NHTSA ID Number: 10237285
Manufacturer Communication Number: 12-248-23
Summary
This Bulletin announces the repair procedure developed to address rattle-type sounds heard from the left and/or right B-Pillar area.
NUMBER: 12-248-23
DATE: 05/16/23
| APPLICABILITY: | 2020MY Legacy & Outback 2019MY Forester |
| SUBJECT: | Rattle-Type Sound From B-Pillar Area |
INTRODUCTION:
This Service Information Bulletin announces the repair procedure developed to address rattle-type sounds heard from the left and/or right B-Pillar area. If this sound is duplicated, please perform the repair procedure outlined below to the affected side(s).
SERVICE PROCEDURE / INFORMATION:
REMINDER: Customer satisfaction and retention starts with performing quality repairs.
STEP 1: Confirm the rattle can be duplicated by performing a road test and/or tapping the B-Pillar area with your hand.
STEP 2: Refer to the applicable Service Manual and review: General Description > Repair Contents > Action required before & after Battery Disconnect. Additionally, record any stored seat position(s) before proceeding. Relearn any seat position memory after work is complete. If the power rear gate (PRG) height has been customized, that position must also be noted and relearned. CAREFULLY disconnect the ground terminal from the battery sensor.
STEP 3: Remove the rear assist grip handle.
STEP 4: Detach the weatherstrip and CAREFULLY pull down the headliner to gain access to the curtain air bag inflator.
STEP 5: Inspect the affected air bag curtain bolts for looseness and the mounting bracket for any signs of play. If looseness is found proceed to STEP 7. If no looseness is found, remove the affected curtain air bag inflator bolts then proceed to STEP 6.
NOTE: Muting the noise by pressing the bracketing with you finger can be useful when confirming the rattle-type sound source.
STEP 6: Clean the mounting brackets with a soft cloth and inspect the brackets for any burrs or rough spots. If found, even out with a light grit sandpaper or emery cloth (100-210 grit for deburring and 400-600 grit for finishing) and then clean the brackets.
STEP 7: Reinstall the curtain air bag mounting bolts and torque to 7.5Nm (5.5ft.-lbs. or 66inch-lbs.).
NOTE: Depending on the type of torque wrench being used a torque adapter may be required. If a torque adapter is used, the calculation formula supplied below MUST be applied.
EXAMPLE: Snap-on® FRDHM10 Torque Adapter
Calculation Formula: T = L / (100 mm (3.94) + L) X 7.5Nm (5.5ft.-lbs. or 66inch-lbs.).
STEP 8: Reinstall all removed parts in the reverse order of disassembly.
STEP 9: Reconnect the ground cable terminal to the battery sensor, torque to 7.5Nm (5.5ft.-lbs. or 66inch-lbs.) while supporting the sensor with the other hand as outlined in the applicable Service Manual under: STARTING/CHARGING SYSTSEMS > Battery Sensor.
STEP 10: Perform a road test and/or tapping the B-Pillar area with your hand to confirm a successful repair.
NOTE: Muting the noise by pressing the bracketing with you finger can be useful when confirming the rattle-type sound source.
3 Affected Products
Vehicles
1 Associated Document
Manufacturer Communications
NUMBER: 12-248-23
DATE: 05/16/23
MC-10237285-0001.pdf 602.041KB
- PRECISE & HIGH QUALITY - Manufactured in Taiwan, our torque wrench is engineered for superior precision. It ships pre-calibrated to +/- 4% accuracy, ensuring dependable results every time. Includes a calibration certificate with a trackable serial number for your assurance.
- DURABLE - Built to last, featuring a reinforced ratchet gear head made from hardened, heat-treated Chrome Vanadium alloy steel for maximum strength and durability.
- LONGEVITY - Protect your investment with our proprietary Electro-Black finish, providing advanced rust and corrosion resistance for extended tool life.
- PERFORMANCE - Easily read and set torque levels with our patent-pending dual-range scale. The high-contrast, yellow-on-black markings are designed for easy visibility, even in low-light conditions.
