Model year

2002 Subaru WRX

Wagon, AWD/All-Wheel Drive, built in Japan. Owner complaints on file from Aug 23, 2001 to Oct 6, 2018.

Recall campaigns covering this model year293k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints42753.4 times the median 2002 wagon
Severity index5.42002 wagons average 6.9
First 24 months45Complaints in its first two years
Complaints over time

Complaints about the 2002 Subaru WRX peaked in 2004, with 148 filed

Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.

050100150200120041482007201020132016201920222026
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Components

69% of complaints about the 2002 Subaru WRX name fuel system

Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.

Fuel system
295
Brakes
80
Engine and cooling
18
Powertrain
16
Visibility and wipers
8
Suspension
6
Airbags
3
Electrical system
3
Structure
3
Tires
2
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls

2 recall campaigns cover the 2002 Subaru WRX

Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.

Recall campaigns for the 2002 Subaru WRX
CampaignFiledSubjectComponentVehiclesRemedy
09V-468Dec 4, 2009During cold starts, typically under extremely cold temperatures, fuel leaks in the fuel delivery line could occur where the line connects with a…Fuel system5,724Part replacement
06E-060Jun 29, 2006Certain aai motorsports combination lamps sold as replacement lamps for use on the above list passenger vehiclesLighting87,745Part replacement
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints

What owners reported about the 2002 Subaru WRX

The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.

427 complaints on file, page 1 of 22.

  1. Filed Oct 6, 2018Failure Oct 1, 2018148,000 milesLOS Angeles, CAFuel/propulsion system

    A FUEL LINE UNDER THE INTAKE MANIFOLD LOCATED ON THE PASSENGER SIDE IS LEAKING GAS ON COLD STARTS. THIS IS MY SECOND TIME DEALING WITH THIS ISSUE. AS OF NOW, IT IS ONLY LEAKING GAS WHEN THE ENGINE IS COLD, BUT THE LEAKING IS STARTING TO GET WORSE AND FASTER THAN BEFORE. THE FIRST TIME I HAD THIS ISSUE IT WAS LEAKING GAS REGARDLESS OF ENGINE TEMPERATURE. IT IS ONLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE IT STARTS TO LEAK AT ANY GIVEN MOMENT WITH A POSSIBILITY TO CAUSE A FIRE PUTTING MY LIFE AND OTHERS AT RISK. I LIVE IN THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA AND THIS RECALL HAS ONLY BEEN ANNOUNCED FOR "COLD WEATHER" STATES. IT IS EVIDENT THAT THIS FUEL LINE PROBLEM HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THE WEATHER SINCE I LIVE IN A WARM CLIMATE. THIS PROBIEM IS UNFIXABLE AND TIME CONSUMING. I HAD ALREADY TRIED TO SOLVE THIS ISSUE AT MY LOCAL REPAIR SHOP AND IT ENDED UP BEING A WASTE OF TIME AND MONEY. THIS IS CLEARLY A MANUFACTURER'S PROBLEM. SUBARU NEEDS TO ISSUE A NATIONAL RECALL FOR THIS VEHICLE.

    NHTSA complaint 11133638
  2. Filed Mar 14, 2017Failure Sep 1, 200250 milesIndependence, OHFuel/propulsion system

    I HAVE THE TERRIBLE GASOLINE SMELL IN AND OUTSIDE OF THE CAR AS A RESULT OF A RECALL THAT IS NOT VALID IN THE STATE OF OHIO. AS SUBARU THINKS OHIO IS NOT A COLD WEATHER STATE AND HAS DENIED THE RECALL ON MY VEHICLE. IT SMELLS THE WHOLE HOUSE. IT IS SICKENING. I HAVE BEEN PUTTING UP FOR IT SINCE I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE AND AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER. ACCORDING TO THE RECALL, IT CAN CAUSE A FIRE. I CANNOT PURCHASE ANOTHER CAR, AND SUBARU WILL NOT HONOR THE RECALL BECAUSE I LIVE IN OHIO (A VERY VERY COLD STATE).

