Recalls
| Campaign | Manufacturer | Manufacturing date | Type | # of units affected | Date Owner notified Mfg | Recall Initiated by | Manufacturers of recalled vehicles/products | Report Recieved Date | Record Creation Date | Regulation Part Number | FMVSS Number | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE - DELIVERY - FUEL PUMP | ||||||||||||||||
| 09V468000 | SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. | from 09/22/2000 to 09/12/2002 | V (Vehicle) | 5724 | 12/31/2009 | ODI | SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. | 12/04/2009 | 12/04/2009 | |||||||
| Defect Summary | Subaru is recalling certain model year 2002 and 2003 impreza wrx vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the states of south dakota, nebraska, north dakota, minnesota, idaho, iowa, montana, colorado, wisconsin, new york, wyoming, michigan, alaska, new hampshire, vermont, and maine. during cold starts, typically under extremely cold temperatures, fuel leaks in the fuel delivery line could occur where the line connects with a rubber hose. | |||||||||||||||
| Consequence Summary | Fuel leaks, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire. | |||||||||||||||
| Corrective Summary | Dealers will replace the fuel line free of charge. the recall began on december 31, 2009. owners may contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783. | |||||||||||||||
| Notes | Subaru recall no. wvk-21.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov . | |||||||||||||||
Bulletins
| Bulletin | Bulletin date | Replacement Bulletin | Item no. | Summary | Added |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE | |||||
| 010901 | 09/01/2001 | 627893 | Subject regarding fuel level sensor circuit low input. *yd | 02/26/2002 | |
| 010901 | 09/01/2001 | 627894 | Subject regarding fuel level sensor circuit high input. *yd | 02/26/2002 | |
| 010901 | 09/01/2001 | 627857 | Subject regarding fuel level sensor circuit range/performance problem. *yd | 02/25/2002 | |
| 010901 | 09/01/2001 | 627819 | Subject regarding, ba:diagnostic trouble code p0461 - fuel level sensor circuit range/performance problem. | 02/25/2002 | |
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE - DELIVERY - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS | |||||
| SB-01-170-09 | 12/15/2009 | 10032464 | Subaru: wrx cold weather fuel line/hose seepage extended warranty. vehicles may experience a temporary fuel seepage at a specific engine fuel delivery pipe/hose during cold engine start up in extremely cold outside temperatures. if this | 03/29/2010 | |
| FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER | |||||
| 093603 | 04/01/2003 | 10001442 | Fuel smell in cold weather. *scc | 05/05/2003 | |
| FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER - DELIVERY - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS | |||||
| SB-01-170-09 | 12/15/2009 | 10032464 | Subaru: wrx cold weather fuel line/hose seepage extended warranty. vehicles may experience a temporary fuel seepage at a specific engine fuel delivery pipe/hose during cold engine start up in extremely cold outside temperatures. if this | 03/29/2010 | |
Investigations
| NHTSA ID | Manufacturer | Date open | Date close | Subject | Recall campaign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE | ||||||
| PE04002 | SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. | 01/07/2004 | 05/27/2004 | FUEL LINE LEAKAGE IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT | ||
| Subaru reports that the fuel odor is caused by fuel seepage during cold start of the engine under extremely cold temperatures. the leak occurs in a fuel line in the engine compartment.it reports that the failure is due to the misaligned angle between two fuel delivery lines which resulted in such fuel seepage during the first few seconds of cold engine start during these cold temperatures.subaru reports that the two fuel lines are connected with a hose that becomes too stiff in very cold temperatures to conform to the misalignment. subaru has issued a technical service bulletin (subaru service bulletin number 09-36-03) to replace the fuel lines with new lines that are properly aligned and that have a longer connecting hose.odi phone calls to many of the complainants confirm that fuel odor is noticable during very cold temperatures and cold start but goes away as the engine warms up, and the odor is not present in warmer temperatures. a few owners report that attempts to eliminate the leakage by tightening the connecting hose clamps is not effective in eliminating the fuel odor.a safety-related defect has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.accordingly, this investigation is closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist.the agency will monitor this issue and reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances. | ||||||
| PE09017 | SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. | 03/10/2009 | 07/02/2009 | FUEL LINE LEAK | ||
| Complainants report fuel leakage most frequently in winter during initial cold engine startup.owners will either notice a fuel odor inside the occupant compartment or fuel odor/leakage at the fuel lines on the right side atop the engine. once the engine has warmed, the odor/leakage may cease.subaru revised the fuel pipe/hose design for model year (my) 2003-04 wrx vehicles produced after august 2003.subaru also introduced a my 2004 impreza sti vehicle with a different engine and fuel pipe/hose layout.out of the total of 994 complaints, 944 concern my 2002-03 wrx vehicles built through august 2003.subaru also reports one fire on a my 2002 wrx vehicle that occurred in february 2006.in march 2009, odi inspected and video taped a my 2002 wrx vehicle with a fuel leak during cold engine start up.the video was provided to subaru and is in the investigation file. this investigation is being upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea09-011) to further study this issue. | ||||||
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE - CARBURETOR SYSTEM | ||||||
| PE09017 | SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. | 03/10/2009 | 07/02/2009 | FUEL LINE LEAK | ||
| Complainants report fuel leakage most frequently in winter during initial cold engine startup.owners will either notice a fuel odor inside the occupant compartment or fuel odor/leakage at the fuel lines on the right side atop the engine. once the engine has warmed, the odor/leakage may cease.subaru revised the fuel pipe/hose design for model year (my) 2003-04 wrx vehicles produced after august 2003.subaru also introduced a my 2004 impreza sti vehicle with a different engine and fuel pipe/hose layout.out of the total of 994 complaints, 944 concern my 2002-03 wrx vehicles built through august 2003.subaru also reports one fire on a my 2002 wrx vehicle that occurred in february 2006.in march 2009, odi inspected and video taped a my 2002 wrx vehicle with a fuel leak during cold engine start up.the video was provided to subaru and is in the investigation file. this investigation is being upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea09-011) to further study this issue. | ||||||
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE - DELIVERY | ||||||
| PE09017 | SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. | 03/10/2009 | 07/02/2009 | FUEL LINE LEAK | ||
