Subaru Legacy Wagon 1997

• Recall 4829 [USA]: Depending on the location of the fracture, a broken spring could move past the spring seat and contact a front tire. some tires have deflated due to contact with a broken spring.
  Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with front coil springs originally sold in or currently registered in the states of connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, kentucky, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new york, new jersey, new hampshire, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, virginia, west virginia, and wisconsin, and in the district of columbia. The front coil springs were produced with poor paint quality which, after continued exposure to corrosive salt, can result in breakage of the spring.
  dealers will notifiy customers to bring their vehicle to an authorize dealership to have a spring guard installed on both front struts to prevent tire puncture and replace any broken springs free of charge. Owner notification began september 18, 2001. 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.
  also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).

• Recall 6450 [USA]: If the alternator fails, the alternator warning telltale will alert the driver to the problem, giving ample opportunity to seek repair before a loss of battery power, which, if the warning were ignored, could ultimately result in a loss of vehicle power (engine stall).
  This is not a safety recall in accordance with the safety act. However, it is deemed a safety improvement campaign by the agency. Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. Some of these vehicles have an alternator problem that can result in a loss of charging capability.
  dealers will replace the alternator with a modified alternator. Owners will also be cautioned that, should the alternator telltale warning lamp illuminate, they must seek immediate repair to avoid the eventual loss of electrical power, which could result in an engine stall.
  subaru has decided to conduct a service program to replace the alternator. This replacement campaign will be conducted in phases.Owner notification began november 15, 2000.Owners can contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783, concerning this program.

• Recall 10475 [USA]: Such fractures can result in partial or complete separation of the bracket causing a failure of the lower suspension mounting, leading to a loss of vehicle control.
  Vehicle description: passenger station wagon, sedan and sport utility vehicles. Due to improper welding, fractures can occur on the support bracket of the front transverse link.
  dealers will inspect and replace if necessary the front suspension support brackets.
  owner notification began june 29, 1998. 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.Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).

• Recall 13995 [USA]: This condition can cause unexpected movement of the vehicle increasing the risk of a crash or property damage.
  Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions. Due to poor welds, ignition keys can stick, shift levers/linkages can break and shift levers can move.
  dealers will replace the automatic transmission shift lever assemblies (except the handle grip).
  owner notification began june 15, 1998.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. Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).

• Recall 14185 [USA]: Operation of a vehicle with a missing throttle shaft bearing can eventuallly lead to an incomplete return of the throttle valve resulting in a high idling condition.
  Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. The throttle shaft ball bearing on the sensor side of the throttle body assembly was not installed in certain throttle bodies.
  dealers will inspect the throttle body and replace the throttle assembly if the bearing is missing.
  owner notification began april 27, 1998. 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.Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).

• Recall 16383 [USA]: The switch could stick in an intermediate position when deactivating, resulting in the turn signals becoming inoperable.
  Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. Insufficient clearance within the hazard warning light switch housing can cause a binding between the actuating button and the housing.
  dealers will install a modified hazard warning switch.
  owner notification is expected to begin january 5, 1998. 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.Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-800-424-9393.

• Recall 2001183 [Canada]: Other
  Certain passenger vehicles equipped with front coil springs.The front coil springs were produced with poor paint quality which, after continued exposure to corrosive salt, can result in breakage of the spring. Depending on the location of the fracture, a broken spring could move past the spring seat and contact a front tire. Some tires have deflated due to contact with a broken spring. Correction: dealers will notify customers to bring their vehicle to an authorize dealership to have a spring guard installed on both front struts to prevent tire puncture and replace any broken springs free of charge.

• Recall 2000069 [Canada]: Other
  Certain vehicle do not comply with regulation 6 - statement of compliance. Compliance label was not expressed in both official languages in regard to vehicle classification. Correction: no corrective action will be taken for existing vehicles. Correct compliance label will be affixed in current production vehicles.

• Recall 1998029 [Canada]: Engine
  The throttle shaft ball bearing on the sensor side of the throttle body assembly may not have been installed on these vehicles. This could eventually lead to incomplete return of the throttle valve and consequently a high idling condition. Correction: throttle body will be inspected and if the bearing is missing, the throttle body will be replaced.

• Recall 1998030 [Canada]: Powertrain
  The automatic transmission shift lever assemblies on these vehicles may fail due to poor welds within the assembly. This can result in stuck ignition keys, broken shift levers/linkages and improper movement of shift levers. Correction: automatic shift lever assembly will be replaced with one furnished by a different supplier.

