Recall: cruise control cable can hold the throttle open (2002-04 WRX)

Added 2026-10-26 · Updated 2026-10-26

Symptoms

Throttle does not return fully, so engine speed stays up after lifting off.

Cause

The cruise control cable can come out of its guide and catch, keeping the throttle partly open. In the Impreza range, Subaru's dealer notice limits the recall to the 2002-04 Impreza WRX 2.0 turbo; some Legacy and Outback models are also covered.

Fix (summary)

Check by VIN; dealers fitted a retaining clip for the cable.

Related build entries

• Check GD WRX recalls by VIN first

Other GD problems

• Cracked piston ring lands from detonation
• Rod-bearing wear on the 2.0L EJ205
• Clogged oil-feed screens starving the turbo (P0011)
• Timing belt is an interference-engine risk; about 105k mi
• Stock transmission/clutch is the fuse under extra power
• Worn synchros (3rd gear) and cold-shift shudder

More for this car

• All Subaru WRX (GD/GG, 2002-2007) fitment answers · GD common problems
• Guide: WRX GD bolt pattern: 5x100 vs 5x114.3 (2002-07 WRX and STI)
• Guide: 2002-05 WRX vs 2006-07 WRX: EJ205 vs EJ255, known problems and wheels
• Newsletter archive: past issues with every new and corrected entry

Sources

• NHTSA recall record 04V-128 (2002-04 Impreza WRX 2.0 turbo, plus Legacy/Outback: cruise control cable) — NHTSA recalls API (regulatory; read 2026-10-26; full page read)
• Subaru dealer notice for NHTSA recall 04V-128 (cruise control cable): applicability 2002-2004 Impreza WRX 2.0L — Subaru of America, filed with NHTSA (regulatory; read 2026-10-26; search excerpt only)
  Dealer notice applicability: 2002-2004 Impreza WRX 2.0L.

Summaries are in our own words. Not repair instructions; consult the factory service manual.

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