| Complainants report fuel leakage most frequently in winter during initial cold engine startup.owners will either notice a fuel odor inside the occupant compartment or fuel odor/leakage at the fuel lines on the right side atop the engine. once the engine has warmed, the odor/leakage may cease.subaru revised the fuel pipe/hose design for model year (my) 2003-04 wrx vehicles produced after august 2003.subaru also introduced a my 2004 impreza sti vehicle with a different engine and fuel pipe/hose layout.out of the total of 994 complaints, 944 concern my 2002-03 wrx vehicles built through august 2003.subaru also reports one fire on a my 2002 wrx vehicle that occurred in february 2006.in march 2009, odi inspected and video taped a my 2002 wrx vehicle with a fuel leak during cold engine start up.the video was provided to subaru and is in the investigation file. this investigation is being upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea09-011) to further study this issue. | ||||||
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE - DELIVERY - FUEL PUMP | ||||||
| PE09017 | SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. | 03/10/2009 | 07/02/2009 | FUEL LINE LEAK | ||
| Complainants report fuel leakage most frequently in winter during initial cold engine startup.owners will either notice a fuel odor inside the occupant compartment or fuel odor/leakage at the fuel lines on the right side atop the engine. once the engine has warmed, the odor/leakage may cease.subaru revised the fuel pipe/hose design for model year (my) 2003-04 wrx vehicles produced after august 2003.subaru also introduced a my 2004 impreza sti vehicle with a different engine and fuel pipe/hose layout.out of the total of 994 complaints, 944 concern my 2002-03 wrx vehicles built through august 2003.subaru also reports one fire on a my 2002 wrx vehicle that occurred in february 2006.in march 2009, odi inspected and video taped a my 2002 wrx vehicle with a fuel leak during cold engine start up.the video was provided to subaru and is in the investigation file. this investigation is being upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea09-011) to further study this issue. | ||||||
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE - DELIVERY - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS | ||||||
| EA09011 | SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. | 07/02/2009 | 12/14/2009 | FUEL LINE LEAK | 09V468000 | |
| The design of the fuel line (metal rail/rubber hose interface) is susceptible to fuel odor and/or seepage in extreme cold temperature conditions.owners most often noticed fuel odor in the occupant compartment area during initial cold engine start-up.once the engine is warmed, the odor/seepage issue dissipates.from subaru's data, odi notes that the incident rates are higher in states with colder temperatures.there was one allegation of a fire incident in which the owner had reported that he noticed fuel odor a few days earlier, but odi could not confirm the origin of the fire. to address this issue, subaru will replace the fuel line with a longer rubber hose segment version/design on 5,724 my 2002-2003 vehicles built through september 12, 2002 in 16 states (ak, co, ia, id, me, mi, mn, mt, nd, ne, nh, ny, sd, vt, wi & wy).in addition, subaru will extend the warranty coverage to 12 years/unlimited mileage on vehicles in the remaining 34 states.this engineering analysis is closed (see recall campaign 09v-468) | ||||||
| PE09017 | SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. | 03/10/2009 | 07/02/2009 | FUEL LINE LEAK | ||
| Complainants report fuel leakage most frequently in winter during initial cold engine startup.owners will either notice a fuel odor inside the occupant compartment or fuel odor/leakage at the fuel lines on the right side atop the engine. once the engine has warmed, the odor/leakage may cease.subaru revised the fuel pipe/hose design for model year (my) 2003-04 wrx vehicles produced after august 2003.subaru also introduced a my 2004 impreza sti vehicle with a different engine and fuel pipe/hose layout.out of the total of 994 complaints, 944 concern my 2002-03 wrx vehicles built through august 2003.subaru also reports one fire on a my 2002 wrx vehicle that occurred in february 2006.in march 2009, odi inspected and video taped a my 2002 wrx vehicle with a fuel leak during cold engine start up.the video was provided to subaru and is in the investigation file. this investigation is being upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea09-011) to further study this issue. | ||||||
| PE04002 | SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. | 01/07/2004 | 05/27/2004 | FUEL LINE LEAKAGE IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT | ||
| Subaru reports that the fuel odor is caused by fuel seepage during cold start of the engine under extremely cold temperatures. the leak occurs in a fuel line in the engine compartment.it reports that the failure is due to the misaligned angle between two fuel delivery lines which resulted in such fuel seepage during the first few seconds of cold engine start during these cold temperatures.subaru reports that the two fuel lines are connected with a hose that becomes too stiff in very cold temperatures to conform to the misalignment. subaru has issued a technical service bulletin (subaru service bulletin number 09-36-03) to replace the fuel lines with new lines that are properly aligned and that have a longer connecting hose.odi phone calls to many of the complainants confirm that fuel odor is noticable during very cold temperatures and cold start but goes away as the engine warms up, and the odor is not present in warmer temperatures. a few owners report that attempts to eliminate the leakage by tightening the connecting hose clamps is not effective in eliminating the fuel odor.a safety-related defect has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.accordingly, this investigation is closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist.the agency will monitor this issue and reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances. | ||||||
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE - FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM | ||||||
| PE09017 | SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. | 03/10/2009 | 07/02/2009 | FUEL LINE LEAK | ||
| Complainants report fuel leakage most frequently in winter during initial cold engine startup.owners will either notice a fuel odor inside the occupant compartment or fuel odor/leakage at the fuel lines on the right side atop the engine. once the engine has warmed, the odor/leakage may cease.subaru revised the fuel pipe/hose design for model year (my) 2003-04 wrx vehicles produced after august 2003.subaru also introduced a my 2004 impreza sti vehicle with a different engine and fuel pipe/hose layout.out of the total of 994 complaints, 944 concern my 2002-03 wrx vehicles built through august 2003.subaru also reports one fire on a my 2002 wrx vehicle that occurred in february 2006.in march 2009, odi inspected and video taped a my 2002 wrx vehicle with a fuel leak during cold engine start up.the video was provided to subaru and is in the investigation file. this investigation is being upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea09-011) to further study this issue. | ||||||
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE - FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM - FUEL RAIL | ||||||
| PE09017 | SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. | 03/10/2009 | 07/02/2009 | FUEL LINE LEAK | ||
| Complainants report fuel leakage most frequently in winter during initial cold engine startup.owners will either notice a fuel odor inside the occupant compartment or fuel odor/leakage at the fuel lines on the right side atop the engine. once the engine has warmed, the odor/leakage may cease.subaru revised the fuel pipe/hose design for model year (my) 2003-04 wrx vehicles produced after august 2003.subaru also introduced a my 2004 impreza sti vehicle with a different engine and fuel pipe/hose layout.out of the total of 994 complaints, 944 concern my 2002-03 wrx vehicles built through august 2003.subaru also reports one fire on a my 2002 wrx vehicle that occurred in february 2006.in march 2009, odi inspected and video taped a my 2002 wrx vehicle with a fuel leak during cold engine start up.the video was provided to subaru and is in the investigation file. this investigation is being upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea09-011) to further study this issue. | ||||||