    NHTSA complaint 10965915
  3. Filed Dec 19, 2016Failure Jan 1, 200975,000 milesIndependence, OHBody, Unknown or other

    THE BODY IS DETERIORATING SO FAST. I LAUGH AT THE SUBARU COMMERCIAL WHERE THE PARENTS GIVE THEIR KIDS THE OLD CAR. I WOULD NOT TRUST THE OLD SUBARU TO KEEP MY CHILDREN SAFE. I'VE HAD TO REPLACE THE FRAME, AND AM LETTING THE BODY RUST. THE SICKENING SMELL OF FUMES LIKE GAS IN THE WINTER ARE HORRIBLE. WHEN I KEEP THE SUBARU IN THE GARAGE, IT MAKES MY WHOLE HOUSE TOXIC WITH FUMES. SUBARU WILL NOT HONOR THE RECALL ON IT, BECAUSE I AM IN OHIO, AND OHIO IS NOT A "COLD-WEATHER" STATE, BUT DO THEY REALIZE WE HAVE TONS OF SNOW AND FRIGID TEMPERATURES IN THE WINTER. I CAN'T STAND BY SUBARU NO LONGER, BUT CANNOT AFFORD A NEW CAR. WHEN I DO, IT WILL NOT BE A SUBARU.

    NHTSA complaint 10936296
  4. Filed Dec 13, 2016Failure Dec 9, 2016177,000 milesSeattle, WAEngine, Fuel/propulsion system

    FUEL RAIL ON 2002 WRX IS LEAKING HEAVILY ON THE ENGINE. THIS IS A HIGH FIRE HAZARD AS WELL AS NOXIOUS FOR PASSENGERS IN THE CAR AS IT SMELLS HEAVILY OF FUEL. SINCE I LIVE IN WASHINGTON STATE SUBARU OF AMERICA HAS NOT HONORED THE RECALL THEY'VE PUT IN OTHER STATES FOR THIS EXACT ISSUE. SUBARU HAS DENIED WARRANTY REPAIR DUE TO THE EXTENDED WARRANTY EXPIRING FOR THIS ISSUE IN 2013. I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED OF THIS ISSUE. I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER OF THIS CAR AND HAVE TAKEN IT IN FOR EVERY OTHER RECALL ISSUE THAT I'VE BEEN NOTIFIED OF. THIS IS RECKLESS AND DANGEROUS. THE LOCAL REPAIR SHOP HAS SAID THEY DON'T THINK IT IS CORRECT TO CHARGE ME FOR LABOR AND PARTS THAT SHOULD BE COVERED UNDER WARRANTY BY SUBARU AND HAVE DIRECTED ME TO THE DEALERSHIP. THE DEALERSHIP ASKED ME TO GET AUTHORIZATION FROM SUBARU, WHICH WAS DENIED. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT SHOULD BE COVERED UNDER WARRANTY FOR THE LIFE OF THE CAR. IT IS A BONE STOCK CAR WITH NO AFTERMARKETS PARTS OR ENHANCEMENTS.

    NHTSA complaint 10935043
  5. Filed May 12, 2016Failure Mar 23, 2012100,000 milesHurricane, UTFuel/propulsion system

    THERE IS A CONSTANT RAW FUEL SMELL WHEN DRIVING, TO THE POINT OF MAKING ME FEEL SICK, CANT EVEN DRIVE MY CAR WITHOUT ALL THE WINDOWS DOWN, IVE REASURCHED THIS ISSUE WITH OTHER MODELS USING THE SAME ENGINE & COMPONINTS THAT ARE ON THE RECALL LIST, BUT I CAN NOT GET ANY HELP FROM ANYONE AT SUBARU, EVEN WITH EXPLAINING ITS THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM AS ITHER THE FORESTER OR OUTBACK... OF A RAW FUEL SMELL FROM A FULTY GAS LINE UNDER THE MANIFOLD,,, NOT COOL THAT THEY ARE WILLING TO COMPROMISE MY SAFETY TO AVOID DOING THE FIX, OR ADDMITING THE DEFECT AFFECTS THE 2002 WRX

    NHTSA complaint 10864528
  6. Filed Feb 27, 2016Failure May 25, 2001600 milesKansas City, MOFuel/propulsion system

    WHEN THE WEATHER IS COLD AND BELOW FREEZING THERE IS A GAS LEAK AND I CAN SMELL GAS IN THE INSIDE OF MY CAR AS WELL AS OUTSIDE. IT IS HARD TO BE ABLE TO DRIVE ANYWHERE WHEN IT IS BELOW FREEZING. THERE WAS A SAFETY RECALL (HTTP://TINYURL.COM/WRXGAS) FOR THIS SITUATION IN 2009, BUT I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED. I DISCOVERED THIS RECALL WHEN I RECENTLY DECIDED TO TRY TO RESEARCH THE SITUATION AGAIN, ALTHOUGH I WAS TURNED DOWN FOR ANY HELP FROM SUBARU EARLY IN MY OWNERSHIP OF THE VEHICLE. I RECENTLY TOOK IT TO MY DEALERSHIP TO GET THE ISSUE FIXED, ONLY TO BE TOLD THAT THIS RECALL EXPIRED. I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER AND HAVE BEEN TRYING TO GET THIS RESOLVED SINCE I BOUGHT THE CAR IN MAY 2001 IN MN.

