2014 SUBARU Outback Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
VIN Decoder
207
Complaints Reported
Complaints by Component
AIR BAGS
28 complaints
Air bag Passenger light on and blinking .
Jan 06, 2023
The ODS in our 2014 Subaru Outback has failed, and there is a constant beeping indicating that the air bag system is not functioning properly. This was definitely an issue the last two winters, too, but with covid quarantine and illness, we were not able to address it then. The airbag warning lights and sounds persist whether the seat is unoccupied or occupied by a child (14 or 16) or adult. The dealer has diagnosed that the passenger seatbelt switch is also not working properly. Their recommended remedy is replacing the entire seat base (~$1,300). This vehicle also had a recall of the passenger side airbag inflator, which was replaced in May 2019 when our mileage was 88,000. The issue started when weather turned cold in the winter of 2019. When it is below about 45 degrees, the beeping starts, and it only ceases when the vehicle is warmed up and the engine is turned off then on again. Our temperatures here in Eastern Washington get up to 115 in summer and down to 10 in winter. We are thinking that this ODS defect may be due to a loosening of the components during the airbag service or the exact same faulty ODS component that was recalled in the Subaru Forrester recall (NHTSA campaign number 19V701). It is important to us to have a functional airbag in case of a crash.
Dec 09, 2021
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITH EXCESSIVE FORCE WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE T-BONED THE FRONT OF ANOTHER VEHICLE THE CONTACT SOUGHT MEDICAL ATTENTION FOR FIRST DEGREE BURNS AND A CUT ON ONE SIDE OF THE FACE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, HIS VEHICLE T-BONED THE FRONT OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. AS A RESULT THE FRONTAL AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITH EXCESSIVE FORCE. THE POLICE DEPARTMENT WAS PRESENT AND A REPORT WAS ISSUED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN IMPOUND LOT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSTIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000.
Mar 02, 2020
OVER THE LAST YEAR, THIS VEHICLE HAS HAD TWO DISTINCT TAKATA AIRBAG RECALLS. I HAVE RECEIVED NOTICES FROM OUR DEALERSHIP AND FROM SUBARU CORPORATE, ATTACHED. I AM LIVING IN BOSNIA AS A US DIPLOMAT. THERE IS NOT A SUBARU DEALERSHIP IN THIS COUNTRY. I ACCOMPLISHED THE LAST RECALL, WITH SIGNIFICANT LOGISTICAL DIFFICULTY, WITH THE HELP OF THE SUBARU DEALERSHIP IN CROATIA. HOWEVER, THERE IS A CURRENT OPEN RECALL FOR THE PASSENGER-SIDE AIRBAG (RECALL ID BTM3-EFX). DESPITE MULTIPLE EMAILS TO THE DEALER (BYER SUBARU IN ALEXANDRIA, VA) WHERE WE PURCHASED THE CAR AND TO MY CONTACTS IN CROATIA, I HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY ASSISTANCE. THE DEALERSHIP IN CROATIA WAS, SUPPOSEDLY, CONTACTING SUBARU ITALIA, BUT TO DATE, I HAVE NOT MADE ANY PROGRESS IN RESOLVING THIS RECALL. I VERY MUCH NEED GUIDANCE AS THIS IS A FAMILY CAR AND, ACCORDING TO THE RECALL NOTICES, THIS IS A SIGNIFICANT SAFETY ISSUE. WHEN I CONTACTED SUBARU CORPORATE IN THE PAST, I WAS ADVISED THAT, BECAUSE THE CAR WAS OVERSEAS, THEY BELIEVED THEY WERE ABSOLVED OF ANY RESPONSIBILITY, A RIDICULOUS CLAIM.
Feb 15, 2020
TURNING AT LOW SPEED, AIRBAG SPONTANEOUSLY DEPLOYED.
Oct 22, 2019
+ 23 more complaints for this component
ENGINE
26 complaints
The car had been recently serviced through the dealer and had 66,000 miles (9 yrs old). It was 6k miles past warranty. While driving, the radiator hose exploded—loud noise, white steam, and all the warning lights came on and the car heated up. I had the car towed and was told that the radiator hose, the radiator and the head gasket had been destroyed and the engine would need to be rebuilt. The car was essentially a total loss given the repair costs. There was no warning at all that anything was wrong with the car prior to the engine blowing. It is my understanding that many years of Subaru Outbacks have required recalls for head gasket problems.
