NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Fuel System, Gasoline complaints
266 reportsClear category filter50,000 miles · Dec 18, 2006
Fuel System, Gasoline
FUEL LEAK IN COLD WEATHER, RESULTING IN RAW FUEL SMELL IN THE CABIN OF THE CAR AND THE DANGER OF FUEL IGNITING IN THE ENGINE BAY. THERE HAS BEEN A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN ISSUED BY SUBARU OF AMERICA, BUT I CAN'T BELIEVE THIS ISN'T A RECALL. THIS IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM AND CAN HAVE DISASTROUS CONSEQUENCES. FOR PEOPLE OUT OF W…
Read full complaint
FUEL LEAK IN COLD WEATHER, RESULTING IN RAW FUEL SMELL IN THE CABIN OF THE CAR AND THE DANGER OF FUEL IGNITING IN THE ENGINE BAY. THERE HAS BEEN A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN ISSUED BY SUBARU OF AMERICA, BUT I CAN'T BELIEVE THIS ISN'T A RECALL. THIS IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM AND CAN HAVE DISASTROUS CONSEQUENCES. FOR PEOPLE OUT OF WARRANTY, THIS IS ABSOLUTELY ABSURD TO HAVE TO PAY FOR THE REPAIRS. *NM+
NHTSA ODI #10176504
21,532 miles · Dec 18, 2006
Fuel System, GasolineInjury
1. NONE, IT'S A FACTORY DEFECT. SEE SUBARU TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN 09-36-03 "FUEL SMELL IN COLD WEATHER". 2. ANYTIME IT GETS BELOW FREEZING THERE IS RAW FUEL LEAKING FROM THE FUEL RAIL ONTO THE TOP OF THE ENGINE. THIS HAS TO BE A SERIOUS DEFECT! WHAT IS THE RISK OF MY CAR STARTING ON FIRE WHEN FUEL IS BEING LEAKED ONTO T…
Read full complaint
1. NONE, IT'S A FACTORY DEFECT. SEE SUBARU TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN 09-36-03 "FUEL SMELL IN COLD WEATHER". 2. ANYTIME IT GETS BELOW FREEZING THERE IS RAW FUEL LEAKING FROM THE FUEL RAIL ONTO THE TOP OF THE ENGINE. THIS HAS TO BE A SERIOUS DEFECT! WHAT IS THE RISK OF MY CAR STARTING ON FIRE WHEN FUEL IS BEING LEAKED ONTO THE TOP OF MY MOTOR??? ON TOP OF THAT, WHEN THIS IS HAPPENING YOU HAVE TWO CHOICES IF YOU WANT TO FREEZE YOURSELF. 1. TURN ON THE HEATER AND LET ALL THE RAW FUEL FUMES BLAST YOU IN THE FACE (IT'S A GREAT WAY TO START OFF YOUR DAY) OR 2. LEAVE THE HEATER OFF AND FREEZE (BOTH CHOICES ARE UNACCEPTABLE). 3. I HAVE TAKEN IT TO BEARDMORE SUBARU IN BELLEVUE NEBRASKA 13 TIMES WHILE MY CAR WAS UNDER WARRANTY AND 4 TIMES WHILE OUT OF WARRANTY. I DON'T KNOW HOW A DEALERSHIP CAN BE SO CLUELESS SINCE THE TSB WAS ISSUED BEFORE I EVEN BOUGHT MY CAR. I TOLD THEM OVER AND OVER, "RAW FUEL SMELL IN CABIN ON DAYS IT'S BELOW FREEZING". THE WOULD WASH THE ENGINE, OR PUT IN AN NEW AIR FILTER, OR DO NOTHING AND SAY THEY CAN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG. THIS IS TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE! PLEASE HELP! *JB
NHTSA ODI #10176367
62,850 miles · Dec 8, 2006
Fuel System, Gasoline
ON COLD DAYS I GET A STRONG FUEL SMELL IN THE CABIN. IF YOU LOOK AT THE LOWER PART OF THE INTAKE MANIFOLD YOU CAN SEE YELLOW STAINS FROM WHERE FUEL HAS LEAKED AS WELL AS DISPLACEMENT OF GRIM FROM AREAS BELOW THE FUEL HOSE. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS ISSUE AND IT IS COMMON WITH MY YEAR VEHICLE YET SUBARU HAS NOT ISSUED A RECALL DESPI…
Read full complaint
ON COLD DAYS I GET A STRONG FUEL SMELL IN THE CABIN. IF YOU LOOK AT THE LOWER PART OF THE INTAKE MANIFOLD YOU CAN SEE YELLOW STAINS FROM WHERE FUEL HAS LEAKED AS WELL AS DISPLACEMENT OF GRIM FROM AREAS BELOW THE FUEL HOSE. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS ISSUE AND IT IS COMMON WITH MY YEAR VEHICLE YET SUBARU HAS NOT ISSUED A RECALL DESPITE ISSUING A SERVICE BULLETIN (#09-36-03). IN THIS BULLETIN IT STATES THAT THE REPLACEMENT OF A FUEL LINE AND HOSE IS NEEDED TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM AND PARTIAL DISASSEMBLY OF THE ENGINE IS REQUIRED TO MAKE THE FIX. IT ALSO STATES THAT THIS FIX IS REQUIRED TO ACHIEVE BETTER ALIGNMENT OF THE FUEL LINES. *JB