    NHTSA complaint 10838749
  7. Filed Dec 3, 2014Failure Nov 29, 2014125,600 milesNelson, NHSteering, Suspension, Wheels

    CONTROL ARMS WERE RECALLED IN 2011 FOR RUST ISSUES AND FAILURE ON THE HANGER BRACKETS. GOT THE PARTS CHECKED AT THE TIME OF THE RECALL BY A CERTIFIED SUBARU DEALERSHIP, THE DEALERSHIP SPRAYED A "RUST PROOFING" AGENT ON THE CONTROL ARMS. THREE YEARS LATER I WAS DRIVING DOWN MY ROAD AND LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE COMPLETELY. THE DRIVER SIDE LOWER CONTROL ARM HAD RUSTED THROUGH AND BROKEN AT THE HANGER BRACKET. SUBARU OF AMERICA WILL NOT COVER THE REPAIRS AS THE RECALL HAD BEEN PERFORMED ALREADY (EVEN THROUGH IT DID NOT PREVENT THE ISSUES FROM HAPPENING). *JS

    NHTSA complaint 10661992
  8. Filed Aug 21, 2014Failure Aug 1, 20021,000 milesIndependence, OHFuel system, Gasoline, Body

    I'M FILING MY COMPLAINT WITH ALL THE OTHERS ABOUT THE STRONG FUEL SMELL DURING THE COLD MONTHS. I CANNOT BELIEVE OHIO IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. I'VE TAKEN MY CAR TO THE DEALER NUMEROUS TIMES TO BE TOLD THAT THE CAR IS OKAY. FRANKLY, THIS PAST COLD WINTER HAS BEEN AWFUL. THE SMELL MAKES IT'S WAY INTO THE HOUSE. IT IS AWFUL. I CANNOT BELIEVE SUBARU DOES NOT BELIEVE OHIO IS COLD AND WILL NOT STAND BY ITS AUTOS. ALSO, WHEN I BROUGHT THE AUTO IN FOR A RECALL ON THE FRONT CONTROL ARMS, THEY ONLY RUSTPROOFED THEM AND NEVER TOLD ME THE FRAME WAS RUSTED OUT. THIS WAS AT 125,000 MILES. THIS AUTO HAS BEEN METICULOUSLY CARED FOR. IF THIS CAR IS MEANT TO BE IN ALL KINDS OF WEATHER, WHY CAN'T IT STAND UP PAST 125,000 MILES. RIDICULOUS! I HAVE THREE OTHER VEHICLES FROM OTHER BRANDS WITH MANY MORE MILES, ONE CAR OF WHICH IS STORED OUTSIDE IN THE WINTER, AND ALL THE OTHER AUTOS HAVE GREAT LASTING FRAMES. CONSIDERING I HAD ONLY 125,000 MILES, I SAVED THE MONEY AND MADE THIS EXPENSIVE REPAIR. COM'ON SUBARU MAKE A CAR THAT LASTS!!!!! *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10627180
  9. Filed Apr 23, 2014Failure Feb 11, 2014195 milesWest Haven, CTFuel system, Gasoline

    WHEN IT IS COLD OUTSIDE MY CAR SMELLS LIKE RAW FUEL VERY STRONGLY IN THE CABIN RESULTING IN HEADACHES AND DIZZINESS. THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM AMONG-ST THESE CARS AND SUBARU KNOWS ABOUT IT BECAUSE THEY HAD AN EXTENDED RECALL BUT DOES NOT COVER THE PROBLEM NOW. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10584414
  10. Filed Apr 10, 2014Failure Apr 6, 2014126,000 milesSAN Antonio, TXEngine, Fuel system, Gasoline