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE - FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM - INJECTORS | ||||||
| PE09017 | SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. | 03/10/2009 | 07/02/2009 | FUEL LINE LEAK | ||
| Complainants report fuel leakage most frequently in winter during initial cold engine startup.owners will either notice a fuel odor inside the occupant compartment or fuel odor/leakage at the fuel lines on the right side atop the engine. once the engine has warmed, the odor/leakage may cease.subaru revised the fuel pipe/hose design for model year (my) 2003-04 wrx vehicles produced after august 2003.subaru also introduced a my 2004 impreza sti vehicle with a different engine and fuel pipe/hose layout.out of the total of 994 complaints, 944 concern my 2002-03 wrx vehicles built through august 2003.subaru also reports one fire on a my 2002 wrx vehicle that occurred in february 2006.in march 2009, odi inspected and video taped a my 2002 wrx vehicle with a fuel leak during cold engine start up.the video was provided to subaru and is in the investigation file. this investigation is being upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea09-011) to further study this issue. | ||||||
| FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER | ||||||
| PE09017 | SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. | 03/10/2009 | 07/02/2009 | FUEL LINE LEAK | ||
| Complainants report fuel leakage most frequently in winter during initial cold engine startup.owners will either notice a fuel odor inside the occupant compartment or fuel odor/leakage at the fuel lines on the right side atop the engine. once the engine has warmed, the odor/leakage may cease.subaru revised the fuel pipe/hose design for model year (my) 2003-04 wrx vehicles produced after august 2003.subaru also introduced a my 2004 impreza sti vehicle with a different engine and fuel pipe/hose layout.out of the total of 994 complaints, 944 concern my 2002-03 wrx vehicles built through august 2003.subaru also reports one fire on a my 2002 wrx vehicle that occurred in february 2006.in march 2009, odi inspected and video taped a my 2002 wrx vehicle with a fuel leak during cold engine start up.the video was provided to subaru and is in the investigation file. this investigation is being upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea09-011) to further study this issue. | ||||||
| FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER - DELIVERY - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS | ||||||
| PE09017 | SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. | 03/10/2009 | 07/02/2009 | FUEL LINE LEAK | ||
| Complainants report fuel leakage most frequently in winter during initial cold engine startup.owners will either notice a fuel odor inside the occupant compartment or fuel odor/leakage at the fuel lines on the right side atop the engine. once the engine has warmed, the odor/leakage may cease.subaru revised the fuel pipe/hose design for model year (my) 2003-04 wrx vehicles produced after august 2003.subaru also introduced a my 2004 impreza sti vehicle with a different engine and fuel pipe/hose layout.out of the total of 994 complaints, 944 concern my 2002-03 wrx vehicles built through august 2003.subaru also reports one fire on a my 2002 wrx vehicle that occurred in february 2006.in march 2009, odi inspected and video taped a my 2002 wrx vehicle with a fuel leak during cold engine start up.the video was provided to subaru and is in the investigation file. this investigation is being upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea09-011) to further study this issue. | ||||||
| FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER - FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM | ||||||
| PE09017 | SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. | 03/10/2009 | 07/02/2009 | FUEL LINE LEAK | ||
| Complainants report fuel leakage most frequently in winter during initial cold engine startup.owners will either notice a fuel odor inside the occupant compartment or fuel odor/leakage at the fuel lines on the right side atop the engine. once the engine has warmed, the odor/leakage may cease.subaru revised the fuel pipe/hose design for model year (my) 2003-04 wrx vehicles produced after august 2003.subaru also introduced a my 2004 impreza sti vehicle with a different engine and fuel pipe/hose layout.out of the total of 994 complaints, 944 concern my 2002-03 wrx vehicles built through august 2003.subaru also reports one fire on a my 2002 wrx vehicle that occurred in february 2006.in march 2009, odi inspected and video taped a my 2002 wrx vehicle with a fuel leak during cold engine start up.the video was provided to subaru and is in the investigation file. this investigation is being upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea09-011) to further study this issue. | ||||||
Consumer Complaints
| Fail date | miles | occurences | Purchase date |
|---|---|---|---|
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE | |||
| 12/24/2009 | 104481 | ||
| When the weather is mildly cold, and it is approximately 50 degrees or less, and the vehicle sits parked for at least 4-5 hours, typically overnight and/or in a garage, there is a very strong smell of fuel when the vehicle is started. the smell dissipates after a few minutes and will not return unless the car sits parked for at least 4-5 hours overnight and/or in a garage. | |||
| 01/08/2011 | 110243 | ||
| Odor of fuel in the interior of my 2002 subaru wrx impreza i contact subaru and advised them of this via their 800 complaint number and referred to campaign 09v-468 and nhtsa action #ea09011. i was told i could take the vehicle into my local subaru dealer at my own costs and get the vehicle repaired! i advised them that the campaign states my vehicle is covered for additional 12 years re: the problem and it fell on deaf ears. what can i do? | |||
| 01/01/2008 | 70000 | ||
| During the past several years my 2002 subaru impreza wrx has had the strong smell of fuel. its not consistent nor does it happen all the time but often enough that it concerns me. i have called subaru's headquarters about this problem and they just keep telling me there is no re-call for this problem, so they won't fix it. i'm concerned this is a real safety problem that subaru refuses to address nor fix. | |||
| 01/01/2010 | 50000 | 1 | |
| I have a 2002 subaru impreza wagon, also known as the outback sport. the car reeks of gasoline recently. subaru recently recalled some 2002 imprezas because the fuel line leaked fuel in cold weather. the recall # is 09v468000. it has been quite cold here in nc recently with temps in the teens and 20s. the problem with my car seems identical to the problem that was the subject of the recall, but my car model was not included in the recall. the gas smell is very strong and i am afraid that this could be dangerous and set my car and possibly my house on fire. *tr | |||
| 12/20/2009 | 60000 | 1 | |
