81 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.
Most common 2009 Subaru Impreza problems
18 of the 104 complaints (17%) are about the transmission.
Component
Reports
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Structure › Body · body and frame
18
1
0
0
Power Train · transmission
16
0
0
0
Engine
10
0
0
0
Air Bags · airbags
10
1
0
1
Service Brakes · brakes
9
0
1
0
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system
5
0
0
0
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine · engine
5
0
0
0
Electrical System
4
0
2
0
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration
3
0
0
0
Fuel System, Gasoline · fuel system
3
0
0
1
15 safety recalls
Part 573 reports
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module20V001000
Filed Jan 2, 2020258,813 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. 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 Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
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.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module20V003000
Filed Jan 2, 2020111,562 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. 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 Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
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.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module20V002000
Filed Jan 2, 2020127,547 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. 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, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
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.
Filed Apr 11, 2019511 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch installed as a replacement part. The ball spring inside the switch may break, reducing the strength of the ignition switch. If this occurs, the weight on the key ring and certain road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
Risk. The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. If a crash occurs under this condition, the air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ignition switch, replacing the ignition switch, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 10, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUF-91.
Filed Feb 28, 20191,303,530 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and also preventing keyless ignition vehicles from starting and CVT/automatic transmissions from being able to be shifted out of Park.
Risk. Brake lights that do not illuminate properly will not alert other drivers that the vehicle is slowing or stopping, increasing the risk of crash.
Remedy. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake light switch, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUE-90.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module18V013000
Filed Jan 9, 201893,209 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2010 Tribeca, Impreza, Forester, WRX, Legacy, and Outback vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk. An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-18.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module18V012000
Filed Jan 9, 201864,179 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Legacy, Forester, Tribeca, WRX and Outback vehicles, and 2009-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk. An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-18.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module18V014000
Filed Jan 9, 201872,150 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009 Tribeca, Impreza, Forester, WRX, Legacy, and Outback vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk. An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-18.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module17V026000
Filed Jan 11, 201769,529 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Baja, 2009 Forester, Legacy and Outback and 2006-2009 Impreza (including WRX and STI models) and Tribeca vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
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 front air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2017. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-17.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module17V014000
Filed Jan 10, 201753,480 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Subaru Baja, 2006-2011 Impreza (including WRX and STI models), 2006-2012 Tribeca, 2009-2012 Forester, Legacy, Outback, and 2012 WRX vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
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 front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2017. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-17.
Filed Oct 13, 2016100,127 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2008-2014 Impreza vehicles and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, all equipped with turbo-charged engines. The relay that controls the secondary air injection pump may fail, causing the pump to continuously operate and overheat.
Risk. If the air injection pump overheats, it may melt and increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary air injection pump relay, free of charge. The recall began December 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTM-73.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module16V358000
Filed May 25, 2016302,127 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. 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 Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." These vehicles may be equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
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.
Filed Dec 31, 2014200,064 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Impreza, 2008-2014 WRX and STI, and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, currently, or formerly, registered in 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 the District of Columbia that were remedied under recall 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014. The brake lines may experience brake line corrosion due to salt water splashing on the brake lines through a gap in the fuel tank protector.
Risk. Brake fluid may leak due to the brake line corrosion and may result in longer distances being required to slow or stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will apply an anti-corrosion wax to the four-way joint connector area of the brake line system, free of charge. The recall began on January 27, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQQ-52. Notes: This recall is specific to affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI customers who had their car remedied under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014. Subaru has determined that this remedy was inadequate due to incomplete repair instructions provided to dealers. Affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI vehicles that were not repaired under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014 will continue to be processed under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311. Affected vehicles not currently, or formerly, registered in the salt belt states identified in this recall are eligible for repair, at no cost to the customer, upon request.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings14V311000
Filed Jun 10, 2014461,338 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Outback and Legacy, 2008-2011 Impreza and 2008-2014 Impreza WRX/STI, and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, currently, or formerly, registered in 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 the District of Columbia. Salt water could splash on the brake lines through a gap in the fuel tank protector, resulting in excessive corrosion of the brake lines. Note that affected vehicles not currently, or formerly registered, in the salt belt states identified above are eligible for repair, at no cost to the customer, upon request.
Risk. Brake line corrosion may result in brake fluid leakage. Fluid leakage may result in longer distances being required to slow or stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will test the brake system by depressing the brake pedal and inspecting for brake fluid leaks. If no brake fluid seepage is observed, the affected areas will be rustproofed with anti-corrosion wax. If brake fluid seepage is observed, the brake lines will be replaced followed by rustproofing with anti-corrosion wax. These services will be performed free of charge. The recall began July 2014 and second notifications will run through November 2014. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's recall campaign number is WQK-47. Note: This recall supersedes recall 13V-110 which applied to certain 2005-2009 Legacy/Outback vehicles. Vehicles that were remedied under the previous campaign still need additional areas rust-proofed.
Defect. THULE, INC. IS RECALLING 2,323 OWNER-INSTALLED ROOF-MOUNTED FIT KITS, MODELS 3068 AND 3069, MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JANUARY 1, 2008 AND FEBRUARY 28, 2009 THAT ARE USED WITH THULE PODIUM FOOT PACKS, MODELS 460 AND 460R. THESE FIT KITS WERE SOLD AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE BOLT(S) USED TO SECURE THE FOOT TO THE VEHICLE WAS MANUFACTURED TO A HARDNESS THAT MAY CAUSE THE BOLT(S) TO BE BRITTLE AND POTENTIALLY BREAK UNDER STRESS.