    WORKING NIGHT SHIFTS, STARTED MY CAR TO LET WARM UP, TEMPERATURE WAS 43 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT AT THE TIME. AFTER START UP I COULD SMELL RAW FUEL OUT SIDE THE CAR AS WELL AS INSIDE THE CAR THROUGH THE VENTS. ALSO GAS MILEAGE HAS GONE DOWN BY DRASTICALLY, NORMALLY GET 300-330 MILES A TANK AND CURRENTLY GETTING BARLEY 200. NOTICED CAR STARTING TO SMOKE A LITTLE AS WELL FROM UNDER THE HOOD, NO FIRE BUT NOT GOING TO KEEP DRIVING THE CAR. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10578785
  11. Filed Feb 13, 2014Failure Feb 5, 201492,923 milesHillsboro, ORFuel system, Gasoline, Fuel/propulsion system

    SMELL OF FUEL FROM WITHIN THE CAR DURING COLD TEMPERATURES. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE PER TSB 01-170-09. DEALERSHIP MAY DENY REPAIRS IF THEY CAN'T REPRODUCE THE ISSUE. EMAIL FROM SUBARU REGARDING THIS PROBLEM: WE WELCOME YOUR CONTACT, AS IT RELATES TO THE WVK-21 FUEL LINE WARRANTY EXTENSION. YOUR 2002 SUBARU WRX IS AFFECTED BY THE WARRANTY EXTENSION FOR THESE COMPONENTS. THE DEALERSHIP WOULD NEED TO PERFORM A DIAGNOSIS OF THE CURRENT CONCERN. THEY CAN THEN ADVISE YOU REGARDING THE ISSUE AND WHETHER IT IS THE SAME AS THE WARRANTY EXTENSION. I WOULD RECOMMEND THAT YOU MAKE AN APPOINTMENT AT A SUBARU DEALERSHIP, AT YOUR EARLIEST CONVENIENCE. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10564192
  12. Filed Dec 3, 2013Failure Dec 22, 2011Woodside, NYService brakes, Vehicle speed controlCrash1 injured

    I WORK AS A VALET ATTENDANT. I HAVE PARKED A LARGE NUMBER OF VEHICLES. I HAD TO PARK THIS VEHICLE IN A PARKING SPOT. TO PARK IN THIS SPOT I HAD TO MAKE A RIGHT TO LINE UP FOR THE SPOT. THE CAR ACCELERATED SUDDENLY. I HAD ALL MY WEIGHT ON THE BRAKES TO AVOID SLAMMING INTO A WALL,I TURNED HARD RIGHT AND CRASHED THE CAR AGAINST THE CORNER OF A CONCRETE COLUMN. THE AIRBAG DEPLOYED DURING THE ACCIDENT, THEN I HEARD A PURGE AND MULTIPLE CLICKING NOISES. THE BRAKES DID NOT STOP THE CAR AT ALL. THE BREAKS FELT ROCK HARD BEFORE THE ACCIDENT. AGAIN"THE BRAKES DID NOT STOP THIS CAR FROM CRASHING" I SUFFERED A SEVERELY FRACTURED HIP SOCKET INJURY. THIS ACCIDENT LEAVES ME WITH THE LIKELY HOOD OF NEEDING HIP REPLACEMENT DUE TO HIP ARTHRITIS. IF IT WASN'T FOR THE AIRBAG I WOULD HAVE SUFFERED SEVERE HEAD AND CHEST INJURY. I ALSO NO LONGER WORK AS A PARKING ATTENDANT, AND HAVING A HARD TIME FINDING A JOB. I AM NOT A TEENAGER JOYRIDING . I AM AN ADULT, PARKING CARS FOR A LIVING. I HAVE DRIVEN HIGH END VEHICLES WITH WAY MORE POWER, BUT HAVE NEVER EXPERIENCED ANY THING LIKE THIS. NOW I HAVE DIFFICULTY DRIVING, AND I AFRAID TO GET BEHIND THE WHEEL. I AM A MALE DRIVER WITH 20+ YEARS OF DRIVING EXPERIENCE, BUT I AM LOOKED AT AS A RECKLESS DRIVER FOR WRECKING THIS CAR. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10554688
  13. Filed Jan 28, 2013Failure Jan 24, 201338,369 milesBrookline, MASuspension