| Subaru recently issued a recall, (recall no. wvk-21), for leaking fuel in '02-'03 wrx's. as stated, only some vehicles are covered. i called the subaru phone # to check eligibility, and was told that my car is not covered under this recall, but that i should have a dealer fix it, at my own cost, asap, because leaking fuel is dangerous. well at least the subaru rep admitted it, if so won't as a company. i would like to file a formal complaint to extend this recall to all 02-03 wrx's. the leak is bad enough that i see raw fuel dripping onto the pavement below my car, that alone is a horrendous safety risk, as well as a major source of pollution. there is no possible way this vehicle would pass any emissions test with the amount of unburned hydrocarbon escaping. as it is now, the vehicle is undriveable if the ambient temperature is below zero, it simply leaks too much fuel to even be in the passenger compartment without an instant headache. *tr | |||
| 12/12/2009 | 1 | ||
| Getting a raw fuel smell in and around vehicle during cold weather on 2002 subaru impreza outback. researched problem on internet and determined possible fix involving tightening the clamps that connect the rubber fuel line hoses to the rigid hose lines (eight clamps total). tightened clamps but problem recurred two days later. gasoline smell is somewhat overpowering inside car and inside garage where car is parked. *tr | |||
| 12/11/2009 | 63000 | 1 | |
| I recently bought an 02 subaru and it seems that every time i cold start the car when it gets below freezing outside there is a horrid gas smell in the cabin of the car. on further investigation it is visible that there is a pool of gas accumulating on the motor from underneath the intake manifold. i have just noticed this and called the dealer and they said they had never heard of this. looking online it seems to be a regular issue and there is no recall or information on how dangerous it is to have raw fuel on a hot engine. i am at a loss and a little concerned for my safety. *tr | |||
| 11/16/2009 | 148100 | 1 | |
| Raw fuel smell plus leaking fuel in 40*f or below temperatures. *tr | |||
| 12/05/2005 | 25000 | 1 | |
| This is a complaint towards subaru of america (soa). this is the third year that i have experienced fuel fumes in the cabin of my vehicle. please review the forums on this online. this cannot go on , we have to leave our garage door open to dispell the fumes, its a fire hazard. soa will not accept any responsibility for this vehicle fuel system defect. it needs to be on a safety recall. this has happened every year when the temperature reaches below freezing. i took the vehicle too the local dealership and they wanted $$$ to correct the defect (approx $500). *tr | |||
| 12/15/2008 | 145000 | 1 | |
| I noticed a fuel odor in the cabin and traced it to the engine compartment. upon inspection i noted fuel pooling on the engine heads. i removed it with a paper towel for further inspection and verified it was still flammable. i spoke to the dealer about the issue and they said that happens when it gets below zero outside. the problem has caused me to have to pull over while driving because of feeling light headed multiple times, and my wife has passed out due to the odor while riding in the car and sustained a minor head injury as a result. it occurs on a daily basis when the temp. is below 20 degrees f or so. i have to open the windows while driving to vent the fumes which causes a hazardous condition while driving in inclement weather. *tr | |||
| 12/10/2008 | 112000 | 1 | |
| The previous winter and this one, a raw fuel smell occurs on start up. upon observation, there is a fuel leak below the turbo inlet tube, coming from the fuel rail/hose. once warm, the smell is gone. *tr | |||
| 12/21/2008 | 60000 | 1 | |
| My subaru 2202 wrx has a strong smell of gas in the passenger compartment everytime it is cold out. they have a tsb to fix the issue but will not cover the repairs in all cases. the tsb is 09-36-03. i would think they would care about a manufacturer defect that involves fuel. this should have been recalled. *tr | |||
| 12/05/2008 | 92000 | 1 | |
| In cold weather (freezing), the fuel rail under the intake manifold leaks gasoline. the gas drips directly onto the hot engine. not only is this a major fire hazard (and known source of a handful of fires) but it also is a health risk as the fumes from the gas enter into the cabin of the car when the heater is in use. i have had to keep windows open when driving my car in the middle of winter to prevent getting sick from the gas fumes. the issue get progressively worse the longer it goes without repair. my model year is 2002, and the problem has been known since 2003 when a service bulletin was issues to all subaru dealers. this has occurred on thousands of cars and there is great inconsistencies in subaru dealers repairing this problem. my car is a 2002 subaru impreza wrx with 920000 miles on the car. while this problem just started with my car, others reported the issue within the first 20,000 miles. *tr | |||
| 01/23/2007 | 1 | ||
| 2002 subaru impreza xrx gas fumes and smell when the weather is cold. it is common on 2002 subaru's these cars should be recalled because of the danger of a fire and this has not happened to date. the cost for a repair is high because the fuel lines and under the manifold. i noticed this smell the first year i bought the car that is the date in the incident box. *tr | |||
| 01/29/2008 | 65000 | 3 | 03/21/2002 |
| Strong fuel smell in passenger compartment of car, following start of vehicle in the morning. sounds similar to nhtsa action number pe04002 except this is happening in temperatures 40-50 degree farenheit. *cn | |||
| 10/31/2007 | 118000 | 1 | 10/19/2007 |
| Tl*the contact owns a 2002 subaru impreza. the contact noticed a strong gasoline odor while the vehicle was idling. she took her vehicle to the dealer and they stated that the fuel line was too close to the exhaust manifold, causing fumes to emit and possibly start a fire. the vehicle is currently being repaired. the current and failure mileages were 118,000. | |||
| 02/09/2007 | 60000 | 1 | 03/05/2002 |
| My 2002 subaru has gas fumes in the cabin whenever the weather is cold. the colder the weather the stronger the fumes. subaru is aware of the issue, the have a bulletin on this very issue, however the dealer refuses to cover this issue. over the phone the service manager was confident that subaru would not cover this issue. he informed me that it was just fumes leaking. knowing a little about how gasoline is ignited, i know that the fumes are what combustion, and that is what i am concerned about. if subaru is so concerned about safety, one would thing that explosive fumes would be on their list. however both subaru of america, and subaru of annapolis did nothing to reassure me that this would be covered. when i called subaru of america again, they told me to contact another dealer and see what they would do. this is the last subaru i will every buy! *jb | |||
| 02/05/2007 | 119330 | 1 | 04/01/2001 |
| Tl*- the contact owns a 2002 subaru impreza wr,x and stated that the vehicle was leaking fuel, and there was a raw fuel smell coming from the passenger compartment of the vehicle. the fuel smell was stronger when the vehicle was running and the temperature was below 32 degrees. the contact currently has the vehicle at the dealership. the failure and current mileage were 119330.*ak the vehicle also had a coolant lead. the drivers side door regulator was inopertive, the clutch had a judder, there was problem with the abs. updated | |||
| 02/07/2006 | 1 | ||
| Raw fuel smell in cold weather. had to replace cd player. seals on windows fell off. brakes pump when hitting the brake when debris on road. (rocks,etc.). *nm | |||
| 02/01/2007 | 103000 | 1 | |
| Raw fuel smell noticed while car is on. seems to be coming from engine bay. has just begun to occur as temperature has dropped below freezing. *nm | |||
| 02/01/2004 | 10000 | 100 | 04/01/2003 |
