1987 Subaru GL
Only 17 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 17 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 17 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 17 total reports mention: equipment.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
WHILE CHANGING TIRE, SUDDENLY THE JACK STAND COLLAPSED, DUE TO BROKEN WELD IN BASE OF STAND. TT
NHTSA ODI report, 19950227
2 of 17 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE STALLED OUT, THE CONSUMER PARKED THE VEHICLE, WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IT COUGHT FIRE, ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19960312
2 of 17 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
1 of 17 total reports mentions: wheels.
1 of 17 total reports mentions: tires.
Show complaint excerpts
WHILE DRIVING REAR DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE SEPARATED FROM THE VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING. *AK THE FELT REAR WHEEL FELL OFF/REAR SUSPENSION TORSION BAR SPLIT. *SC
NHTSA ODI report, 20040128
SAFETY TIMELINE
ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES
THE COMPOSITION OF CERTAIN NON-GENUINE REPLACEMENT PREHEAT TUBES CAN CAUSE COMBUSTION.
Remedy: INSTALL A MODIFIED DESIGN PREHEAT TUBE.
Campaign 89V103000 — check if this car was fixed
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.
Campaign 92V001000 — 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
1987 Subaru GL — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for equipment issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 89V103000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
- Verify recall 92V001000 (suspension) has been completed.
- Verify recall 05E065000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1987 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 1987 Subaru GL?
The most-reported component is equipment:mechanical:accessory scissor/screw/bottle jack/lift, accounting for 12% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1987 Subaru GL have?
3 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.