These leaks led to plenty of premature engine failure from overheating or insufficient lubrication. Subaru's response was not only unsatisfying for owners, but the public relations doublespeak from Subaru made some of them wonder if they were being pranked. The document in question — Subaru of America's 'owner notification letter titled Service Program WWP-99, — went out to 376,000 owners of late '90s and early 2000s Subarus with 2.5-liter engines in 2004. The notice instructed affected owners to visit a Subaru dealer for a free dose of Genuine Subaru Cooling System Conditioner to prevent what the automaker called a "possible small external coolant leak" at the head gaskets due to "normal expansion and contraction of [the] engine." Subaru's choice the words "small," "possible," and "normal" was dismissive of owners' concerns and the solution seemed like a bit of legal self-protection. From there, the internet did what it does and turned Subaru's corporate spin into a long running joke.