2002 SUBARU WRX

2 recalls, 461 complaints - 48 TSBs

09V468000 Dec 4, 2009
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Defect Description
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. D... Read more
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.
5,724 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
06E060000 Jun 29, 2006
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Defect Description
CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIA... Read more
Consequence
LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH
Remedy
AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.
87,745 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: AAI MOTORSPORTS USA, LLC

Complaint Statistics

461 total complaints 20 crashes 2 fires 18 injuries

Top Reported Components

ComponentComplaints
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS155
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE85
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP54
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS18
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK13
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY13
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION11
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:FUEL RAIL10
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM8
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD7
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Oct 6, 2018
Incident date: Oct 1, 2018
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 ISS... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Mar 14, 2017
Incident date: Sep 1, 2002
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 ... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER Dec 19, 2016
Incident date: Jan 1, 2009
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 HORRI... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY Dec 19, 2016
Incident date: Jan 1, 2009
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 HORRI... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Dec 13, 2016
Incident date: Dec 9, 2016
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 DEN... Read more
ENGINE Dec 13, 2016
Incident date: Dec 9, 2016
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 DEN... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM May 12, 2016
Incident date: Mar 23, 2012
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, EVE... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Feb 27, 2016
Incident date: May 25, 2001
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 NOTI... Read more
WHEELS Dec 3, 2014
Incident date: Nov 29, 2014
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 O... Read more
SUSPENSION Dec 3, 2014
Incident date: Nov 29, 2014
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 O... Read more
STEERING Dec 3, 2014
Incident date: Nov 29, 2014
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 O... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Aug 21, 2014
Incident date: Aug 1, 2002
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... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY Aug 21, 2014
Incident date: Aug 1, 2002
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... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Apr 23, 2014
Incident date: Feb 11, 2014
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
ENGINE Apr 10, 2014
Incident date: Apr 6, 2014
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 G... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Apr 10, 2014
Incident date: Apr 6, 2014
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 G... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Feb 13, 2014
Incident date: Feb 5, 2014
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. YO... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Feb 13, 2014
Incident date: Feb 5, 2014
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. YO... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES Dec 3, 2013
Incident date: Dec 22, 2011
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 ... Read more
Crash 1 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Dec 3, 2013
Incident date: Dec 22, 2011
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 ... Read more
Crash 1 injured
SUSPENSION Jan 28, 2013
Incident date: Jan 24, 2013
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... Read more
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS Dec 10, 2011
Incident date: Dec 9, 2011
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 ... Read more
SUSPENSION Nov 9, 2011