Risk. THIS MAY RESULT IN THE BOLT(S) SNAPPING OFF DURING USE OR WITHOUT A LOAD. THE UNSECURED RACK AND LOAD CAN THEN COME LOOSE WHILE DRIVING CREATING A POTENTIAL ROAD HAZARD, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. THULE WILL MAIL A RETRO FIT KIT ALONG WITH REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS TO OWNERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE APRIL 13, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THULE TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-238-2388.
All 15 campaigns on file, newest first.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Visibility › Rearview Mirrors/Devices
Filed Sep 30, 202636,560 milesOH
The contact owns a 2009 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that on two separate occasions while driving at various speeds, the rear-view mirror detached from the windshield. The smart rear-view mirror was attached to the mirror by a cord and was swinging back and forth after detaching. The contact was severely traumatized after the failure, and the mirror became a distraction while driving. After the first failure, the vehicle was taken to the dealer and repaired under warranty. After the second failure, the vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 36,560.
Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Nov 26, 2025202,000 milesWA
Odometer Fraud. The contact recently purchased a 2009 Subaru Impreza. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 189,822. The contact stated that the vehicle experienced failures and was taken to AutoZone, where it was discovered that the mileage on the title of the vehicle was 202,000.
Power Train
Filed Jul 17, 202354,000 milesMA
The contact owns a 2009 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the transmission failed to properly shift. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was able to pull over on the side of the road and shut off the vehicle. Once the contact restarted the vehicle, the vehicle started operating normally; however, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the clutch pedal bracket had fractured and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the vehicle was under recall however, the recall had expired. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 54,000.
Electrical System
Filed Jan 14, 2023CT
There was a brake light switch failure which was under recall. The failure caused a short in my electrical system and wires in my bulk head wiring harness melted and fused together causing a ultimate failure of the vehicle being able to start. The vehicle was towed to subaru, the brake light switch was fixed per the recall but the wiring harness is no longer made by subaru so my vehicle could not be repaired. Ultimately my vehicle was ruined. The brake switch failure is the cause of the short that ruined this vehicle valued at 4800$ and subaru wont fix it because they cant find the parts needed
Engine
Filed Aug 23, 2022RI
The head gaskets have failed multiple times with this vehicle within a 6 month timeframe. The head gaskets have been a reported recall issue for other models of Subaru Impreza's except the non-turbo ones which this one is. The shop where is has been repaired at repairs several Subaru's that are non-turbo models monthly due to blown head gaskets. The head gasket failure in my vehicle has caused other components to fail, i.e. the radiator, power steering rack and 2 catalytic converters. I have all of my receipts for the repairs that where a direct result of the head gaskets being blown twice within 6 months and the total spent was $4,558.53 the car cost $5750.00 to buy.
Exterior Lighting
Filed Jun 19, 2022AK
1. The weakness (dimness) of the low beams is a DANGEROUS situation. The assemblies are not dirty or oxidized; the low beam height was properly adjusted; Tested the power going to each light and it showed 14 volts; Bought some high power LED bulbs which didn't help. I am very hesitant to spend up to $400 for new assemblies hoping that maybe it will fix the problem. I have adjusted the high beam level to the height of what the low beams were and now have to use the high beams as low beams to sufficiently see the road and now have no high beams if I need them. Subaru should be recalling and replacing these faulty assemblies immediately. 2. Wheel lugs shear off when being removed. When the lug nuts were put on, they were tightened with a torque wrench to manufacturer specifications. This is the only vehicle (out of the 13 I have owned) I have ever had this problem with. Subaru should be recalling and replacing lugs immediately with lugs of proper materials immediately.
Air Bags
Filed Jun 9, 2021AK
The problem: like over 50% of adult Americans, I am female. I am 5' 3.5" tall (average for N. America, folks!) and weigh 109 lbs. I am also 66 years old and it's likely that despite my very active lifestyle (I'm a backpacker etc.), my bones are more brittle than a 25-y.o. man's. Your agency has failed in its duty to ensure the safety of ALL Americans. not just men and fat women. In order to reach the accelerator and see over the dashboard, i.e. in order to drive these vehicles which have passed your safety requirements, I sit in the death zone of the driver airbags and steering wheel column in all three vehicles I own: this 2009 Impreza, my 2000 Outback station wagon, and my 2012 Ford F350 Winnebago RV. Please don't tell me that I should buy one of the very few vehicles that might fit me better. I live on a mountainside in Alaska and need winter traction and handling. Why should my vehicle choices be narrowed because you have failed to recognizew that I exist? As a retired federal scientist and policy wonk with a law degree, I am appalled at your agency's callousness towards me and other average height drivers. How long will it take my government, staffed by people whose salaries I pay, to recognize that the male body is not the default for all humans? I am letting my Senator, Lisa Murkowshi, know that it's well past time for the NHTSA to protect me as well as it protects my husband.
