This bulletin applies to 2017-2020 Subaru Impreza, 2018-2020 Crosstrek and 2019-2020 Forester vehicles. A design change has been made to the rear frame section weld nuts and the mounting bolts used to secure the rear stabilizer bar brackets.
The mounting bolts and the weld nuts incorporated into the rear frame sections have been revised to enhance torque retention. In addition, a new torque sequence procedure has been developed. Replacement of the bolts and/or brackets is not necessary as the original bolts are reusable. Always use the bolts intended for use with the original factory installation, as they are not interchangeable.
When using the original style flange bolts, the torque specification is unchanged at 25.8 ft-lb, but proper torque sequence must be followed. Never re-use the new style flange bolts, as they are one-time use only. Torque spec remains at 25.8 ft-lb, but the proper torque sequence must be followed.
The new flange bolts are not compatible with the weld nuts used in the original frames. Using the new-style flange bolts on the original frames will damage the weld nuts.
The original flange bolts are reusable. The new flange bolts have a special lubricant applied to the threads and are one-time use only.
