The 1986 Subaru GL has 2 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 14 complaints with NHTSA, including 1 crash, 1 fire.
The most-reported problem area is Suspension (5 reports).
2Recalls
14Owner complaints
1Crashes reported
n/aNHTSA safety rating
Is the repair still open on your GL?
1986 Subaru GL recalls
Most common 1986 Subaru GL problems
Problem areas named in the 14 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Suspension | 5 |
| Seat Belts | 3 |
| Structure | 3 |
| Engine And Engine Cooling | 2 |
| Seats | 1 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 1 |
| Wheels | 1 |
| Tires | 1 |
What owners report
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH, A SOUND OF RUST RIPPING WAS HEARD, RESULTING IN A SLIGHT LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL. UPON INSPECTION OF THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT NOTED THAT THE REAR SUBFRAME HAD CRACKED ON BOTH SIDES OF THE VEHICLE. THE REAR WHEELS WERE ALSO BOWED IN AT THE TOP, CAUSING THEM TO TOUCH THE SPRINGS, RENDERING THE VEHICLE UNDRIVEABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN IN FOR SERVICE.
DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH DEFECTIVE CONTROL ARM FELL OFF, CAUSING THE RIGHT AND LEFT REAR WHEEL TO COME OFF WITHOUT WARNING. *AK
LEFT FRONT TIRE BROKE OFF, CAUSING DAMAGE TO UNDERCARRIAGE. (OHIO STATE POLICE REPORT)
THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AND THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. *AK
HEAD GASKETS LEAK, CAUSING ENGINE TO OVERHEAT. *SD
1986 Subaru GL questions
Does the 1986 Subaru GL have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls for the 1986 Subaru GL: Suspension:Rear; Suspension:Rear. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 1986 Subaru GL?
Based on 14 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Suspension (5), Seat Belts (3), Structure (3).
How do I check if a recall on my 1986 Subaru GL has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.