Subaru has recalled the following models due to a possible defect in the rear gate.

If you own one of the affected models you should set up an appointment with your local Subaru dealer service department to make sure everything is ok.

At All-Wheel Drive Auto we believe that customer service is much more than just servicing your Subaru it’s also keeping you informed.

NHTSA RECALL BULLETIN
Reference Number(s): 08V135000
Related Ref Number(s): 08V 135000
ARTICLE BEGINNING

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION
Model(s): 2002 SUBARU IMPREZA
2003 SUBARU IMPREZA
Campaign No: 08V135000
Number of Affected Vehicles: 36791
Beginning Date of Manufacture: 2000 SEP
Ending Date of Manufacture: 2002 SEP

SYSTEM
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES: TAILGATE: LATCH

DESCRIPTION OF DEFECT
SUBARU IS RECALLING 36,791 MY 2002-2003 IMPREZA WAGONS. THE STUD BOLT(S)
OF REAR GATE STAY MAY HAVE BEEN TIGHTENED WITH INSUFFICIENT TIGHTENING
TORQUE AND A GAP MAY HAVE RESULTED BETWEEN THE REAR GATE PANEL AND
STUD BOLT BASE. AFTER REPEATED REAR GATE OPERATIONS (OPENING AND
CLOSING), THE REAR GATE INNER PANEL AT THE WELDING NUT MAY BREAK,
WHICH WILL LEAD TO DETACHMENT OF THE REAR GATE STAY, AND THE REAR
GATE DROPPING DOWN.
CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT
IN CASE SOMEONE IS UNDERNEATH OR NEAR THE REAR GATE, THERE IS A
POSSIBILITY THAT A DROPPING REAR GATE PANEL MAY HIT THEM INCREASING THE
RISK OF INJURIES.

CORRECTIVE ACTION
DEALERS WILL INSPECT TO SEE IF THERE IS ANY GAP AT THE STUD BOLT OF THE
REAR GATE STAY INSTALLATION. IF A GAP IS FOUND, THE STUD BOLT WILL BE
REMOVED TO CHECK FOR DAMAGE TO THE WELDING NUT. IF THE WELD NUT IS

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES: TAILGATE: LATCH -2002 Subaru Impreza Outback Page 2 of 2
CRACKED, THE REAR GATE STAY WILL BE REPLACED FREE OF CHARGE. THE
RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE .TUNE 2, 2008. OWNERS MAY
CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.