Recall 03V153000: Frame Corrosion Issue

DEFECT: This applies to certain passenger vehicles sold 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. If such breakage occurs while the vehicle is being operated, control of the vehicle could be affected, increasing the risk of a crash.


REMEDY: Dealers will clean and rust-proof the rear suspension subframe. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during June or July 2003. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783.