The problem
On certain passenger sedans, wagons, and sport utility vehicles, the cruise control cable could come out of its track on the cruise control lever and lodge on the control lever tab when the accelerator pedal is released. If this condition occurs, the throttle will not return to the idle position and will remain in an open position.
The risk
If this occurs during vehicle operation, the driver could lose control of the vehicle, which could result in a crash.
The fix
Dealers will install a cruise control cable retaining clip to the cruise control lever tab on the throttle shaft in order to prevent the cruise control cable from coming out of its track. Owner notification began on April 12, 2004. Owners should contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 04V-128 (04V128000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | WWQ-01 |
| Manufacturer | Subaru of America, Inc. |
| Component | Vehicle speed control › Cables |
| Report date | March 16, 2004 |
| Owners notified | April 12, 2004 |
| Vehicles affected | 127,580 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the speed control & acceleration
- 2002 Subaru Impreza acceleration problems 6
- 2003 Subaru Impreza acceleration problems 1
- 2004 Subaru Impreza acceleration problems 5
- 2001 Subaru Legacy acceleration problems 9
- 2002 Subaru Legacy acceleration problems 4
- 2003 Subaru Legacy acceleration problems 5
- 2004 Subaru Legacy acceleration problems 5
- 2001 Subaru Outback acceleration problems 17
- 2002 Subaru Outback acceleration problems 12
- 2003 Subaru Outback acceleration problems 9
- 2004 Subaru Outback acceleration problems 20
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 04V-128 repair free?
Yes. Subaru dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will install a cruise control cable retaining clip to the cruise control lever tab on the throttle shaft in order to prevent the cruise control cable from coming out of its track. Owner notification began on April 12, 2004.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 127,580 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.