1981 Subaru Gl recalls & complaints
Source: NHTSA, updated daily. Last checked 2026-10-20. Recalls apply to specific VINs — run your VIN to confirm.
1 safety recall, most serious first
1. Suspension
What's wrong, in plain English: Parts can break and cause loss of control. CONTINUOUS EXPOSURE TO ROAD SALT COULD CAUSE CORROSION OF REAR SUSPENSION COMPONENTS, ESPECIALLY THE INNER ARMS.
What could happen: THE CORROSION COULD AFFECT THE OPERATION AND CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE.
The fix: RUST PROOF OR REPLACE REAR SUSPENSION, AS NECESSARY.
What to do
- Check whether your car is affected: enter your 17-digit VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. A recall covers specific VINs, not every 1981 GL.
- Book a repair at any authorized Subaru dealer. Quote NHTSA campaign 90V086000.
- The repair is free. By US law, safety recall repairs cost the owner nothing, no matter the car's age or mileage.
- Buying this car used? Ask the seller for proof the recall was completed, or run the VIN yourself before paying.
Official wording from NHTSA
Component: SUSPENSION:REAR
Summary: CONTINUOUS EXPOSURE TO ROAD SALT COULD CAUSE CORROSION OF REAR SUSPENSION COMPONENTS, ESPECIALLY THE INNER ARMS.
Consequence: THE CORROSION COULD AFFECT THE OPERATION AND CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE.
Remedy: RUST PROOF OR REPLACE REAR SUSPENSION, AS NECESSARY.
Notes: SYSTEM: REAR SUSPENSION. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: FRONT WHEEL DRIVE PASSENGER CARS.
Useful for owners
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA
Most complained-about parts: Suspension (1), Body / structure (1).
Complaints are unverified reports from owners. A pattern (many complaints about the same part) matters more than any single one.
Read recent complaints (2)
08/27/1997 · Suspension
THE LEFT REAR CONTROL ARM HAS BROKEN AWAY FROM THE MOUNTING, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO REAR END/TO PULL FROM SIDE TO SIDE. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. *AK
07/26/1996 · Body / structure
HATCHBACK HYDRAULIC STRUTS FAILED.