WRE-22R

ATTENTION:
GENERAL MANAGER
q
PARTS MANAGER
q
CLAIMS PERSONNEL
q
IMPORTANT - All
Service Personnel
Should Read and
Initial in the boxes
provided, right.
SERVICE MANAGER
q
© 2022 Subaru of America, Inc. All rights reserved.
PRODUCT CAMPAIGN BULLETIN
APPLICABILITY:
SUBJECT:
2015-2021 MY WRX STI
NUMBER: WRE-22R
Safety Recall – Back-Up Lamp Switch Failure
DATE: 09/02/22
REVISED: 01/05/24
NHTSA: 22V-522
UPDATE – November 2023: Please refer to the revised repair procedures contained in this
bulletin. The intention of these revisions is to eliminate the need to remove exhaust components
and the propeller shaft. The claim reimbursement labor time has not been changed.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is initiating a new safety recall for certain 2015-2021 model year
WRX STI vehicles, which may contain a defective back-up lamp switch.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DEFECT AND SAFETY RISK
The operating environment of the back-up lamp switch may expose the internal switch contacts to
heated oil. When heated, sulfur in the oil may cause a chemical reaction with the materials used on
the switch terminal contact surfaces and plate spring. This chemical reaction may cause corrosion and
a non-conductive film to form on the contacts resulting in poor electrical conductivity.
Over time, the back-up lamp switch may become inoperative which may result in the back-up lamps
not illuminating when in reverse gear, the rear-view camera (if equipped) not displaying an image,
and the select lever/gear position indicator in the combination meter not displaying ‘R’ for reverse
gear.
If the back-up lamps do not illuminate when the vehicle is in reverse gear, this may reduce the
awareness of other motorists or road users of the driver’s intention to operate the vehicle in reverse,
increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, a rear-view camera (if equipped) that does not display an
image can reduce the driver’s view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
REMEDY
For all potentially affected vehicles, Subaru retailers will conduct an inspection and replace the backup lamp switch with improved one, if necessary, at no cost to the customer.
CAUTION: VEHICLE SERVICING PERFORMED BY UNTRAINED PERSONS COULD
RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY TO THOSE PERSONS OR TO OTHERS.
Subaru Service Bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians ONLY. They
are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur in some vehicles,
or to provide information that could assist in the proper servicing of the vehicle. Properly
trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to
do the job correctly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that this
Service Bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition.
Subaru of America, Inc. is
ISO 14001 Compliant
ISO 14001 is the international standard for
excellence in Environmental Management
Systems. Please recycle or dispose of
automotive products in a manner that is friendly
to our environment and in accordance with all
local, state and federal laws and regulations.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 1 of 26
AFFECTED VEHICLES
A total of 59,934 U.S. WRX STI vehicles will be affected by this recall, as listed below:
Model Year
Carline
Production Date Range
2015-2021
WRX STI
November 14, 2013 – October 21, 2021
Not all vehicles in the production range listed above are affected by this recall. Coverage must be
confirmed by using the Vehicle Coverage Inquiry function on subarunet.com prior to repair.
RETAILER RESPONSIBILITY
Any vehicles listed in any recall/campaign that are in retailer stock must be:
•
Immediately identified
•
Tagged or otherwise marked to prevent their delivery or use prior to repair
•
Repaired in accordance with the repair procedures outlined in the Product Campaign Bulletin
Retailers are to promptly perform the applicable service procedures, to correct all affected vehicles in
their inventory (used, demo & SSLP). Whenever a vehicle subject to this recall is taken into retailer
inventory necessary steps should be taken to ensure the recall correction has been made before selling
or releasing the vehicle.
OWNER NOTIFICATION
Subaru will notify affected vehicle owners by first class mail on September 16, 2022.
COMPONENT DESCRIPTION:
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 2 of 26
PART INFORMATION:
IMPORTANT: BACK-UP LAMP SWITCH KIT A (p.n. X3200AA220) and BACK-UP
SWITCH KIT B (p.n. X3200AA330) MUST be ordered through PRIME.