- OMFORT - Equipped with a reversible ratchet head that drives in both directions and measures torque in a clockwise direction. The ergonomic, knurled handle ensures a non-slip, comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue.
- Durable Ratchet Head: Made from Hardened treated Chrome Vanadium steel alloy (Cr-V) Corrosion-Retardant: Satin Finish. Made in Taiwan
- Easy Storage: A sturdy plastic storage case is included. Non-Slip Grip: Knurled handle
- Easy to Read: High Contrast & Dual Range Scale. Accurate: Pre-Calibrated to ± 4%
- Accessories included: 1/2" Drive 5" long Extension Bar
- Simple and Reliable: “Click” sound tells the preset torque value is reached. Stop applying force when you hear and feel it.
- 【9-in-1 Torque Solution】Complete set includes 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2" drive click torque wrenches plus 6 essential adapters (extension bars, universal joint, drive adapters) securely stored in a sturdy portable case.
- 【High Precision & Dual Scales】Factory-calibrated to ±3% accuracy with included certificate; features dual-range scales (1/4": 10-220 in.lb, 3/8": 5-45 ft.lb, 1/2": 10-170 ft.lb) for versatile application coverage.
- 【Clear & Safe Audible Click】Upgraded loud "Click" sound provides a distinct, reliable signal (strong over 5 N.m, subtle under) when preset torque is reached, preventing overtightening and ensuring safety.
- 【Smooth 72-Tooth Ratchet & Quick Release】Reversible 72-tooth ratchet head offers a low 5° arc swing for use in tight spaces and smooth operation in both directions. Quick-release button ensures secure socket changes.
- 【Durable Construction & Wide Use】Hardened Cr-V steel ratchet heads and phosphated adapters resist wear; aerospace aluminum handles ensure lightweight strength and corrosion resistance. Ideal for precise torque on bikes, motorcycles, cars, trucks, wheels, and industrial applications. Backed by 24-month support.
- PRECISION - Ships pre-calibrated to +/- 4% accuracy and ready to use. Include calibration certificate with traceable serial number.
- DURABLE - Reinforced ratchet gear head constructed from hardened, heat treated Chrome Vanadium alloy steel.
- LONG-LASTING - Rust & corrosion protection with our unique and newly invented Electro-Black finish treatment.
- PERFORMANCE - Features an easy-to-read, highlighted yellow print dual-range scale. Identify the markings even in low-light conditions.
- COMFORTABLE - Comes with a reversible ratchet head that drives in both directions and measure torque in a clockwise direction.
- 3/8 inch drive torque wrench with 15-80 ft.-lb./20.4-108.5 Nm range; reminder: to prevent the ratchet from breaking, please do not overload the torque wrench
- Durable ratchet head made from hardened treated Chrome Vanadium steel alloy (Cr-V); bright, full polish chrome finish wipes easily clean and resists rust and corrosion
- High contrast and dual range scale pre-calibrated to ± 4%; tips: for precise scale adjustment, please use the imperial scale; the conversion formula between imperial scale and metric scale is 1 Nm = 8.86 in-lbs
- Includes sturdy plastic case for storage and portability
- NOTE: unlock before adjusting the torque value, lock after adjusting for stability of working torque; when finished, loosen locking ring and adjust to the lowest value for next use
Last update on 2026-06-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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Bulletin Number: 12-248-23; Date: 05/16/23 Page 1 of 4 SERVICE INFORMATION BULLETIN Continued… CAUTION: VEHICLE SERVICING PERFORMED BY UNTRAINED PERSONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY TO THOSE PERSONS OR TO OTHERS. Subaru