Oct 15, 2023
Suburu Outback had been showing signs of needing more oil between routine changes and frequent top-offs. When took to a Suburu Dealer in September 2021, prior to reaching 100,000 miles, Suburu said it was normal. Now at 118,000 miles as of November 2022, the engine jerks and makes noises. Upon taking to Suburu, short engine block repair was recommended, which would cost over $6,000. The issues of needing repair align with the 2016 extended warranty bulletin put out for other Suburu Outbacks, which goes through 100,000, but we were told that the VIN is outside of the extended bulletin and we are out of warranty. Being told our oil consumption is normal but suddenly experiencing a deterioration in the engine so suddenly is concerning; the jerky engine is not safe for the passengers or others on the road.
Nov 22, 2022
The contact owns a 2014 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving the oil warning light illuminated and he added more oil. The contact stated that the oil level was low. The contact noticed that several times the oil level was low prior to the normal mileage interval to change the oil. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who stated that the oil was low. The failure was not diagnosed or repaired, however, the independent mechanic stated that the failure could be related to a mechanical engine issue. The contact stated that he found a Technical Service Bulletin Number: 02-157-14R; NHTSA ID Number: 10188219 (Power Train, Engine) which he related to the failure. The contact stated that he recently had an oil change at 88,000 and the oil warning light illuminated at 91,217. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 88,000.
Mar 10, 2022
WHEN I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE NEW, I WAS TOLD THAT THE OIL CHANGE NEEDED TO BE COMPLETED EVERY 7,500 MILES. ALMOST IMMEDIATELY, THE LOW ENGINE OIL LIGHT WOULD COME ON SHORT OF 7,500 MILES. SUBARU CHANGED WHEN THE OIL NEEDED TO BE CHANGED FROM 7,500 TO 6,000 MILES DUE TO THE OIL USAGE WITH THE ENGINE IN THIS OUTBACK YEAR. RECENTLY, I CANNOT DRIVE MUCH BEYOND 3,000 MILES WITHOUT THE LOW ENGINE OIL COMING ON AFTER NEW OIL CHANGES BY THE DEALERSHIP!! IT APPEARS AS THE VEHICLE AGES THE ENGINE OIL LIGHT IS COMING ON SOONER AND SOONER!! I CHECKED THE OIL LEVEL AND IT IS LOW WHEN THE LIGHT DOES COME ON. I FEEL SOMETHING IS VERY WRONG AND SUBARU NEEDS TO RECTIFY THE PROBLEM WHICH IS BECOMING VERY SERIOUS. THIS IS MY FIRST SUBARU AND I'VE NOT EXPERIENCED THESE ISSUES WITH ANY OTHER VEHICLE THAT I'VE OWNED FOR THE PAST 30+ YEARS. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME.
Aug 31, 2020
THE CAR ENGINE DIES FOR A FEW SECONDS WHEN YOU MAKE A TURN OR ABOUT TO ENTER A HIGHWAY. THEN IT JUMPS AS IF NOTHING HAPPENED VERY DANGEROUS I AM SCARED TO DEATH. *TR
May 23, 2020
+ 21 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
19 complaints
I am just the mechanic and this is my customer's vehicle, but whilst doing some regular maintenance on the vehicle and also replacing part number 383485200 which Subaru calls "HOLDER, AXLE BRG" due to a crack which ran thru one of the 5 fastener holes. Upon normal cleaning of the threads in the rear differential casting where the "holder, axle brg" is bolted up to the left output shaft side I noticed a massive cavity in the casting which was drilled into and tapped for a bolt. This cavity is so large it presents a huge risk of catastrophic rear differential failure resulting in potential loss of control and increasing the risk of a crash. When I called the dealership to obtain the answers to the questions I know my customer is going to ask me, they shrugged it off as no big deal and couldn't even get me a price on a new rear diff housing or complete assembly. Using my brake rotor thickness calipers I was able to measure what I believe is the closest part of the cavity to the hole where the "holder, axle brg" is fastened in place. This "holder, axle brg" is the output shaft seal housing, plus, the outer race for the differential carrier is pressed into this component. Making it quite a critical component of the delicate innerworkings of a differential. Just a few ten-thousandths out of tolerance and the ring and pinion gears will destroy one another, the cavity in the casting right in a bolt hole creates potential for the differential carrier to not receive the proper bearing preload greatly reducing the life of the bearings, and in the worst case, the cavity could cause the rear differential to crack under heavy load which could cause a catastrophic failure, locking up the rear differential causing the vehicle to skid uncontrollably.
