Subaru/rear suspension subframe corrosion
Defect Summary
This recall applies to certain passenger vehicles originally sold in 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.
Safety Consequence
If such breakage occurs while the vehicle is being operated, control of the vehicle could be affected, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Dealers will clean and rust-proof the rear suspension subframe. owner notification began july 14, 2003. 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.
Similar Recalls
Other recalls from Subaru Of America, Inc. or involving Suspension.
FAQ: Recall 03V153000
Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.
What is recall 03V153000?
NHTSA recall 03V153000 was issued by Subaru Of America, Inc. on April 22, 2003. It addresses: Subaru/rear suspension subframe corrosion. The recall affects approximately 170,000 vehicles, with the defect involving the Suspension component.
How do I get this recall repaired?
Contact any authorized Subaru Of America, Inc. dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 03V153000 or the manufacturer campaign number WWM-96. Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.
Is my vehicle included in this recall?
The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.
How long do I have to get a recall repair done?
There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.
Where does the data on this page come from?
All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.