Subaru TSB 12-140-12 for Rear Deck Popping

[switchlanez]

Originally Posted by Lateapex

I would just like to add that my BRZ has developed this problem and it is a Feb. 2013 build.

So much for their 2012 production line fix...

Yeah, my buddy also has a 2/13 build FR-S with similar popping. I took off my rear deck and ordered that Castle lube to DIY this (managed to spray lube in the crevices without bending/hammering the panels). It didn't eliminate the sound. Also found a black electronic box to the right of the third brake light fixture. Gently pressing that reproduces a similar sound, even with the deck cover installed on top of it. My buddy's 2/13 FR-S made the same sound when I pressed his deck cover.

The plastic black box is bolted down via a flimsy mount. Flimsy meaning I could easily snap the box from its mount if I yank on it. The mount is bolted down and when I press down on that hex bolt head, I hear a creak. I've come to accept it as normal and it doesn't bother me anymore lol.

Seems like that TSB was made just to make it look as if Subaru did something about it. BS

[Fish Eagle]

My car's a Jan 13 build and I also had the problem about 3 months ago. Sprayed lube (tool-in-a-can) liberally, and was disappointed because there was no immediate improvement. However, a few days later, the sound disappeared, and I've never heard it since. I guess that I didn't quite hit the right spot, and a bit of riding spread the lube to where it was needed.

[andrew20195]

Originally Posted by l0aded

Necro. So is it necessary to use the screwdriver to pry open the spot before spraying lubricant or can I just spray lubricant everywhere?

Usually these types of body creaks occur because there are minor defects between the panels due to welding splatter or overspray from the painting process. If you don't separate the panels, the lubricant won't be able to get where it needs to be. Also, often separating the panels is what fixes the noise, lubricant is simply for extra insurance.

[MsMoniKat]

Great info on this thread - I think we'll try to give this a shot to fix it, or hope for the best, ourselves. I am not sure production date, but got mine 4/13 and the popping started to get obnoxious not soon after I got the fuel pump issue fixed and that took the dealer 1.5 days to do as they needed to verify and hmmmhaaaa about it, so don't feel like going through another "I got this Subaru TSB Fix, but my FR-S is doing the same thing, can you fix this same problem" and they are like wuuuuutttttt and keep my car for 1.5 days to "make sure". -_- NOPE - so thanks for all the info and "fingers crossed". If not then I'll plead my case to my husband that this girl NEEDS the O+ audio system ASAP =D hmmm maybe I shouldn't fix this popping >:3