Creaking Sound from Right Rear Seat Cushion Area – 2015-2017 Subaru WRX STI

NHTSA ID Number: 10187312

Manufacturer Communication Number: 12-222-17R

Summary

This bulletin announces availability of a redesigned stay (reinforcement) to address isolated customer concerns of a creaking-type sound from the r/rear seat cushion / backrest hinge area.

 


NUMBER: 12-222-17R
DATE: 07/28/17
REVISED: 0731/17

INTRODUCTION:

This bulletin announces availability of a redesigned stay (reinforcement) to address isolated customer concerns of a creaking-type sound from the r/rear seat cushion / backrest hinge area. The sound  occurs when the stay contacts the backrest hinge assembly and can be heard when going over bumps and / or making a left turn when body twist is induced.  The new part has extra clearance added to eliminate the contact.

 

PRODUCTION CHANGE INFORMATION:

The new stay was incorporated into production starting with VIN H*821880.

 

PART INFORMATION:

The new stay part number is 52168VA0019P.  The illustrations and photo show the stay’s location in the right rear floor section under the rear seat, fastener placement and the change to the new part.

 

This fastener is just behind the trim panel but still accessible.

 

SERVICE PROCEDURE / INFORMATION:

  • Remove the rear seat cushion following the procedure in the applicable Service Manual.
  • Using a trim clip tool, CAREFULLY remove the 4 retaining clips securing the backrest cover material then remove the trunk floor cover (3 clips) ahead of the spare tire well.

 

  • CAREFULLY disengage the rear wheel speed sensor harness connector clip from the stay.

 

  • Loosen the 5 fasteners then remove and discard the original r/rear stay.
  • After the stay is removed, closely inspect the backrest hinge for any burrs as shown in the photo. If any are found, they must be removed with a file.  Clean and dry any bare metal spots created with a mild solvent on a clean shop cloth.  Always treat any exposed bare metal spots created with a generic touch-up paint or self-etching primer to prevent rust.

 

  • Install the new stay and torque all 5 fasteners to 21.5-22 Nm (16 ft. lbs.).
  • Reassemble in reverse order of removal.
  • Road test to confirm the repair.

 


3 Affected Products

Vehicle

MAKEMODELYEAR
SUBARUeBay logoWRXeBay logo STIeBay logo2015-2017

 


1 Associated Document

Manufacturer Communications

NUMBER: 12-222-17R
DATE: 07/28/17
REVISED: 07/31/17

MC-10187312-0001.pdf 446.421KB

 


 

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