    REFERENCE: RECALL NO. 11V-464, NHTSA CAMPAIGN NO. 11V464000 THE CORROSION DISCOVERED IN MY SUBARU 2002 WRX IS FAR MORE EXTENSIVE THAN THAT COVERED BY THE RECALL RESULTING IN CITYSIDE SUBARU DEALERSHIP (1-761-641-1900) IDENTIFYING THE VEHICLE NOT SAFE TO DRIVE. THEIR ASSESSMENT OF THE DANGEROUS RUSTING, ROTTING AND NECESSARY REPAIRS IS QUOTED HERE (I CAN PROVIDE A FACSIMILE OF THEIR ASSESSMENT UPON YOUR REQUEST). THERE IS EXTENSIVE RUSTING AND ROTTING AS WELL AS PARTS THAT HAVE ALREADY BROKEN. THE FOLLOWING IS QUOTED FROM THE CITYSIDE SUBARU DEALERSHIP INVOICE NUMBER[XXX]' TECHNICIAN STATES: VEHICLE HAS FAILED RECALL INSPECTION OF FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARMS DUE TO RUSTING. SUBFRAME IS ALSO ROTTED AND WILL NEED TO BE REPLACED. TECHNICIAN RECOMMENDS: ADDITIONALLY UPON REPLACEMENT OF CONTROL ARMS AND SUBFRAME BOTH LEFT AND RIGHT SWAYBAR LINKS ARE BROKEN $295 FRONT KNUCKLES, WHEEL BEARINGS AND INNER AND OUTER TIE ROD ENDS ARE ROTTED AND WILL NEED TO BE REPLACED $2340 BOTH FRONT STRUTS ROTTED AND MAY NEED TO BE REPLACED IF THEY ARE NOT ABLE TO BE DETACHED AND PUT BACK TOGETHER PROPERLY $509 EACH AS REQUIRED REPLACE ROTTED LEAKING OIL PAN $416 VEHICLE IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE' I CONSIDER MYSELF LUCKY THAT THE EXTENSIVE CORROSION AND ALREADY FAILED PARTS IN AN OTHERWISE VERY CLEAN, LOW MILEAGE CAR HAVE NOT LED TO AN ACCIDENT AND SUGGEST THAT THE RECALL NEEDS TO BE BROADER IN SCOPE. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10494954
  14. Filed Dec 10, 2011Failure Dec 9, 2011139,900 milesPhiladelphia, PAUnderbody shields

    SUBFRAME NEAR PASSENGER/RIGHT FRONT CONTROL ARM IS RUSTED THROUGH AND HAS HOLES. SUBARU OF CHERRY HILL, NJ STATED THAT IT SHOULD BE REPLACED AND WAS AT SIGNIFICANT RISK OF BREAKING WHEN REMOVED FOR CONTROL ARM RECALL (WVX34).DEALERSHIP SAID THE CASE WITH PICTURES WAS REPORTED TO SUBARU HEADQUARTERS AND DEALERSHIP STATED IT WAS THE FIRST TIME THEY HAVE SEEN IT. I DISCOVERED MANY OTHER CASES REPORTED DATING BACK AS FAR AS MAY 2009. DOCUMENTED WITH PICTURES OF MY OWN. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10439262
  15. Filed Nov 9, 2011Failure Oct 14, 2011Joliet, ILSuspension

    DRIVING SOUTHBOUND ON I-55 FOR MORNING COMMUTE IN THE LEFTMOST LANE WHEN WITH NO DISCERNIBLE CAUSE THE CAR BEGAN TO DRIFT BACK AND FORTH ACROSS THE CENTER LANE AND LEFT LANE. THE CAR MINIMALLY RESPONDED TO ANY STEERING INPUTS. I HAD TO CRANK THE WHEEL ALMOST A TURN AND A HALF TO GET MY CAR OVER TO THE SHOULDER. FORTUNATELY, THERE WERE NO CARS NEAR ME WHEN THIS HAPPENED SO I DID NOT STRIKE ANY VEHICLES. I GOT THE CAR TOWED TO A LOCAL SHOP AND THE SERVICE PERSON QUICKLY GLANCED AROUND UNDERNEATH IT AND IMMEDIATELY NOTICED THAT THE CONTROL ARM HAD RUSTED THROUGH ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. I CAME BACK LATER THAT DAY AND THEY SHOWED ME THE CAR ON THE LIFT WHERE BOTH CONTROL ARMS WERE THOROUGHLY RUSTED AS WELL AS THE SUBFRAME. I PAID TO GET THE ONE REPAIRED BUT STILL DON'T DRIVE THE CAR AS I DON'T FEEL SAFE UNTIL THE OTHER IS TAKEN CARE OF AS WELL. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10435011
  16. Filed Jul 12, 2011Failure Jul 6, 2011Unicoi, TNFront

