I was advised by a mechanic on 4/20/15 that the rear cradle is very rusty, enough that I should avoid carrying heavy loads. I just noticed on this website that there was a recall in 2003 for inadequate rustproofing of that part; however, we never received notice of a recall. Can this be repaired or replaced now? there was no incident associated with this problem.

- Ann Arbor, MI, USA

The rear sub-frame is rotted and about to break. While driving the sub-frame is shifting causing loud banging. When starting, stopping and driving the loud banging is heard from the shifting of the rotted sub-frame.

- Altoona, PA, USA

There was a burned rubber smell and noise coming from the left rear wheel area of the car. The suspension subframe snapped and caused the left rear tire to be shaved from contact with the wheel well. We were told by our mechanic that we had no recourse on this recall and he offered us $500 for the vehicle stating that we could not get it fixed by Subaru. We also called Subaru and they said that there was no recall for our VIN #. we are checking to make sure this is true or not.

- West Harwich, MA, USA

After looking at some of the complaints about the sub frame recall.my mechanic looked at the sub frame on a lift and explained that it was rusted thru and unfixable.if this car was properly undercoated under the recall it would not be in this condition.I called Subaru and they said the work was done on the car per the recall.it is funny how there is no other rust than in the spot where the work was supposed to be done.I paid $4200 for this car and want my money back Subaru should be held accountable for unsatisfactory repairs.if this breaks it could cause serious injury to my self and others.then the car is junk.

- Feeding Hills, MA, USA

I was driving along, around 50 mph. I hit a bump in the road, and there was a loud bang. The vehicle jerked and swerved, as it was snowing... I almost lost control. The rear sub-frame was rusted out and had broken, allowing the rear differential to break free and smash up into the fuel tank and cause severe jerking. I had done a little reading, Subaru had a recall on this vehicle for inferior metal on the rear sub-frame. This vehicle was in for the recall in 2003. Where they deemed it not bad enough to replace the sub-frame, but clean it and spray it with anti corrosion substance. As it now stands, the car is not drivable, and the recall fix was clearly not a proper solution. I called Subaru, and they told me that since it had been in for a recall in 2003, there was nothing more on there end that they would do. I am a long time Subaru fan, and I really just would like them to honor their mistake, and fix the vehicle properly. Or purchase it back from me, and I will gladly purchase another Subaru. I have photos of the sub-frame where it has clearly rusted and broke free. It is very clear that the metal is inferior, considering everything else on the underside of the vehicle is in functional and serviceable condition. Thanks you.

- Wellfleet, MA, USA

The contact owns a 2000 Subaru Outback. The vehicle was included in the recall under NHTSA campaign id number: 03V153000 (suspension:rear) and was repaired. After the repair, the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for unrelated issues when the mechanic advised the contact that the rear subframe assembly was completely corroded. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing or repairs. The approximate failure mileage was 117,000.

- Sidney, ME, USA

Consumer received a recall letter July of 2002. Dealer claimed could not do repairs because parts weren't available. Kelly Subaru, 3122 w. Tennessee St., tallahassee fl., 32304 850-575-6166.

- Mcdonough, GA, USA