2015 MY- 2018 MY except 2018MY Type RA
Part Description
Part Number
Qty
BACK LAMP SW KIT A
X3200AA220
1
Identification Label
KIT Component Breakdown
Part Description
Part Number
Qty
(1)
SW ASSY-BACK LAMP
(Back lamp switch)
32005AA1139R
1
(2)
GSKT-INTER COOLER
21896AA0729R
1
(3)
GASKET(CR)
44022AA1239R
1
(4)
SPRING PIN UN,G/S
6330460209R
1
(5)
SELF LOCK NUT M10
9023300119R
4
(6)
NUT FLG M8
9023800159R
6
(7)
GSKT
44011AG0019R
1
(8)
GASKET
44011SG0109R
2
Details
Gasket is in the
Package
Major axis:
45.7 mm
Minor axis:
41.7 mm
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 3 of 26
Part Description
BACK LAMP SW KIT B
North America: 2019 MY - 2021 MY and 2018MY Type RA
Part Number
Qty
Identification Label
X3200AA330
1
KIT Component Breakdown
Part Description
Part Number
Qty
(1)
SW ASSY-BACK LAMP
(Back lamp switch)
32005AA1139R
1
(2)
GSKT-INTER COOLER
21896AA0729R
1
(3)
GASKET(CR)
44022AA1239R
1
(4)
SPRING PIN UN,G/S
6330460209R
1
(5)
SELF LOCK NUT M10
9023300119R
4
(6)
NUT FLG M8
9023800159R
6
(7)
GSKT
44011AG0019R
1
(8)
(9)
GASKET
SELF LOCK NUT
44011SG0009R
0235080009R
2
12
Details
Gasket Included
See Additional Note
Major axis:
53.8 mm
Minor axis:
49.8 mm
STI draw Stiffener
fixing nut
Discard if these are not
used.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 4 of 26
ADDITIONAL PARTS NOTES:
IMPORTANT: (5) SELF LOCK NUT M10 (p.n. 9023300119R) and (6) NUT FLG M8 (p.n.
9023800159R) supplied in the kit may be different from the nuts installed in the affected vehicle.
These parts are interchangeable and can be used for this recall work.
(5) SELF LOCK NUT M10
Part Application
Part Number
Replacement Part
9023300119R
Vehicles Produced up to April
2016
902350001
Vehicles Produced After April
2016
Details
Nut is exclusive for this recall
Original installation nut &
normal repair part
902330011
(6) NUT FLG M8
Part Application
Part Number
Replacement Part
9023800159R
Vehicles Produced up to July
2014
902350028
Details
Nut is exclusive for this recall
Original installation nut &
normal repair part
Vehicles Produced After July
2014
902380015
IMPORTANT: The exhaust hardware and gaskets included in the kits are no longer required due to a
procedure change introduced on 11/10/23.
Required Tools:
A Pin Punch with an 8mm Diameter and recommended
length of 200mm or more. This is used for the removal
and installation of the shift rod locking spring.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 5 of 26
IMPORTANT: The following tools framed in BLUE will be included in WRE-22 Tool Kit (p.n.
SOA635173). This kit will be shipped to all retailers.
The Extended Universal Socket (p.n. 18270AA090)
is used for removing and installing the back-up lamp
switch.
Component Details:
The configuration images below outline the part application, part numbers, and torque information of
the components involved when performing this work procedure. A black star (★) in the component
breakdown illustrations is used to indicate one-time use parts.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 6 of 26
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 7 of 26
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 8 of 26
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 9 of 26
Service Procedure Overview Flowchart:
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 10 of 26
SERVICE PROCEDURE / INFORMATION:
STEP 1: Lift up the vehicle.
STEP 2: For 2019MY S209 model, remove the STI flexible draw stiffener. Refer to the S209 Service Manual
STEP 3: Remove clip (A), the two
bolts (B), the two clips (C) and clip
(D). The lower transmission cover can
then be removed.