Mar 04, 2024
Valve body transmission module failed at 118k with no prior warning There are some subaru bulletins that say up 120k. Dealership i bought it from told me 100k. I was never notified this issue was a recall. It could have potentially caused an accident if the transmission failed on the highway.
Jun 23, 2023
The contact owns a 2014 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while the key was in the ignition with the transmission in park(P) with the brake pedal depressed, the vehicle moved inadvertently. The failure occurred while the vehicle was on an incline. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer who was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 630,000.
Aug 18, 2022
The center differential or Viscous Coupling locks up after any extended highway driving. The car lurches when turning sharply. This is a 6-speed manual transmission. This started at around 70,000 miles and is getting progressively worse now at 80,000 miles. The tires have always been all the same, inflated according to spec. New tires at about 72,000 miles. From online research, the Viscous Coupling on Subarus fails very frequently. This is a defective design resulting in a safety hazard, and requires expensive replacement.
Jun 06, 2021
CAR MAKES EXCESSIVELY LOUD ROARING, WHINING NOISE IN ACCELERATION; IT'S RESPONSE IS UNPREDICTABLE. IT DOESN'T SHIFT AND THE DIFFERENTIAL IS THE LIKELY SOURCE OF PROBLEM. CAR HAS BEEN PROPERLY MAINTAINED ALL ALONG.TWO INDEPENDENT MECHANICS REPORTED THE CVT MUST BE REPLACED. SUBARU SERVICE INFORMED ME AFTER 120K MILE SERVICING. IT CAN STALL WITHOUT WARNING ANYWHERE ANYTIME CAUSING ACCIDENT, INJURY ETC. THOUGH I'M TOLD IT'S DANGEROUS TO DRIVE SUBARU IS UNWILLING TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY, EXCEPT PAYING HALF OF THEIR $8000 CHARGE FOR A RE-MANNED CVT...NO RECALL! WHAT'S IT GOING TO TAKE SUBARU? YOUR INTEGRITY IS COMPROMISED; YOUR CLAIM OF QUALITY IS FALSE. YOU WANT OWNERS TO PAY FOR YOUR TECHNOLOGY PROBLEM. THOUGH THE CVT HAS A LONG HISTORY OF FAILURE, SUBARU HASN'T SOLVED THE PROBLEM OR IMPROVED THE TECHNOLOGY. INSTEAD OWNERS PAY $4,000 FOR A NEW, FAULTY CVT AND SUBARU CONTINUES TO AVOID RECALL. BUYERS ARE THE LOSERS.