• Recall 1998107 [Canada]: Suspension
  A weld fracture may occur on the hanger bracket of the front transverse links. This could result in separation of the bracket with subsequent failure of the lower suspension mounting and loss of vehicle control. Correction: front transverse links will be inspected and replaced if necessary.

• Recall 1997200 [Canada]: Lights and instruments
  The hazard warning flasher button can bind in the housing causing continued operation of the hazard warning lamps, or their being turned off but the turn signals becoming inoperable. Correction: dealers will install a modified hazard warning switch.

To ensure accuracy and for your safety, it is recommended to do a free VIN recall check here or here [USA] - UK - Canada.

Bulletins are notices put out by manufacturers in conjunction with the NHTSA to notify the public of manufacturing issues or changes.

• Electrical system investigation as of 19991101

  Odi has received 5,820 complaints concerning a variety of electrical system failures that result in the vehicle stalling.Our complaint analysis indicates that the majority of these compaints are caused by alternator failure.In some instances, the vehicle is completely dead and will not restart.Based on our investigation and the manufacturers respomse, odi is closing this investigation because the manufacturer has agreed to perform the owner nortification program cited above, including quarterly notifications to odi.This program allows owners to get their alternator replaced for free.Further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that no safety-related defect exists.Odi will continue to monitor this matter closely, and the agency reserves the right to take further action on these models if warranted by the circumstances.
  

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Car was sometimes difficult to start, other times it would stall/hesitate when in motion on city street. Discovered to be caused by aged/worn fuel pump causing overcurrent draw that fails to blow fuse causing meltdown in wiring harness connector where pigtail from pump connects to the chassis side of the wiring harness. Heat/spark potential is created in close proximity to fuel tank that has many reported cases of fuel filler neck rusting off and leaking fuel. A quick google search reveals that a number of people, with photos, have experienced this failure. Photo provided is from internet but the result is the same.

Car was sometimes difficult to start, other times it would stall/hesitate when in motion on city street. Discovered to be caused by aged/worn fuel pump causing overcurrent draw that fails to blow fuse causing meltdown in wiring harness connector where pigtail from pump connects to the chassis side of the wiring harness. Heat/spark potential is created in close proximity to fuel tank that has many reported cases of fuel filler neck rusting off and leaking fuel. A quick google search reveals that a number of people, with photos, have experienced this failure. Photo provided is from internet but the result is the same.

1997 subaru legacy outback. Came out to my parked vehicle with the right front tire flat due to part of the suspension spring being snapped and sticking into inside of the tire. Spring was intact when i parked it. Frightening to think if that had happened while driving on the highway of which i was the day before this happened.

1997 subaru legacy gt 2.5l engine, approx. 92k miles, engine started overheating. Car was taken to two different repair facilities and diagnosed as blown head gasket after pressure test, block test, no signs of leaking. Car had been serviced faithfully by original owner at subaru dealerships since purchase. I found out this is a common problem from repair facilities with this model and engine but when questioned subaru dealership they said it couldn't have happened as head gasket and cooling system are not related (?) and problem was a cracked block or cylinder. Estimated cost to replace head gasket $2450-. Estimated cost to replace engine $5700-. I had also had a problem where the fuel filler tube that connects to the gas tank from where you pur the gasoline in from the pump had rusted away and leaked fuel onto the ground. I had that replaced at approx. Cost of $400-. Again subaru denied there was a problem when i called the dealership. These problems occurred with in six months of each other. *tr

When the gas tank is filled above half a tank, fuel leaks onto the ground in large amounts near the rear of the vehicle. This is extremely dangerous since a spark or cigarette would cause an explosion. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 1997 subaru legacy. The contact stated that the vehicle became stuck in park. The failure was recurring. The vehicle had been taken to an authorized dealer, who lubricated the automatic transmission shifter but to no avail. The failure recurred each time the vehicle was driven. The vehicle was taken back for further diagnosis and it was advised that the part required for the repair was no longer available. The authorized dealer advised the contact to purchase the shift lock module and an authorized dealer would repair the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and provided no remedy. The approximate failure mileage was 75000. Updated 06/10/14 ma the consumer was informed, the part was no longer available. Updated 07/23/14

My fuel filler rusted off @ the fuel tank causing it to leak on the ground when the tank is nearly full.I have read other complaints about this problem.It's a big job for a diy.You need to drop the rear differential , drive shaft , muffler , etc..Is this something subaru covers cost wise? *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 1997 subaru legacy. The contact attempted to start the ignition and the engine failed to start. The battery was jump started; however the failure recurred while driving. The battery was recharged for a second time. The contact replaced the battery terminal due to severe rust and corrosion. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 75,000. Updated 02/28/12 *bf the consumer stated battery corrosion destroyed the negative terminal. Updated 03/08/12