STEP 4: Perform a visual inspection of the wiring harness colors on the back-up lamp switch.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 11 of 26
STEP 5: Apply the visual inspection results from STEP 4 to the table below to verify the next course
of action.
STEP 6: Refer to the applicable Service Manual and review: General Description > Repair Contents
> Action required before & after Battery Disconnect. Additionally, record any stored seat position(s)
before proceeding. Relearn any seat position memory after work is complete. Confirm that the shift
lever is in the Neutral position. Confirm the parking brake is released. Depress the brake pedal several
times to remove any pressure in the brake booster. CAREFULLY remove the ground terminal from
the battery.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 12 of 26
STEP 7: Remove the intercooler in accordance with the applicable Service Manual.
NOTE: S209 models will require the removal of the STI Flexible Tower Bar. The strut mounting
nuts are one-time use parts. Refer to Refer to the S209 Service Manual.
CAUTION: Be mindful not to deform or damage the
intercooler fins. Tape and cardboard can be used for
added protection.
STEP 8: Remove the pitching stopper. Take note of the hardware positioning for reassembly.
STEP 9: Set the transmission jack to support the transmission.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 13 of 26
STEP 10: Prepare two pieces of cardboard or thick paper by cutting them to the sized dimensions
outlined.
STEP 11: Remove the four heat shield mounting bolts. DO NOT removed the shield at this time.
Remove the six mounting bolts and two mounting nuts for the crossmember.
STEP 12: Slowly lower the transmission jack. Using the 80mm cut section as a gauge, confirm the
distance between the transmission output dust cover and the floor pan is 80mm.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 14 of 26
STEP 13:
Remove the crossmember toward the left side of the vehicle.
STEP 14: Loosen the mounting bolts securing the center heat shield and then CAREFULLY remove the
heat shield toward the passenger side of the vehicle. Swing the rear portion of the heat shield out first and
CAREFULLY thread the oxygen sensor wiring through the shield.
STEP 15: Remove the snap pin and washer from the reverse check cable. These parts will be reused and
should be stored securely. Once removed, disconnect the cable from the reverse check lever.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 15 of 26
STEP 16: Loosen the stay bolt. Remove the stay, stay bolt, and reverse check bracket my moving it
in a downward direction away from the shift bracket.
STEP 17: Slowly lower the transmission jack. Using the 95mm cut section as a gauge, confirm the
distance between the transmission output dust cover and the floor pan is 95mm.
CAUTION: DO NOT increase the distance beyond 95mm. This may cause damage to the
transmission and propeller shaft.
STEP 18: Release the retaining bands holding the back-up switch harness.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 16 of 26
STEP 19: Disconnect the gray two-pin connector
on the back-up switch harness.
STEP 20: Using compressed air, clear any debris
from the back-up switch. This will help prevent any
contamination.
STEP 21: Install the special tool (p.n. 18270AA090) onto the back-up switch with the wires aligned
with the socket recess. Make sure the tool is passed under the switch harness. A 3/8 universal socket
and eight-inch extension can be used in conjunction with the special tool.
CAUTION: Confirm the socket is fully seated onto the back-up switch. Confirm the wires are not
damaged by the socket.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 17 of 26
CAUTION: Take particular care not to damage the neutral position switch with the special tool.
STEP 22: Loosen the back-up switch from the transmission case. Rotate the switch harness while
turning the socket to prevent any excessive tension. The switch and the special tool cannot be
removed together due to interference with the transmission case. Remove the tool before removing
the switch.
STEP 23: Install the new back-up switch with the new gasket. Rotate the switch by hand while
turning its connector in order to avoid any twisting of the harness.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 18 of 26
STEP 24: Using the same precautions practiced in the switch removal, tighten the new switch, and
set the torque to 32Nm (23.6 ft-lb).
STEP 25: Connect the new back-up switch connector. Secure the wiring harness to the associated
retaining bands.
STEP 26: Slowly raise the transmission jack. Using the 80mm cut section as a gauge, confirm the
distance between the transmission output dust cover and the floor pan is 80mm.
