1983 Subaru GL
Only 5 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 5 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 0 |
| 1981 | 2 |
| 1982 | 2 |
| 1983 | 5 |
| 1984 | 4 |
| 1985 | 7 |
| 1986 | 14 |
| 1987 | 17 |
| 1988 | 17 |
| 1989 | 9 |
| 1993 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 5 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 5 total reports mentions: suspension.
Show complaint excerpts
THE REAR INNER ARM ASSEMBLY FAILED ON BOTH SIDES CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL .
NHTSA ODI report, 19951017
1 of 5 total reports mentions: structure.
1 of 5 total reports mentions: seat belts.
1 of 5 total reports mentions: seat belts.
INJURYShow complaint excerpts
FRONT SEAT BELT EX TENDERS HAVE A GAP WHERE CHILDREN CAN PUT THERE FINGERS IN AND GET CUT WHEN SEAT BELT RETURNS TO ITS REST POSITION
NHTSA ODI report, 19980323
1 of 5 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
ENGINE FIRE, CAUSING DEATH.
NHTSA ODI report, 19980323
SAFETY TIMELINE
TRAILING ARM CORROSION
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
CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 45-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F350-S1, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 1993-1997 FORD PROBE,1993-2001 MAZDA 626 AND MX-6, AND 1983-1994 LOYAL, 3-DOOR COU
Remedy: SPX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND PROVIDE A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN SEPTEMBER 27, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MR. CHRIS GREESON AT 704-869-3733 OR CONTACT THE WIX INFORMATION HOTLINE AT 800-949-6
Campaign 05E065000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1983 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).
- Test/inspect for seat belts issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 90V086000 (suspension) has been completed.
- Verify recall 05E065000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1983 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 1983 Subaru GL?
The most-reported component is suspension:rear, accounting for 20% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1983 Subaru GL have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.