NHTSA ID Number: 10490702
Incident Date: 2012-12-01
Manufacturer's Name: Subaru
of America, Inc.
Vehicle/Equipment Make: SUBARU
Vehicle/Equipment Model: IMPREZA
Model Year: 2004
9999 If Unknown Or N/A
Vehicle Identification Number: JF1GG29604G
Vehicle Mileage At Failure: 105000
Vehicle Speed: 0
Number Of Occurrences: 1
Was Vehicle Towed: No
Consumer Location: STATE COLLEGE, PA
Summary of Complaint
UPON STARTING THE CAR DURING THE COLDER WINTER MONTHS, A RAW FUEL SMELL WILL BEGIN TO FILL THE CABIN IF THE HVAC SYSTEM IS TURNED ON TO VENT FRESH AIR. THIS SMELL IS STRONG ENOUGH TO CAUSE LIGHTHEADEDNESS AND THE SENSATION OF NAUSEA. UPON FURTHER INVESTIGATION, THE PASSENGER SIDE FUEL LINE IS LEAKING FUEL UNDERNEATH THE INTAKE MANIFOLD, TO THE EXTENT THAT YOU CAN VISIBLY SEE A PUDDLE OF FUEL BOILING ON TOP OF THE ENGINE BLOCK. THIS HAPPENS BECAUSE THERE ARE TWO HARD METAL FUEL LINES RUNNING TO THE FUEL INJECTORS CONNECTED BY A SMALL PIECE OF RUBBER HOSE WITH CLAMPS. HOWEVER THIS HOSE FROM THE FACTORY IS CUT TOO SHORT, SO WHEN THE TEMPERATURE IS COLD ENOUGH THE RUBBER LOOSES ITS ELASTIC PROPERTIES AND AS THE METAL LINES VIBRATE / MOVE WITH THE MOTOR, IT LEAKS FUEL OUT OF THE RUBBER HOSE. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN ADDRESSED BY SUBARU IN THE TSB #09-36-03. THEY OFFER TO REPLACE THE RUBBER HOSE AND HARD METAL FUEL LINE FOR MODEL YEARS 2002 AND 2003 IMPREZA WRX'S FREE OF CHARGE. HAVING BEEN AN OWNER OF A 2002 IMPREZA WRX BEFORE PURCHASING MY 2004 IMPREZA WRX, I HAD THIS SERVICE PERFORMED AT MY LOCAL SUBARU DEALERSHIP. I AM DISGUSTED TO FIND OUT THAT THIS COVERAGE DOES NOT APPLY TO THE MODEL YEAR 2004 IMPREZA WRX, WHEN IT FEATURES AN IDENTICAL MOTOR AND DRIVETRAIN TO THE PREVIOUS YEARS (2002, 2003.) THIS MEANS THAT THE FUELING SYSTEM IS IDENTICAL AS WELL, AND THAT THE PREVIOUSLY ACKNOWLEDGED RAW FUEL LEAK IS HAPPENING IN MY CAR AS WELL. THE FACT THAT THE 2004 IMPREZA WRX HAS THE SAME MOTOR. AND SAME FUEL SYSTEM, AND SUBARU OF AMERICA WILL OPENLY DENY COVERAGE TO HAVE THE PARTS REPLACED IS TRULY DISGUSTING IN ITSELF. RAW FUEL LEAKING ON TOP OF A HOT ENGINE BLOCK, AROUND SOURCES OF IGNITION IS THE MOST EXTREME OF SAFETY HAZARDS, AND NOW I OWN A VEHICLE IN WHICH I CANNOT TRANSPORT MY WIFE AND CHILD. I AM TRULY DISAPPOINTED IN SUBARU FOR TURNING A COLD SHOULDER TO THIS. *TR
Check if your Subaru has a Recall
Complaint 10490702 Documents
For Latest Documents related to this Complaint, visit the NHTSA Website.
Click the (+) Plus Sign
Then click Associated Document(s).
Most Complaints Don't have any PDFs.
- 6X better wear protection on critical engine parts than...
- 1.3X better sludge protection than industry standards*
- 3X Stronger against viscosity breakdown than leading full...
- Protection for 10,000 miles between oil changes
- Meets or exceeds the following specifications: API SP/SN...
- Formulated for engines with 75,000 miles or more, Valvoline...
- Delivers 20% better wear protection and 15% better sludge...
- Extra detergents safeguard against friction, corrosion and...
- Advanced friction-fighting additives help maximize...
- Provides performance benefits for high mileage, new and...