| In the first winter after purchasing my 2002 subaru impreza wrx, there was a strong smell of gasoline in the passenger cabin as well as around the car. the problem persisted in the following years particularly during cold winter days, however dealerships were not able to replicate the problem. one dealership attempted to replace the fuel filter and spray deodorant into the vents to help, but the strong smell of gasoline persisted on cold days, particularly when we wanted to turn the heat on. the smell of gasoline is not only nauseating, but most likely very harmful to myself and my family. on occasion, it is impossible to drive the car with the heat on and consequently we need to drive with the windows down, in the cold, with the heat off. nm | |||
| 09/24/2006 | 72000 | 1 | 08/26/2004 |
| My car is subaru impreza wrx sport wagon. i used to gas my car at shell gas station in highland park. a lot of times i found water in my car's gas tank. i use the 93 octane, because my car has turbo. please check the 93 octane gas on the shell gas station. *jb | |||
| 02/18/2006 | 33000 | 3 | 06/10/2004 |
| In cold weather (sub-freezing), i smell gasoline vapors in the passenger compartment of my 2002 suburu impreza wrx. the smell of gasoline is equally strong under the hood. one must drive with the windows open, with no heat, so as to avoid light-headiness. *jb | |||
| 02/18/2006 | 1 | ||
| 2002 subrau wrx. long drive in sub-zero weather after which a extreme fuel smell was entering the car at stops. after arriving home i quickly looked under the hood where i could see and smell fuel vaporizing on the left (passenger) side of the engine compartment. the fuel vapor was originating from the hose mentioned in pe04002, subaru tsb #09-36-03. this is contrary to the problem only existing during cold start conditions as my car was fully warmed up and after 2 hours driving. the fuel vapor filled up my garage to the extent that i was forced to open the garage door. according to subaru this is not a recall and thus i need to pay to fix this issue-- however after my experience tonight i'm scared to drive my car in sub-zero weather. i urge nhtsa to re-examine action number pe04002 as the amount of fuel vapor coming from my car this evening could have very easily caused a fire had an ignition source been introduced anywhere around my car. *jb | |||
| 01/21/2002 | 67013 | 1 | 05/19/2001 |
| Raw fuel smell with temperatures below 20 degrees f and raw fuel in engine compartment with temperatures below 0 degrees f. smell occurs anytime car sits in sub 20f temperatures. actual leak with raw fuel occurred after car sat out overnight in sub zero degree temperatures. small smoldering fire signified by small amount of grey smoke coming from engine compartment upon start up. car has been taken to dealer three times for problem over two years and still leaks. most recently after leak they replaced fuel rail system, but car still leaks. *nm | |||
| 01/15/2006 | 85000 | 1 | 04/10/2005 |
| During one cold day i noticed that my car (2002 subaru wrx) had a raw gas smell after starting up, like a fuel leak. *jb | |||
| 01/01/1901 | 1 | ||
| 2002 subaru impreza developed a fuel leak.***no answer required***. *mr *nm | |||
| 01/03/2005 | 1 | ||
| 2002 subaru impreza gives off a strong fuel odor.***no answer required***. *mr the dealer told the consumer the odor was normal and that it was due to the rich fuel in cold weather. *jb | |||
| 01/25/2005 | 36500 | 3 | |
| Upon start up and driving in cold weather a strong fuel smell emitted from the vehicle. the owner has contacted the dealer and the manufacturer and was told that this is common. provide further details. *jb | |||
| 01/19/2005 | 78547 | 3 | 10/26/2004 |
| I drive a 2002 subaru impreza wrx manufactured in feb 2001. i have owned the vehicle for 3 months. i noticed the failure during the first day the temperature dropped below freezing. the failure is described as a very strong scent of noxious fuel into the passenger cabin of the vehicle. the scent is present when the vehicle is started with a cold engine and the outside temperature is below freezing. the scent dissipates after 5 minutes of running the engine. this occurs every time these conditions are present which can be multiple times daily. the consequences to date have simply been discomfort but i am concerned that long term exposure may have lasting damage to my and my passengers lungs and eyes. so far i have not taken any corrective action as the discussion forum at www.nasioc.com has many postings describing failed attempts of fixing the problem by subaru trained mechanics. *nm | |||
| 01/18/2005 | 07/01/2001 | ||
| Strong gas odor in cabin when temps are below 30 out side. this is the same problem reported last year with no recall or resolution by dealer/nhtsa. *nm | |||
| 10/01/2004 | 3 | 05/10/2002 | |
| Vehicle service several time due to gas smell, unsafe to drive. *bf consumer was told that a mouse nest was the cause of the gas smell in her vehicle and was charged $140.74. the consumer showed the mechanic where the fuel was pooling on the engine. problem still not resolved. *tc | |||
| 01/16/2004 | 30000 | 1 | 09/07/2001 |
| Strong fuel smell in cold weather. occurs whenever the temperature drops below 25 c.*ak | |||
| 01/17/2002 | 12000 | 1 | 10/16/2002 |
| Gas smell in car cabin in a 2002 wrx in cold weather conditions. *la | |||
| 1 | 10/02/2002 | ||
| The consumer stated that the vehicle had a very strong gas smell when the temperature was below 14 degrees. the consumer stated that there was a fuel leak. there is a bulletin describing the same problem. *nm | |||
| 01/16/2004 | 25000 | ||
| While driving the consumer smelled fuel coming through the vents. there was a gas leak in the engine compartment. this problem only occurred when the weather was extremely cold. the consumer indicated that there was a tbs on this issues. the dealer could not find anything wrong with the vehicle. *nm | |||
| 01/09/2004 | 61500 | 1 | 04/09/2001 |
| Fuel leak in cold weather. can smell fuel inside the car when the outside air vent is on. gas mileage is also lower in really cold weather (may or may not be related). *la | |||
| 01/06/2004 | 26700 | 1 | 02/14/2002 |
| On my 2002 subaru impreza wrx, the car leaks fuel and a raw fuel smell is strong in the cabin whenever the car is driven when the outside temperature is below 20 degrees fahrenheit. *la | |||
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE - DELIVERY | |||
| 02/25/2006 | 36152 | 4 | 12/02/2001 |
| During recent cold weather, i noticed a strong odor of unburned fuel in the passenger cabin. research indicated this is addressed by tsb 009-36-03, however a fuel leak of any nature should be considered for recall due to the risk to health and life. *jb | |||
| 12/31/2004 | 44350 | 1 | 02/08/2002 |
| 2002 subaru impreza wrx, raw fuel smell in cabin and leak coming from near manifold when the temperature is below freezing and car is cold started. *jb | |||
| 01/06/2004 | 22950 | 1 | 09/24/2002 |
| Gas leek in engine bay. *la | |||
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE - DELIVERY - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS | |||
| 11/28/2008 | 60000 | 1 | 06/01/2001 |
| Tl*the contact owns a 2002 subaru impreza. the contact observed a small amount of fuel leaking from the fuel tank onto the ground. in addition, while driving various speeds, the contact smelled a strong odor of fuel inside the passenger compartment. the failure occurred without warning. the authorized dealer stated that the fuel line was the cause of the failure, which could be corrected by a patch kit. the vehicle has not yet been repaired. the failure mileage was 60,000. updated 01/09/09. *lj updated 01/12/09.*jb | |||
| 02/28/2008 | 1 | 01/15/2008 | |