NHTSA ODI #10175593
75,000 miles · Dec 8, 2006
Fuel System, Gasoline
HTTP://MEMBERS.NASIOC.COM/USERPICS/4832/TSB.JPG. *JB
NHTSA ODI #10175545
70,000 miles · Dec 5, 2006
Fuel System, Gasoline
2002 SUBARU WRX 1. COLD WEATHER 2. RAW FUEL SMELL WHEN IDLING WHEN VEHICLE IS WARMING UP TO THE EXTREME WHERE I HAVE TO AIR OUT MY VEHICLE BEFORE DRIVING. 3. NOTHING AS OF YET, WAITING FOR A RECALL THIS IS HAPPENING WITH ALMOST ALL 2002 WRX'S. *JB
NHTSA ODI #10175229
Mileage unknown · Nov 29, 2006
Fuel System, Gasoline
THERE IS A RECURRENT PROBLEM WITH 2002 SUBARU WRX MODELS. WITH A SMALL FUEL HOSE UNDER THE AIR INTAKE MANIFOLD. IN COLD TEMPERATURES IT CONTRACTS AND BEGINS TO LEAK FILLING THE CABIN WITH A STRONG RAW FUEL SMELL ALSO. I HAVE RECENTLY FOUND WITH THE COLD WEATHER THAT THIS PROBLEM IS HAPPENING TO MY CAR. THERE ARE MANY BLOGS ON TH…
Read full complaint
THERE IS A RECURRENT PROBLEM WITH 2002 SUBARU WRX MODELS. WITH A SMALL FUEL HOSE UNDER THE AIR INTAKE MANIFOLD. IN COLD TEMPERATURES IT CONTRACTS AND BEGINS TO LEAK FILLING THE CABIN WITH A STRONG RAW FUEL SMELL ALSO. I HAVE RECENTLY FOUND WITH THE COLD WEATHER THAT THIS PROBLEM IS HAPPENING TO MY CAR. THERE ARE MANY BLOGS ON THE INTERNET ON THIS PROBLEM. HOWEVER SUBARU OF AMERICA HAS NOT SUBMITTED A RECALL ON ANY 2002 MODELS. IF YOU HAVE TIME PLEASE VISIT THIS LINK: HTTP://FORUMS.NASIOC.COM/FORUMS/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?T=138069&HIGHLIGHT=RAW+FUEL+SMELL YOU WILL BE ABLE TO READ OTHERS INTERACTIONS WITH SUBARU OF AMERICA. IT IS A PROBLEM WITH MANY OTHER'S TOO. *JB
NHTSA ODI #10174699
Mileage unknown · Nov 15, 2006
Fuel System, Gasoline
I OWN A 2002 SUBARU WRX. STARTING IN THE WINTER OF 2005 (AND RECURRING IN THE WINTER OF 2006), A STRONG GAS SMELL INSIDE THE CABIN AND AROUND THE CAR IS PRESENT. THIS ONLY HAPPENS WITH THE AMBIENT OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE IS COLD; USUALLY BELOW 35 DEGREES. DURING THE WINTER OF 2005, I BELIEVED THE SMELL WAS NOTHING MAJOR BUT WHEN IT …
Read full complaint
I OWN A 2002 SUBARU WRX. STARTING IN THE WINTER OF 2005 (AND RECURRING IN THE WINTER OF 2006), A STRONG GAS SMELL INSIDE THE CABIN AND AROUND THE CAR IS PRESENT. THIS ONLY HAPPENS WITH THE AMBIENT OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE IS COLD; USUALLY BELOW 35 DEGREES. DURING THE WINTER OF 2005, I BELIEVED THE SMELL WAS NOTHING MAJOR BUT WHEN IT RECURRED IN 2006, I DECIDED TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT. I DID RESEARCH ON THE NHTSA WEBSITE, ALONG WITH SUBARU WEB FORUMS (WWW.I-CLUB.COM; WWW.NASIOC) AND COME TO FIND OUT THAT THIS IS A COMMON OCCURRENCE WITH THIS MODEL. I TOOK MY CAR TO MY LOCAL SUBARU ON 11/13/06. IT SITS OVERNIGHT SO THEY CAN CHECK THE CAR ON THE MORNING OF THE 14TH WHEN THE TEMPERATURE IS COLD ENOUGH FOR THE PROBLEM TO ARISE. THEY DO FIND A GAS LEAK CONCURRENT WITH THE MANUFACTURER'S TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (# 09-36-03 DATED 04-01-03). THE TSB REPLACES THE FUEL PIPE ASSEMBLY AND HOSE AS A SET. THE LEAK COMES FROM THE RUBBER HOSE CONNECTOR, LOCATED UNDER THE INTAKE MANIFOLD, BETWEEN THE TWO DIRECT FUEL-FEED METAL LINES TO THE INJECTORS. WHEN THE TEMPERATURE IS COLD, THE METAL FUEL LINE CONTRACTS MORE THAN THE RUBBER FUEL LINE, THUS CREATING A "HOLE" FOR THE GAS TO LEAK OUT OF. THE REPAIR WAS QUOTED AT $380.38. I AM OUTRAGED OVER THIS REPAIR FOR TWO REASONS: I AM NOT HAPPY WITH HAVING TO SPEND MONEY ON A REPAIR THAT IS ESSENTIAL A DESIGN FLAW. THOUGH I AM PAST THE WARRANTY PERIOD, I FEEL THAT THIS REPAIR SHOULD BE COVERED BY SUBARU AS IT IS NOT A "REPAIR;" IT IS A FIX FOR THEIR MISTAKE. I AM MOST UPSET, HOWEVER, OVER THE FACT THAT SUBARU AND THE NHTSA HAVE NOT CREATED A RECALL CAMPAIGN FOR THIS FIX. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS PROBLEM AS LEAKING FUEL IN A HOT ENGINE COMPARTMENT IS DANGEROUS. IT'S A PROBLEM THAT COULD PROVE TO BE FATAL FOR SOME OWNERS. I HOWEVER AM FORTUNATE TO FIX THIS PROBLEM BEFORE ANYTHING HAPPENED TO ME. I ASK THAT BOTH SUBARU OF AMERICA AND THE NHTSA TAKE A SERIOUS LOOK AT THIS PROBLEM AND INITIATE A RECALL BEFORE ANY DEATHS OR INJURIES OCCUR. *JB
NHTSA ODI #10173570
Mileage unknown · Oct 11, 2006
Fuel System, Gasoline
WHEN ITS VERY COLD OUTSIDE VERY STRONG ODOR OF GASOLINE IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT .. 2002 SUBARU WRX SEDAN. *JB
NHTSA ODI #10170526
25,000 miles · Mar 3, 2006
Fuel System, Gasoline
I OWN A 2002 SUBARU WRX IMPREZA WAGON. I, LIKE MANY, MANY OF FELLOW OWNERS OF THIS CAR EXPERIENCE FUEL LEAKS AROUND THE CARS ENGINE WHEN THE AMBIENT TEMPERATURE FALLS BELOW ~40 DEGREES F. I HAVE CONTACTED SUBARU ABOUT THIS PROBLEM MANY TIMES, AND EACH TIME I TAKE THE CAR INTO THE DEALERSHIP FOR DIAGNOSTICS THEY STATE "THEY CAN…
Read full complaint
I OWN A 2002 SUBARU WRX IMPREZA WAGON. I, LIKE MANY, MANY OF FELLOW OWNERS OF THIS CAR EXPERIENCE FUEL LEAKS AROUND THE CARS ENGINE WHEN THE AMBIENT TEMPERATURE FALLS BELOW ~40 DEGREES F. I HAVE CONTACTED SUBARU ABOUT THIS PROBLEM MANY TIMES, AND EACH TIME I TAKE THE CAR INTO THE DEALERSHIP FOR DIAGNOSTICS THEY STATE "THEY CAN NOT REPRODUCE THE PROBLEM." THIS IS PATENTLY FALSE SINCE THE CAR REEKS OF GASOLINE FUMES BEFORE AND AFTER I LEAVE THE DEALERSHIP. APPARENTLY THE CLAMPS THAT HOLD THE FUEL LINE ASSEMBLY TOGETHER FAIL WHEN THE OUTSIDE TEMPERATURES ARE COLD. SUBARU WILL NOT REPAIR/REPLACE THESE CLAMPS (EVEN WHEN THE CAR IS UNDER WARRANTY) AND REPAIRS TOTAL APPROXIMATELY $350-400. THIS PROBLEM IS VERY SIMILAR TO THAT ISSUE THAT RESULTED IN THE CHALLENGER SPACE SHUTTLE DISASTER IN 1986, COLD TEMPERATURES LEADING TO FUEL LEAKS, WHICH COULD LEAD TO FIRE AND EXPLOSIONS. A BRIEF LOOK AT AN ONLINE COMPLAINT WEBSITE REVEALED ABOUT 150 OTHER PEOPLE WITH THIS PROBLEM, AND THAT'S JUST THE NUMBER THAT TOOK THE TIME TO SEND IN A MESSAGE. IT IS ONLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE ONE OF THE VEHICLES CATCHES ON FIRE AND KILLS SOMEONE. SUBARU IS AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM AND TACITLY ACKNOWLEDGE THE FAULTY MANUFACTURE OF THIS CAR PART, BUT WILL DO NOTHING TO HELP THE OWNERS OF THESE CARS. PLEASE INVESTIGATE THIS MATTER, I DO NOT WANT ANYONE TO DIE BECAUSE SUBARU IS TOO CHEAP TO REPLACE A 50 CENT O-RING. THANK YOU. *NM
NHTSA ODI #10151694
36,990 miles · Feb 26, 2006
Fuel System, Gasoline
NOTICED A FUEL LEAK IN ENGINE BAY. YOU COULD SMELL IT IN THE ENGINE BAY AND THE CAB NOT TO MENTION OUT SIDE THE VEHICLE. IT ONLY HAPPENS ON REALLY COLD DAYS. DID RESEARCH ON INTERNET AND FOUND HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE COMPLAINING OF THE SAME THING. TOOK IT TO THE LOCAL SUBARU DEALER THEY SAID THEY WOULDN'T COVER IT. OUT OF WARRANTY BY…
Read full complaint