Unknown or Other
Filed Nov 23, 2020101,000 milesVA
SEVERAL HOURS AFTER HAVING WORK PERFORMED ON MY CAR, I WAS TURNING LEFT FROM ONE ROAD TO ANOTHER, BOTH WITH SPEED LIMITS AROUND 40 MPH. WHILE TURNING LEFT AND SIMULTANEOUSLY SHIFTING FROM 4TH TO 2ND GEAR. WHILE TRAVELING ABOUT 15 MPH IN THE MIDDLE OF THE TURN, THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED AND I BECAME AWARE THAT THE CAR HAD STALLED. I HAD TO PULL THE EMERGENCY BRAKE TO STOP THE CAR AND SKIDDED OFF THE ROAD, WHICH CAUSED THE CAR BEHIND ME TO BRAKE SUDDENLY IN THE MIDDLE OF AN INTERSECTION. I WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE CAR IMMEDIATELY. IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE INCIDENT, I HAD THE CAR THOROUGHLY INSPECTED AND NO MECHANICAL ISSUES WERE FOUND. THE REASON SUSPECTED FOR THIS WAS DUE TO A DESIGN FLAW IN THE THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR, WHICH IN CERTAIN SUBARUS CAN RESET AFTER THE CAR'S BATTERY HAS BEEN DISCONNECTED (TO PERFORM SERVICE ON THE CAR, IN THIS CASE). WHEN THE SENSOR IS RESET, THE CAR WILL TEND TO STALL WHEN THE RPMS DROP, EITHER WHEN COMING TO A STOP LIGHT OR DOWNSHIFTING IN MANUAL TRANSMISSION CARS. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE REPORTED BY MANY OWNERS AND MECHANICS. I WAS ADVISED BY A SUBARU DEALER THAT THE SUBARU RELEARN IDLE PROCEDURE NEEDS TO BE PERFORMED TO RESTORE PROPER IDLE PERFORMANCE AFTER THE BATTERY HAS BEEN DISCONNECTED. I HAVE EXPERIENCED MY CAR STALLING SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE YEARS DUE TO THIS ISSUE, BUT NEVER BEFORE WHILE THE CAR WAS IN MOTION. IT HAS BEEN INSPECTED MULTIPLE TIMES AND NO MECHANICAL ISSUES RELATED TO THIS ISSUE HAVE BEEN FOUND. I BELIEVE THIS IS EXTREMELY DANG
Power Train
Filed Jul 25, 202088,000 milesTX
THE FIREWALL PREVENTS THE VEHICLE FROM ENGAGING IN GEARS WHILE DRIVING
Power Train
Filed Jul 20, 202060,238 milesFL
09 WRX HATCH, WHEN THE CLUTCH IS DEPRESSED IT WILL MAKE A CREAKING NOISE. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, THE FIREWALL FLEXES A LOT WHILE THE CLUTCH IS PRESSED IN. IT IS GETTING LOUDER AND IS STARTING TO AFFECT THE BRAKE PEDAL BY MOVING IT EVERYTIME THE CLUTCH IS DEPRESSED.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Jul 20, 202060,520 milesFL
09 WRX HATCH, THE TRACTION CONTROL AND HILL ASSIST LIGHTS WILL ILLUMINATE SPORADICALLY. AFTER THE VEHICLE IS TURNED OFF AND THEN BACK ON , EVERYTHING WORKS FINE. I HAVEN'T FOUND ANY VARIABLES THAT ARE CONSISTENT. IT DOESN'T MATTER IF IT'S RAIN OR SHINE, HOT OR COLD, BOTH LIGHTS WILL JUST RANDOMLY COME ON.
Structure › Body
Filed Apr 30, 2020101,000 milesFL
MY CAR JUST BROKE ON ME. THE SHOP SHOWED ME HOW THE FIREWALL WAS BUILT ON THESE MODELS AND HOW IT WAS CHANGED FROM PREVIOUS MODELS. I SHOULDN'T HAVE TO WORRRY ABOUT THE FIREWALL BREAKING ON ME WITH ONLY 100K MILES ON MY CAR. THIS IS DANGEROUS THE FIREWALL BROKE ON ME WHILE DRIVING AND RENDERED THE CAR UNDRIVEABLE. LUCKILY I WAS ABLE TO GET OFF THE ROAD BEFORE POTENTIALLY CAUSING A MAJOR ACCIDENT. THIS IS A HAZARD FOR ANYONE WHO BUYS THESE CARS BECAUSE THE FIREWALL CAN BREAK ANYTIME REALLY DEPENDING ON HOW HARD THE CAR IS DRIVEN ALTHOUGH IT SHOULD REALISTICALLY NEVER BREAK.
Engine
Filed Feb 10, 202080,000 milesID
HEAD GASKET FAILURE AT 80,000 MILES. LEAKED OUT 1.5 QUARTS OF OIL ON ROAD TRIP
Structure › Body
Filed Jan 25, 202010,000 milesNN
HAD A CLUTCH REPAIR DONE ON CAR AFTER THE REPAIR WAS FINISHED THE MECHANIC NOTED THAT THE FIREWALL ON CAR WAS CRACKED. THE CAR WAS STATIONARY AFTER LOOKING ON THE INTERNET AND NOTED THAT THE SUBARU WRX IMPRIZA FROM 2009-214 HAD A PROBLEM WITH FIRE WALL FATIGUE WHEN THE CLUTCH AND BRAKE WERE BEING USED UNDER NORMAL OPERATION CONDITION.