Gasoline filler tube on subaru legacy models (1994 & 1997) rust out and cause very serious danger from possible fire/explosion due to leaking fuel. This appears to be a very common problem for subaru owners and costly ($350+) to repair. This part was replaced on both a 1994 and a 1997 subaru legacy and the repair shop indicated that this is a common problem that they have dealt with quite often. I feel the problem is very dangerous and should be addressed by the manufacturer. *tr

1997 subaru legacy 2.5 l engine. 118,000 miles. Chronic overheating. Many dollars spent only to find that these cars are notorious for blowing head gaskets. Sure enough, that's the trouble. *tr

I am sure you have received other complaints regarding the 2.5l engine in 1997 subaru legacy gt's. The head gaskets are very weak, which when they blow, can cause a loss of power due to a rush of coolant flowing into the system, which kills the engine. This problem is very widespread, and subaru does not admit anything. However, in canada, subaru was sued for this same issue. There are thousands of people out there that are experiencing erratic failure with these head gaskets, and there isn't even a tsb on them. Please, help us!

I was out driving on a sunny sunday with a couple of friends to see the fall color, and without warning my car overheated. I took it to my mechanic to have find out what caused the problem and he said it was a "blown head gasket". I have not had the repairs done yet because i am trying to decide whether or not to put in a new engine or just repair the old one. The cost is going to be in excess of $1500 dollars either option and after doing a bit of research i have found that there are multiple websites out there with people who are suffering the same problems. This problem only seems to effect a certain number of year models and i would like to have subaru do something to help alert those who will potentially be buying these vehicles with no knowledge of what they are buying into. *tr

After a gas fill-up, i noted a large wet spot under the rear passenger side of the vehicle. Because it smells like gas, i took it to my authorized subaru mechanic and was advised that the filler neck was loose. In order to fix the manufacturer deflective, he would have to remove the rear axle. Since the car is 11 years old with over 83k miles, the car is of course out of warranty. However, in my option, my 1997 subaru legacy gt sedan is now considered unsafe to drive under any speed. I recommended that subaru takes the initiate by issuing a recall before someone dies as result of this manufacturer deflective. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 1997 subaru legacy. The vehicle is leaking gasoline from the filler tube. The dealer stated that the repair would be the contact's responsibility because there was no safety recall. The vin was unknown. The current mileage was 140,000 and failure mileage was 136,000.

In cold weather (zero or below), the brake pedal on my 1997 subaru legacy sedan becomes hard, and when i put it any gear, forward or reverse, the idle speed will cause the car to move and the brakes will not stop the car-i have to shift into neutral. I have learned that pumping the brake pedal while the car is at idle in n or p will usually help, at -20 degrees, i have to let the car idle for 5 to 10 minutes and then try it. The dealer indicated that this is not uncommon, but that there is no easy fix for this. This has happened every winter since i bought the car in 2001. *tr

1997 subaru legacy outback with sudden acceleration problems. Consumer states that the vehicle made a loud noise and the brake pedal went to the floor and vehicle surged without warning and hit the vehicle in front of the consumer. *kb the consumer stated both vehicles had minimal damage. The dealer replaced the fast idle air control valve. The consumer doesn't believe that the sudden acceleration problem has been rectified. The consumer didn't state if a police report was filed. *jb

Tl*the contact owns a 1997 subaru legacy. The contact noticed that the air bag warning light constantly illuminates on the instrument panel, which means that she could experience sporadic air bag deployment or improper deployment in the event of a crash. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer, but they could not determine the cause of the failure. The vin was unknown. The failure mileage was 80,000 and current mileage was 84,000.

Sudden overheating occurring mostly above 60 km/h symptoms included large pockets of air in cooling system as well as small bubbles. First thought by mechanic was head gasket, however tests on coolant showed otherwise. Small leak found in water pump gasket, replaced entire pump and gasket, as well as thermostat, belts, hoses, etc. Current research has proven that years 1997 through 2002 all do this as a result of a design flaw that causes the head gasket to fail. *jb

Dt*: the contact stated while driving 55 mph on a dry highway, the hood latche failed and cracked the windshield. The contact was able to pull off of the road. The vehicle was towed to an auto body shop. Updated 12/28/06. *jb

Fuel tank filler pipe rotted out. Plastic shield over filler neck traps sand. Steel filler pipe rusts where wet sand is trapped against it. Intermittent fuel leak depending on fuel level was the first symptom of problem (marks on driveway). Only fuel in filler pipe leaks. Dealership staff suggested this is a common occurrence. *nm