NOTICED A FUEL LEAK IN ENGINE BAY. YOU COULD SMELL IT IN THE ENGINE BAY AND THE CAB NOT TO MENTION OUT SIDE THE VEHICLE. IT ONLY HAPPENS ON REALLY COLD DAYS. DID RESEARCH ON INTERNET AND FOUND HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE COMPLAINING OF THE SAME THING. TOOK IT TO THE LOCAL SUBARU DEALER THEY SAID THEY WOULDN'T COVER IT. OUT OF WARRANTY BY 1000 MILES. I THINK THIS SHOULD BE A SAFETY RECALL THEY PUT FAULTY PARTS ON THE CAR. IT IS TOTALLY UNSAFE. *JB
NHTSA ODI #10151255
Official recalls
1Dec 4, 2009
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 TEMPERATURES, FUEL LEAKS IN THE FUEL DELIVERY LINE COULD OCCUR WHERE THE LINE CONNECTS WITH A RUBBER HOSE.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: 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.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
5EA09011 · Fuel Line Leak
Opened Jul 2, 2009 · Closed Dec 14, 2009
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
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)
PE09017 · Fuel Line Leak
Opened Mar 10, 2009 · Closed Jul 2, 2009
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Fuel System, Gasoline; Fuel System, Gasoline:carburetor System; Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery; Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump; Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings; Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System; Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System:fuel Rail; Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System:injectors; Fuel System, Other; Fuel System, Other:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings; Fuel System, Other:fuel Injection System
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.
Additional source detail variants (11)
Fuel System, Gasoline:carburetor System
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 System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
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 System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
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 System, Gasoline:delivery
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 System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System:fuel Rail
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 System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System:injectors
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 System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System
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 System, Gasoline
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 System, Other:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
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 System, Other:fuel Injection System
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 System, Other
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.
PE04002 · Fuel Line Leakage In Engine Compartment
Opened Jan 7, 2004 · Closed May 27, 2004
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Fuel System, Gasoline; Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
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.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
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.
Fuel System, Gasoline
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.
EA03024 · Extended Stopping Distances
Opened Nov 19, 2003 · Closed Jul 12, 2005
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip
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
PE03029 · Braking System/abs
Opened Jul 8, 2003 · Closed Nov 19, 2003
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip
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.