The problem
This recall applies to certain passenger vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the states of connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, kentucky, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, virginia, west virginia, wisconsin, and the district of columbia. Certain rear suspension subframe components were produced with poor paint quality which, after continued exposure to corrosive road salts for a period of several years, could result in rust-out of the component and possible breakage of the subframe.
The risk
If such breakage occurs while the vehicle is being operated, control of the vehicle could be affected, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will clean and rust-proof the rear suspension subframe. Owner notification began July 14, 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 campaign | 03V-153 (03V153000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | WWM-96 |
| Manufacturer | Subaru of America, Inc. |
| Component | Suspension › Rear |
| Report date | April 22, 2003 |
| Owners notified | July 14, 2003 |
| Vehicles affected | 170,000 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the suspension
- 2000 Subaru Legacy suspension problems 13
- 2001 Subaru Legacy suspension problems 6
- 2002 Subaru Legacy suspension problems 6
- 2003 Subaru Legacy suspension problems 2
- 2000 Subaru Outback suspension problems 24
- 2001 Subaru Outback suspension problems 19
- 2002 Subaru Outback suspension problems 4
- 2003 Subaru Outback suspension problems 9
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 03V-153 repair free?
Yes. Subaru dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will clean and rust-proof the rear suspension subframe. Owner notification began July 14, 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…
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 170,000 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.