Right front brake has failed to operate properly on at least four occasions. The brakes have gotten very hot and could possibly cause a fire or cause the brakes to lock up. The dual piston design results in one piston doing most of the work so the other piston becomes stiff and does not release. We have had the brakes grab and become extremely hot to the point that we are now on our fourth set of calipers with just over 36,000 miles on the car. Our mechanic advises this problem is quite common on subaru's for at least the 1996 through 1998 model years. We have had the brakes replaced three times but do not have the old parts available. *jb

Aprrox. 3 months ago i was driving down a highway at about 65 miles an hour when my hood popped up and hit the windshield. The windshield was cracked in many places and the hood was bent and paint chipped. I contacted subaru the following day because my hood had not been opened for approx 2mths prior this and was concerned of a defect in part. They told me there was none and sometimes it just happens. I paid for a new windshield (i beleive about 235) and have yet to replace hood. Today i was informed by a technician that replaces windshields (contact was unrelated to my car) that he replaces more windshields on subarus than any other car because the first hood latch fails and the second lets go when high way speed is reached. I believe this is a part malfunction that poses a serious threat to drivers and should be investigated. If i have contacted the wrong department or company please direct me in right direction. I am unsure but could find out of the exact incident date.

While driving at 45-50 mph vehicle overheated. Vehicle was taken to a repair shop, and mechaic confirmed that it was a blown head gasket on a 2.5l engine. The dealer was notified.*ak

Vehicle lurches forward after brakes are applied. Vehicle jumps forward a few feet before stopping completely. Happens when vehicle is stopped. Last incident resulted to impact with another car in parking lot. Dealer could not find fault on two occasions. Says it may be due to air conditioner coming on.*ak

I have now replaced my subaru 97 engine 5 times, and each time the new/used engine failed. Each engine had between 60 and 80,000 miles on it. In most of these cases, the engine blew a headgasket.

While the vehicle was running in the park position, the consumer was unable to shift the gears in any direction. Vehicle was not drivable. *ak the cause was due to poor ground to the shifter solenoid. This would not acuate to allow the shifter in gear. The consumer was told by several mechanics that this was a common problem in this make/model. *scc *jb

The vehicle was leaking oil from the rear separator plate and oil pump seal. *ak this caused copious amounts of smoke to billow out from under the hood and out the front wheel wells when stopped after driving several miles. Took several minutes for the smoke to subside. Consumer questioned whether there were any fines for this failure. He heard subaru made changes to the newer model legacy. Consumer learned of two other subaru owner's that experience the same defect. *ph *nlm

While driving on the highway at a speed of approximately 55 mph, the hood unlatched, flew back, and contacted the windshield and forward roof. The windshield shattered, but fortunately i was able to see through the space between the dash and bottom of the hood and managed to get the car to the median. The hood and windshield were ruined, and the roof sustained considerable damage.*ak

My 1997 subaru legacy was totalled in a front end collision. The collision occurred at 30-35 mph, my 97 legacy's engine was destroyed in this collision, and i was crunched into the steering wheel because the airbags did not deploy. I suffered internal injuries and was taken by ambulance to the hospital emergency room. Both airbags in my 97 legacy failed. The legacy was totalled.

This appears to be a very common problem with this motor. Oil can leak so bad it will hit hot exhaust and possibly start a fire. *ak

Front oil seal in motor failed causing oil leak onto exhaust dealer said is normal wear e/mailed manufacture with no response.Front oil seal should not be a normal maintaince item.Leked onto exhaust possible fire hazard,also caused water pump failure.Repair was on 7/22 e/mailed subrau 7/23 recived no response

While driving at highway speeds hood latch came loose causing the hood to bounce up and down. This happened twice causing me to pull of to the shoulder and close hood. Hood did not unlatch all the way put if i continued without stopping hood would of popped fully at some point.*ak

Consumer states while driving at 55 mph the left rear wheel stud broke and the tire fell off and the consumer could not control the vehicle, this is the third time the vehicle has had this problem. Contacted dealer.*jb

When applying brakes in snow only right front brake grabs, brake light came on, as well. Brakes work fine in dry road conditions.*ak

When cruise control is set at 65 mph, going up an incline and making a turn vehicle suddenly accelerated, lost control of vehicle and hit a wall. Driver injured. Vehicle totaled*ak *yd