Incident date: Oct 14, 2011
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 T... Read more
SUSPENSION:FRONT Jul 12, 2011
Incident date: Jul 6, 2011
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 PAVEM... Read more
SUSPENSION:FRONT Jul 5, 2011
Incident date: Jun 23, 2011
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
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Jun 14, 2011
Incident date: Jun 10, 2011
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 ... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Jun 7, 2011
Incident date: Feb 11, 2010
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 ... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Feb 5, 2011
Incident date: Jan 8, 2011
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
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP Dec 8, 2010
Incident date: Nov 25, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 SUBARU WRX. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO APPLY THE BRAKES AND THE ABS ACTIVATED. HE WAS UNABLE TO BRING THE VEHICLE TO A RAPID STOP. HE STATED THAT IT WAS LUCK THAT THE VEHICLE IN-FRONT TURNED LEFT; AND HE WAS ABLE TO AVOID A CRASH. THE MAN... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Mar 17, 2010
Incident date: Feb 4, 2010
I OWN A 02 WRX I LIVE IN ARMIDALE AUSTRALIA. I JUST SPENT A LOT OF MONEY FIXING THIS PROBLEM. PLEASE BE CAREFUL WHEN THE CAR HEATS UP IT CAN BURN OUT THE EXHAUST SENSOR AND CAUSE MAJOR PROBLEMS WITH THE TURBO.I NOTICE ONCE THERE WAS NO SENSOR LEFT IT GAVE MY CAR COMPUTER NOTHING TO GO OFF . IN ... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Feb 12, 2010
Incident date: Dec 15, 2009
SEVERAL TIMES IN THE WINTERS OF 2008 & 2009 (SO FAR) WHEN FIRST STARTING MY CAR IN VERY COLD WEATHER (ALTHOUGH THE LAST TIME IN DEC. 2009 THE TEMP WAS COOL BUT ABOVE FREEZING) I WOULD GET A STRONG SMELL OF GAS INSIDE THE CAR AND HAD TO OPEN THE WINDOWS UNTIL THE ENGINE WARMED UP. CHECKING YOUR WEBS... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC Feb 12, 2010
Incident date: Sep 15, 2009
SEVERAL TIMES (ABOUT ONCE A YEAR ON AVERAGE) SINCE I PURCHASED MY SUBARU WRX IN 2001 THE BRAKES BRIEFLY FAIL. THE DESCRIPTION SEEMS IDENTICAL TO THAT OF THE 2010 PRIUS IN THAT THERE IS NO BRAKING FOR A BRIEF TIME WHEN GOING OVER BUMPS, RAILROAD TRACKS OR SIMPLY GOING DOWNHILL ON A WET ROAD. THE MO... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Feb 10, 2010
Incident date: Jan 1, 2010
DURING COLD WEATHER, THE FUEL LINE LEAKS GASOLINE INSIDE THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE GASOLINE POOLS ON TOP OF THE ENGINE BLOCK, AND THE GASOLINE VAPOR IS ALSO PULLED INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT BY THE CAR'S VENTILATION SYSTEM. THERE IS AN OBVIOUS RISK OF FIRE. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Feb 8, 2010
Incident date: Dec 17, 2009
FUEL SMELL FOR MY SUBARU WRX 2002 MODEL. *CN
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Jan 30, 2010
Incident date: Jan 29, 2010
2002 IMPREZA WRX WAGON, LEAKING FUEL LINES LOCATED UNDER THE INTAKE MANIFOLD IN COLD WEATHER. I HAVE NOTICED GAS FUMES FROM LEAKING FUEL LINES IN THIS VEHICLE WHICH I PURCHASED NEW IN 2002. NEVADA IS NOT A STATE LISTED IN THE WVK-21 SUBARU RECALL OF DEC, 2009, BUT THIS VEHICLE IS LEAKING FUEL FROM T... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Jan 8, 2010
Incident date: Jan 2, 2010
RECENTLY THE OUTSIDE AIR TEMPERATURES HAVE HOVERED NEAR OR BELOW ZERO DEGREES F. ON THOSE MORNINGS WHEN IT IS THAT COLD AND I START MY CAR, I SMELL A STRONG RAW FUEL ODOR FOR SEVERAL MINUTES OR UNTIL I HAVE DRIVEN SEVERAL MILES. I INVESTIGATED AND FOUND THE MAIN FUEL LINE TO BE LEAKING RAW FUEL ONTO... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS Jan 5, 2010
Incident date: Dec 21, 2009
I HAVE THE FUEL LEAK PROBLEM COVERED IN RECALL NUMBER 09V468000 IN MY 2002 SUBARU IMPREZZA WRX BUT MY CAR IS REGISTERED IN CALIFORNIA AND APPEARS NOT TO BE COVERED. I CAN SMELL GAS AND SEE IT POOL ON THE ENGINE, ABOVE THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD NEAR TURBO COMPONENTS, WHEN STARTING MY CAR AT ABOUT 30 DEGRE... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS Jan 4, 2010
Incident date: Dec 20, 2009
I HAVE THE FUEL LEAK/ SMELL ISSUE COVERED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 09V468000, NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: EA09011. I HAVE HAD THE PROBLEM FOR SEVERAL YEARS BUT IT APPEARS TO BE WORSE THIS WINTER IN THAT IT HAPPENS AT TEMPERATURES JUST BELOW FREEZING NOW. IN PREVIOUS WINTERS IT WOULD HAVE TO BE BELOW 20... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER Jan 4, 2010