| I just purchased this 02 subaru impreza wrx car a couple of months ago and noticed a strong smell of gas on the outside of the car when i started it and also on the inside, i had it looked at by a mechanic and it was spraying out of one of the hoses by the air intake tube, he was able to tighten it a little to slow the leak but the car has the same problem when you start it and driving it you can smell gas very strong on the inside of the car, i'm worried to drive it fearing it may start a fire. is there anything that subaru will do to fix this problem and also, i have to have an emissions test done in another state where i will be attending college, i was told it would be a problem. thanks, any help would be greatly appreciated. *tr | |||
| 02/01/2008 | 65000 | 1 | 04/01/2002 |
| 2002 subaru impreza wrx during cold temperatures a fuel line leaks. there is a service bulletin for this problem (tsb: 09-36-03), but it has not been made a recall. if enough fuel accumulates i would expect. *tr | |||
| 11/15/2004 | 31200 | 5 | 01/08/2004 |
| Car develops a fuel leak from the defective fuel lines in cold temperature (winter). gasoline dripping onto engine block and filling inside cabin with heavy smell of gas fumes. subaru of america is aware of the problem since april of 2003 but unwilling to fix the problem at their expense. defect is due to the incorrect manufacturer's design of fuel rails and hoses and is being fixed by installation of new updated parts. *tr | |||
| 11/01/2007 | 91000 | 1 | |
| On cold mornings there is a tremendous gasoline smell in side the car. this seems to only happen when the car has sat overnight and when the overnight temp goes below 35f. gas can be smelled in the engine bay and what looks like gas can be seen pooling on the passenger side of the motor. i decided to file this report after speaking with other 2002 subaru impreza wrx owners who indicated that they have the same issue. i believe that this issue presents a fire hazard and that if this issue is wide spread, a mandatory recall is in order. *jb | |||
| 01/14/2006 | 20000 | 1 | 06/01/2002 |
| When the weather is under 20 degrees f, there are strong gasoline fumes inside the passenger compartment of the automobile. it makes me dizzy, causing the necessity to drive with the windows down in single digit temperatures. subaru is aware of this problem and they have issued a service bulletin, but they will not fix many cars that are no longer under warranty. this is a health concern, an emissions concern, and a safety concern, as raw gasoline is leaking somewhere in the engine bay. | |||
| 01/23/2007 | 39000 | 1 | 12/21/2006 |
| 2002 subaru impreza ts - fuel smell in cold weather. when starting my impreza ts at temperatures below 32f there is a distinct and overpowering fuel smell in the cabin of the vehicle. there is a technical service bulletin released for the wrx model but not the ts. please address the exclusion of the ts model as this issue is a significant health and safety concern. *jb | |||
| 12/27/2006 | 77000 | 1 | |
| In very cold temperatures (below 30f), the smell of raw fuel enters the cabin. subaru has a tsb for this issue, but i think this should be a recall issue considering that fuel vapor is highly flammable and is also a known carcinogen. *nm | |||
| 12/08/2006 | 61000 | 1 | 10/28/2006 |
| Began smelling odor of raw fuel inside of my 2002 subaru impreza. after a short research i found it to be a common problem during cold weather. contacted a dealer and was told that it is not covered under warranty or recall. *jb | |||
| 12/07/2006 | 1 | 12/05/2006 | |
| I just wanted to share with you a very recurring, and very unsafe problem regarding the subaru wrx impreza. i came home tonight to a strong smell of gasoline coming from the engine bay of my car. i proceeded to open my hood and investigate. what i found was actual fuel leaking from a part of my car! this fuel can ignite and even explode if it were to touch something hot (turbo charger, cat converter) well upon going online, i looked the problem up, and it seems a lot of wrx impreza owners are having this exact same problem. this is a problem noted since 2002 and subaru has done nothing about this! in the link i am about to provide to you, it will show many cases of people dealing with subaru, in some cases with very poor customer service. http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=131755 that website is just one website representing the countless amounts of people experiencing the same exact problem. i do not see how subaru cannot create a recall on something so extremely unsafe. *jb | |||
| 11/15/2006 | 66255 | 5 | 10/10/2001 |
| When the weather is cold, my 2002 subaru wrx develops a fuel leak in the engine compartment underneath the intake manifold on the passenger side. leak rate is about 1 drop per second. vehicle has 64,000 miles. i just recently moved to a colder climate area. *nm | |||
| 11/05/2006 | 58300 | 2 | 10/18/2006 |
| I drive a 2002 subaru impreza wrx sedan. when i start the car on cold mornings and turn on the heater with the air recirculation off, a distinct smell of gas comes through the air vents. then, when i open the hood to look for the problem, the smell of gas is even stronger and more noticeable. much like other wrx owners, i have been unable to trace this problem. because of this, i have not made any attempts to fix it. gasoline is widely known to be carcinogenic among many other unfortunate things, and the presence of gasoline in an engine compartment along with sparks and high heat seems extremely dangerous. this problem has been documented by many, many other people for over three years now. *jb | |||
| 03/21/2006 | 48000 | 1 | 06/22/2001 |
| Not a new as others have it too and subaru knows of the trouble. upon first starting the 2002 subaru wrx there is a raw gas smell due to a defective part within the fuel system. both the nhtsa and subaru know of this but i have been told by dealers that the full cost of this manufacture defect must be paid by the car owner-i was told by a dealer that failure to do this would result in engine fires. i found this info within this site and cannot understand why subaru is not working with the nhtsa to assist people driving potential fire hazards in fixing as fast as possible the defect. *nm | |||
| 02/20/2006 | 1 | ||
| Fuel leak near engine. raw fuel smell in cabin. *jb | |||
| 02/18/2006 | 43202 | 1 | 08/20/2001 |
| We have terrible gasoline fumes in my wife's car when it's cold outside. it's coming from the engine compartment and getting into the cabin. it's so overpowering that my wife and children can not be in the car with the windows closed. it even gave her a headache today after she drove it with the windows open. it's a 2002 subaru impreza ts wagon. i have done some research online and i have found that this is a common problem with this model, yet there has not been a recall. i have seen the investigation report pe04002. our problem persists even when the car is fully warmed up. i drove it for 45 minutes, and it was just as bad at the end of the trip as it was at the beginning. *jb | |||
| 12/13/2005 | 85900 | 10 | 10/06/2001 |
| I purchased a new 2002 wrx three years ago and am inhaling gasoline fumes in my car when driving in cold weather. the subaru dealer told me that they are aware of this problem with the cold fuel smell. i think that inhaling gasoline fumes is very hazardous, especially when driving. i hope and beg that subaru corporation will recall this common fault. *nm | |||
| 12/19/2005 | 80400 | 1 | |
| When the temperature gets below 20 degrees fahrenheit fuel lines leak on the engine of my 2002 subaru impreza rs. the leak can be clearly smelled from inside the car. this issue is known by subaru and they won't designate this as a recall. they do consider this a technical service bulletin and only service this under warranty. otherwise, it's up to the owner to spend upwards of $350 to have a subaru dealer perform the repairs. *jb | |||