Loud, unexpected static sound over vehicle's stereo speakers.--this occurs regardless if radio is off or on. --the sound can be very loud and very distracting while driving. The sound first appeared while at idle, continued while driving, --related?--passenger mentioned feeling mild electric shock at the same time. *ak

Problems with vehicle blowing head gaskets.*mr while driving, the check engine light illuminated, smoke came from under the hood and the tail pipe. Vehicle was towed to a subaru dealership where it was discovered the problem was a blown head gasket. Coolant and oil sprayed all over the engine and ignited a small fire on the exhaust manifold, but it extinguished itself. Consumer had vehicle towed to her local dealer. She obtained two opinions and they both said the same thing. Extreme coolant loss but no evidence of a leak. It appeared without taking the engine apart to be a factory defect. It's either a defective head gasket, casting flaw in the metal or a head that wasn't torqued properly. Consumer would like subaru to cover the entire cost a of a engine (including labor), reimbursement for air flow and filter replacement, reimbursement for towing, cost of a rental car, and mechanic's vehicle check for a total of $1976.16 dollars. *ph

The brakes malfunctioned when the weather started to get cold. The brakes seem to freeze up. Dealer had to bleed the lines. However the problem recurred. *ak *nm

I was driving on the highway when all of a sudden the hood unlatched and blewout, open breaking my windsheild and denting my hood at the same time. I was unable to see through my windsheild, but was still able to safely bring my vehicle to a stop on the shoulder. I do not know why the hood latch failed or even was open as i had not done anything under the hood in a long time. *ak

Air conditioner compressor froze up, this caused belt to shred, part of the belt that shredded was over in engine compartment, had no warning except air conditioner was not cooling properly, contacted dealer, and wrote letter to subaru manufacturer. *ak *slc

While attempting to make a left-hand turn, i pushed the gas pedal to the floor, and the car started moving in front of oncoming traffic before completely losing power. I pushed the accelerator to the floor again, and got the same result, almost causing a crash. I have since been able to recreate the problem by pushing the accelerator to the floor from a stop.*ak

While traveling on a steep hill gear will move to another gear as if vehicle is coasting. *ak engine does not hold car when going down hills or stopping, had to decend a steep mountain road using only brakes, when slowing vehicle acts if though it is in neutral when in 0,3,2,1. New transmission cost $3000. *mj

Oil leak from crank case seal drips back onto exhust manafold during normal driving. Once car has stopped and is at idle the oil burns off the manafold and large amounts of smoke pour from under the hood and under the car. If ventilation system left on then smoke enters the passenger compartment. Number 2: the car shudders when turns left or right at low speeds (5mph). Number 3: the metal guides for the side window (drivers side) have scratched the glass and it can't be repaired must replace. Number 4: car started to sputter or miss after 61000 miles. It occurs only after the engine warms up.

Crank seal leak is a fire risk. Oil drips along oil pan and onto y section of exhaust where it burns. This is a common problem with subarus with 50k miles. Although torque converter bind is not directly a safety issue, it is too common among subarus with > 50k miles.

Engine was knocking and making a ticking noise, brakes were making a squeak/ loud noise, dealership is aware of problem. *ak consumer stated that the vehicle pulls to the right and steering wheel wobbles, also rim was replaced due to it being bent. *yd

Recall 01v216000, consumer received recall letter in september, has been told by subaru there were no parts available for repairs. *ak *yh

While driving, vehicle completely shuts down without warning, cause unknown. Malfunction could possibly be occurring within speedodmeter. *ak consumer stated the dealer found the source of the problem was actually the cause of the vehicle shutting down.*slc

Consumer tried to start vehicle, and it would not start. Vehicle towed to dealer. Dealer found a pinched wire in wiring harness. Wire needed to be replaced at a cost of $ 2200.00 . Consumer felt subaru was responsible for repairs. *ak

No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak

The vehicle experienced reoccuring alternator failures, as a result of the alternator failing the harness wires have melted and burned, also the battery had to be replace.*nlm

During routine oil change mechanic noticed crankcase leak. Went to dealer who told consumer all 3 of their vehicles do that, seemed like a design flaw. *ak a crankcase seal failed causing crankcase leak. *yh

7) all 4 rims have a tendency to collect road silt and water inside. This imbalances the car and may explain some of the brake problems. Perhaps airflow under the vehicle should be studied. 8) left rear passenger window does not go up all the way any longer. 84,000 miles. 9) pads and springs located on frame where the rear gate closes against the body are rusted tight. 10) dash lights for hvac have failed at about 30,000 miles. 11) gas gauge does not descend accuratly.

