Body - Rust Stains On Liftgate

NUMBER: 12-109-09R

DATE: 07/12/11

APPLICABILITY: 2008-10 MY Impreza & STI, 5 door models

SUBJECT: Rust Stain or Rust Spots on Rear Gate

INTRODUCTION

if you encounter a vehicle that has rust stains or spots on the rear gate, it may be from the garnish, garnish slide bolts and/or rear finisher lamps. To remedy the condition, follow the repair procedure listed.

COUNTERMEASURES IN PROCEDURE

The final countermeasure in production was increasing the thickness of the spacer protector on May 10, 2010.

REPAIR PROCEDURE/INFORMATION

Examples of Stain/Rust

(A) Rear Gate Garnish Bolt Rust Stain Example

(B) Rear Finisher Lamp Rust Spot Example

Repair Procedure/Instructions

Remove the finisher lamps and rear gate garnish from rear gate (refer to the applicable Subaru Service Manual).

Inspect paint Buff and/or polish or perform a spot repair if necessary.

Note
In some cases, a light rubbing compound followed by wax will remove the rust stain.

A) Rear Gate Garnish Bolt Modification

Part Information

Repair

1) Remove the 4 slide bolts from the garnish

2) Install 4 new slide bolts making sure they are completely seated

(B) Rear Finisher Lamp Modification

Parts Information

Repair

1) Clean the area using isopropyl rubbing alcohol (or equivalent) and a clean cloth.

Note:
Make sure finisher lamp is room temperature clean and dry before installing packing.

2) Remove tape from packing. Position packing into place and press firmly to assure adhesion. Repeat procedure for other side.

(C) Rear Gate Garnish Modification

Part Information

Repair

1) Remove the two, 2mm spacer protectors from the rear gate garnish.

2) Clean the area using isopropyl rubbing alcohol (or equivalent) and a clean cloth.

Note:
Make sure the garnish is room temperature, clean and dry before installing protectors.

3) Install two, 5mm spacer protectors in place of the two removed.

Reinstallation

Reinstall finisher lamps and rear gate garnish in reverse order of removal.

WARRANTY/CLAIM INFORMATION