Last update on 2026-06-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Search NHTSA Database for Recalls
Search NHTSA Database for (TSB's) Technical Service Bulletins
Technical Service Bulletins TSB's List
Search NHTSA Database for Vehicle Investigations
CRASH: No
WAS VEHICLE INVOLVED IN A CRASH
FIRE: No
WAS VEHICLE INVOLVED IN A FIRE
INJURIES: 0
NUMBER OF PERSONS INJURED
DEATHS: 0
NUMBER OF FATALITIES
Was Medical Attention Required: No
Was Incident Reported To Police: No
Date Of Incident: 2012-12-01
(YYYY-MM-DD)
Date Added To File: 2013-01-02
(YYYY-MM-DD)
Date Complaint Received By NHTSA: 2013-01-02
(YYYY-MM-DD)
Date Purchased:
(YYYY-MM-DD)
Was Original Owner: No
Product Type: Vehicle
V = Vehicle T = Tires E = Equipment C = Child Restraint
Specific Component's Description: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Anti-Lock Brakes: No
Cruise Control: No
Number Of Cylinders: 4
Drive Train Type:
[AWD, 4WD, FWD, RWD]
Fuel System:
FI = Fuel Injection TB = Turbo
Fuel Type: Gas
BF = BiFuel CN = CNG/LPG DS = Diesel GS = Gas HR = HybridElectric
Vehicle Transmission Type [Auto, Man]:
(DOT) Department Of Transportation Tire Identifier:
Tire Size:
Location Of Tire:
FSW = Driver Side Front DSR = Driver Side Rear FTR = Passenger Side Front PSR = Passenger Side Rear SPR = Spare
Type Of Tire Failure:
BST = Blister BLW = Blowout TTL = Crack OFR = Out Of Round TSW = Puncture TTR = Road Hazard TSP = Tread Separation
Was Defective Tire Repaired:
Was Part Original Equipment:
Date Of Manufacture:
(YYYYMMDD)
Type Of Child Seat:
B = Booster C = Convertible I = Infant IN = Integrated TD = Toddler
Installation System:
A = Vehicle Safety Belt B = Latch System
Dealer's Name:
Dealer's Telephone Number:
Dealer's City:
Dealer's State:
Dealer's Zipcode:
SOURCE OF COMPLAINT CODE:
CAG = Consumer Action Group CON = Forwarded From A Congressional Office DP = Defect Petition,result Of A Defect Petition EVOQ = Hotline VOQ EWR = EARLY WARNING REPORTING INS = Insurance Company IVOQ = NHTSA Web Site LETR = Consumer Letter MAVQ = NHTSA Mobile APP MIVQ = NHTSA Mobile APP MVOQ = Optical Marked VOQ RC = Recall Complaint, Result Of A Recall Investigation RP = Recall Petition, Result Of A Recall Petition SVOQ = Portable Safety Complaint Form (PDF) VOQ = NHTSA Vehicle Owners Questionnaire
Incident State Code:
Vehicle Operator's Name:
Previous Complaint | Next Complaint |
- 【OE-Level Full System Diagnostics-Lifetime F*REE Software Updates】The VDIAGTOOL D200 OBD2 Scanner for cars is a all system bidirectional scan tool that enjoy lifetime f*ree software updates, delivers complete system coverage. reading/clearing codes across engine, transmission, ABS, SAS, EPB, TPMS plus full access to body, chassis, powertrain and all control modules. This D200 Bidirectional car scanner works with most 1996+ OBD2 gasoline and hybrid cars and light trucks. It does NOT support pure electric and heavy-duty trucks. PLEASE CHECK COMPATIBILITY BEFORE ORDERING or Contact us with VIN to confirm compatibility.
- 【Supports OBD2 Full Functions-ZERO Subscription Fees】D200 Bidirectional OBD2 Scanner is a upgarde of universal car code reader. It supports OBD2 full functions to help you turn off the annoying instrument fault indicator, such as read/clear codes, O2 sensor test, I/M readiness, on-board monitor test, datastream, freeze frame, E-VAP system test, and retrieve vehicle information. This professional obd2 scanner diagnostic tool can full access to diagnostics, reset tools and maintenance features with a single payment. NOTE: The fault code can only be cleared after the vehicle's malfunction has been repaired; please ensure the vehicle issue is fixed before clearing the code.
- 【D200 Hidden 2 Advantages: 1. $169 Expandable 49+ Advanced Resets. 2. $199 Get J2534 P*a*s*s-Thru Programming】Your core car diagnostics and 26 reset remain lifetime f*ree for everyday maintenance. When you need deeper repair capability, upgrade with 3-year access for $169 in Store on VDIAGTOOL App, gaining 49+ advanced resets. D200 configured with J2534 hardware, upgrade only when you need without replacing the entire device. You also can Lifetime Unlock for $199 in Store one-time, perform module programming, software re~flashing and ECU data updates directly. Supports 17+ major brands, including for BMW, for Audi, for GM, for Ford and more. Note:D200 does‘t provide any OE software.
- 【Full Bidirectional Control / Active Tests】The D200 car scanner diagnostic tool is a true bidirectional scan tool that lets you send commands directly to the vehicle’s ECU for active tests. Quickly test fuel pumps, relays, solenoids, injectors, cooling fans, windows, sunroofs and more to verify operation instantly. Get dealership-level diagnostic control at a fraction of the cost (ofter $100-200$ per diagnostic visit), reduce guessworkand confirm repairs faster, avoid unnecessary parts replacement, towing fees and wait times.