    THE PASSENGER SIDE LOWER CONTROL ARM ON OUR 2002 SUBARU WRX WAGON SNAPPED RENDERING THE CAR INOPERABLE. THE CAR HAS BEEN TOWED TO A MECHANIC. WHEN I LOOKED UNDER THE CAR YOU COULD SEE THE ARM WAS RUSTED THROUGH. ONCE THE CAR WAS LOADED ON THE ROLLBACK THERE WAS A VISIBLE PILE OF RUST ON THE PAVEMENT. *TT

    NHTSA complaint 10411916
  17. Filed Jul 5, 2011Failure Jun 23, 2011127,000 milesCherry Hill, NJFront

    LOWER CONTROL ARM FOR MY 2002 SUBRAU WRX RUSTED COMPLETELY AND BROKE, WHICH ALSO CAUSED THE SWAY BAR TO BE RIPPED OFF. THANKFULLY IT ONLY HAPPENED PULLING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY AND NOT ON THE HIGHWAY. *KB

    NHTSA complaint 10410424
  18. Filed Jun 14, 2011Failure Jun 10, 201170,000 milesVero Beach, FLFuel system, Gasoline

    STRONG ODOR OF FUEL AND/OR BURNT OIL INSIDE THE VEHICLE REPEATEDLY. I CONTACTED SUBARU LONG AGO ABOUT THIS PROBLEM WHEN I GOT A RECALL NOTICE FROM SUBARU NATIONAL SAYING MY CAR "MAY" BE PART OF THIS RECALL. I TOOK THE CAR TO A SUBARU DEALER. THEY SAID UNLESS THEY CAN EITHER SMELL FUEL OR FIND THE PROBLEM THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO FOR ME. SUBARU NATIONAL SAID THE SAME THING "UNLESS WE CAN SMELL FUEL ODOR" WE WILL NOT PAY FOR INSPECTING AND FIXING YOUR VEHICLE. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10406814
  19. Filed Jun 7, 2011Failure Feb 11, 201096,599 milesPhoenix, AZFuel system, Gasoline

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 SUBARU WRX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 09V468000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP) AND TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A LOCAL DEALER. THE DEALER STATED TO THE CONTACT PART THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE AND WOULD BE AVAILABLE WITHIN THREE DAYS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WAS A YEAR AGO. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER AND THEY STATED THAT THE DEALER SHOULD HAVE THE PART. THE CONTACT CONTINUED TO SEARCH FOR PARTS FOR THE VEHICLE BUT THE DEALER STILL DID NOT HAVE THE PART. THE CONTACT PERFORMED SOME REPAIRS TO THE VEHICLE BECAUSE THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE SMELLED LIKE GASOLINE. AFTER THE REPAIRS, THE DEALER STATED THEY COULD NOT REPAIR THE VEHICLE BECAUSE THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO ANOTHER LOCATION FOR REPAIRS. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS BECOMING UNSAFE SAFE TO DRIVE DUE TO THE SMELL OF GASOLINE INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE COULD CAUSE A FIRE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 96,599.

    NHTSA complaint 10405425
  20. Filed Feb 5, 2011Failure Jan 8, 2011107,310 milesCosta Mesa, CAFuel system, Gasoline

    FUEL ODOR INTERIOR OF VEHICLE. FILE COMPLAINT UNDER ODI NUMBER 10380798 NEED TO CORRECT MILEAGE TO 107,310 DON'T KNOW WHAT I WAS THINKING WHEN I FILED COMPLAINT. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10380805
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations

5 NHTSA investigations on file

  • EA09011 Engineering analysis, Fuel system
    FUEL LINE LEAK
    Opened Jul 2, 2009, closed Dec 14, 2009 · led to a recall
  • PE09017 Preliminary evaluation, Fuel system
    FUEL LINE LEAK
    Opened Mar 10, 2009, closed Jul 2, 2009
  • PE04002 Preliminary evaluation, Fuel system
    FUEL LINE LEAKAGE IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT
    Opened Jan 7, 2004, closed May 27, 2004
  • EA03024 Engineering analysis, Brakes
    EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCES
    Opened Nov 19, 2003, closed Jul 12, 2005
  • PE03029 Preliminary evaluation, Brakes
    BRAKING SYSTEM/ABS
    Opened Jul 8, 2003, closed Nov 19, 2003
Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins

116 manufacturer communications cover this model year

Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.