Service Brakes
Filed Jan 5, 202028,000 milesFL
SUBARU OF AMERICA INC. SHOULD RECALL 2008-2014 IMPREZA, IMPREZA WRX, AND IMPREZA WRX STI. THESE VEHICLES JUST ABOVE THE DRIVERS FEET, USE 6 SPOTS WELDS TO HOLD A MOUNTING BRACKET FOR THE PEDAL ASSEMBLY TO THE INSIDE OF THE FIREWALL.THIS DESIGN FLAW, WHERE THE PEDAL MOUNTING BOX IS SPOT-WELDED TO THE FIREWALL USING ONLY A HANDFUL OF TINY SPOT WELDS IS DANGEROUS. THE FIREWALL ITSELF IS OF A WEAK DESIGN AND INHERENTLY HAS QUITE A BIT OF FLEX AND OVER TIME AND NORMAL USE THESE SPOT WELDS FAIL FROM TOO MUCH STRESS AND THE PEDALS WILL BEGIN TO SQUEAK, CREAK, POP AND EVENTUALLY THE PEDALS WILL MOVE AWAY FROM THE FIREWALL WHEN DEPRESSED. ONCE THIS HAPPENS THE CLUTCH AND OTHER PEDALS WILL NO LONGER PROPERLY ENGAGE OR DISENGAGE AND THE CAR WILL NO LONGER BE DRIVABLE. IN THE EVENT OF THIS FAILURE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS POTENTIALLY CATASTROPHIC LOSS OF LIFE AND ENDANGERING THE PUBLIC. SAFETY RISK FIREWALL FAILURE POTENTIAL RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL. THE SUDDEN LOSS OF FUNCTION OF PEDAL ASSEMBLY INCLUDING CLUTCH, BRAKE, AND ACCELERATION PEDALS. LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL MAY LEAD TO OCCUPANTS HAVING SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH ESPECIALLY AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. REMEDY SUBARU WILL NOTIFY THEIR OWNERS. DEALERS WILL FACILITATE THE, PERMANENT SOLUTION WHICH INVOLVES PROPERLY WELDING THE PEDAL ASSEMBLY BOX TO THE FIREWALL WITH A CONTINUOUS SEAM WELD ALONG THE CIRCUMFERENCE OF THE MOUNTING TAB, FREE OF CHARGE. SOURCES: HTTP://WWW.CIRCUITMOTORSPORTS-BLOG.COM/2015/04/THE-2008-2014-SUBARU-IMPREZA-CLUTCH.HT
Engine
Filed Dec 21, 201972,000 milesMD
MOTOR WENT OUT WITH 72000 MILES WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY DRIVING. TRANSFER CASE BEARINGS SHOT. POWER STEERING RACK DONE AND FIREWALL HAS CRACKED FOR A 2ND TIME. SUBARU ARE PROBABLY THE MOST UNSAFE VEHICLES ON THE ROAD.
Electrical System › Horn
Filed Oct 4, 201960,000 milesCO
COMPRESSING CLUTCH PEDAL CLICKS 3 TIMES LOUDLY WHEN CAR IS ON OR OFF. SOUNDS LIKE UNDER DRIVERS DASHBOARD. *TR THE CONSUMER STATED AIR BAG LIGHT ON, HORN ISNT WORKING, AND STEERING WHEEL IS OFF CENTER. *TR
Structure › BodyCrash
Filed Sep 6, 2019155,000 milesWI
I CALLED SUBARU ALMOST 5 MONTHS AGO WHEN I CAME ACROSS THERE WAS A RECALL ON BRAKES SINCE WE WERE HAVING THE ISSUE OF THE BRAKES FLASHING AND THE VEHICLE NOT SHIFTING. MANUFACTURER RECALL #: WUE90 ON 2-28-19. NHTSA RECALL #: 19V149000. WHEN I CALLED THEY SAID THEY DID NOT HAVE THE PARTS YET TO FIX. ON 8-29-19 THE CAR WAS IN AN ACCIDENT AND BRAKES LIGHT WAS CHIMING AND FLASHING EARLIER AND MAY BE RELATED TO WHY IT DID NOT STOP IN TIME AND WAS INVOLCED IN A REAR END CRASH WHEN DRIVER IN FRONT SLAMMED ON BRAKES. A AUTO SHOP THEN TELLS ME AFTER THE CAR WAS REPORTED IN THE ACCIDENT SOMMERS SUBARU CALLED THEM ON 9-4-19 TO TELL THE CAR HAD A BRAKE SAFETY RECALL. I HAVE MADE A PREVIOUS COMPLAINT ABOUT THIS VEHICLE ON 4-19-19. COMPLAINT # 11197303
Air Bags
Filed Aug 16, 2019CT
TAKATA RECALL. I WENT TO THE DEALER AND WAS TOLD THAT THEY WOULD EITHER REQUIRE ME TO PAY TO HAVE AFTERMARKET GUAGES REMOVED PRIOR TO THEM PERFORMING THE RECALL, OR THEY WOULD NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGE THEY CAUSED TO MY AFTERMARKET GUAGES WHILE PERFORMING THE RECALL. THE FREE RECALL IS GOING TO COST ME MONEY THAT I SHOULDN'T HAVE TO PAY.
Structure › Body
Filed Jul 10, 2019170,000 milesME
TODAY (JULY 10, 2019) I DISCOVERED THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR DOOR OF MY 2009 IMPREZA WILL NOT OPEN FROM THE INSIDE EVEN WHEN THE CHILD LOCK IS IN THE FREE POSITION. I HAVE A SIMILAR PROBLEM WITH THE SAME DOOR ON MY 2014 OUTBACK, IN THAT THE CHILD LOCK IS STUCK IN THE LOCKED POSITION AND THE DOOR CANNOT BE OPENED FROM THE INSIDE. I DON'T THINK IT'S A COINCIDENCE THAT BOTH OF MY SUBARUS ARE HAVING A PROBLEM WITH THE CHILD SAFETY LOCKS AND I WOULD LIKE THIS INVESTIGATED.
Engine
Filed Jun 27, 201998,000 milesPA
2009 SUBARU WITH LESS THAN 100,000 HAS A HEAD GASKET LINKING ONTO CATALITIC CONVERTER.HAD SAME PROBLEM WITH 2005 IMPREZA WITH 95,000 MILES .WHEN I BOUGHT 2009 I WAIT WAS TOLD PROBLEM HAD BEEN RESOLVED.OBVIOUSLY NOT ! NOW I HAVE TO PAY 1,600 DOLLARS TO HAVE IT REPAIRED.NOT HAPPY WITH SUBARU,WILL NOT BUY ANOTHER ONE.
