This winter we smell a very bad gas oder inside the car.
In cold weather, below approx 35f, fuel valves shrink, as confirmed via conversation with [xxx] team subaru service manager [xxx] on a january 2, 2017 phone call. as reported to subaru, condition causes the following: 1. when parked, normally in garage: gas fumes will fill the space, permeate house to a point they overwhelm the inhabitant of nearest bedroom. 2. when idling at startup: car cabin fills with fumes to an intoxicating level. normal remedy to open windows. 3. driving: if outside temperature is warm enough, fuel valves may return to a normal size and halt the flow of fumes. normally takes at least 40 minutes of operation to achieve this. normal remedy to drive with windows open. the situation occurs regardless of fan operation. attempts to remedy have included tightening clamps on fuel lines on own and via a mechanic. there is an existing recall on this model, wwo-98, which seems related to the issue at hand. subaru has declined to include new vin beyond original in this notice. the issue first presented in december 2014, repeated during cold spells each winter since. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6). *tr
Sudden deceleration. occurred at complete standstill, 25mph and 65mph, speed appears not to be a factor. check engine light comes on and cruise control quits and cruise light blinks and engine defaults to 1500rpm, all happens simultaneously, ergo no warning. complete loss of gas pedal control. intermittent problem. can happen a few times a day or nothing for a week. tends to happen more from a cold engine start and within 3 miles of thee start. very dangerous if on freeway, especially in fast lane and pulling out onto street, etc. *tr