  • 15-308-23R Aug 20, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Service Information Bulletin outlines a systematic procedure for diagnosing parasitic draw (dark/standby current) in vehicles experiencing battery drain when the ignition is off, leading to no-start conditions or frequent jump-starts.This is an revised…
  • 15-304-22R Aug 13, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Bulletin has been developed to outline the steps for gathering basic but essential information during diagnosis of Infotainment concerns. (This is an revised version of the original bulletin.)
  • Article Locator Aug 5, 2026 · Other
    Techtips newsletter locator index.
  • 15-333-25R Aug 1, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure. This is an revised version of the original bulletin
  • SubaruNet Annoucement (E Jun 12, 2026 · Other
    This announcement is requesting retailer staff to retain the EyeSight protective hood covers from Generation 4 EyeSight cameras.
  • 01-167-08R May 18, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
  • SubaruNet Announcement (R May 4, 2026 · Other
    This announcement provides information on the remanufactured CVT transmission program.
  • 03-97-26 Apr 24, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin announces the service manual correction regarding clutch master cylinder reservoir service procedures.
  • 01-167-08R Apr 24, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
  • 05-97-26 Apr 20, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Bulletin provides the diagnostic procedures to be followed when addressing customer concerns of steering wheel/vehicle body vibration when driving at highway speeds when tire/wheel balance is suspected.
  • 07-240-26R Apr 30, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Service Information Bulletin was developed to provide interim guidance for vehicles exhibiting DTC B2A20.
  • 15-219-18R Mar 16, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin contains information to help when attempting to complete the STARLINK Telematics subscription process, an Error Code 202 and / or 204 may occur preventing the process from completing successfully
  • SubaruNet Announcement (A Mar 4, 2026 · Other
    This announcement provides information on the use of aftermarket services or tools for programming immobilizer keys/fobs.
  • 10-105-25R Mar 26, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin announces the new procedure and Warranty Fail Code for FirstTime air conditioning (A/C) performance concerns possibly resulting from an undetected A/C refrigerant leak.
  • 01-167-08R Mar 26, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
  • 07-240-26R Feb 25, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Service Information Bulletin was developed to provide interim guidance for 2026 model year vehicles exhibiting DTC B2A20 with gen 4 Telematics.
  • 10-105-25R Feb 6, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin announces the new procedure and Warranty Fail Code for FirstTime air conditioning (A/C) performance concerns possibly resulting from an undetected A/C refrigerant leak.
  • Subaru Tech Tips Special Jan 15, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Subaru service and technical support line newsletter provides information on the next phase of TechShare.
  • 15-300-22R Jan 12, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Bulletin provides the diagnostic procedure for the STARLINK® Remote Engine Start (RES).
  • Subarunet Announcement (E Jan 12, 2026 · Other
    This announcement has been created to address difficulties with software updates on Subaru Select Monitors with DST-010 interface firmware has been updated.
  • 18-226-25R Dec 8, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Service Information Bulletin provides the Service Manual Correction to the diagnostic procedure for DTC B2A16 (Immobilizer Key Collation Diagnosis).
  • 15-333-25 Dec 2, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
  • Subaru Tech Tips (Article Nov 20, 2025 · Other
    Subaru service article locator.
  • Subaru Tech Tips (Article Nov 20, 2025 · Other
    Subaru service article locator.
  • 15-308-23R Oct 28, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Service Information Bulletin outlines a systematic procedure for diagnosing parasitic draw (dark/standby current) in vehicles experiencing battery drain when the ignition is off, leading to no-start conditions or frequent jump-starts.
  • 15-130-08R Oct 29, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin provides information on the load carrying capacity reduced label when a port-installed or retailer-installed accessory exeeds 1.5 percent of the GVWR or 100 pounds, which ever is lower.
  • Subaru Tech Tips (Article Oct 28, 2025 · Other
    Subaru tech tips newsletter article locator.
  • Subaru Tech Tips (Article Oct 28, 2025 · Other
    Subaru tech tips newsletter article locator.
  • 07-236-25 Oct 23, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Bulletin outlines a comprehensive update to the dark current/parasitic draw diagnosis & testing procedures.
  • 07-233-25R Oct 23, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Bulletin provides details on a new formal testing, charging, and tracking procedure for all 12-volt batteries in new vehicle inventory.
  • 15-219-18R Sep 30, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin addresses cases when attempting to complete the STARLINK Telematics subscription process, an Error Code 202 and / or 204 may occur preventing the process from completing successfully.
