The Subaru GL spans 1981–1989 with 19 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 3.5/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 1987, 1988, 1986 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1981, 1982, 1983. It delivers up to 25 mpg combined and NHTSA-rated safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Subaru GL is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1981 to 1989 across multiple generations.
How to read a Subaru GL VIN — every digit explained
Every Subaru GL carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Subaru and the country it was built in (real Subaru codes below).
- VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this GL.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
- JapanJF1 · JF2 · JF3 · JF4
- USA4S3 · 4S4
Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your GL, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Subaru GL have?
The Subaru GL has 19 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–1989. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
1989 Subaru GL recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. 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 coupe, hatchback, sedan, wagon, brat, dl, gl, gl-10, rx, xt, and xt6 passenger vehicles with efi or turbo engines. These filters are packaged as wix, napa, and carquest brand fuel filters. Certain spx filtran fuel filters with a 90-degree angle inlet tube, model 800f300-s2, sold as replacement filters for 19983-1994 subaru vehicles with efi or turbo engines. These filters are packaged as wix, napa, and carquest brand fuel filters. Fuel may leak from the filter due to non-conforming brazing welds where the inlet tube is connected to the filter can.
Risk. In the presence of an ignition source, a vehicle fire can occur.
Fix. 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 800-949-6698.
1988 Subaru GL recalls 3
Seat Belts
What's wrong. Omission of information specified by fmvss 210 from owner manual.
Risk. Fails to meet requirements of fmvss 210 regarding childrestraint systems.
Fix. Adhesive backed inserts will be furnished with the correct information.
Seat Belts:front:buckle Assembly
What's wrong. The front safety belt buckle release buttons can break. These red plastic release buttons are marked "press." if a button breaks, pieces can fall into the buckle assembly causing the buckle to operate improperly.
Risk. The safety belts would not provide adequate protection to an occupant in a vehicle crash.
Fix. Owners should promptly check the condition and operation of both front safety belt buckles and carefully inspect the red release button for any breaks or cracks. They should ensure that both buckles are operating properly by inserting each latch plate into its buckle, tugging on the belt to make sure the latch is securely locked, and then pressing the release button. The latch plate should pop out of the buckle when the button is pressed. If either release button shows a sign of breaking or cracking or if either buckle fails to operate properly, owners should promptly contact their authorized dealer to schedule an appointment to have the buckle replaced or repaired, free of charge. The manufacturer is developing a remedy designed to prevent failure of the buttons that are not currently broken.
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. 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 coupe, hatchback, sedan, wagon, brat, dl, gl, gl-10, rx, xt, and xt6 passenger vehicles with efi or turbo engines. These filters are packaged as wix, napa, and carquest brand fuel filters. Certain spx filtran fuel filters with a 90-degree angle inlet tube, model 800f300-s2, sold as replacement filters for 19983-1994 subaru vehicles with efi or turbo engines. These filters are packaged as wix, napa, and carquest brand fuel filters. Fuel may leak from the filter due to non-conforming brazing welds where the inlet tube is connected to the filter can.
Risk. In the presence of an ignition source, a vehicle fire can occur.
Fix. 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 800-949-6698.
1987 Subaru GL recalls 3
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. The composition of certain non-genuine replacement preheat tubes can cause combustion.
Risk. This could result in an engine compartment fire.
Fix. Install a modified design preheat tube.
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. The inner arms of the rear suspension are subject to corrosion in areas where road salt is used heavily in winter.
Risk. Operation and control of the vehicle can be adverselyaffected by corrosion of the inner control arms.
Fix. Rustproof or replace the inner control arms as necessary.
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. 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 coupe, hatchback, sedan, wagon, brat, dl, gl, gl-10, rx, xt, and xt6 passenger vehicles with efi or turbo engines. These filters are packaged as wix, napa, and carquest brand fuel filters. Certain spx filtran fuel filters with a 90-degree angle inlet tube, model 800f300-s2, sold as replacement filters for 19983-1994 subaru vehicles with efi or turbo engines. These filters are packaged as wix, napa, and carquest brand fuel filters. Fuel may leak from the filter due to non-conforming brazing welds where the inlet tube is connected to the filter can.