Brakes did not work when driver braked to avoid accident on road ahead. Driver had to swerve off road into ditch, sliding down slope and impacting culvert and causing extensive damage to car. Car towed away. Car repaired at springfield va subaru dealer, and completely checked out. Several weeks later, car brought in to dealer to address brake concerns (shuddering, noise), dealer said brakes were ok. Car brought in again for continuing brake concerns, dealer then said all 4 brakes needed replacement at cost of about $800. We contacted subaru customer service regarding this, they refused to communicate a reply to us until only after repeated calling. They told us they would refuse to provide any refund on the brake work (we thought the repair excessive in cost). My concern is there is a brake flaw with the subaru legacy outback that is not being acknowledged by subaru. We have also had the car suddenly accelerate when stopped at idle at stoplight, requiring strong brake force to restrain the car from moving.*ak

Rear seat, center seatbelt latching mechanism failed while attempting to secure child safety seat. The seatbelt latch mechanism is held together with two plastic rivets. These rivets pulled through the plastic seatbelt latch housing, and the latch fell apart into 5 pieces !!!

Alternators on 1995 & 1996 models were recalled, 1997 models have the same problem, why no recall?

The tires showed no obvious defects, they were balanced about a month prior to the incident. While driving on the highway the left rear tire suddenly came apart. It was not a blow out or puncture. The inside tire tread delaminated from the tire and the steel belt was showing. Once i pulled over i noticed the same wear was on the right rear tire also. The same exact model tires were put on by the dealer on july 17th. Are these safe tires?*ak( dot number: tire size: 15 )

Air bag warning light intermittently on. After 2 years, dealer found passenger air bag needed replacement. *tt

I was told that there was a water pump leaking problem. So they changed it about 5000 mils later i have an over heating problem. Now they tell me i might have a cracked head or a cracked head gasket.But they cant tell evan after the test.Now they want to go in. *ak

I have had problems with the heated seats (light which illuminates switch hasn't worked in months, and seats appear to remain on even when switched off), console lights (climate control lights are no longer illuminated at night) & fuel gage (stopped working, had to resart the vehicle to get it functioning again).

Second master cylinder was purchased from subaru service center, but failed in less than a year and approximately 8,000 miles. *ak

No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak

Bolt on the idler arm snapped, causing the timing chain to drop, and resulting in a bent engine valve. Dealer and manufacturer have been notified.*ak

The scratch on the glass is on both drivers side and passenger side. I was told it is from the inner door metal rubbing against the glass when windows go up and or down. The mark on the glass is about and inch wide and deep enough that it will not come off. The check engine light came on during the drive home from the lot. The cause according to the dealer was that the cam belt slipped off by one tooth. The rear wheel bearings are needing to be replaced under normal driving conditions. There is no abnormal wear and considering the low 53,000 miles - this should not need to be done. Car when cold idles rough, heat sheild rattles, dash lights in center console not working, extream corrosion under car effecting suspension and making noise when turning wheel right or left.

Check engine light went on - car drove without incident - light went out- light went on again, and car began to vibrate and make knocking sounds. Was taken to dealer, where they found wiring defective. *ak

While driving 60 to 65mph vehicle's left front end hit another vehicle head-on, and neither driver's side nor passenger's side airbags deployed, resulting in injuries. Dealer has not seen vehicle. *ak

The infant car seat put in the rear center seat, seat belt buckle was snapped and fell apart, did not secure car seat. Yh

Vehicle experienced sudden acceleration on two incidents. However, on one incident vehicle surged and hit the vehicle on the back tail light and back passenger side, causing damage. *yc

The seatbelt buckle on the center rear seatbelt "fell apart" in my hand as i was attempting to tighten the seatbelt holding my 3 year old daughter's carseat. Her carseat had been secured in the rear center position by that seatbelt for about 18 months.

Airbag light stays on while driving, indicating there is a problem with airbag system which may deploy inadvertently or not deploy at all in a crash. Dealer said needs to replace airbag system. Please provide further information.

While driving at 45 mph the alternator went out, causing the consumer to lose all power. Also, headlights went out, and steering became difficult. Manufacturer denies problem. *ak *ml

Control arm creased at center during turn at low speed. Damage appears similar to plastic straw placed under pressure at both ends until stress causes to crease. Tow operator, a certified mechanic, stated he saw no scratch or other evidence of impact that would cause the crease to occur, strongly suggesting that this incident was the product of long term stress related failure. Dealer, however, disagrees with this analysis, and states impact must have occurred to cause damage. In any event, such a condition could easily be life threatening under other circumstances. For what it's worth, i would suggest that the arm either be strengthend or protected to mitigate such a possibility.