Incident date: Dec 20, 2009
I HAVE THE FUEL LEAK/ SMELL ISSUE COVERED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 09V468000, NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: EA09011. I HAVE HAD THE PROBLEM FOR SEVERAL YEARS BUT IT APPEARS TO BE WORSE THIS WINTER IN THAT IT HAPPENS AT TEMPERATURES JUST BELOW FREEZING NOW. IN PREVIOUS WINTERS IT WOULD HAVE TO BE BELOW 20... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS Dec 29, 2009
Incident date: Dec 29, 2009
I HAVE THE FUEL LEAK PROBLEM COVERED IN RECALL NUMBER 09V468000 IN MY 2002 SUBARU IMPREZZA WRX BUT MY CAR IS REGISTERED IN PENNSYLVANIA AND APPEARS NOT TO BE COVERED. I CAN SMELL GAS AND SEE IT POOL ON THE ENGINE WHEN STARTING MY CAR BELOW ABOUT 30 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT WHICH IS NOT UNCOMMON IN PENNSY... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Nov 18, 2009
Incident date: Nov 18, 2009
1. WHEN AMBIENT TEMPERATURE IS ROUGHLY BELOW 45 DEGREES F, AND THE CAR IS "COLD". 2. GASOLINE LEAKS FROM FUEL LINE UNDER INTAKE MANIFOLD. IT OCCURS WHEN THE RUBBER HOSE AND THE METAL FUEL PIPE CONTRACT IN COLD CONDITIONS AND BREAK THE SEAL CAUSING GASOLINE TO LEAK. THE LEAK DRIPS FUEL ONTO THE EN... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Nov 17, 2009
Incident date: Nov 17, 2009
2002 WRX FUEL SMELL IN CABIN AT COLD TEMPERATURES. HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE TO COMPLAIN BEFORE A RECALL IS ISSUED OR SOMEONE GETS HURT? WHERE IS THE NHTSA WHEN YOU NEED THEM? THERE ARE RECALLS FOR RELATIVELY MINOR ISSUES. SO, WHERE IS THE RECALL FOR LEAKING FUEL? DEALER DENIES ANY PROBLEM. SEE ALSO NHTS... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Nov 11, 2009
Incident date: Nov 11, 2009
2002 WRX FUEL SMELL IN CABIN AT COLD TEMPERATURES. HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE TO COMPLAIN BEFORE A RECALL IS ISSUED OR SOMEONE GETS HURT? WHERE IS THE NHTSA WHEN YOU NEED THEM? THERE ARE RECALLS FOR RELATIVELY MINOR ISSUES. SO, WHERE IS THE RECALL FOR LEAKING FUEL? DEALER DENIES ANY PROBLEM. SEE ALS... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Nov 11, 2009
Incident date: Oct 1, 2009
I HAVE A SUBARU 2002 WRX WAGON, FUEL ODOR IN COMPARTMENT WHEN CAR IS COLD, WHEN IT WARMS UP THE ODOR GOES AWAY. THIS IS VERY ANNOYING AND THERE ARE SEVERAL SUBARU FORUMS WITH PEOPLE COMPLAINING ABOUT THIS. PLEASE HELP IN GETTING THIS ISSUE RESOLVED. SUBARU KEEPS SAYS THAT THERE IS NO ISSUE. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Nov 9, 2009
Incident date: Oct 25, 2009
SMELL OF RAW GAS FROM VENTS WHILE NOT MOVING. CHECKED UNDER THE ENGINE AND FOUND UNDERNEATH THE TURBO INLET HOSE FUEL DRIPPING FROM A HOSE. ALSO FOUND 2 OTHER HOSES THAT MAY BE LEAKING FUEL AS WELL AROUND THE AREA. CAR IS PARKED UNDER STORAGE STATUS UNTIL PARTS CAN BE REPLACED, NOT SURE IF THERE ... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Oct 31, 2009
Incident date: Oct 31, 2009
GASOLINE ODOR FILLS THE CABIN ON MY 2002 SUBARU IMPREZA WRX WHEN THE HEATER IS TURNED ON. THIS HAS HAPPENED REPEATEDLY. THE ODOR IS OVERWHELMING AND INTOXICATING! I POPPED THE HOOD OF MY CAR AND SMELLED GAS COMING FROM THE FUEL LINES NEXT TO THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Oct 29, 2009
Incident date: Feb 10, 2009
FUEL LEAK AT STARTUP WHEN CAR IS COLD, USUALLY BELOW FREEZING TEMPERATURES. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Oct 17, 2009
Incident date: Sep 15, 2009
I NOTICED A RAW FUEL SMELL WHEN STARTING THE CAR IN THE MORNING. THIS WAS ORIGINALLY JUST AN ISSUE IN COLD WEATHER, BUT THE SMELL HAS PERSISTED AND NOW OCCURS EVEN AFTER NORMAL OVERNIGHT LOW TEMPERATURES HERE IN SEATTLE (40-50 DEGREES). I BELIEVE THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE FOR THREE REASONS: FIRST, T... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Sep 4, 2009
Incident date: Jan 1, 2009
2002 SUBARU IMPREZA WRX FUEL LEAKS AT TEMPERATURES UNDER ABOUT 20 DEGREES F FROM RUBBER HOSE CLAMPS TO STEEL PIPES UNDER INTAKE MANIFOLD. PROBLEM MATCHES DESCRIPTION OF TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN 09-36-03 AND SHOWN IN EXISTING REPORT EA09011. TRIED TO TIGHTEN CLAMPS BY REMOVING POWER STEERING PUM... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE May 28, 2009
Incident date: Feb 15, 2006
IN FEB OF 2006 I BEGAN SMELLING A SLIGHT FUEL ODOR IN MY 2002 SUBARU WRX. A FEW DAYS AFTER I NOTICED THIS I CAME HOME AND WAS GOING TO TRY AND FIND THE SOURCE OF THE SMELL, IT HAD SLIGHTLY WORSENED OVER THOSE DAYS. I PULLED IN MY DRIVEWAY, OPENED THE HOOD AND LOOKED AROUND THE ENGINE FOR A MINUTE, I... Read more
Fire