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jun 18, 2019100,000 milesMO
WHEN TRYING TO PUT FUEL IN MY CAR AT THE PUMP, THE FUEL INSTANTLY STARTING SPEWING OUT EVEN THOUGH I KNOW I HAVE AN EMPTY TANK. BASED ON RESEARCH, SUBARU HAS A VALVE IN THE TANK THAT IS DEFECTIVE AND CAUSES THIS. THERE IS NO WAY I CAN FILL MY TANK UP AND I AM COVERED IN FUEL.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed May 30, 2019WI
THE O2 SENSOR WAS REPLACED BY RESALE DEALER, AFTER FILLING CAR WITH GAS THE CHECK ENGINE, TRACTION CONTROL, AND FLASHING CRUISE CONTROL LIGHT CAME ON. SENSOR WAS RECHECKED BY DEALER, AND IT IS OKAY, CODES WIPED AND RESET. CAR WAS FILLED WITH GAS, LIGHTS CAME BACK ON AFTER COMMUTING BACK HOME. DROVE UNTIL THERE WAS 1/4 TANK LEFT, LIGHTS WENT OFF, FILLED BACK UP WITH GAS ALL THE LIGHTS CAME BACK ON. SENSOR STILL TESTS BACK AS THE PROBLEM, BUT THE SENSOR IS OKAY.
Engine
Filed May 10, 2019DC
2009 SUBARU IMPREZA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO FAILED HEAD GASKET. *LD *JS
Service Brakes
Filed Apr 19, 2019141,000 milesWI
TAKATA RECALL AND SAFETY RECALL WUE90 NHTSA CAMPAIGN: 19V149000 BRAKE LAMP SWITCH. ON APRIL 4TH, 2019 I CALLED MULTIPLE DEALERS FOR THIS RECALL AND THE TAKATA RECALL AND THEY COULD NOT GET ME IN UNTIL MAY 11TH FOR AIRBAG AND THE BRAKE RECALL THEY DO NOT HAVE PARTS YET FOR IT AND THE CARS BRAKE LIGHT IS ON. THE LAST WEEK AND A HALF THE BRAKES HAVE BEEN GOOFY AND LIGHT ILLUMINATED WHICH IS PART OF THE RECALL. MONDAY WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 55MPH THE REAR PASSENGER TIRE BLEW. CAR HAS BEEN TOWED BECAUSE IT APPEARS PART OF THE ABS SYSTEM HAS BROKE AND PIERCED THE BRAND NEW TIRE!
Service Brakes
Filed Mar 13, 2019128,060 milesVA
WHEN I BROUGHT MY 2009 SUBARU IMPREZA INTO COLONIAL SUBARU (IN VA) 2 WEEKS AGO, THERE WERE MANY ISSUES, BUT I DIDN'T KNOW THE CAUSE OR IF THEY WERE RELATED. THE STRANGEST THING WAS ALL THE ISSUES STARTED OCCURRING OUT OF NOWHERE OVER THE PAST 4 MONTHS. MY UNCLE IS A CERTIFIED SUBARU MECHANIC IN NJ AND HAS BEEN SERVICING MY CAR SINCE I BOUGHT IT IN 2013. I ALSO TOOK METICULOUS CARE OF IT FOR THE PAST 5 YEARS, AND IT WAS RUNNING PERFECTLY UNTIL NOW. THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH IT WHEN HE LOOKED AT IT IN SEPT. AND IT PASSED NJ INSPECTION IN OCT. THEN BETWEEN OCT AND FEB (ONLY 4 MONTHS), IT'S FALLING APART AND NEEDS A NEW ENGINE AND CATALYTIC CONVERTER? I ALSO DIDN'T KNOW UNTIL RESEARCHING THE ISSUES (RIGHT BEFORE I TOOK IT INTO COLONIAL) THAT THERE WERE STILL 2 OPEN RECALLS ON IT ' BRAKE LINE AND AIR BAGS (I WASN'T DRIVING MY CAR A LOT AT THE TIME OF THE RECALLS BECAUSE I WAS UNEMPLOYED, AND NEVER EVEN HEARD ABOUT THEM, SO I HAD NO IDEA). WHEN I TOOK THE CAR TO COLONIAL, I ASKED FOR THE FREE DIAGNOSTIC AND RECALL REPAIRS, BUT ALSO TOLD THEM EVERYTHING THAT WAS WRONG. THE FULL LIST I GAVE TO THEM IS IN THE ATTACHED DOC. THEY LIED ABOUT THE REAL PROBLEMS, MY CAR WAS TOWED TO HYMAN BROTHERS SUBARU, THEY FOUND THE CAUSE OF THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER DAMAGE (HEAD GASKET LEAK), BUT THEN REFUSED TO DIAGNOSE THE OTHER CRITICAL PROBLEMS THAT ARE PROVEN LINKS TO THE NEW BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH RECALL...WHICH CAUSES AN ELECTRICITY FLOW INTERRUPTION (CLEARLY SPELLED OUT IN THE NEW RECALL), THAT IS
Structure › Body
Filed Dec 17, 201890,000 milesCA
THE FIREWALL WELDS HAVE FAILED AND BROKEN, RESULTING IN STRUCTURAL FAILURE OF THE CLUTCH AND BRAKE PEDAL MOUNTS. THIS LEADS TO THE CLUTCH NOT BEING ABLE TO BE FULLY AND PROPERLY DEPRESSED, RESULTING IN HARD GEAR SHIFTS, GRINDING, EXCESS TRANSMISSION WEAR, AS WELL AS THE BRAKE PEDAL AND CLUTCH PEDAL MOVING WHEN DEPRESSED, WHICH IS OBVIOUSLY A SAFETY HAZARD IF THE PEDALS MOVE WHERE THEY SHOULDN'T WITHOUT BEING PURPOSEFULLY ADJUSTED. WHEN THE CLUTCH IS DEPRESSED, THE BRAKE PEDAL MOVES TO THE LEFT, TOWARD THE CLUTCH PEDAL AT LEAST AN INCH. THIS IS AN INCREDIBLE SAFETY HAZARD BECAUSE IN AN EMERGENCY SITUATION, IF THE BRAKE NEEDS TO BE APPLIED WHILE THE CLUTCH IS DEPRESSED, THE BRAKE PEDAL IS NOT WHERE IT SHOULD BE AND CAN BE MISSED BY MY FOOT WHILE TRYING TO APPLY THE BRAKE QUICKLY. THERE IS ALSO AN INCREDIBLY DISTRACTING AND ANNOYING SQUEAKING SOUND EVERY TIME THE CLUTCH IS DEPRESSED. SUBARU IS WELL AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM AS IT IS RELATIVELY COMMON. HOWEVER, THEY QUOTED ME $900 TO FIX IT. THIS IS A MANUFACTURE DEFECT AND SOMETHING THAT SHOULD BE TAKEN CARE OF BY THE MANUFACTURER. MY CAR HAS APPROXIMATELY 105,XXX MILES WITH THE PROBLEM STARTING AT 90,XXX MILES.