Intermittently while approaching a stop, the vehicle will start to idle up to 90mph with the brakes applied. Needs to shut off the vehicle in order to stop the idling. Been to dealer, cannot determine problem. Cause unknown. *ak *ml

Extended stopping distance under full braking pressure -- caused rear-end collision

Vehicle lot balance control during swift steering resulting in collision, violent deployment of air bag resulting in injuries to consumer (forearm and facial).

Engine running very rough. Vehicle stalls out after going 20mph. Intermittent problem. Been to dealer 9 times for problem. Check engine comes on & only warning given. *ak

While driving on the highway at 45mph another vehicle pulled out in front. Consumer hit brakes on dry pavement and wheels locked up/vehicle skidded. Contact dealer,was not able to help. When going downhill and some what slippery surface, such as snow, the brakes would lock up and the vehicle kept on sliding down the hill. Replaced the brake rotors, front brakes only, and tires still having the same problem. *ak

Recall notice sent for suspension weld work to be completed, however denied due to lack of parts.

While driving with air conditioner on (around 45 mph), vehicle would gradually accelerate as if the cruise control was on. Would have to apply brake to control speed.

My dealer has been working on the problem and did the throttle body recall check which turned up negative.

You shouldn't have to pry this with a screwdriver on a $24,000 car.

Automatic transmission failed, vehicle surged forward after brake application.

Replaced pads & rotors 3 times; 15000, 22000, 36000 miles, pathetic design

Abs failed.

There is excessive wear on the brakes . The dealer had to turn the rotors, the front brake pads have been replaced twice. The dealer has not been able to pinpoint the cause of the problem. *ak

Computer malfuncition on three different occasions, last incident resulting in vehicle collision due to loss of abs and control of vehicle.

Brakes are not stopping vehicle. It has to be stopped by taking the brakes off the abs system.Dealer was contacted and stated there was nothing they could do. *ak

Radio failed.

Vehicle was involved in a frontal collision at 50 mph and the airbags did not deploy. The driver received minor facial injuries. *ak

Entire bottom surface to the engine was covered with rustproofing causing illness (chest tightness, breathing difficulty, dizziness and confusion, from leakage of fumes into compartment.

While driving down highway approached an area where had to slow down. While attempting to slow down, tapped brakes and immediately went into a skid, brakes locked up. No injuries were sustained. *ak

Front brake pads failed.

Anti lock brakes fail continuously, when applying brakes they lock up.

Dual airbags did not deploy during front/rear end collision. Vehicle was sandwiched between two vehicles/ 5 car collision. Speed 50 to 60 mph., vehicle totaled, vehicle available for inspection. *ak

Crunching noise in front end suspension area prior to recall notice.

Steering assembly failed. Upon steering vehicle into right lane, vehicle steered back into left lane. Lost control and hit guardrail, bounced off and hit left median divider. *ak

Vehicle going down hill in ast gear; would pop out of 1st gear into neutral & take off/accelerate; would lose control until shifted into 1st. Happens intermittenly. Dealer says can not fix because can not duplicate problem. *ak

Defective engine valves/pistons, causing total engine failure. *ak

Car will not travel straight. It pulls sharply to the left and right . It is dangerous.

Ignitor failed, causing intermittent stalling. *ak

While driving on a rocky surface the abs brakes did not lock. Please describe. *ak

Replaced three alternators,hazard switch shorted draining battery.

Igniter failed, causing unburned gasoline to flow into catalytic converter. *ak

Vehicle jumps out of gear whenever going down a hill. *ak

Alternator belt snapped, causing battery and brake warning light to come on and hard to steer.

Consumer tried to avoid a crash while traveling 68-70 mph. In the process, the consumer ran the vehicle off the road, running head on into a tree. Driver's air bag failed to deploy. *ak

The transmission jumps out of first gear and grinds into 2nd gear.

Transmission surges at 250-500 rpm when cold.