Risk. In the presence of an ignition source, a vehicle fire can occur.
Fix. 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 800-949-6698.
1986 Subaru GL recalls 3
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. The inner arms of the rear suspension are subject to corrosion in areas where road salt is used heavily in winter.
Risk. Operation and control of the vehicle can be adverselyaffected by corrosion of the inner control arms.
Fix. Rustproof or replace the inner control arms as necessary.
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. Continuous exposure to road salt could cause corrosion of rear suspension components, especially the inner arms.
Risk. The corrosion could affect the operation and control of the vehicle.
Fix. Rust proof or replace rear suspension, as necessary.
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. 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 coupe, hatchback, sedan, wagon, brat, dl, gl, gl-10, rx, xt, and xt6 passenger vehicles with efi or turbo engines. These filters are packaged as wix, napa, and carquest brand fuel filters. Certain spx filtran fuel filters with a 90-degree angle inlet tube, model 800f300-s2, sold as replacement filters for 19983-1994 subaru vehicles with efi or turbo engines. These filters are packaged as wix, napa, and carquest brand fuel filters. Fuel may leak from the filter due to non-conforming brazing welds where the inlet tube is connected to the filter can.
Risk. In the presence of an ignition source, a vehicle fire can occur.
Fix. 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 800-949-6698.
1985 Subaru GL recalls 3
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. The inner arms of the rear suspension are subject to corrosion in areas where road salt is used heavily in winter.
Risk. Operation and control of the vehicle can be adverselyaffected by corrosion of the inner control arms.
Fix. Rustproof or replace the inner control arms as necessary.
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. Continuous exposure to road salt could cause corrosion of rear suspension components, especially the inner arms.
Risk. The corrosion could affect the operation and control of the vehicle.
Fix. Rust proof or replace rear suspension, as necessary.
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. 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 coupe, hatchback, sedan, wagon, brat, dl, gl, gl-10, rx, xt, and xt6 passenger vehicles with efi or turbo engines. These filters are packaged as wix, napa, and carquest brand fuel filters. Certain spx filtran fuel filters with a 90-degree angle inlet tube, model 800f300-s2, sold as replacement filters for 19983-1994 subaru vehicles with efi or turbo engines. These filters are packaged as wix, napa, and carquest brand fuel filters. Fuel may leak from the filter due to non-conforming brazing welds where the inlet tube is connected to the filter can.
Risk. In the presence of an ignition source, a vehicle fire can occur.
Fix. 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 800-949-6698.
1984 Subaru GL recalls 2
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. Continuous exposure to road salt could cause corrosion of rear suspension components, especially the inner arms.
Risk. The corrosion could affect the operation and control of the vehicle.
Fix. Rust proof or replace rear suspension, as necessary.
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. 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 coupe, hatchback, sedan, wagon, brat, dl, gl, gl-10, rx, xt, and xt6 passenger vehicles with efi or turbo engines. These filters are packaged as wix, napa, and carquest brand fuel filters. Certain spx filtran fuel filters with a 90-degree angle inlet tube, model 800f300-s2, sold as replacement filters for 19983-1994 subaru vehicles with efi or turbo engines. These filters are packaged as wix, napa, and carquest brand fuel filters. Fuel may leak from the filter due to non-conforming brazing welds where the inlet tube is connected to the filter can.
Risk. In the presence of an ignition source, a vehicle fire can occur.
Fix. 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 800-949-6698.
1983 Subaru GL recalls 2
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. Continuous exposure to road salt could cause corrosion of rear suspension components, especially the inner arms.
Risk. The corrosion could affect the operation and control of the vehicle.
Fix. Rust proof or replace rear suspension, as necessary.
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. 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 coupe, hatchback, sedan, wagon, brat, dl, gl, gl-10, rx, xt, and xt6 passenger vehicles with efi or turbo engines. These filters are packaged as wix, napa, and carquest brand fuel filters. Certain spx filtran fuel filters with a 90-degree angle inlet tube, model 800f300-s2, sold as replacement filters for 19983-1994 subaru vehicles with efi or turbo engines. These filters are packaged as wix, napa, and carquest brand fuel filters. Fuel may leak from the filter due to non-conforming brazing welds where the inlet tube is connected to the filter can.