Service Bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians ONLY. They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur in some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper servicing of the vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do the job correctly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that this Service Bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. Subaru of America, Inc. is ISO 14001 Compliant ISO 14001 is the international standard for excellence in Environmental Management Systems. Please recycle or dispose of automotive products in a manner that is friendly to our environment and in accordance with all local, state and federal laws and regulations. NUMBER: 12-248-23 DATE: 05/16/23 APPLICABILITY: 2020MY Legacy & Outback 2019MY Forester SUBJECT: Rattle-Type Sound From B-Pillar Area INTRODUCTION: This Service Information Bulletin announces the repair procedure developed to address rattle-type sounds heard from the left and/or right B-Pillar area. If this sound is duplicated, please perform the repair procedure outlined below to the affected side(s). SERVICE PROCEDURE / INFORMATION: REMINDER: Customer satisfaction and retention starts with performing quality repairs. STEP 1: Confirm the rattle can be duplicated by performing a road test and/or tapping the B-Pillar area with your hand. STEP 2: Refer to the applicable Service Manual and review: General Description > Repair Contents > Action required before & after Battery Disconnect. Additionally, record any stored seat position(s) before proceeding. Relearn any seat position memory after work is complete. If the power rear gate (PRG) height has been customized, that position must also be noted and relearned. CAREFULLY disconnect the ground terminal from the battery sensor. STEP 3: Remove the rear assist grip handle. ATTENTION: GENERAL MANAGER q PARTS MANAGER q CLAIMS PERSONNEL q SERVICE MANAGER q IMPORTANT – All Service Personnel Should Read and Initial in the boxes provided, right. ©2023 Subaru of America, Inc. All rights reserved. Bulletin Number: 12-248-23; Date: 05/16/23 Page 2 of 4 Continued… STEP 4: Detach the weatherstrip and CAREFULLY pull down the headliner to gain access to the curtain air bag inflator. STEP 5: Inspect the affected air bag curtain bolts for looseness and the mounting bracket for any signs of play. If looseness is found proceed to STEP 7. If no looseness is found, remove the affected curtain air bag inflator bolts then proceed to STEP 6. NOTE: Muting the noise by pressing the bracketing with you finger can be useful when confirming the rattle-type sound source. STEP 6: Clean the mounting brackets with a soft cloth and inspect the brackets for any burrs or rough spots. If found, even out with a light grit sandpaper or emery cloth (100-210 grit for deburring and 400-600 grit for finishing) and then clean the brackets. Bulletin Number: 12-248-23; Date: 05/16/23 Page 3 of 4 Continued… STEP 7: Reinstall the curtain air bag mounting bolts and torque to 7.5Nm (5.5ft.-lbs. or 66inch-lbs.). NOTE: Depending on the type of torque wrench being used a torque adapter may be required. If a torque adapter is used, the calculation formula supplied below MUST be applied. EXAMPLE: Snap-on® FRDHM10 Torque Adapter Calculation Formula: T = L / (100 mm (3.94) + L) X 7.5Nm (5.5ft.-lbs. or 66inch-lbs.). STEP 8: Reinstall all removed parts in the reverse order of disassembly. STEP 9: Reconnect the ground cable terminal to the battery sensor, torque to 7.5Nm (5.5ft.-lbs. or 66inch-lbs.) while supporting the sensor with the other hand as outlined in the applicable Service Manual under: STARTING/CHARGING SYSTSEMS > Battery Sensor. STEP 10: Perform a road test and/or tapping the B-Pillar area with your hand to confirm a successful repair. NOTE: Muting the noise by pressing the bracketing with you finger can be useful when confirming the rattle-type sound source. Bulletin Number: 12-248-23; Date: 05/16/23 Page 4 of 4 WARRANTY / CLAIM INFORMATION: For vehicles within the Basic New Car Limited Warranty period or covered by an active Subaru Added Security Gold plan, this repair may be submitted using the following claim information: Labor Description Labor Operation # Labor Time Fail Code CURTAIN AIRBAG RATTLE – CHECK & TORQUE, ONE SIDE A820-471 0.4H URA-23 CURTAIN AIRBAG RATTLE – CHECK & TORQUE, BOTH SIDES A820-472 0.6H IMPORTANT REMINDERS: • SOA strongly discourages the printing and/or local storage of service information as previously released information and electronic publications may be updated at any time. • Always check for any open recalls or campaigns anytime a vehicle is in for servicing. • Always refer to STIS for the latest service information before performing any repairs.
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