ATTENTION:
GENERAL MANAGER

q

PARTS MANAGER

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CLAIMS PERSONNEL

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IMPORTANT - All
Service Personnel
Should Read and
Initial in the boxes
provided, right.

SERVICE MANAGER

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© 2020 Subaru of America, Inc. All rights reserved.

SERVICE PROGRAM BULLETIN
APPLICABILITY:
SUBJECT:

2014-2016 MY Forester
Forester Rear Coil Springs

NUMBER: WUT-05R
DATE: 01/20/20
REVISED: 05/13/20

INTRODUCTION:
In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is initiating a service
program to replace the rear coil springs on certain 2014-2016 model year Forester vehicles. Over
time, if the rear coil spring outer coating is damaged by stones and other road debris, the spring
material may develop pitting from corrosion and a small section of the spring could break away.
When this condition is present, owners of affected vehicles may notice (i) pieces of metal (spring) on
the ground near where the vehicle is parked or (ii) one corner of the vehicle sitting lower.
AFFECTED VEHICLES:
There are 498,995 vehicles in the U.S. affected by this campaign.
Model Year

Carline

Production Range

VIN Range

2014-2016

Forester

March 25, 2013 – April 28,2016

EG428969 - GH569086

Coverage for all affected vehicles must be confirmed by using the Vehicle Coverage Inquiry function
on subarunet.com. This information is now available.

DESCRIPTION OF THE REPAIR:
Subaru retailers will replace both rear coil springs with new springs that have improved resistance to
corrosion.
RETAILER RESPONSIBILITY:
Retailers are to promptly perform this repair on any affected vehicles that may be in their inventory.
Additionally, whenever a vehicle subject to this service program is taken into inventory or in for
service, necessary steps should be taken to ensure the repair has been made before selling or releasing
the vehicle.
CAUTION: VEHICLE SERVICING PERFORMED BY UNTRAINED PERSONS COULD
RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY TO THOSE PERSONS OR TO OTHERS.
Subaru Service Bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians ONLY. They
are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur in some vehicles,
or to provide information that could assist in the proper servicing of the vehicle. Properly
trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to
do the job correctly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that this
Service Bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition.

Subaru of America, Inc. is
ISO 14001 Compliant
ISO 14001 is the international standard for
excellence in Environmental Management
Systems. Please recycle or dispose of automotive
products in a manner that is friendly to our
environment and in accordance with all
local, state and federal laws and regulations.

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WUT-05R; Revised: 05/13/20

Page 1 of 8

Any vehicles listed in a service program that are in the retailer’s stock must be:
•

Immediately identified.

•

Tagged or otherwise marked to prevent their delivery or use prior to inspection and/or repair.

•

Updated in accordance with the repair procedures outlined in this Service Program Bulletin.

OWNER NOTIFICATION:
Subaru expects to begin notifying affected vehicle owners by first class mail in January 2020.
Retailers will be advised when owner notification begins.
RETAILER AFFECTED VIN LISTS:
Each Subaru retailer will receive an affected VIN list from their Zone office when owner notification
begins. Vehicles will be assigned to retailers in the affected VIN list as follows: Please note that this
logic has recently changed:
1. If there is a preferred retailer on file, the VIN will be assigned to the preferred retailer.
2. If there is no preferred retailer on file:
a. Original vehicle owners are assigned to the original selling retailer if their current DMV
registration address is within a 50-mile radius of that retailer.
b. If the original selling retailer is inactive, the VIN is assigned to the nearest active retailer.
c. If the owner is not the original owner, the VIN is assigned to the nearest active retailer.
PARTS INFORMATION:
Part Name

COIL SPRING R KIT

COIL SPRING R KIT

COIL SPRING R KIT

Application

2.5L NA Engine w/
MT

2.5L NA Engine w/
CVT

2.0L XT (Turbo)
Models

Kit Part Number

X2038SG000

X2038SG010

X2038SG020

Break-Down of Kit Contents

Qty.

