 90 seconds to get a fire extinguisher and get the fire put out. I examined the damage. The pressure side power steering hose was rubbing against the sheet metal heat shield over the turbocharger. After a while, the relative motion and heat rubbed a hole in the power steering hose. The power steering hose then pumped power steering fluid all over the turbocharger, exhaust manifold, heat shields, hood, firewall, etc. When the power steering fluid hit the heat shields and exhaust, it started burning and this caused the fire. I have not finished repairing the vehicle yet so I don't know the complete extent of the damage. At this point, at least the power steering hose and fluid need to be changed. the pressure side power steering hose has no brackets to hold it in position within about 1' of the turbocharger heat shield. The outside of the hose IS rubber. There IS no heat shield over it. It IS guaranteed to rub against the heat shield and fail this way. The power steering return hose also has no brackets within 1' of the turbocharger heat shield, but it does at least have a corrugated aluminum heat shield over it. *tr
- Vehicle speed control › Cruise control
The cruise control unit on my car will cause the throttle to remain open, even if the cruise IS turned off. This can result in anything from higher than normal idle to random instances of wide open, uncontrolled acceleration. The car has been to 2 different subaru dealers for a total of 7 times…
The cruise control unit on my car will cause the throttle to remain open, even if the cruise IS turned off. This can result in anything from higher than normal idle to random instances of wide open, uncontrolled acceleration. The car has been to 2 different subaru dealers for a total of 7 times over the course of 5 years, and the problem has yet to be resolved. All applicable tsb's and recalls have been performed, but problem still occurs. *tr
- Unknown or other
Driver side floor mat will not stay in metal rod designed to keep the mat from going forward. mat slides underneath the petals and has worn the upholstery on the floor as well. problem has not been fixed as I do not have the money to get it repaired. *jb
- Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
I own a 2003 subaru impreza WRX wagon. On cold mornings (like today: 3F), there IS a raw fuel smell in the passenger compartment. I've talked to other impreza owners that have experienced the same problem, apparently there IS a design flaw involving a flexible fuel hose connecting the rigid fuel…
I own a 2003 subaru impreza WRX wagon. On cold mornings (like today: 3F), there IS a raw fuel smell in the passenger compartment. I've talked to other impreza owners that have experienced the same problem, apparently there IS a design flaw involving a flexible fuel hose connecting the rigid fuel lines. I've just tried contacting subaru of america (soa) regarding this problem, but they seem to be fighting many owners on covering this obvious safety issue.
- Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
Raw fuel smell in passenger compartment of 2003 subaru impreza WRX, a known problem on 2002 subaru impreza WRX with fuel pipes/hoses/clamps. dealers deny there IS a problem for 2003 models. *nm
- Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery
Strong gas smell in the cabin on a cold day probably a gas leak. stronger when vehicle IS stop. smell enough to get a good headache and dizzy. *nm
- Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
Gas smell coming through air vents of 2003 subaru WRX when vehicle IS stopped with outside air vents open. problem IS intermittent. nhtsa has a significant number of complaints of this same problem in 2002-2003 WRX models, and a significant number of internet automotive websites discuss this…
Gas smell coming through air vents of 2003 subaru WRX when vehicle IS stopped with outside air vents open. problem IS intermittent. nhtsa has a significant number of complaints of this same problem in 2002-2003 WRX models, and a significant number of internet automotive websites discuss this problem. since gasoline IS flammable, and automobile fires are dangerous, I am requesting nhtsa to reopen its file on this matter and to issue a recall since nhtsa has already found that a fuel hose on the engine, in close proximity to the exhaust manifold, IS leaking. *jb
- Visibility › Windshield wiper/washer › Linkages
When using windshield wipers in the rain, driver side windshield wiper arm slides past area of windshield and gets stuck on side pillar. this has happened five times on the same trip while driving at speeds over 50 m.p.h. On freeway. windshield wipers then become inoperable until wiper arm IS…
When using windshield wipers in the rain, driver side windshield wiper arm slides past area of windshield and gets stuck on side pillar. this has happened five times on the same trip while driving at speeds over 50 m.p.h. On freeway. windshield wipers then become inoperable until wiper arm IS freed from side pillar. Freeing wiper arm required driving to nearest freeway exit in the rain with inoperable windshield wipers. Checked tightness of wiper arm and was found to be tight and secure. however, wiper arm was found to have a lot of "play" in it. *jb
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Fuel line leak
The design of the fuel line (metal rail/rubber hose interface) IS susceptible to fuel odor and/or seepage in extreme cold temperature conditions.owners most often noticed fuel odor in the occupant compartment area during initial cold engine start-up.once the engine IS warmed, the odor/seepage issue dissipates.from…
The design of the fuel line (metal rail/rubber hose interface) IS susceptible to fuel odor and/or seepage in extreme cold temperature conditions.owners most often noticed fuel odor in the occupant compartment area during initial cold engine start-up.once the engine IS warmed, the odor/seepage issue dissipates.from subaru's data, odi notes that the incident rates are higher in states with colder temperatures.there was one allegation of a fire incident in which the owner had reported that he noticed fuel odor a few days earlier, but odi could not confirm the origin of the fire. To address this issue, subaru will replace the fuel line with a longer rubber hose segment version/design on 5,724 my 2002-2003 vehicles built through september 12, 2002 in 16 states (ak, co, ia, ID, me, mi, mn, mt, nd, ne, nh, ny, sd, vt, wi & wy).in addition, subaru will extend the warranty coverage to 12 years/unlimited mileage on vehicles in the remaining 34 states.this engineering analysis IS closed (see recall campaign 09v-468)
- 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.