Structure › Body
Filed Dec 7, 2018IL
DURING NORMAL USE OF THE CLUTCH ON THE STREET , THE FIREWALL WELDS BRAKE OFF CAUSING THE FIREWALL TO BEND. ALSO EFFECTS THE CLUTCH PEDAL MAKING IT 'CLICK' IF NOT FIXED CAN CAUSE MORE DAMAGE.
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Oct 11, 2018150,000 milesCT
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SUBARU IMPREZA. AFTER FUELING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT NOTICED A VERY STRONG ODOR OF FUEL. THE CONTACT DROVE APPROXIMATELY THREE MILES TO HIS HOME AND THE ODOR BECAME STRONGER. THE CONTACT NOTICED FUEL LEAKING UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE WHERE THE FUEL TANK WAS LOCATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
Engine
Filed May 25, 2018105,000 milesMA
THIS IS A PROBLEM ABOUT A 2009 SUBARU IMPREZA OUTBACK SPORT WAGON, WHICH ONLY HAD 105,000 MILES ON IT AND FOUND OUT THE OIL LEAKED IS DUE TO HEAD GASKET IS ALREADY LEAKED. THE SUBARU DEALER, PLANET SUBARU, HAD A REPAIR QUOTE FOR $2,000.00. DID RESEARCH ABOUT THE ISSUE, AND FOUND THAT THIS IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM AND THAT THE ENGINES ARE KNOWN TO CONSUME TOO MUCH OIL BETWEEN OIL CHANGES. SUBARU HAS A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT AGAINST THEM FOR THE SAME PROBLEM BUT NOT THE SPECIFIC YEAR OF VEHICLE.HOWEVER, HAD CONTACT SUBARU FEW TIMES BUT SUBARU CUSTOMER SERVICE DECLINE TO ASSIST AND SUGGEST STAY AWAY FROM SUBARU.
Structure › Body
Filed May 8, 2018102,000 milesTN
CHASSIS FATIGUE AND CRACKING RESULTING IN DAMAGE/POTENTIAL COMPROMISE OF DRIVER CONTROLS. CLUTCH PEDAL ASSEMBLY BROKE AND WILL NO LONGER DISSENGAGE THE CLUTCH(DRIVETRAIN SYSTEM). THIS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING ON A LOCAL HIGHWAY AT A SPEED OF APPROXIMATELY 45MPH. I WAS FORCED TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE OFF OF THE ROAD TO AVOID A POTENTIAL COLLISION WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE WHOLE ASSEMBLY IS COMPRISED OF BOTH THE CLUTCH AND THE BRAKE PEDALS. DUE TO THE ASSEMBLY FAILURE THE BRAKE PEDAL HAS SIGNIFICANT PLAY IN IT AS WELL AND DOESNT FUNCTION PROPERLY. UPON INSPECTION I FOUND THAT STRUCTURAL WELDS ON THE FIREWALL, WHERE THE ASSEMBLY IS MOUNTED, HAVE FAILED. I CALLED SUBARUOFAMERICA ABOUT THE ISSUE ON 08 MAY 2018. I REFERENCED TWO DIFFERENT TSB'S REGARDING THIS ISSUE ON MY YEAR RANGE OF VEHICLE. 1) NHTSA ID: 10090413 TSB ID: WE 2) NHTSA ID: 10090409 TSB ID: 12-184-15 I WAS TOLD THAT THE EXTENSION TO THE WARRANTY EXPIRED IN 2013 AND THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO FOR ME. EVEN THOUGH THESE TSB'S ARE DATE 03 FEBRUARY 2017.
Structure › Body
Filed Apr 13, 2018115,000 milesMA
08-14 MANUAL SUBARUS HAVE AN ISSUE WHERE THE FIREWALL WELDS BREAK AND CAUSES A SIGNIFICANT SAFETY RISK AS THE PEDAL ASSEMBLY EITHER SAGS OR EVENTUALLY COMPLETELY BREAKS OFF. IT STARTS CREAKING AND POPPING AND THERE IS EXCESSIVE MOVEMENT OF THE CLUTCH MASTER CYLINDER WHEN THE PEDAL IS PUSHED. THE BRAKE PEDAL ALSO NOTICEABLY MOVES TO THE LEFT WHEN PRESSING THE CLUTCH. AFTER THE CREAKING STARTS IT'S ESSENTIALLY A TICKING TIME BOMB AND IS SCARY TO THINK ABOUT HAPPENING MID SHIFT OR IN TRAFFIC.
