WRX Re-calibration ABS recall

replace my ABS ECU with a new unit that may offer a better braking "feel" in certain situations but give "no perceptible difference in overall stopping distance."

Here is a NASIOC thread you may find helpful-

It's up to you whether to have this done. If you're not experiencing the problem in question there may be no benefit. Also note that if you have replaced any brake components with aftermarket (pads, rotors etc.) the dealers may decline to perform this work.

to replace my ABS ECU with a new unit that may offer a better braking "feel" in certain situations but give "no perceptible difference in overall stopping distance."

Would be interesting to know if this addresses the problem that some (all?) MY02 Impreza's have, of the ABS coming in rather too early in certain conditions. Mine has that problem, much lower threshold of ABS operation than other cars I've driven. I've got used to it, so no great problem, but wouldn't mind having it fixed.

I guess the main point of interest for you would be, are you perfectly happy with your existing braking setup? If so, might not be worth bothering about. If you have the early ABS operation, or indeed any other flaw, this change might help. (Subaru might well not be too explicit about their reasons for the change, due to possible liabilities...)

Larry Van Wormer

I had it done last week on my 2002 WRX. And then I tested it over some railroad tracks where the bumps and wood strips had before given me that lack of breaking sensation, and it seems much better. MUCH better.

Do it - it's free and should only take 20-30 minutes - unless your dealer forgets that your car is in the shop for 2+ hours and then takes another hour or so to do the job.

Any word on whether or not this applies to 5MT RS's? I hate the ABS. It's downright scary when you are braking over potholes.

One no-brainer reason to have it done - if you are involved in an accident where the change in the ECU may have made a difference, you've got no leg to stand on. SOA will be able to say the retrofit was offered, but you refused.