20380SG001

COIL SPING REAR

2

902350029

SELF LOCK NUT M10

6

902380019

NUT FLG M10

2

902350022

SELF LOCK NUT M12

4

902330006

SELF LOCK NUT M14

2

20380SG011

COIL SPING REAR

2

902350029

SELF LOCK NUT M10

6

902380019

MUT FKG M10

2

902350022

SELF LOCK NUT M12

4

902330006

SELF LOCK NUT M14

2

20380SG021

COIL SPING REAR

2

902350029

SELF LOCK NUT M10

6

902380019

MUT FKG M10

2

902350022

SELF LOCK NUT M12

4

902330006

SELF LOCK NUT M14

2

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WUT-05R; Revised: 05/13/20

Page 2 of 8

NOTES:
• While the coil springs may appear very similar to those originally installed with the addition of
a gray protective tube, the improvements go much deeper. The spring material itself has been
optimized as well as performance of the corrosion-resistant black coating.
• The paint markings on the replacement coil springs will likely differ from the original springs.
• The individual kit component parts listed in the table above are for reference only.
• For the repairs outlined in this campaign bulletin, only the listed kit part numbers may be used.
• Never order the individual kit component parts listed unless advised to do so by an SOA
representative.
• If individual parts are needed for a recall or campaign parts kit due to missing, damaged or
defective component parts, contact the Parts Information Coordinators (PICs) for guidance on
how to proceed.
SERVICE PROCEDURE:
OVERVIEW: This Service Procedure involves a visual inspection of both rear coil springs and
replacement of one or both depending on the outcome.
NOTE: In the RARE case where inspection shows only 1 spring requires replacement, please use
the applicable spring and hardware kit for the repair. The unused portion of the kit parts can be
scrapped. DO NOT order individual parts when only a 1-side repair is required. For this Service
Program only, in the interest of customer satisfaction, retailers are permitted (but not required) to
proceed with replacement of both rear coil springs.
Step 1) SPRING INSPECTION PROCEDURE:
Overview:
Inspect the coil springs on both rear shock absorber assemblies to determine if either spring has a
gray colored protective tube installed on the bottom coils as shown below.

CHECK: Does either coil spring have the Gray Protective Tube on the coils to identify it is a
Countermeasure Type spring?
•

If YES, inspect the Paint Mark on the spring to confirm the correct Countermeasure Type
spring has been installed. Use the reference photos below as a guide.

NOTE: If both springs have the Gray Protective Tube on the coils, always confirm the paint marks
on both rear coil springs are the same color AND that they are the correct color paint marks / springs
for the vehicle.

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WUT-05R; Revised: 05/13/20

Page 3 of 8

○ Springs with a WHITE Paint Mark are for installation on N/A (Non-Turbo) models with
MANUAL transmission ONLY.
○ Springs with a YELLOW Paint Mark are for installation on N/A (Non-Turbo) models
with CVT ONLY.
○ Springs with a PINK Paint Mark are for installation on TURBO (XT) models ONLY.

If both springs are the Countermeasure Type (gray protective tube installed on the bottom coils)
AND both springs have the CORRECT color paint mark to indicate they are the correct springs for
the vehicle, the inspection procedure is complete. Proceed to the Claim Reimbursement and Entry
Procedures section and process a claim for Inspection Only.
•

If either (or both) of the coil springs are:
○ the Pre-Countermeasure Type (NO gray protective tube on the bottom coils)
OR
○ have the gray protective tube but are incorrect for the vehicle application based on the
paint marking(s)
Proceed to Step 2 below and replace the pre-countermeasure or incorrect coil spring(s).