Jul 07, 2020
+ 14 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
15 complaints
Failure of front subassembly while driving. Car pulled hard to right while driving. Scary and dangerous. Inspection showed severe rust has eaten thru the metal. Car inoperable. Research shows it is a known problem. Recall required immediately, THANK YOU
Feb 09, 2026
Water was coming out of my eyesight camera on the drivers side after a rain
Jun 12, 2024
I WAS ON THE HIGHWAY, AFTER DRIVING A LITTLE MORE THAN TWO HOURS. THE DASH BOARD LIT UP WITH MANY OF THE "TROUBLE LIGHTS". THE BRAKE LIGHT BEGAN FLASHING, EYE SIGHT WAS LIT, MEANING THAT IT WAS NO LONGER ENGAGED. AT OIL TEMP. CHECK ENGINE TRANSMISSION. ALL OF THE ABOVE. I AM LOOKING AT A PICTURE THAT I TOOK SHOWING THE MILEAGE AND THE WARNING LIGHTS. THE CAR CONTINUED TO OPERATE, WITHOUT ANY HESITATION AND I FELT THAT IT MUST "JUST BE AN ELECTRONIC ISSUE". IT HAPPENED TO ME ONCE BEFORE, ABOUT TWO YEARS AGO. I TOOK IT TO AN AUTO PARTS STORE FOR A QUICK DIAGNOSTIC AND THE GUY SAID IT WAS FINE TO DRIVE UNTIL I COULD GET BACK HOME TO THE DEALERSHIP. TWO DAYS LATER, THE WARNING LIGHTS DISAPPEARED! I UNDERSTAND NOW FROM VARIOUS THREADS ON THE INTERNET, THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE SUBARU'S CVT. IT IS SAD BECAUSE THEY APPARENTLY HAVE BEEN INFORMED OF THIS ISSUE AND THEIR ONLY RESPONSE IS A REPAIR TO THE CVT ($1500-2000) OR A NEW TRANSMISSION ALL TOGETHER ($5- 8K). I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE AS NEW... I HAVE NOT OWNED A SUBARU BEFORE BUT WANTED THE "SECURITY OF A RELIABLE CAR". I DID PURCHASE THE EXTENDED WARRANTY, BUT THIS HAPPENED AFTER THE 100K MILES SO I HAVE NO RECOURSE. PLEASE HELP ALL OF THE SUBARU OWNERS OUT THERE!! IT'S NOT JUST THE OUTBACK MODEL, BUT SEVERAL OF THEIR VEHICLES AND IT SEEMS THAT IT IS SOMETHING THAT HAS BEEN HAPPENING OVER THE YEARS BUT THEY HAVE NOT BEEN MADE TO ADDRESS THIS DESIGN FLAW. SAFETY WISE-- I DON'T KNOW IF THE VEHICLE WILL JUST QUIT IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC, OR WHAT. WE TRIED THE "GENERAL FIXES" .... UNPLUG THE BATTERY FOR A FEW HOURS; WE PURCHASED A NEW GAS CAP SEAL; BUT NEITHER OF THOSE DID THE TRICK. I WANTED TO SEND MY CASE TO YOU BUT, ALSO, THIS COMING WEEK, I WILL BE DROPPING IT OFF AT THE DEALERSHIP TO SEE WHAT THEY HAVE TO SAY.
Sep 10, 2020
MY CAR IS USING WAY TOO MUCH OIL FOR A 4 YEAR OLD CAR. SOMETHING IS WRONG AND TWO PLACES I'VE GONE HAVE SUGGESTED IT COULD BE SOMETHING WRONG WITH THE PISTOLS IN THE ENGINE. I'VE READ ABOUT OTHER OWNERS OF THIS MODEL EXPERIENCING THE SAME TROUBLE. THIS IS HIGHWAY AND STREET DRIVING.
Nov 11, 2018
BACKUP CAMERA IS NOT WORKING WHEN THE VEHICLE IS PLACED IN REVERSE.
Aug 21, 2018
+ 10 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
14 complaints
My Subaru has some kind of electrical issues I was driving and car stopped would start again I had to towed to Arts repair shop they said was starter put new starter in 400 dollars later says it wasn't starter some kind of electrical and they dont do that electrical service they recommend Carlins automotive geico would not tow again I pd out of pocket they had it 2 days said could not figure it out put electrical meters on find nothing so decided to look at fuses again replaced #13 fuse said it started and thought was fixed (carry 15A fuses with me) Picked up that day drove it stopped and drove got it home next morning taking older client and standed again, im [XXX] I take of seniors that dont have family i see no recalls kept reading said updated 2024 an 2025 electrical issue with engine everyone stumped could this be the recall on it or issue (you look look im not only out of a car clients are left without me no fuses work now. The service center said could be this or that I can't go on guesses Im on limited income when you turn it on it tries to start stops try restart nothing no sound all lights on dash come it but no nothing to try and start subaru never given me no problems at all please help I found the electrical issues on your site INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Jan 11, 2026
For several years, the nav/camera/radio screen goes black. Only turns back on when car is turned off and restarted, then does it again. It is available for inspection upon request. I almost ran into pedestrian at grocery store without backup camera and have had many more incidents like this. Dealership I visited won't look at it unless I pay. Independent Subaru service provider saw this and said to contact you to help with "service campaign" as other clients of his have mentioned same complaint. No warnings/messages prior to failure or patterns for when it happens. Just happens at random times while driving.