Showing 50 of 461 complaints.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2002 SUBARU WRX

48 manufacturer communications from 25 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

ComponentBulletins
350000 EQUIPMENT17
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM5
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING3
030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC2
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY2
101000 POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY2
090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER2
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL2
01-168-09R Aug 1, 2023
350000 EQUIPMENT
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
01-168-09R Aug 1, 2023
170000 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
01-168-09R Aug 1, 2023
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
12-249-23R Jul 11, 2023
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin announces the recommended cleaning procedures to followed when encountering vehicles with long time exposure to pollen on painted surfaces on vehicles imported from Japan. This bulletin does not apply to SIA built vehicles.
01-167-08R Aug 23, 2022
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
15-302-22 Aug 23, 2022
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
15-302-22 Aug 23, 2022
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
15-192-22R Mar 18, 2022
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This bulletin has been developed to outline the steps for gathering basic essential information during diagnosis and repair of the Infotainment concerns. (Applicable to all models with Harman or Denso CP1 Infotainment).
01-167-08R Jun 17, 2021
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models
01-167-08R Jun 17, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models
09-51-08R Jun 7, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin is to advise of SOAa??s revised catalytic converter recycling program shipping procedure.
09-51-08R Jun 7, 2021
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
This bulletin is to advise of SOAa??s revised catalytic converter recycling program shipping procedure.
14-22-16R Feb 1, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
To help reduce confusion and increase technician efficiency, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) has developed the following cross reference list to help locate the appropriate Special Service Tool.
03-82-18R Jan 12, 2021
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
This bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing.
03-82-18R Jan 12, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing.
03-82-18R Jan 12, 2021
101000 POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
This bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing.
03-82-18R Jan 12, 2021
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
This bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing.
01-168-09R Jan 4, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information.
01-168-09R Jan 4, 2021
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information.
14-22-16R Aug 4, 2020
350000 EQUIPMENT
Special Service Tools Cross Reference List.
01-181-20 Apr 30, 2020
350000 EQUIPMENT
All Models (Vehicle Cleaning- COVID-19Best Practices)
07-75-13R Mar 10, 2020
350000 EQUIPMENT
This Bulletin provides information regarding DTC P0606 related specifically to the determination of this code on Forester Turbo and applicable WRX models.
07-75-13R Mar 10, 2020
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
This Bulletin provides information regarding DTC P0606 related specifically to the determination of this code on Forester Turbo and applicable WRX models.
07-75-13R Mar 10, 2020
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
This Bulletin provides information regarding DTC P0606 related specifically to the determination of this code on Forester Turbo and applicable WRX models.
07-75-13R Mar 10, 2020
111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
This Bulletin provides information regarding DTC P0606 related specifically to the determination of this code on Forester Turbo and applicable WRX models.
06-68-19R Jul 11, 2019
030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