IMPORTANT:
This Service Procedure outlines removal of the rear shock absorber assemblies without disturbing
the rear wheel suspension alignment. The repair parts kit contains suspension component nuts to
replace those which are one-time use. In most cases, when following this procedure, 2 of 902350022
(M12 12mm self-locking nuts) and 2 of 902330006 (M14 self-locking nuts) will not be used. These
nuts are for the bolts connecting the lateral link to the rear axle housing and are not removed when
performing this procedure.

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WUT-05R; Revised: 05/13/20

Page 4 of 8

Step 2) With the vehicle raised and rear wheel(s) removed, remove the nuts and bolts for the rear
stabilizer bar links (1) and lower shock absorber(s) (2) from the lateral link(s). Discard these nuts as
they are one-time use. Remove the stabilizer bar end links from the lateral links and CAREFULLY
(when equipped) the nut securing the height sensor operating link as shown below. Use HAND
TOOLS ONLY when removing the nut and penetrant to prevent damaging the stud threads. Stud
damage will require sensor replacement. A replacement nut is included in the hardware kit.
IMPORTANT: If the height sensor operating link is removed, the Headlight Beam Leveler
Reinitialization Procedure MUST be performed. See Step 11 below for instructions.

Step 3) Remove the mat, trunk cover and both foam spacers from the cargo area.
Step 4) Using a plastic trim tool, CAREFULLY remove the access covers from the trim panels on
each side. This provides access to the top shock mount retaining nuts.

Step 5) Remove both front (closest to the rear seat backrest) retaining nuts and discard them as they
are one-time use items. Loosen (but do not remove) the rear nuts. Loosen them enough so the top of
the nut aligns with the taper at the start of the threads as shown above. This will allow movement of
the shock absorber assemblies making it easier to remove from the lateral links and keeps them from
dropping out of the vehicle after removal.
Step 6) IMPORTANT: CAREFULLY remove the brake hose retaining bracket bolts from each
side.

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WUT-05R; Revised: 05/13/20

Page 5 of 8

Step 7) CAREFULLY insert a long pry bar (or a suitable equivalent) into the suspension above the
lateral link as shown in photos 1 and 2 below. The pry bar is used to push down on the rear lateral
link enough to free the shock absorber assembly. IMPORTANT: Use a shop cloth over the end of
the pry bar to avoid damaging the finish of the suspension components and exposing any bare metal
places for rust to develop. A helper is STRONGLY recommended for this step. While the helper
presses down on the pry bar ONLY AS FAR AS NECESSARY, disengage the shock absorber from
the lateral link toward the rear of the vehicle as shown in photo 3 below.
TIP: A smaller pry bar may come in handy to pry the bottom of the shock absorber assembly out of
the lateral link.
1

2

3

Step 8) Remove and discard the other top retaining nut loosened in Step 5 and remove the affected
shock absorber assembly from the vehicle.
Step 9)
CAUTION:
• It is STRONGLY recommended to NOT use an impact wrench (gun) when removing / installing
the self-locking nut securing the shock absorber (strut) to the upper strut mount. The repeated
shock generated by the impact wrench can damage internal components of the shock absorber.
•

Reconfirm the part number of the Coil Spring Kit before reassembly to prevent installation of any
incorrect parts.

CAREFULLY disassemble the shock absorber assembly following the procedure and all precautions
outlined in the applicable Service Manual. Inspect all components closely and replace as necessary
before reassembly with the new coil spring.
VERY IMPORTANT: Technicians MUST always confirm the parts being installed are the correct
parts for the vehicle PRIOR to installation as part of a proper repair.