Aug 24, 2024
I noticed when driving that my horn had stopped working. I am unsure if this is related to the airbag replacement or some other issue. The concern is that most people do not check their horns for functionality before it is really needed. I was able to get it repaired at a cost of 529.58
Dec 25, 2022
The contact owns a 2014 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while the vehicle was at a standstill when the contact saw unknown warning lights were flickering on and off. The contact parked the vehicle and went inside a store when approximately 10 minutes later the vehicle was on fire. Fire marshals and police extinguished the fire and a report was taken; no one was injured. The vehicle was then towed to an insurance lot where the contact was awaiting a diagnosis. The manufacturer was informed of failure and was awaiting a response. The failure mileage was approximately 64,000.
Oct 06, 2021
THE REAR VIEW CAMERA WAS NOT DESIGNED OR MANUFACTURED PROPERLY AND IT ALLOWS MOISTURE TO GET INTO THE CAMERA ITSELF. AFTER A WHILE THE CAMERA WITH FUZZY PICTURE AND EVENTUALLY YOU CAN NOT VIEW THINGS PROPERLY OR SEE THEM AT ALL. THERE ARE MANY OTHER COMPLAINTS BY OTHERS ON THE INTERNET. THIS MAKES IT UNSAFE TO BACK THE CAR UP IF TRYING TO USE THE CAMERA TO ASSIST IN CLEARING THE PATH ESPECIALLY AT NIGHT.
Mar 18, 2021
+ 9 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES
12 complaints
My 2014 Subaru Outback, with only 42,000 miles on it, is unfortunately among the 3% (per Consumer Reports) with undiagnosable, therefore, unrepairable, brake failure issues. The brake failures began in April 2023 as I pulled out of my driveway in the Tucson Mountains, headed into town. On the downhill, I pressed my brakes to slow down. My foot went to the floor - no brakes. Terror! I pumped the brakes and gradually they came back. Luckily, no one was ahead of me. The brake fluid was down a very slight bit, so I brought it back up. No problem for two weeks, until the exact same thing happened again. Tucson Subaru has an excellent Service Center. I've kept the service on my Subaru up, so I booked in for a regular tuneup, plus advised them of the brake issue. The shop mechanic flushed the brake cylinder along with the usual tuneup: brake pads, etc. There was no problem for about two more weeks when brakes failed again. Took back to Subaru on a Friday. They kept over the weekend, but by Monday afternoon, brakes were still working "fine". They Ubered me to test, but I didn't need to even pull out of parking lot, everything seemed okay. Took my Outback home and all okay until brakes failed again. Took on AAA's and my friends' recommendations to Tucson's Primarily Japanese auto shop. The brakes failed once more in the interim, but worked fine at the shop. The owner thought possible a failing ABS unit. However, both Tucson Subaru/Primarily Japanese were reluctant to try replacing either the brake cylinder or the ABS unit as both are expensive fixes and they were unable to duplicate the failure. In the meantime, I went online and found that other owners of Outbacks across a range of years/mileage had the same problem - and the same results, none of fixes reliably worked. That included flushing/replacing the brake cylinder, the ABS unit, cleaning/replacing brake pads, etcs. Some owners were not as "lucky" as I was. The car is parked.
Oct 30, 2023
Parking break did not disengage. It also blocked the key hole and car could not be moved. I called AAA and they could not even tow it because the gears would not switch from parking to neutral. While manipulating the car, the AAA technician does not know how, but was able to move the key and the gear, and then the car could start. After some online research, there has been recalls for this problem in Australia in Subaru Outbacks of around this year. Since AAA technician did not have to move in the end the car, there is no receipt of this event. It has happened twice by now.
Jan 27, 2022
ORIGINAL FRONT BRAKE PADS HARDLY WARN AFTER 100000 MILES. REAR BRAKE PADS WARE OUT AT ABOUT 30000 MILES. CHECKED TEMPERATURE OF FRONT ROTORS AFTER DRIVING BARELY WARM, REAR BRAKE ROTORS EXTREMELY HOT.
