Recall: front lower control arms can rust through in salt-belt states, Impreza (incl. WRX) 2002-07
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What causes "Recall: front lower control arms can rust through in salt-belt states, Impreza (incl. WRX) 2002-07" on the Subaru WRX (GD/GG, 2002-2007), and how is it fixed?
In states that use road salt, corrosion can weaken the front lower control arm where it meets its rear (hanger) bracket. Fix: Check by VIN.
Symptoms
Possible clunks or a loose front end; in the worst case the arm separates at its rear bracket and steering control is reduced.
Cause
In states that use road salt, corrosion can weaken the front lower control arm where it meets its rear (hanger) bracket. The recall covers 2002-07 Impreza (incl. WRX; Subaru's dealer notice excludes the STI) and some Forester and Saab 9-2X models registered in those states.
Fix (summary)
Check by VIN. Dealers inspected the arms and applied rust protection, or replaced the arms if corrosion was found. On any GD from a salt state, inspect the arms before buying.
Related build entries
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 11V-464 (2002-07 Impreza (incl. WRX; STI excluded) and others: front lower control arm corrosion) — NHTSA recalls API (regulatory; read 2026-10-26; full page read)
- Subaru dealer notice WVX-34 (NHTSA recall 11V-464): affected vehicles 2002-2007 Impreza (except STI) — Subaru of America, filed with NHTSA (regulatory; read 2026-10-26; full page read)Dealer notice: affected vehicles 2002-2007 Impreza (except STI).
Summaries are in our own words. Not repair instructions; consult the factory service manual.
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