1986 Subaru GL
Only 14 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 14 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 14
- Recalls
- 3
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 1986
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1986: 14 complaints
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 14 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Suspension
5 of 14 total reports mention: suspension, most commonly citing control arm and rear.
Structure
3 of 14 total reports mention: structure, most commonly citing frame and members and body.
Show complaint excerpts
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.
NHTSA ODI report, 2006-08-29
Seat belts
3 of 14 total reports mention: seat belts, most commonly citing retractor and buckle assembly.
Show complaint excerpts
The two window rear seat belt retractor will not let the belt come out. Tt
NHTSA ODI report, 1995-03-14
Engine and engine cooling
2 of 14 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing gasoline and engine.
Show complaint excerpts
The vehicle was in motion and the vehicle caught fire in the engine compartment.
NHTSA ODI report, 1996-06-25
Wheels
1 of 14 total reports mentions: wheels.
Safety timeline
3 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
1990-10-05Suspension90V086000 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.
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R
1992-03-10Suspension92V001000 The inner arms of the rear suspension are subject to corrosion in areas where road salt is used heavily in winter.
Remedy: Rustproof or replace the inner control arms as necessary.
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R
2005-09-27Fuel system, gasoline05E065000 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…
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…
Buy-smart checklist
1986 Subaru GL — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Suspension: 5 reports on file for this year.
- Structure: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Seat belts: 3 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 90V086000 · Suspension
- Recall 92V001000 · Suspension
- Recall 05E065000 · Fuel system, gasoline
FAQ
- Is the 1986 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 1986 Subaru GL?
- The most-reported component is suspension, accounting for 36% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1986 Subaru GL have?
- 3 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.