| 12/18/2005 | 62000 | 3 | |
| I purchased a used 2002 subaru impreza wrx and have been smelling gas. i have read a previous investigation, pe04002. i understand there is no immediate safety concern for fire, but when driving over long periods the smell does not go away and has caused light headedness for myself and passengers, to the point that i have had to pull over and get out of the car. i also am curious why a recall has not been issued for a known defect, found and acknowledged by the manufacturer. leaking gas is dangerous to inhale and dangerous to the environment. i would urge you to investigate this issue further. *nm | |||
| 12/06/2004 | 1 | ||
| My 2002 subaru wrx is becoming increasingly difficult to drive in cold weather. the smell of raw fuel has recently become intolerable during cold temperatures. i am forced to use recirculation on the ventilation system and drive with my windows open if freezing weather to help with the gas smell. i have tracked the leak down to a two-inch rubber hose section under the intake manifold on the passenger side. it appears that the clamps are loose and cannot be tightened without removal of the manifold. i have seen that a technical service bulletin has been issued on this matter. i called my dealer to have this safety and health issue repaired. to my dismay, i discovered that it is not covered under a recall or warranty. my car currently has 48,270 miles on it and has been impeccably maintained. the dealer has verbally quoted $400-$500 for the repair. upon searching the internet and the nhtsa, i see that fuel vapor odor in the cabin in certain 2002 wrx's is a well-documented defect. i hope for my sake, subaru's sake, and the sake of others with this problem, that subaru of america, inc. will show itself as a standup organization that will make good to it's loyal customers. as an 11 year mechanical engineer in the design and manufacturing industry, and an automobile enthusiast, i can explain that this leak is due to three conditions. 1) improperly torqued hose clamps during factory assembly, 2) fuel line material shrinkage/stiffening due to cold temperatures, leading to further loosening of clamps, and 3) misalignment of fuel lines. subaru should repair this fuel leak at their cost; avoiding health and safety issues, and loss of future customers. this is not a condition caused by the operator of the vehicle by any means and should not be placed on the operators shoulders. over time this leak will become more severe and may possibly ignite under certain conditions or cause dizziness in the more severe cases. *jb | |||
| 11/15/2005 | 65500 | 1 | 06/28/2001 |
| On 1 or 2 occasions in the past couple years i have smelled a gas fumes during very cold weather on my 2002 subaru wrx wagon. i was not often or very strong, so i did not pay much attention. this winter it has been happening more, any time the temperature gets into the low 20's, it is a much stronger smell and lasts quite a while (several minutes). i did some digging on your site and found action number pe04002. i plan to visit my dealer and have the service bulletin completed, but wanted to make you aware that the problem may get worse over time, i currently have 66,000 miles on the vehicle and have driven it since july 2001. *jb | |||
| 11/15/2005 | 1 | 04/09/2005 | |
| I have a 2002 subaru impreza wrx. there is a fuel smell coming from under the hood, near the passenger side by the intake manifold. this happens when i start the car in the mornings when it is cold outside. there is a technical service bulletin from subaru on this matter, but i think it should be a recall item since this involves a fuel smell coming from substandard parts. *nm | |||
| 12/13/2004 | 61000 | 3 | 03/12/2001 |
| Fuel smell/leak during cold temperatures; about 30 and below. very strong smell. so strong we are afraid to drive it during these times. first started this season (2004). out of warranty. 2002 subaru wrx. purchased 3-12-2001. *ak | |||
| 01/17/2005 | 04/15/2001 | ||
| 2002 subaru wrx emits a gas smell, due to a leaking fuel line, into the cabin. this is a known problem with subaru (see service bulletin 09-36-03). in my opinion this potentially dangerous situation is an engineering oversight and should be repaired at no cost to the consumer. *nm | |||
| 01/14/2005 | 44000 | 1 | 03/15/2002 |
| Gasoline smell/leak in sub-zero temperatures. originates from engine compartment, passenger side. noticed pooling of gas in engine block cracks. *jb only occurs when under 20 degrees f. *jb | |||
| 12/22/2004 | 62000 | 1 | 04/03/2003 |
| This is a common problem among my2002 subaru owners who have the ej20t 2.0 liter tubocharged motor. i have a 2002 wrx. when the weather gets very cold (near freezing) there is a fuel leak on the passenger side of the engine. the smell is so strong it enters into the cabin. subaru knows about it and there is a tsb service bulletin. i strongly reccomend a recal on all of the cars that had the old style fuel rails. please see - http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=482496 for more information.*ak | |||
| 12/10/2004 | 34000 | 1 | 06/22/2002 |
| During cold weather my 2002 subaru impreza wrx has a smell of raw fuel inside the cabin. could possibly start a fire. not safe, should be fixed under a recall. *ak | |||
| 12/20/2004 | 53995 | 8 | 10/05/2001 |
| After 54000 miles a slight to strong raw fuel smell has become more noticeable especially during inclement weather conditions. i am located in florida so the temperature does not drop that low and the raw fuel smell is becoming more apparent. *ak | |||
| 12/20/2004 | 51000 | 1 | |
| Fuel smell is in the cabin of my car. symtom <30 degrees, and this is a known hose issue in the wrx. *ak | |||
| 12/15/2004 | 1 | ||
| Tsb 09-36-03 dated 04/01/03 issued by subaru for the 2002my impreza wrx lists that some models may experience a fuel smell in cold weather, if you are smelling fuel, it's fuel vapors, and fuel is leaking period. this is an unsafe condition i would think! this needs to be an official recall so dealerships can?t charge people to fix this defect if their cars are out of warranty. then this issue can be fixed properly and no longer be a hazard.*ak | |||
| 02/15/2004 | 1 | 05/23/2001 | |
| Very strong fuel smell in passenger compartment that is especially apparent in cold weather. *jb | |||
| 01/29/2004 | 28100 | 1 | 05/22/2002 |
| When driving driver started smelling gas coming from the engine. *ak a leaking rubber fuel hose under the intake manifold cased the gas smell. *nm | |||
| 01/07/2004 | 47000 | 5 | 09/13/2001 |
| When it is cold out (in new england) there is a raw fuel smell. my mpg goes from 23 mpg to 17 mpg. i am afraid that their car will catch fire because it smells like a fuel leak. from what i hear there is a subaru technical service bulletin on the fuel lines cracking under extreme cold, but it hasn't been recalled. *la | |||
| 01/21/2004 | 28000 | 1 | 02/06/2002 |
| Faulty desing of the fuel lines on a 2002 subaru wrx are causing a fuel leak (enough to puddle on the manifold). dealer (as well as subaru of america) will not cover the problem under warranty, even though there is a nationwide service bulletin about the issue. my car has several non-related modifications, so my warranty will not cover the issue. this is a very serious health/safety issue, and for subaru to not be forced to recall or at least offer free repairs of it is completely unsatisfactory. this poses a dager to myself, my family, and possibly any one who walks by my car in a praking lot with a cigarette. subaru should be taking the responsibility for faulty design, and if for no other reason than respect for their customers her in america, offer to fix this issue no matter the mileage on the car, or the modifications that may be done to it.*ak | |||