STEP 27: Apply a thin layer of
Conoco Philips Multiplex Red #2
(p.n. 000041000) to the contact
portions between the shift bracket
and stay bushing. This will help
assist the installation.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 19 of 26
STEP 28: Apply a thin layer of Conoco Philips
Multiplex Red #2 (p.n. 000041000) to the bushing
of the reverse check cable its associated contact point.
STEP 29: Install the stay, stay bolt, and cable plate into
the shift bracket and tighten the bolt to 32Nm
(23.6ft-lb).
CAUTION: CAREFULLY align the claw for the
cable plate with the groove of the shift bracket before
tightening the stay bolt. If the bolt is tightened without
this alignment, the plate can be damaged.
STEP 30: Install the reverse check cable to the reverse check lever. Secure the connection with the
washer and locking snap pin.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 20 of 26
STEP 31: Install the cross member to the transmission with the two mounting nuts. Install the
heat shield with the mounting bolts hand tight. Confirm the alignment is sufficient by adjusting the
transmission jack if needed. Install the cross member to the vehicle body with the six mounting bolts.
Torque the crossmember mounting bolts. Once the torque procedure is complete, the transmission
jack can be removed.
STEP 32: Torque the heat shield mounting bolts to 18Nm (13.3ft-lb).
STEP 33: Lower the vehicle and confirm the parking brake is applied. 2019MY S209 models, install
the STI flexible draw stiffener. Refer to the S209 Service Manual.
STEP 34: Install the pitching stopper with the two mounting bolts. Torque the vehicle body side bolt
to 58Nm (42.8ft-lb). Torque the engine side mounting bolt to 50Nm (36.9ft-lb).
STEP 35: Reinstall the intercooler in accordance with the applicable Service Manual. Be mindful not
to deform or damage the intercooler fins. For 2019MY S209 models, install the STI flexible Tower
Bar. Refer to the S209 Service Manual.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 21 of 26
STEP 36: Reconnect the ground cable terminal to the battery sensor, torque to 7.5Nm (5.5ft.-lbs. or
66inch-lbs.) while supporting the sensor with the other hand.
NOTE: If needed, clean the battery cable terminals, and apply the approved protectant.
STEP 37: Perform and function test of the back-up switch by moving the shift lever into the reverse
position and confirm the lamp illuminates when required.
STEP 38: Perform Intake and Exhaust leak check and confirm that there are no leaks.
CLAIM REIMBURSEMENT AND ENTRY PROCEDURES:
Credit to perform this recall will be based on properly completed repair order information. Retailers
may submit claims through Subarunet.com.
Labor Description
Labor Operation #
Labor Time
WIRE HARNESS INSPECTION
ONLY
A168-428
0.2
NON-S209 INSPECTION
& BACKUP LAMP SWITCH
REPLACEMENT
A168-421
1.7
S209 INSPECTION & BACKUP
LAMP SWITCH REPLACEMENT
A168-422
2.0
Fail Code
WRE-22
Up to 10 cents can be claimed in sublet for Conoco Philips Multiplex Red #2 (p.n. 000041000).
IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
•
SOA strongly discourages the printing and/or local storage of service information as
previously released information and electronic publications may be updated at any time.
•
Always check for any open recalls or campaigns anytime a vehicle is in for servicing.
•
Always refer to STIS for the latest service information before performing any repairs.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 22 of 26
SERVICE PROGRAM IDENTIFICATION LABEL:
Type or print the necessary information on a Campaign Identification Label. The completed label
should be attached to the vehicle’s upper radiator support. Additional labels are available through
normal parts ordering channels. The part number is MSA6P1302, which comes as one sheet of 20
labels.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WRE-22R; Revised: 01/05/23
Page 23 of 26
URGENT
IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL
Subaru of America, Inc
PO Box 9103
Camden, NJ 08101-9877
844-373-6614
www.subaru.com
Subaru Safety Recall WRE-22
NHTSA ID 22V-522
September 2022
Dear Subaru Owner:
This notice is sent to you in accordance with the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety
Act.
SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. has decided that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle
safety, exists in certain 2015-2021 model year WRX STI vehicles.
You received this notice because our records indicate that you currently own one of these
vehicles.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DEFECT
Your vehicle may contain a defective back-up lamp switch, which may cause the back-up
lamps to not illuminate, the rear-view camera (if equipped) to not display an image, and the
select lever/gear position indicator in the combination meter to not display ‘R’ when driving
in reverse.
SAFETY RISK
If the back-up lamps do not illuminate when the vehicle is in reverse gear, this may reduce
the awareness of other motorists or road users of the driver’s intention to operate the
vehicle in reverse, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, a rear-view camera that does
not display an image can reduce the driver’s view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing
the risk of a crash.
WHAT SUBARU WILL DO
Subaru will conduct an inspection and replace the back-up lamp switch with improved one,
if necessary, at no cost to you.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
Please contact your Subaru retailer (dealer) immediately for an appointment to have this
repair performed, at no cost to you.
Until this repair is performed, please use caution when driving in reverse. You should
always check the rear view and the surrounding area by turning your head rearward and/
or using the mirrors and move backward at a slow speed.
HOW LONG WILL THE REPAIR TAKE?
The time it will take to inspect your vehicle is less than fifteen minutes. If it is found that the
switch needs to be replaced, the time for this repair is approximately two hours. However,
it may be necessary to leave your vehicle for a longer period of time on the day of your
scheduled appointment to allow your Subaru retailer flexibility in scheduling.
OWNER INFORMATION
Government regulations require that recall notifications be sent to the last known owner of
record. That information is based primarily on state registration and title data. If you are a
lessor of this vehicle, federal regulations require you to forward this notice to your lessee
within ten days.
If you have moved or sold your vehicle, please go to https://www.subaru.com/support/
customer-support.html to send us your information.
IF YOU HAVE PREVIOUSLY PAID FOR A REPAIR
If you have already paid for repairs associated with this condition, you may be eligible for
reimbursement. Reimbursement consideration will be based on the amount an authorized
Subaru retailer in your area would charge for the same repair.
Please send the original service repair order, which has the name of the repair facility, date
of repair, mileage at the time of repair, complete 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN),
and your name, with correct mailing address and telephone number to the address listed
below.
Subaru of America, Inc.
Customer Advocacy Department, Attention: WRE-22 Recall
P.O. Box 9103, Camden, NJ 08101-9877
Please send original receipts only and retain a photocopy for your records. Please be
assured that we will attempt to process your reimbursement request as quickly as possible,
but it may take up to 60 days for this process to be completed.
IF YOU NEED FURTHER ASSISTANCE:
To locate the nearest Subaru retailer, you can access our website at www.subaru.com and
select ‘Find a Retailer.’
For additional information, please go to: http://www.wre22.service-campaign.com.
If you need additional assistance, please contact us directly:
•
By e-mail: Go to www.subaru.com and select “Customer Support”
•
By telephone: 1-844-373-6614
Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. ET
•
By U.S. Postal mail: Write us at Subaru of America, Inc.
Attn: Customer Advocacy Department
P.O. Box 9103, Camden, NJ 08101-9877
To subscribe to the NHTSA Recall Notification email System, please go to: https://wwwodi.nhtsa.dot.gov/nhtsa/subscriptions.
Please contact us immediately if the Subaru retailer fails or is unable to make the necessary
repairs free of charge.
You may also contact the Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA), 1200 New Jersey Ave., SE, Washington, DC 20590 or call the toll-free Vehicle
Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153) or go to http://www.NHTSA.gov
if you believe the Subaru retailer has failed or is unable to remedy your vehicle without
charge within a reasonable amount of time.
Your continued satisfaction with your Subaru is important to us. Please understand that we
have taken this action in the interest of your safety and your vehicle’s proper operation. We
sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this matter may cause and urge you to schedule
an appointment as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Subaru of America, Inc.
A subsidiary of SUBARU CORPORATION