Risk. In the presence of an ignition source, a vehicle fire can occur.
Fix. 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 800-949-6698.
1982 Subaru GL recalls 1
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. Continuous exposure to road salt could cause corrosion of rear suspension components, especially the inner arms.
Risk. The corrosion could affect the operation and control of the vehicle.
Fix. Rust proof or replace rear suspension, as necessary.
1981 Subaru GL recalls 1
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. Continuous exposure to road salt could cause corrosion of rear suspension components, especially the inner arms.
Risk. The corrosion could affect the operation and control of the vehicle.
Fix. Rust proof or replace rear suspension, as necessary.
Best and worst years for the Subaru GL
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 9 tracked years, the worst years are 1987, 1988, 1986 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1981, 1982, 1983.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 GL | Suspension | Best | |
| 1982 GL | Power Train | Best | |
| 1983 GL | Seat Belts | Best | |
| 1984 GL | Electrical System | Average | |
| 1985 GL | Suspension | Average | |
| 1986 GL | Suspension | Avoid | |
| 1987 GL | Engine And Engine Cooling | Avoid | |
| 1988 GL | Seat Belts | Avoid | |
| 1989 GL | Seat Belts | Average |
What are the most common Subaru GL problems?
The most-reported Subaru GL problems are Seats (1 reports), Tires (2 reports) and Wheels (3 reports) — out of 92 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Seat Belts 28 Read
Seat belt failed to hold driver in position during vehicle rollover, contributing to injury.
Driving vehicle at speed of 30mph impact 9:00 position, drivers side lap/shoulder belt will not retract causing injuries. Tt
Front seat belt ex tenders have a gap where children can put there fingers in and get cut when seat belt returns to its rest position
Driver seatbelt buckle locked up in latch position, after an accident seatbelt had to be cut off. Tt
Front lap/shoulder belt will not retract on passenger and driver side. Tt *jb
The front passenger side seat belt buckle when latched the buckle came loose . Tt
Front passenger automatic seatbelts inoperative, belts stuck on track and won't move up or down. Tt
Ask for ext 597. Front and rear passenger seat belt engages and releases intermittently. Tt
Driver seat belt is inoperative and the passenger side latches sometimes. Tt
Seat belt failed to stop or lock during rollover, resulting in injuries.
Engine And Engine Cooling 18 Read
While driving the vehicle stalled out, the consumer parked the vehicle, while the vehicle was parked it cought fire, engine compartment fire. *ak
The vehicle was in motion and the vehicle caught fire in the engine compartment. *ak
Engine fire, causing death.
This air suspension system has failed after being repaired twice. The turbo -charger unit also has failed after being repaired twice. *ak
Timing belts break about every 40000 miles.
Upon accelerating, a rotton egg smelloccurs followed by a burning belt smell. *ak
Drive belts replaced. *sd
Oil pan replaced due to oil leak. *sd
Camshaft belt replaced due to oil leak. *sd
Water pump pipe replaced. *sd
Suspension 15 Read
This air suspension system has failed after being repaired twice. The turbo -charger unit also has failed after being repaired twice. *ak
Struts failed due to being worn out.
Torsion bar split.
The rear single axle is rusting out same recall for the 1987 # 92v001000 . *ak *slc
Driving at approximately 30 mph defective control arm fell off, causing the right and left rear wheel to come off without warning. *ak
Front frame rail is corroded, has two holes in it. Tt consumer found this failure when having front end of vehicle aligned, the company refused to perform an alignment because the failure prevented them from putting vehicle on a lift, vehicle was involved with recalls 90v086 and 92v001 and feels the same thing that happened in the recalls has happened with the frame rail. While driving, the bolt that holds the control arm broke. While driving, the right rear wheel broke. *slc
Rear inner arms corroded, involved in initial recall for corroded inner arms. Tt
Right/rear trailing arm cracked after recall repairs, causing tire to lean inward. *aw
Rust hole on inner control arm next to wheel bearing/shock spring mount. *skd
While driving at 25mph or more vehicle would pull to the right. Also, cv boots have been replaced twice dealer still can't find a solution. *ak
Power Train 7 Read
The automatic transmission linkage lock out failed. (that is the component that prevents shifting from nuetral to reverse faild and the car went into reverse from nuetral.