Service Brakes
Filed Nov 15, 2017AZ
CLUTCH WELDINGS ON FIREWALL CRACKING AND CAUSING MALFUNCTION OF BRAKE PEDAL. LOST OF THE ABILITY TO SHIFT UP OR DOWN.
Air Bags
Filed Sep 27, 2017NV
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SUBARU IMPREZA. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V026000 (AIR BAGS). 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 DEALER WAS CONTACTED (LITHIA RENO SUBARU IN RENO, NV, 775-800-5534) AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Engine
Filed Jul 19, 2017120,000 milesCT
I HAVE A PRETTY BAD OIL LEAK. MECHANIC SAID IT'S A FAILED HEAD GASKET. HE DID TELL ME THAT MY CAR IS TOO NEW WITH A LOWER THAN AVERAGE MILEAGE FOR IT TO HAVE FAILED THE WAY IT DID. HE ACTUALLY TOLD ME TO COMPLAIN TO YOU GUYS AND ALSO FIGHT WITH THE DEALERSHIP AND SUBARU OF NORTH AMERICA BECAUSE I SHOULD NOT BE HAVING THIS PROBLEM. HE SAID IT'S ALL ON THEM.
Unknown or Other
Filed May 23, 2017130,000 milesTN
BROKEN FIREWALL CLUTCH BRACKET WELDS.
Engine
Filed May 4, 201798,000 milesPA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SUBARU IMREZA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A PISTON PREMATURELY FRACTURED, CAUSING CATASTROPHIC FAILURE TO THE ENGINE ASSEMBLY. THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE DRIVEN. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE AND THEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT PROVIDED NO SOLUTION. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 98,000.
Structure › Body
Filed Mar 25, 201767,000 milesNJ
SUN VISOR DROOP...CAUSES VISIBILITY ISSUES. HAS BEEN PRETTY WELL DOCUMENTED IN VARIOUS SUBARU FORUMS. MINE IS IN THE DRIVER SIDE, BUT I HAVE SEEN BOTH SIDES DROOP BEING AN ISSUE.
Electrical SystemFire
Filed Feb 14, 2017145,000 milesIL
WTM-73 RECALL. THE RECALL WAS PERFORMED AT WEBSTER GROVE SUBARU IN ST. LOUIS ON JAN 12, 2017. ON FEBRUARY 10, 2017 THE CAR WAS TRAVELING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS ALONG I-74 NEAR CHAMPAIGN URBANA IL. THE TRACTION CONTROL, ENGINE LIGHT AND OIL LIGHT CAME ON, THEN THE AND SMOKE BEGAN TO BELLOW FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE CAR WAS GUIDED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THE DRIVE AND OCCUPANT EXITED THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS SHORTLY ENGULFED IN FLAMES AFTER THAT. I TOOK PHOTOS OF THE REMAINS ON FEB 13, 2017 AT REYNOLDS TOW SERVICE IN CHAMPAIGN IL. THE AREA OF OF THE FUSE AND RELAY BOX UNDER THE HOOD APPEAR TO BE THE STARTING AREA OF THE FIRE. I BELIEVE THE RECALL DID NOT REPAIR THE PROBLEM WITH THE SECONDARY AIR PUMP ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT.
Air Bags
Filed Feb 3, 2017AL
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SUBARU IMPREZA. 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 FAILURE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Air Bags
Filed Dec 21, 2016FL
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SUBARU IMPREZA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V358000 (AIR BAGS) WAS RECEIVED IN MAY. AFTER CONTACTING THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS, THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE PARTS NEEDED FOR THE RECALL REMEDY WERE STILL NOT AVAILABLE AND NO ESTIMATED TIME FOR RECEIVING THE PARTS COULD BE PROVIDED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
Air Bags
Filed Dec 16, 2016NY
TAKATA RECALL - I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED WITH HOW SUBARU IS HANDLING MY RECALL REPAIR. I MADE AN APPOINTMENT WITH BAY RIDGE SUBARU IN BROOKLYN NY ON 11/21/16 TO HAVE THE WORK DONE TO REPLACE MY AIRBAG ON 12/19/16, THEY TOOK MY VEHICLE MAKE, MODEL AND VIN AND ASSURED ME THEY HAD THE PART IN STOCK AND WERE HOLDING IT FOR THIS APT. I EVEN RECEIVED AN EMAIL CONFIRMING THIS INFORMATION. I RECEIVED A CALL ON 12/16 SAYING THEY DIDN'T HAVE THE PART AND THAT MY APPOINTMENT HAD NO VEHICLE INFORMATION IN IT. THE SERVICE MANAGER I SPOKE WITH TOLD ME THAT I SHOULD TAKE THE CAR TO WHERE I PURCHASED IT FOR RECALL REPAIRS. I'M HIGHLY DISAPPOINTED. NOT ONLY HAVE LOST OUT ON THE FULL USE OF MY VEHICLE SINCE THE RECALL WAS ANNOUNCED 6 MONTHS AGO, THIS EPISODE HAS REDUCED MY CONFIDENCE IN SUBARU'S COMMITMENT TO CORRECTING THIS PROBLEM. *TR
Structure › Body
Filed Nov 28, 2016110,000 milesTX
DUE TO THE FIREWALL FLEXING EVERY TIME THE CLUTCH PEDAL IS DEPRESSED, OVER TIME THE SPOT WELDS CONNECTING THE CLUTCH PEDAL MOUNTING BRACKET TO THE FIREWALL FAIL. THIS ALLOWS FOR PLAY IN THE ENTIRE CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL ASSEMBLY. GIVEN ENOUGH OF THE WELDS BREAK, THE VEHICLE CAN NO LONGER BY PUT INTO GEAR. I BECAME UNABLE TO PUT THE CAR INTO REVERSE OR FIRST GEAR FROM A DEAD STOP. IT TOOK ABOUT 5 MINUTES OF TRYING TO GET IT INTO 1ST TO GET HOME. LUCKILY THIS DID NOT OCCUR WHILE AT SPEED.