Jan 19, 2021
I HAVE CHANGE MY EMERGENCY BREAKS. HOWEVER.KEEP THE LIGHT ON.IDID TAKE TO SUBARU DEALER AND THEY TOLL ME NOT USES THE EMERGENCY BREAK..SAMETHING IS WRONG..
Jul 08, 2020
EBRAKE COMES ON INTERMITTENTLY WHILE DRIVING IN TOWN.
Oct 03, 2019
+ 7 more complaints for this component
STEERING
11 complaints
CAN BE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND GO TO MAKE A LEFT OR RIGHT HAND TURN AND WILL LOOSE ALL POWER STEERING ABILITY AND THE NEXT TIME THE STEERING WILL WORK FINE. I HAVE ALMOST HAD ACCIDENTS DUE TO THIS BECAUSE YOU NEVER KNOW WHEN IT WILL HAPPEN. THIS ALWAYS HAPPENS IN CITY STREETS OR TURNING OFF HIGHWAY.ALSO HAS HAPPENED WHEN PULLING OUT OF A PARKING STALL. SEEMS TO ALWAYS HAPPEN WHEN AT LOWER SPEEDS. HAVE HAD IT IN THE SHOP FOR REPAIR AND THEY CAN'T SEEM TO FIND THE PROBLEM. I WILL NOT LET MY WIFE DRIVE MY CAR BECAUSE SHE DON'T HAVE THE STRENGTH TO QUICKLY TURN THE WHEEL WHEN YOU DON'T KNOW WHEN IT WILL HAPPEN. ONE MINUTE IT WILL WORK THEN IT WON'T. IT DOES GIVE YOU A WORK OUT WHEN YOU LOOSE STEERING ABILITY FOR A LENGTHY PERIOD BUT YOU ALWAYS HAVE TO PAY ATTENTION WHEN YOU TURN LEFT OR RIGHT BECAUSE YOU NEVER KNOW WHEN YOU WILL LOOSE YOUR POWER STEERING. MY WIFE HAS REFUSED TO DRIVE MY CAR BECAUSE IT HAS HAPPENED TO HER ONCE AND DOESN'T FEEL COMFORTABLE WHICH IS SAD WHEN YOU SPEND THAT MUCH MONEY ON A CAR. WE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE USED AND WITHIN A VERY SHORT PERIOD OF TIME AFTER PURCHASE THIS PROBLEM CAME ABOUT. I JUST HOPE THIS PROBLEM CAN BE RESOLVED.
Feb 08, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 SUBARU OUTBACK. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO EXIT A PARKING SPACE, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER. PRESTIGE SUBARU (LOCATED AT 585 TUNNEL RD, ASHEVILLE, NC 28805, (888) 854-4293) WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ASSOCIATED WITH THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 38,000.
Nov 13, 2018
STARTED CAR NORMALLY, POWER STEERING WAS NOT FUNCTIONING. RESTARTED CAR A FEW TIMES IN HOPES IT WOULD START WORKING AGAIN, IT DID NOT. NO DASH WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED. DROVE HOME WITH MANUAL STEERING ~30 MIN. RESTARTED AGAIN AT HOME, THEN IT WORKED PROPERLY. ONCE CAR SITS FOR A WHILE IT GOES BACK TO NOT WORKING. THIS PATTERN HAS CONTINUED FOR ABOUT A WEEK NOW. NO SQUEALING AND NO FLUID LEAKS. MUST BE ELECTRICAL ISSUE SOMEWHERE. BATTERY IS GOOD, ALTERNATOR IS GOOD. 2014 OUTBACK, 55,000 MILES, 2.5I BASE MODEL, MANUAL TRANSMISSION
Apr 04, 2018
STEERING WHEEL WILL NOT LOCK IN EITHER UP OR DOWN POSITION
Nov 01, 2017
WE PURCHASED A 2014 SUBARU OUTBACK, NOVEMBER 2014. I WANT TO REPORT THAT THE STEERING PULLS TO THE RIGHT. WE HAVE NOT HAD AN ALIGNMENT DONE YET. I'M SEEING OTHER DOCUMENTED COMPLAINTS AND THOUGHT I SHOULD REPORT THIS AS WELL. SOUNDS LIKE HAVING IT ALIGNED WON'T CORRECT THE ISSUE. PLEASE RESPOND IF ANYONE HAS A POSSIBLE SOLUTION.