Front axles failed due to wear.
Constant velocity boot replaced due to noise. *sd
Torque converter replaced due to leak. *sd
While driving at 25mph or more vehicle would pull to the right. Also, cv boots have been replaced twice dealer still can't find a solution. *ak
I bought a rebuilt cv joint in oregon back in '97 with a lifetime warranty. I believe i replaced it twice . . . Under warranty. It is quite a job to replace the axle with the cv and doj to the front . . .dangerous too.*ak
Replaced cv joints on both the front left/right driveline. *ak
Structure 7 Read
Frame rotted to the extent that jack would not support car at indicated point or floor. *ak
Dt*: the contact stated while driving 5 mph, a sound of rust ripping was heard, resulting in a slight loss of vehicle control. Upon inspection of the vehicle, the contact noted that the rear subframe had cracked on both sides of the vehicle. The rear wheels were also bowed in at the top, causing them to touch the springs, rendering the vehicle undriveable. The vehicle was not taken in for service.
Front frame rail is corroded, has two holes in it. Tt consumer found this failure when having front end of vehicle aligned, the company refused to perform an alignment because the failure prevented them from putting vehicle on a lift, vehicle was involved with recalls 90v086 and 92v001 and feels the same thing that happened in the recalls has happened with the frame rail. While driving, the bolt that holds the control arm broke. While driving, the right rear wheel broke. *slc
Corrosion through out the frame. Tt
Body of vehicle is corroding.
Sunvisor continuously comes down without assistance, causing driver to hit visor when getting in vehicle. (0ther vehicle on 486858) *skd
Hatchback hydraulic struts failed.
Vehicle Speed Control 5 Read
Failure on the transmission when the vehicle was put in reverse the vehicle suddenly accelearated causing the consumer to have an accident. *ak
Stopped at stop sign all of a sudden car just accelerated,caused accident. Tt
Sudden acceleration, causing loss of control/one accident. *skd
Put vehicle in drive, it accelerated and crashed. Tt
W/manual transmission, vehicle experiences unwanted acceleration. Please describe details. Tt
Service Brakes 4 Read
Brakes were replaced at ~100,000 miles. Both front rotors and pads as well as rear drums and shoes. All done by subaru dealer in sping of 98. As of spring of 01 and less than 12,000 miles later the brakes have self destructed do to rust. Never have we had this problem with this car before. Only since recent year subaru brake assemblies have been installed. Subaru is not standing behind this. Will have this job done at an independent shop that will stand behind their brakes.*ak
Upon pressing the pedal beeping noise occurs due to powder build up on braking system. *ak
Front brake rotors failed, causing vehicle to grind/squeak upon braking. *ak
Driving on freeway at 65 mph, vehicle stopped suddenly in the fast lane, timing belt broke. *ak also front pads and rotors were replaced.*jb
Hydraulic 4 Read
Brakes were replaced at ~100,000 miles. Both front rotors and pads as well as rear drums and shoes. All done by subaru dealer in sping of 98. As of spring of 01 and less than 12,000 miles later the brakes have self destructed do to rust. Never have we had this problem with this car before. Only since recent year subaru brake assemblies have been installed. Subaru is not standing behind this. Will have this job done at an independent shop that will stand behind their brakes.*ak
Upon pressing the pedal beeping noise occurs due to powder build up on braking system. *ak
Front brake rotors failed, causing vehicle to grind/squeak upon braking. *ak
Driving on freeway at 65 mph, vehicle stopped suddenly in the fast lane, timing belt broke. *ak also front pads and rotors were replaced.*jb
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Subaru GL specifications & dimensions
The 1989 Subaru GL measures 175″ long on a 97″ wheelbase, with a curb weight near 2,339 lb. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Subaru GL window sticker.
