If you are a 2002 or 2003 Subaru Impreza WRX driver like myself, you are often greeted by the smell of gasoline whenever the weather gets cold. I complained to Subaru about the problem a couple years ago and was directed to Subaru Technical Service Bulletin #09-36-03 which acknowledges the issue, but offers no assistance in fixing the problem. Forums like NASIOC and i-Club offer excellent DIY guides, but the process is far from fun and quite time-consuming…. so I (as many others like me) have just put up with the fuel smell and simply hoped that it’s not bad enough to explode my beloved car… or my family.
Then, today, a surprise arrived in the mail. It was an extended warranty notice for a Subaru fuel line. Before we read it more carefully, we assumed it had to do with Lana’s 2008 Forester which has a dissimilar fuel line recall that we haven’t reacted to yet… then I actually read the letter. It regards my WRX and the smelly fuel line!!! I have never been more proud to be a Subaru fan. It may have something to do with all the Toyota recalls that are taking place, but for whatever the reason, I am elated that Subaru is fixing the problem at no charge.
The letter reads:
Dear Subaru Owner:
We would like to thank you for selecting a 2002 or 2003 Model Year Subaru Impreza WRX. At Subaru we, take pride in our products and are committed to your continued satisfaction. We have discovered that in extremely cold outside temperatures, a certain fuel delivery lin/hose located under the engine intake manifold may temporarily seep some fuel during initial cold engine start up. If this condition occurs, vehicle occupants may notice the smell of fuel.
As a result of this finding and in the interest of your satisfaction, we are extending the warranty coverage period on this engine fuel delivery line/hose to 12 years / unlimited mileage. [letter continues]
If you need additional assistance, please contact us directly: 1-800-782-2782. [letter continues]
It even goes on to explain that if you already replaced the hose at the dealer, they will reimburse you for the cost. Thanks for being a stand-up car company, Subaru. While I wish it didn’t take eight years for the replacement assistance, I’ll take anything I can get. You can expect me at a Nashville area Subaru dealer within the week.