In april 2001 while sitting at a red signal with vehicle in drive (automatic transmission). The vehicle engine revved up to very high rpm's causing me to put both feet on the brakes. The vehicle kept moving foreward even with extreme pressure on the pedals. I moved the lever into nuetral and it continued at higher revolution, i returned the shifter to drive and the vehicle kept crepping into the cross traffic. I could not hold it. I shifted again nuetral and back and it quit just as suddenly as it started. I could not keep the vehicle in position even with as much pressure as i could apply to the brakes. I ended up part way into the # 3 lane before it stopped.I was certainly concerned and made an appointment with the local subarau dealer in ventura as the one i bought from went out of business. I brought the vehicle in 4/25/2001 to the dealer for a checkup. I have also had a very low milage since acquiring this vehicle and returned to the dealer many times complaining. On average i have recieved between 120 to 130 miles per each fillup (full tank) and the dealer says nothing is wrong after many checks and tests.(at least 4) thank you very much robert a. Houle. *ak

Intermittent severe hesitation - has become safety issue when sudden power loss occurs in traffic under acceleration. *ak

When traveling at any speed and upon attemting to make a normal stop on wet pavement or in cold weather conditions, brake pedal traveled to the floorboard, causing extended stopping distance, and resulting in an accident. Consumer has contacted dealer. Dealer wa sunable to determine the cause of the problem. Please provide any further details. *ak

Liftgate does not remain in the upright position, causing the consumer to receive injuries. Please give any further details. *ak

While stopping vehicle heard gas splashing violently in the tank, there were no baffles in the tank that would contain the fuel for splashing while driving. Owner is very concerned for his safety in case of a severe impact to the vehicle as may happen in atraffic accident. *ak

Front crank seal is leaking oil onto exhaust system. *ak consumer states the fornt crack seal where the oil pump meets the engine block fails at regular intervals, when this seal leaks oil drips onto the exhaust and smokes.*slc

Vehicle has been looked at during a period of time and mechanic found several problems. Radiator and head gaskets were replaced. Oil was leaking from the motor, and the axle on the passenger side had gone bad. *ak

Problems with headlight equipment starting to cloud.*mr the consumer stated the head light lens has not become a safety issue as of now, but may become an issue in the future. *jb *nm

Engine surges erratically when vehicle is stopped. Rpm goes suddenly from approximately 600 to 1,100, lunging the vehicle unexpectedly forward.

Engine races at high rpm's without pressing the accelerator.

Rear seat belts do not buckle child safety seats properly, too long.

Air conditioner blew fumes into vehicle, causing consumer to pass out and run off road, resulting in a vehicle collision.

Abs brakes replaced three times.

Brake and engine lights continually on.

Battery exploded and damaged the hood of the vehicle. Mjs

Engine problem 1. After each oil change, engine shows severe hesitation during acceleration at rpm's below 2500 (feels like late ignition timing), which results in loss of power - dangerous when merging into traffic. When rpm's reach 2500, the power returns to normal, and the car starts accelerating much faster, creating a possibility of running into a car in front. This behavior gradually disappears over the next 1500 miles and reappears again after the next oil change. Subaru dealers do not admit any problem. Engine problem 2. When cruising in neutral (standard 5-speed transmission), the rpm stay around 1200 - 1500 in most cases (~95%). They fall to normal 800 only after full stop. In other 5% of situations they fall to normal as you would expect them to. Again, subaru dealers do not admit any problem.

I received a letter from nhtsa dated 4/13/99 indicating that i had been granted approval for an air bag switch, but it had not yet been installed. Actually, i have not received such a letter, therefore, the switch has not bee installed. Upon contacting subaru, they have no knowledge of a switch kit. Clearly, there is a lack of communication between owners, dealers and the nhtsa. I have tried, in vain, to contact you by telephone. However, the only thing i have been able to contact is the automated attendant, and when i request a "human" to talk to, i get disconnected. I'd appreciate a response by a human. Information request, no safety defect included. *ak

No summary

This all-wheel drive hydroplaned in very heavy rain, enbeknownst to my wife, until the car drifted toward the median of the divided 4-lane. Traction was regained and she was propelled across and down the embankment. Thankfully, no cars were coming -- plus, the all-wheel drive got her back up the embankment and home. Shouldn't a light or sensor be required so all-wheel drive car owners know when hydroplaning occurs? How else is there to know?!? Thanks so much.

When driving at low speed, standard transmission drops out first gear,shifting into neutral.

While driving with cruise engaged,attempted to brake and to disengage cruise control, there was no response, cruise continued, upon pressing harder on brake pedal, vehicle wheels locked up, went into skid, hit barrier at approx. 65mph, not fixed. *ak

Upon impact, during frontal crash at approx. 30mph, 10:00 on front bumper, dual airbags deployed, but, did not inflate, driver sustained back injury. *ak

Owner received recall notice in july for front tranfer case link. Contacted dealer and was told parts were unavailable and are on back order. Recall # 98v091000. *ak

Rear seat belt locking mechanism does not lock properly, it becomes difficult to latch. Cause unknown. Please give any further details. *ak

Vehicle suddenly accelerated, resulting in several minor collision. The dealer has been notified. *ak