Subaru Recall 03V-047: Seat belts – buckle assembly

Affected: 2003 Subaru Forester. Filed with NHTSA on February 20, 2003, covering about 326 vehicles.

The problem

Certain passenger vehicles fail to comply with requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 209, "seat belt assemblies." the left and right front seat belt buckle/latch assemblies were improperly manufactured.

The risk

In the event of a crash, the front seat belts could unlatch, which could result in personal injury to the seat occupant.

The fix

Dealers will replace the left and right front seat belt buckle/latch assemblies. Owner notification began February 19, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign03V-047 (03V047000)
Manufacturer numberWWL-95
ManufacturerSubaru of America, Inc.
ComponentSeat belts › Front › Buckle assembly
Report dateFebruary 20, 2003
Owners notifiedFebruary 19, 2003
Vehicles affected326
Initiated byManufacturer

Vehicles covered

Owner complaints about the seat belts

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 03V-047 repair free?

Yes. Subaru dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the left and right front seat belt buckle/latch assemblies. Owner notification began February 19, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a…

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 326 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.