Structure › Body
Filed Nov 21, 2016CA
FIRE WALL WHERE THE CLUTCH MASTER CILINDER SITS MOVES IN AND OUT WHEN CLUTCH IS DEPRESSED MAKING A CRACKING NOICE, AND CAUSING FIRE WALL METAL TOMEXPAND
Air Bags
Filed Nov 4, 201678,000 milesPA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SUBARU IMPREZA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V358000 (AIR BAGS) WAS RECEIVED IN JULY. AFTER CONTACTING THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS, THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE PARTS NEEDED FOR THE RECALL REMEDY WERE STILL NOT AVAILABLE AND NO ESTIMATED TIME FOR RECEIVING THE PARTS COULD BE PROVIDED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. *TR
Air Bags
Filed Oct 17, 2016NY
TAKATA RECALL - IT HAS BEEN OVER 4 MONTHS SINCE THE AIRBAG IN MY CAR WAS RECALLED. IT IS VERY DISAPPOINTING THAT PARTS ARE STILL NOT AVAILABLE, AND THAT THE MANUFACTURER STILL CANNOT PROVED AN ETA FOR PARTS.
Structure › Body
Filed Oct 17, 2016115,000 milesCA
THE CLUTCH PEDAL ON MY 2009 WRX CONSTANTLY REQUIRES ADJUSTMENT TO ENABLE THE RELEASE OF THE CLAMP PRESSURE ON THE DRIVEN PLATE OF THE CLUTCH ASSEMBLY WHEN THE CLUTCH FOOT PEDAL IS DEPRESSED. UPON INVESTIGATING A CREAKING NOISE, I NOTICED THAT THE ENTIRE CLUTCH PEDAL BRACKET ASSEMBLY (ATTACHED TO THE FORWARD FIREWALL) SHIFTS APPROX 1/4 INCH TO THE LEFT AND DOWN EACH TIME THE CLUTCH PEDAL IS ACTIVATED. THIS CLUTCH PEDAL BRACKET ASSEMBLY HAS THREE BROKEN SPOT WELDS SECURING THE CLUTCH PEDAL BRACKET TO THE FORWARD FIREWALL. FROM THE OUTSIDE OF THE FIREWALL, UNDERNEATH THE DRIVER'S SIDE WINDSHIELD WIPER, I CONFIRMED THE MANUFACTURER'S SPOT WELDS ARE PULLING AWAY FROM THE FIREWALL EACH TIME THE CLUTCH PEDAL IS DEPRESSED. THIS WELD DEFECT STEMMING FROM THE MANUFACTURER ALLOWS THE ENTIRE CLUTCH PEDAL BRACKET ASSEMBLY TO MOVE UNSECURED, ULTIMATELY PREVENTING THE TRANSMISSION TO ENGAGE THE VEHICLE INTO 1ST, 2ND, OR REVERSE GEAR. I HAVE BEEN ABLE TO MAKE CLUTCH PEDAL ADJUSTMENTS TO TEMPORARILY ENGAGE THE GEARS, HOWEVER IF THE BRACKET COMPLETELY SEPARATES FROM THE FIREWALL, THE CLUTCH MAY BECOME INOPERATIVE. THIS NOTORIOUS DEFECT IS WELL KNOWN AMONG SUBARU CAR OWNERS AND IS INDEED A SAFETY ISSUE THAT CAN DIRECTLY CAUSE A VEHICLE COLLISION.
Structure › Body
Filed Sep 20, 2016CA
STRUCTURAL DEFECT OF THE SPOT WELD OF THE CLUTCH BRAKE PEDAL ASSEMBLY TO THE FIREWALL. ASSEMBLY SHIFT LEFT WHEN CLUTCH PEDAL IS DEPRESSED. NOW IT IS VERY HARD TO PUT THE CAR IN REVERSE.
Air Bags
Filed Sep 16, 2016AK
TAKATA RECALL NOTICE ARRIVE IN JUNE. REMEDY NOT AVAILABLE AND NOW IN MID SEPTEMBER STILL NOT AVAILABLE. VEHICLE IS REPORTEDLY UNSAFE FOR PASSENGERS - AND NO INDICATION EXISTS OF WHEN REMEDY WILL OCCUR. IN MEANTIME, SUBARU HAS OFFERED NO RENTAL CAR ALTERNATIVE OR OTHER COMPENSATION FOR INCONVENIENCE.
Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Jul 5, 201691,000 milesUT
I HAD JUST TURNED AND PUSHED ON THE GAS TO GET UP TO SPEED-ABOUT 45MPH. THE CAR WOULD NOT STOP ACCELERATING/REVVING. I WAS HEADING TO A LIGHT TURNING RED. I PUSHED ON THE BRAKE AS HARD AS I COULD AND ALSO BUT ON THE EMERGENCY BREAK. BETWEEN THE TWO, I OVERCAME THE ACCELERATION. ONCE STOPPED, I PUT THE CAR INTO NEUTRAL AND THEN INTO PARK. AT THAT POINT THE ACCELERATION FINALLY STOPPED AND THE CAR SEEMED TO RESET ITSELF. I TOOK IT IN TO BE LOOKED AT-IT HAD NEVER DONE THAT BEFORE-VERY SCARY. I HAVE HEARD OF THIS PROBLEM WITH TOYOTA'S, BUT NEVER SUBARUS.
Complaints 1-50 of 104, newest first, reproduced as filed.
No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Jan 2, 2020. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.