WHITE Paint Mark
Kit p.n. X2038SG000
Non-Turbo with MT ONLY

YELLOW Paint Mark
Kit p.n. X2038SG010
Non-Turbo with CVT ONLY

PINK Paint Mark
Kit p.n. X2038SG020
For Turbo Models ONLY

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WUT-05R; Revised: 05/13/20

Page 6 of 8

TIP: When reassembling the rear shock mount,
confirm the direction and angle relations very carefully
as described in the applicable Service Manual and
illustrations shown here.
A - Left (Driver’s) Side
B - Right Side
(a) Front of Vehicle
(b) Toward OUTSIDE of Vehicle
(c) 10 degrees +/- 5 degrees
(d) End of Coil Spring / Spring Seat
(e) Identification Marking
NOTE: The end of the coil spring (d) with the gray protective tube (e) must always be installed
toward the spring seat of the shock absorber assembly.
Step 10) Install the reassembled shock absorber assembly back up into position. Start BOTH new
top retaining nuts onto the mounting studs FRONT NUT FIRST at least a few full threads to hold the
assembly in position while the shock absorber assembly is reinstalled into the lateral link.
IMPORTANT REMINDER: When reassembling the rear suspension, the new self-locking nuts
provided in the kit MUST be used as they are all one-time use items. Complete the reassembly in
reverse order of removal.
Step 11) Headlamp Leveler Reinitialization Procedure:
In cases where the height sensor link was removed from the left rear lateral link, the Headlight Beam
Leveler Reinitialization Procedure must be performed as follows:
Preparation:
• The vehicle must be parked on a level surface facing a wall so the headlamp pattern can be
seen and monitored.
•

A helper must be seated in the driver’s seat.

1. Bounce the vehicle several times to normalize the suspension.
2. Turn the ignition ON. Cycle the headlight switch OFF > ON > OFF at least five times within 10
seconds.
3. While observing the headlight illumination pattern on the wall confirm the headlight beams drop
once, then return back up to normal.
4. After confirming 3), turn the ignition switch to OFF within 30 seconds.
5. Turn the ignition switch to ON again. Cycle the headlight switch OFF > ON > OFF at least five
more times within 10 seconds.
6. Make sure the indicator in the combination meter flashes three times then turns OFF to indicate
the reinitialization procedure has been successfully completed. The headlight beam will drop
again once then return to the original position.

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WUT-05R; Revised: 05/13/20

Page 7 of 8

CLAIM REIMBURSEMENT AND ENTRY PROCEDURES:
Credit to perform this recall will be based on properly completed repair order information. Retailers
may submit claims through Subarunet.com.
Labor Description

Labor Operation #

Labor Time

Rear Coil Spring INSPECTION ONLY- All Models

A161-268

0.2

Fail Code

Claim Type

WUT-05

RC

Spring Replacement Coding for 2.5L, M/T Models Only
Replace Rear Coil Spring- ONE SIDE

B161-263

0.9

Replace Rear Coil Springs- BOTH SIDES

B161-264

1.2

Spring Replacement Coding for 2.5L, CVT Models Only
Replace Rear Coil Spring- ONE SIDE

B161-273

0.9

Replace Rear Coil Springs- BOTH SIDES

B161-274

1.2

Spring Replacement Coding for 2.0L ,XT (Turbo) Models Only
Replace Rear Coil Spring- ONE SIDE

B161-283

0.9

Replace Rear Coil Springs- BOTH SIDES

B161-284

1.2

*NOTE: When only one coil spring is replaced, claim comments must include a note indicating the
side that was repaired.
SERVICE PROGRAM IDENTIFICATION LABEL:
Type or print the necessary information on a Campaign Identification Label.
The completed label should be attached to the vehicle’s upper radiator support.
Additional labels are available through normal parts ordering channels. The
part number is MSA6P1302, which comes as one sheet of 20 labels.
Part Number

Applicability

Description

Order Quantity

MSA6P1302

All Models

Campaign Completion Labels
(contains one sheet of 20 labels)

1

WUT-05

IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
•

SOA strongly discourages the printing and/or local storage of service information as
previously released information and electronic publications may be updated at any time.

•

Always check for any open recalls or campaigns anytime a vehicle is in for servicing.

•

Always refer to STIS for the latest service information before performing any repairs.

Bulletin Number: WUT-05R; Revised: 05/13/20

Page 8 of 8