  • 10-105-25R Sep 5, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin announces the new procedure and Warranty Fail Code for FirstTime air conditioning (A/C) performance concerns possibly resulting from an undetected A/C refrigerant leak.
  • 07-233-25 Sep 3, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Bulletin provides details on a new formal testing, charging, and tracking procedure for all 12-volt batteries in new vehicle inventory wjhich must be tested and reported every 30 days.
  • 15-266-20R Aug 26, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Bulletin provides helpful procedures and best practices to utilize when customers present with concerns relating to the operation of their Gen 2/Gen 3 Telematics system equipped Subaru.
  • 15-320-24R Aug 21, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
  • SubaruNet Announcement Aug 13, 2025 · Other
    Subaru of America, Inc. will release an OTA to perform a software update to the DCM. This is a preventive OTA.
  • Subaru Service Technical Aug 11, 2025 · Other
    Subaru Service Technical Support Newsletter special edition.
  • 13-108-25 Aug 11, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin provides information on paint codes for vehicles in the 2026 line up.
  • SubaruNet Announcement Jul 16, 2025 · Other
    This OTA is released to address Telematic functions that may stop working after a certain amount of time from the vehicle's production.
  • 10-105-25R Jul 10, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    "This bulletin announces the new procedure and Warranty Fail Code for FirstTime air conditioning (A/C) performance concerns possibly resulting from an undetected A/C refrigerant leak. To improve Fixed Right First-Time (FRFT) and customer satisfaction, SOA i…
  • SubaruNet Annoucement Jun 27, 2025 · Other
    This announcment provides information on the release of the latest software updates to the Subaru Midtronics DSS-5000 Battery Diagnostic tool.
  • SubaruNet Announcement (S Jun 24, 2025 · Other
    This announcement is to bring attention to the OTA for In-vehicle service appointment scheduler and In-vehicle message center.
  • 10-105-25R Jun 23, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Service Information bulletin announces the new procedure and Warranty Fail Code for FirstTime air conditioning (A/C) performance concerns possibly resulting from an undetected A/C refrigerant leak.
  • 15-251-19R Jun 24, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Bulletin provides additional diagnostics to follow when addressing a Telematics-related DTC B2A16.
  • 01-168-09R May 19, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
  • 10-105-25R May 13, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin announces the new procedure and Warranty Fail Code for FirstTime air conditioning (A/C) performance concerns possibly resulting from an undetected A/C refrigerant leak. To improve Fixed Right First-Time (FRFT) and customer satisfaction, SOA is…
  • 15-251-19R Apr 30, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Service Bulletin provides additional diagnostics to follow when addressing a Telematics-related DTC B2A16.
  • 02-192-24R Apr 22, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Bulletin announces the diagnostic procedures to be followed when diagnosing engine oil leakage on FA and FB type engines.
  • 14-31-25 Mar 31, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Bulletin announces availability of a User Guide and an informative video to supplement the recent releases to retailers of the SOA321152 and SOA321153 Terminal Test Kits.
  • 09-51-08R Mar 24, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The purpose of this bulletin is to advise of SOA’s revised Catalytic Converter Recycling Program shipping procedure.
  • 15-304-22R Mar 18, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Bulletin has been developed to outline the steps for gathering basic but essential information during diagnosis of Infotainment concerns.
  • 01-167-08R Mar 17, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
  • 15-219-18R Mar 6, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    When attempting to complete the STARLINK Telematics subscription process, an Error Code 202 and / or 204 may occur preventing the process from completing successfully.
  • 15-251-19R Feb 10, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    "This Service Bulletin provides additional diagnostics to follow when addressing a Telematics-related DTC B2A16."
  • Subarunet Announcement Jan 31, 2025 · Other
    This announcement is in regard to special service tool shipment will be shipped directly to the Subar retailers during February.
  • RC5 Head Unit OTA Jan 28, 2025 · Other
    A head unit OTA will be available via cellular network for Mid and High Grade CP1.5 head units.
  • 07-59-07R Dec 13, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin is for information purposes only.The bulletin adresses design changes of the headlamps and rear combination lamps, where moisture and or condensation may develop on the inside of the lamp lenses.
  • SubaruNet Announcement Nov 14, 2024 · Other
    This 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 …
  • 15-130-08R Oct 31, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This 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 …
  • 01-167-08R Oct 1, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.