This Service Information bulletin announces instruction for application of additional lubrication between the brake caliper support and pad clips. This will prevent the pad from dragging due to corrosion buildup which may result in uneven o
Subaru Tech Tips May 21, 2019
350000 EQUIPMENT
Subaru Service and Technical Support Line Newletter.
14-22-16R May 6, 2019
350000 EQUIPMENT
To help reduce confusion and increase technician efficiency, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) has developed the following cross reference list to help locate the appropriate Special Service Tool.
06-68-19 Jan 25, 2019
034510 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
This Service Information bulletin announces instruction for application of additional lubrication between the brake caliper support and pad clips. This will prevent the pad from dragging due to corrosion buildup which may result in uneven o
06-68-19 Jan 25, 2019
030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
This Service Information bulletin announces instruction for application of additional lubrication between the brake caliper support and pad clips. This will prevent the pad from dragging due to corrosion buildup which may result in uneven o
02-172-18R Feb 6, 2018
060000 ENGINE (PWS)
This bulletin provides details regarding a new oil filler tube o-ring developed to address engine oil seepage concerns. This seepage may accumulate along the bottom sealing surface of the rocker cover. The new o-ring utilizes material whic
02-172-18R Feb 6, 2018
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin provides details regarding a new oil filler tube o-ring developed to address engine oil seepage concerns. This seepage may accumulate along the bottom sealing surface of the rocker cover. The new o-ring utilizes material whic
02-172-18R Feb 6, 2018
060000 ENGINE (PWS)
This bulletin provides details regarding a new oil filler tube o-ring developed to address engine oil seepage concerns. This seepage may accumulate along the bottom sealing surface of the rocker cover. The new o-ring utilizes material whi
01-168-09R Nov 16, 2016
350000 EQUIPMENT
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
01-168-09R Sep 30, 2016
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
14411AA532R1 Jan 25, 2016
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
SOA is pleased to announce the launch of a new remanufactured turbocharger program. Supplies are now available at all RDC?s. When installing a remanufactured turbocharger follow the procedure outlined in Service Bulletin 02-106-08R and
14411AA532R1 Jan 25, 2016
061120 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
Launch of Remanufactured Turbochargers
Announcement Dec 3, 2014
350000 EQUIPMENT
New Vehicle Receipt- Navigation SD Card Transit Storage Location Change
0116809R Jul 17, 2014
116340 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:KEY/SENDER
Replacement Key and Immobilizer Info
0116809R Apr 25, 2013
116340 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:KEY/SENDER
Replacement Key and Immobilizer info
09-36-03R Feb 19, 2013
090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
NOTE: SERVICE BULLETIN 09-36-03 (FUEL SMELL IN COLD WEATHER) HAS BEEN DELETED FROM STIS AND HAS BEEN REPLACED WITH SERVICE BULLETIN 01-170-09 (ENGINE FUEL LINE EXTENDED WARRANTY PROGRAM). IF YOU HAVE COPIES OF 09-36-03 PLEASE DISCARD AND RE
SB-05-50-10R Feb 3, 2011
190000 TIRES
SUBARU: THERE IS A STEERING WHEEL VIBRATION AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS DUE TO AN IMPORPER WHEEL BALANCE. *RM
063505R Aug 19, 2005
036100 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
(ABS) ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM CONTROL UNIT CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAM. *TT
11012004 Nov 1, 2004
090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
FUEL ODOR IN COLD WEATHER. *EH
035102 Jan 15, 2003
101000 POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
COLD CLUTCH JUDDER. ALL 1999 - 2002MY 2.5L AND 2002MY 2.0L WRX VEHICLES. *TT
010302 Mar 1, 2002
116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
SUBJECT REGARDING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P1591. *SLC
010701 Jul 1, 2001
142000 AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
INFORMATION ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SRS SIDE AIRBAGS. *JB
010601 Jun 1, 2001
062000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
SUBJECT PERTAINING TO TURBO COOL DOWN PROCEDURE. *JB

