MYRModel Year Report

1981 Subaru GL

○ Not enough data
1981 Subaru GL
RENDERED 2026-08-02T11:52:28.159Z

Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.

How is this computed?

COMPLAINTS PER YEAR

Complaints per year, Subaru GL Bar chart of distinct NHTSA complaints filed per model year, 1981 highlighted. 1980: 0 complaints 1980 1981: 2 complaints 1981 1982: 2 complaints 1982 1983: 5 complaints 1984: 4 complaints 1984 1985: 7 complaints 1986: 14 complaints 1986 1987: 17 complaints 1988: 17 complaints 1988 1989: 9 complaints 1993: 1 complaints 1993
1981: 2 complaints
View as data table
YearComplaints
19800
19812
19822
19835
19844
19857
198614
198717
198817
19899
19931

KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS

Only 2 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.

SUSPENSION

1 of 2 total reports mentions: suspension.

Show complaint excerpts

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

NHTSA ODI report, 19970827

STRUCTURE

1 of 2 total reports mentions: structure.

Show complaint excerpts

HATCHBACK HYDRAULIC STRUTS FAILED.

NHTSA ODI report, 19961029

SAFETY TIMELINE

I 19900312 — PE (closed 19900514)

TRAILING ARM CORROSION

R 19901005 — suspension

CONTINUOUS EXPOSURE TO ROAD SALT COULD CAUSE CORROSION OF REAR SUSPENSION COMPONENTS, ESPECIALLY THE INNER ARMS.

Remedy: RUST PROOF OR REPLACE REAR SUSPENSION, AS NECESSARY.

Campaign 90V086000 — check if this car was fixed

BUY-SMART CHECKLIST

1981 Subaru GL — pre-purchase inspection

  • Test/inspect for suspension issues (1 reports on file for this year).
  • Test/inspect for structure issues (1 reports on file for this year).
  • Verify recall 90V086000 (suspension) has been completed.
Inspected by ______________ Date ______________

FAQ

Is the 1981 Subaru GL reliable?

There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.

What are the most common problems with the 1981 Subaru GL?

The most-reported component is suspension:rear, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 1981 Subaru GL have?

1 recall on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.