| Wheelbase | 97″ (247 cm) |
| Rear track | 56″ |
| Body / trim | 4wd Gl/4wd Rx Turbo Coupe/fwdgl |
| Curb weight | 2,339 lb (1061 kg) |
| Front track | 57″ |
| Overall width | 65″ (166 cm) |
| Overall height | 54″ (136 cm) |
| Overall length | 175″ (444 cm) |
How the GL's size changed by generation:
| Years | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Curb weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1989 | 175″ | 65″ | 54″ | 97″ | 2,339 lb |
| 1986 | 174″ | 65″ | 53″ | 97″ | 2,330 lb |
| 1983 | 158″ | 64″ | 54″ | 94″ | 2,116 lb |
| 1981 | 157″ | 63″ | 54″ | 94″ | 2,101 lb |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Subaru GL cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the GL holds — passengers and cargo. EPA measures its interior at 83 cu ft of passenger volume and 19 cu ft of cargo. Seating capacity and legroom vary by trim.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Subaru GL tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Subaru GL get?
The Subaru GL returns up to 25 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $2,500/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:
The 1989 Subaru GL (1.8L 4-cyl) gets 25 mpg combined and costs about $2,500/yr to fuel.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1989 GL | 23 | 29 | $2,500 | — | — | 1.8L 4-cyl | |
| 1988 GL | 23 | 29 | $2,500 | — | — | 1.8L 4-cyl | |
| 1987 GL | 21 | 26 | $2,700 | — | — | 1.8L 4-cyl | |
| 1986 GL | 21 | 27 | $2,700 | — | — | 1.8L 4-cyl | |
| 1985 GL | 23 | 28 | $2,500 | — | — | 1.8L 4-cyl | |
| 1984 GL | 22 | 27 | $2,600 | — | — | 1.8L 4-cyl |
Source: EPA fuel-economy database (ForCar-hosted, 1986–2027) — best combined rating per engine & year, with EPA annual fuel cost and tailpipe CO₂. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.
See how the GL stacks up against the most fuel-efficient cars, or calculate this GL's real yearly fuel cost.
What engines does the Subaru GL have? Power & range
The Subaru GL is offered with 1 powertrain — 1.8L 4-cyl. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.
| Engine | Displacement | Transmission | Drive | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4-cyl | 1.8L · 4-cyl | Manual 5-spd | FWD | Regular |
Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.
Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
How much does a Subaru GL cost to own?
A Subaru GL holds its value well. A typical example keeps roughly 56% of its value after five years — losing about 44% to depreciation. Check what a used GL is worth today or browse current used-market prices before you buy or sell. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 84% | $25,200 | −$4,800 |
| Year 2 | 76% | $22,800 | −$7,200 |
| Year 3 | 68% | $20,400 | −$9,600 |
| Year 4 | 61% | $18,300 | −$11,700 |
| Year 5 | 56% | $16,800 | −$13,200 |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this GL loses about 44% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — ≈ $12,500 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the GL ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
Is the Subaru GL safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the GL yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
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How many miles does a Subaru GL last?
A well-maintained Subaru GL typically lasts 200,000–250,000 miles. With regular oil, transmission and timing service, most examples comfortably pass the 200,000-mile mark. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 3.5/5.
Check your Subaru GL’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this GL’s VIN free →All Subaru GL model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Subaru GL — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1989 GL | 1 recall | — | |
| 1988 GL | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1987 GL | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1986 GL | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1985 GL | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1984 GL | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1983 GL | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1982 GL | 1 recall | — | |
| 1981 GL | 1 recall | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the GL?
By owner-complaint volume, 1987, 1988, 1986 drew the most reports. 1981, 1982, 1983 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the GL have?
19 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–1989. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
What MPG does the GL get?
Up to 25 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.
How many miles does a GL last?
A well-maintained GL typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the GL reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the GL is 3.5/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Subaru GL warranty?
New Subaru models carry a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Subaru dealer.
Where is the Subaru GL made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your GL's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Subaru may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much does a GL weigh?
The GL's curb weight is around 2,339 lb. Its GVWR — the maximum loaded weight — decodes from the VIN.
How much ground clearance does the GL have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.