NHTSA Safety Investigations, SUBARU WRX

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

EA03024 Opened: Nov 19, 2003 , Closed: Jul 12, 2005
EA, Closed , Model Year: 2002
EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCES
DURING THE EA, ODI AND VRTC PERFORMED THE FOLLOWING ACTIVITIES:1.CONDUCTED A MAIL SURVEY OF 246 SUBJECT VEHICLE OWNERS TODETERMINE THE ROADWAY SURFACE THAT CAUSED OWNERS' CONCERN;2.INTERVIEWED COMPLAINING OWNERS;3.CONDUCTED FIELD INSPECTIONS OF SEVEN (7) COMPLAINT VEHICLES;4.INSTRUMENTED TESTING AT ... Read more
PE03029 Opened: Jul 8, 2003 , Closed: Nov 19, 2003
PE, Closed , Model Year: 2002
BRAKING SYSTEM/ABS
SUBARU'S SUPPLEMENTAL RESPONSE OF SEPTEMBER 29, 2003, IDENTIFIED THAT THE 2002, 2003 SUBARU WRX MODELS AREEQUIPPED WITH THE BOSCH 5.3 ABS SYSTEM, AND IDENTIFIED THAT OTHER MODEL SUBARU VEHICLES ARE ALSO EQUIPPED WITH THE BOSCH 5.3 ABS SYSTEM, BUT HAVE DIFFERENT CALIBRATIONS THAN THE WRX MODEL VEHICL... Read more

SUBARU WRX - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the SUBARU WRX across all model years (2002, 2023).

109 Total Recalls
1,232 Total Complaints
2 Investigations
78 Reported Crashes
13 Reported Fires
1 Reported Deaths

SUBARU WRX - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year Recalls Complaints
2025 0 4 View
2024 0 15 View
2023 1 7 View
2022 1 36 View
2021 1 21 View
2020 1 23 View
2019 2 44 View
2018 2 63 View
2017 1 73 View
2016 3 40 View
2015 3 73 View
2014 10 9 View
2013 11 11 View
2012 12 4 View
2011 11 5 View
2010 12 3 View
2009 10 72 View
2008 7 119 View
2007 3 0 View
2006 4 14 View
2005 5 24 View
2004 5 46 View
2003 2 65 View
2002 (current) 2 461

Other SUBARU Models

Model Recalls Complaints
IMPREZA 321 3,425 View
LEGACY 307 4,132 View
OUTBACK 288 12,131 View
SOLTERRA 259 109 View
FORESTER 134 8,512 View
ASCENT 112 1,248 View
TRIBECA 70 51 View
CROSSTREK 42 1,453 View