- Fuel line leakage in engine compartment
Subaru reports that the fuel odor IS caused by fuel seepage during cold start of the engine under extremely cold temperatures. The leak occurs in a fuel line in the engine compartment.it reports that the failure IS due to the misaligned angle between two fuel delivery lines which resulted in such fuel seepage during…
Subaru reports that the fuel odor IS caused by fuel seepage during cold start of the engine under extremely cold temperatures. The leak occurs in a fuel line in the engine compartment.it reports that the failure IS due to the misaligned angle between two fuel delivery lines which resulted in such fuel seepage during the first few seconds of cold engine start during these cold temperatures.subaru reports that the two fuel lines are connected with a hose that becomes too stiff in very cold temperatures to conform to the misalignment. Subaru has issued a technical service bulletin (subaru service bulletin number 09-36-03) to replace the fuel lines with new lines that are properly aligned and that have a longer connecting hose.odi phone calls to many of the complainants confirm that fuel odor IS noticable during very cold temperatures and cold start but goes away as the engine warms up, and the odor IS not present in warmer temperatures. A few owners report that attempts to eliminate the leakage by tightening the connecting hose clamps IS not effective in eliminating the fuel odor.a safety-related defect has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.accordingly, this investigation IS closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist.the agency will monitor this issue and reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.
- Extended stopping distances
During the ea, odi and vrtc performed the following activities:1.conducted a mail survey of 246 subject vehicle owners todetermine the roadway surface that caused owners' concern;2.interviewed complaining owners;3.conducted field inspections of seven (7) complaint vehicles;4.instrumented testing at vrtc of complaint…
During the ea, odi and vrtc performed the following activities:1.conducted a mail survey of 246 subject vehicle owners todetermine the roadway surface that caused owners' concern;2.interviewed complaining owners;3.conducted field inspections of seven (7) complaint vehicles;4.instrumented testing at vrtc of complaint and peer vehicles;5.reviewed subaru's response to our information request;6.met with subaru for technical review of testingas a result of the work conducted by vrtc and odi during this investigaiton, a consistent or chronic pattern of poor brake performance has not been identified.vrtc conducted over 11,500 brake tests.they did not observe any long-duration, low deceleration events (some owners reported delays of 4 to 10 seconds) in the test vehicles.see odi's closing report and vrtc's test report for full details
- Braking system/abs
Subaru's supplemental response of september 29, 2003, identified that the 2002, 2003 subaru WRX models areequipped with the bosch 5.3 ABS system, and identified that other model subaru vehicles are also equipped with the bosch 5.3 ABS system, but have different calibrations than the WRX model vehicles.subaru…
Subaru's supplemental response of september 29, 2003, identified that the 2002, 2003 subaru WRX models areequipped with the bosch 5.3 ABS system, and identified that other model subaru vehicles are also equipped with the bosch 5.3 ABS system, but have different calibrations than the WRX model vehicles.subaru identified that changes were made in the ABS ecu to address a calibration logic issue when driving the vehicle with the spare tire mounted.subaru reported that both the ABS hydraulic unit and the ABS ecu were modified, and gave vin numbers to identify the implementation of the modified units in production. Testing IS underway to gain an understanding of the WRX vehicle performance during an ABS activation.futher, analysis ofthe differences in vehicle performance resulting from ABS software changes will be examined.
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.
- 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.
- 10235277Takata Front Passenger Airbag Module / Inflator Like for Like Recall
- 10233107Launch of Remanufactured Turbochargers
- 10233061New Vehicle Receipt- Navigation SD Card Transit Storage Location Change
- 10232879Replacement Key and Immobilizer info
- 10232535Replacement Key and Immobilizer Info
- 10219492This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 10219491This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
- 10209915This bulletin has been developed to outline the steps for gathering basic essential information during diagnosis and repair of the Infotainment concerns. (Applicable to all models with Harman or Denso CP1 Infotainment).
- 10198758This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models
- 10198749This bulletin is to advise of SOAs revised catalytic converter recycling program shipping procedure.
- 10187315To help reduce confusion and increase technician efficiency, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) has developed the following cross reference list to help locate the appropriate Special Service Tool.
- 10186364This bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing.
- 10186348The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information.
Every Subaru WRX model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.