| 01/18/2004 | 1 | ||
| 2002 subaru impreza wrx fuel leak in cold weather conditions.*ak | |||
| 10/01/2003 | 25000 | 1 | 08/29/2001 |
| Extreme fuel odor inside passenger cabin of my 2002 subaru impreza wrx,especially in cold weather conditions for the last four months. i have only 29000 miles on the odometer presently. i have noticed increased fuel consumption recently may be because of a possible fuel leak somewhere -please enquire and advise-thanks, anil sekhar. *cb | |||
| 01/04/2004 | 25000 | 1 | |
| Fuel rails leak in cold weather causing fuel smell in car and possible risk of fire. subaru has issued a technical service bulletin on this. *cb | |||
| 01/07/2004 | 41200 | 1 | 07/01/2001 |
| On the days of jan 7, 8 and 9 2004 with temps below 25f degrees, a very strong odor of gasoline was present within and ouside of the cabin of the 2002 subaru impreza wrx. the smell could be overwhelming at times of colder temps (>15degrees) and would deminish after some driving. took auto into dealer on 8 jan. even though dealer service rep could smell the odor of gasoline when driving it back to the garage area, the technicians could not replicate the issue. was told by the service rep that this is not a safety issue. service rep was aware of tsb issued by subaru for a very similar item, but they needed to replicate the issue within the confines of the garage to be sure. four days later (and counting) i am waiting for colder temps to cause the gasoline odor for the techs.*ak | |||
| 01/06/2004 | 29000 | 1 | |
| I have a 2002 subaru impreza wrx sedan which has an apparent fuel leak in cold weather. subaru has a technical service bullitain out on this problem to fix it (they do know about it), but it has yet to be made a recall. i first experienced this problem the other night when it was very cold outside, and there was a very strong fuel odor in the cabin. i asked some of my friends who also drive wrx's if they have had experience with this, and they said that they have been having the problem recently as well. after doing some research, the tsb was discovered and the source became clear. fuel was leaking onto the engine, which poses not only a foul odor, but also an extremely dangerous fire hazzard. please get subaru to make this a recall so that they can prevent anything bad from happening to one of their customers. i doubt they would want their subaru name to become known as the cars that catch on fire. make this problem a recall as soon as possible so no lives are lost. ak | |||
| 01/08/2004 | 46558 | 1 | 04/17/2001 |
| Very stong fuel smell entering the cabin during extreme cold weather. *ak | |||
| 01/09/2004 | 42654 | 1 | 09/28/2001 |
| I own a 2002 subaru wrx wagon. the cold morning (-3f) of january 9, 2004, i smelled fuel inside the cabin of my car a few minutes after i started the car. the gasoline scent was strong around the immediate area outside and inside the vehicle. the scent can also be sensed under the hood. after a drive, the scent remained. even after i reached my destination 15 miles and 30 minutes later, i can still smell fuel under the hood. i have called village subaru (61 powdermill rd. acton, ma 01742 978-897-1128) and scheduled a service on monday. thank you, - alex teng. *ak | |||
| 01/05/2004 | 44750 | 1 | |
| On jan. 5, 2004 as i was driving my 2002 subaru wrx i could smell fuel coming in from the vents. i pulled over and popped the hood to get a very strong scent of fuel around the intake manifold. subaru has issued a tsb on this, but why there is no recall is still bothersome to me. leaking fuel in the engine compartment is not a good thing and this needs to be a recall. there have been several complaints from other wrx owners on this same issue.*ak | |||
| 1 | |||
| The consumer smelled gas inside the vehicle. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that the clamp on the fuel line came loose and leaked fuel. *nlm | |||
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE - FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM - FUEL RAIL | |||
| 11/25/2003 | 34000 | 5 | |
| It started before warranty was up on my vehicle which is a 2002 subaru impreza wrx. after 30,000 miles noticed gas smell in cabin after starting in cold weather. i tracked smell coming from gas leaking from fuel rail. it was a steady drip which i video taped. i took it to the dealer 5 times for the problem, on the fith time they wanted to charge me to fix due to being over the milage for the warranty.*ak | |||
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE - FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM - INJECTORS | |||
| 01/11/2004 | 37006 | 1 | 11/15/2002 |
| Subaru of america has a technical service buliten about model year 2002 subaru impreza wrx's having a leaky fuel like where it enters the injectors. this bulliten is not covered if the car is out of warrenty. yet the fuel leak is so bad that when the air conditioning is turned on there is a very strong fuel smell comin from the vents. i feel that this bulliten should be a recall and not a bulliten. this kind of problem causes a huge safety rick and if a car were to catch fire from the leaky fuel it could not only destroy the car but also hurt or kill the driver and passengers. *ak | |||
| FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER | |||
| 01/01/2008 | 70000 | ||
| During the past several years my 2002 subaru impreza wrx has had the strong smell of fuel. its not consistent nor does it happen all the time but often enough that it concerns me. i have called subaru's headquarters about this problem and they just keep telling me there is no re-call for this problem, so they won't fix it. i'm concerned this is a real safety problem that subaru refuses to address nor fix. | |||
| 01/30/2004 | 5000 | 1 | 08/18/2001 |
| My 2002 subaru impreza wrx has a raw fuel/gasoline smell in the cabin when the vents are on outside air. it is most noticable at startup, or when the car is stationary, but running. i've had the problem since my first winter in the automobile (winter '01-'02) and i have been consistantly reassured (by 2 dealers) that it's completely normal to have the fuel smell, and to keep my vents on recirculate until the car is warm. i believe there is a tsb issued by soa, however i am out of warranty, and many dealers will not acknowledge the tsb. the fuel smell is strong enough to cause a headache, and certainly smells strong enough to be hazardous in the bay of an internal combustion engine. the smell also seems dangerously close to the turbo/exhaust manifold side of the engine bay, which is obviously very hot. | |||
| 01/11/2004 | 45000 | 1 | 03/24/2001 |
| Fuel smell inside car during cold whether. *ak | |||
| FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER - DELIVERY - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS | |||
| 12/30/2008 | 150325 | 1 | |
| Recall notice 09v468000 for 2002 subaru impreza wrx. *nj the consumer stated he experienced the same problem with his vehicle as stated in the recall he received. as a result, he paid for the replacement of the fuel line and hose. the consumer is requesting reimbursement. *jb | |||
| 01/01/2010 | 50000 | 1 | |
| I have a 2002 subaru impreza wagon, also known as the outback sport. the car reeks of gasoline recently. subaru recently recalled some 2002 imprezas because the fuel line leaked fuel in cold weather. the recall # is 09v468000. it has been quite cold here in nc recently with temps in the teens and 20s. the problem with my car seems identical to the problem that was the subject of the recall, but my car model was not included in the recall. the gas smell is very strong and i am afraid that this could be dangerous and set my car and possibly my house on fire. *tr | |||