- 【26 F*ree Essential Reset & Relearn Functions – Everyday Maintenance Made Easy】Handle common maintenance and repair jobs without visiting the shop. The D200 code readers & scan tools includes 26 f*ree high-demand reset functions, including Oil Reset, EPB Service, SAS Calibration, ABS Brake Bleeding, Throttle Relearn, Injector Coding, Headlight Adjustment, Tire Size Reset and more. Perfect for home car owners, mechanics and DIYers – just plug and diagnose anytime, anywhere! Note: Service functions vary by vehicle model—please confirm compatibility.
- 【A MUST-HAVE TOOL FOR DIYERS】 - VDIAGTOOL VD10 car code reader is an incredibly useful obd scanner for each car owner or hobbyist, even for those with little to no experience when it comes to vehicle mechanics! Similar to a fixd car diagnostic tool, using this car diagnostic scanner is extremely easy. All you have to do is attach it to your car OBDII port and you can diagnose car problems in seconds! Read Codes (DTCs); Clear Codes; Live Data; View Freeze Frame; I/M Readiness; Vehicle Information.
- 【KEEP ENGINE IN GOOD STATUS】 - VDIAGTOOL check engine code reader brings a fast access to scan, read the car fault code, show its definition on the screen instantly, troubleshooting to find the root causes of problems, erase the engine fault code and turn off the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Light). Similar to a fixd car diagnostic tool, this car code reader helps ensure your engine stays in top condition.
- 【READ/CLEAR CODES & DTC LOOKUP】- No search online & saving your time, this vehicle car code reader retrieves generic (P0, P2, P3, and U0), manufacturer specific (P1, P3, and U1) codes, pending codes and displays DTC definitions based on the built-in database(more than 3000 codes) on the TFT screen, find out the root causes and clear the codes after fixed.
- 【LIVE DATA & RETRIEVE FREEZE FRAME】 - This diagnostic scan tool for accurate diagnosis enables you to retrieve data from vehicle sensors, such as Engine RPM, Intake air temperature, Short/Long term fuel, Misfire data and etc. The freeze frame is stored in the PCM together with the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) related to the fault. Comparable to a fixd car diagnostic tool, the VD10 car code reader car scanner can be a valuable & practical diagnostic aid and also greatly help when diagnosing intermittent problems.
- 【I/M READINESS for THE S-nn-0-g CHECK】- OBDII vehicle may not pass the annual inspection unless the required monitors since reset are complete. So you should at least read the readiness monitors and make sure they are ready. This car obd2 scanner diagnostic tool is equipped with I/M readiness function to check the operations of the e-m-issi0n system on OBD2 compliant vehicles, run I/M monitor readiness test, checking if the pass vehicle s-m-0-g inspection.
- 【Professional Diagnostics】 The VD80 BT Lite bidirectional obd2 scanner is a professional OBD2 scanner diagnostic tool, delivering vehicle diagnostics right in your own garage. It supports 4,000+ active diagnostic tests, 28+ maintenance service functions, ECU coding, PMI calibration, brake service reset, and OEM-grade full-system vehicle scanning—perfect for DIYers and pros looking for powerful automotive tools. The available function tests vary by model—please to confirm compatibility.
- 【ADVANCED ECU CODE, CUSTOMIZE OE-SETTINGS】As a complete car code reader and reset tool, the VD80 BT Lite bidirectional obd2 scanner supports ECU coding for VW, for Audi, for BMW, for Benz, for Mitsubishi and more. PMI function for Ford/for Lincoln/for Mazda, supports copy data into new module. Step-by-step Guided Diagnostics makes complex jobs easier—making this one of the most reliable code readers & scan tools on the market.
- 【100000+ Vehicles Compatibility – CAN FD/DOIP】 VD80 BT Lite Auto Scanner Compatible with 100,000+ vehicles worldwide, this bidirectiona car scanner works with all OBD2-compliant vehicles manufactured after 1996, covering more than 100 brands worldwide. It also supports CAN FD, DOIP and FCA Secure Gateway protocols, boost 2X faster data transfer, covers 99% of U.S., EU and Asian cars. With 22 languages and 2 years of f*ree updates—future-proofing your car reader diagnostic for all cars.
- 【28+ Maintenance Services & Calibration Functions】VD80 BT Lite scanner for car Supports 28 maintenance services, including resetting oil and service lights after routine maintenance, registering new batteries for proper system operation, and clear clogged filters and restore performance. Additionally, it calibrates TPMS sensors after tire rotations, resets brake systems after pad replacements, relearns steering angle sensors after alignments, and more. These functions help your vehicle quickly and accurately return to peak performance—without the costly dealer visits.
- 【True Bidirectional Control – Diagnose with Confidence】Standing out with full-system coverage and extensive active test capabilities, the VD80 BT Lite bidirectional scan tool retrieves data from electronic control units and performs a wide range of active tests. You can real-time control over modules like fuel pumps, windows, A/C clutches, and relays. Perform 100+ advanced functions including throttle adaptation, injector coding, VIN write, idle relearn, and ABS bleed—helping you fix it right the first time with this all-in-one car diagnostic scanner.
Last update on 2026-06-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.