Nov 03, 2015
+ 6 more complaints for this component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
7 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED INTERMITTENTLY WHEN IT WAS NOT PROMPTED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED BEFORE OR AFTER THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO GANLEY SUBARU OF BEDFORD (123 BROADWAY AVE, BEDFORD, OH) AND DIAGNOSED, BUT THE FAILURE WAS NOT ABLE TO BE DUPLICATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 23,000. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED. *TT
Mar 16, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 SUBARU OUTBACK. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED UNINTENDED ACCELERATION WHEN APPROACHING A RED LIGHT. THE CONTACT'S FOOT WAS NOT DEPRESSING THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AT THE TIME OF THE FAILURE. ALSO, THE RPMS INCREASED TO 3,000. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT HAD TO SHIFT THE VEHICLE INTO NEUTRAL IN ORDER TO REGAIN NORMAL FUNCTIONALITY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED APPROXIMATELY TWELVE TIMES SINCE FEBRUARY OF 2017. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO KINGS SUBARU OF MASON, OHIO TWICE, BUT THEY WERE NOT ABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 22,000. UPDATED 08/15/17*LJ *CN *TR
Jul 12, 2017
I NEED TO PURSUE A CRITICAL PROBLEM THAT THE DEALER IS UNABLE TO RE-CREATE/SOLVE. APPROXIMATELY A DOZEN TIMES(10 BY MY WIFE AND 3 BY ME), WE'VE TURNED LEFT FROM A STOP(TYPICALLY AT A RED-LIGHT) ONLY FOR THE CAR TO STALL FROM 3 TO 6 SECONDS. THE 3 TIMES I WAS DRIVING, MY WIFE AND A GRANDCHILD WERE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE AND NARROWLY MISSED A DIRECT SIDE IMPACT. THE PROBLEM IS INTERMITTENT, WE DON'T DRIVE WITH OUR LEFT FOOT ON THE BRAKE, AND WE ESTIMATE IT TO OCCUR ONCE OUT OF EVERY 60 TO 75 LEFT TURNS AND WHILE I FULLY UNDERSTAND THE DEALER STATING THE PROBLEM CANNOT BE RE-CREATED AND THE COMPUTER ANALYSIS SHOWING NO PROBLEMS THUS MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO SOLVE, WHAT I WILL NOT UNDERSTAND IS WHEN ONE OF MY FAMILY MEMBERS ARE CRITICALLY INJURED BECAUSE "WE CAN'T RECREATE THE PROBLEM". YOU'RE PROMPT ATTENTION ON THIS MATTER WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED AS WE'VE ALREADY TAKEN THE CAR TO THE DEALER FOR THE SAME PROBLEM 3 TIMES(THE CAR IS AT THE DEALER NOW AND AGAIN NO PROBLEM COULD BE FOUND).
Dec 28, 2015
PERIODICALLY THE VEHICLE WILL NOT ACCELERATE FOR 3-5 SECONDS FROM A STANDING STOP WHEN THE GAS PEDAL IS DEPRESSED . THIS IS WELL DOCUMENTED IN SEVERAL SUBARU USER GROUPS ON THE INTERNET. WHEN PULLING INTO BUSY TRAFFIC THIS PROBLEM IS TERRIFYING. THE CAR WILL JUST NOT ACCELERATE. THE CAR WAS RETURNED TO THE DEALER AND, AS EXPECTED, HE COULD FIND NOTHING WRONG. WE TOLD THE DEALER THAT THE PROBLEM MAY ONLY OCCUR ONCE OR TWICE A WEEK, AND THAT HE WOULD NOT EXPERIENCE THE PROBLEM WITH A TEST DRIVE. THE DEALER SAID THAT SUBARU BUILT IN A "SAFETY SYSTEM" THAT MAY CAUSE THIS IF ONE WAS DRIVING WITH TWO FEET. IN OTHER WORDS IF I HAD ONE FOOT ON THE BRAKE, AND ONE ON THE ACCELERATOR THE CAR WOULD "DIE". I TOLD HIM I DON'T DRIVE WITH TWO FEET. HE INSISTED THAT THAT MUST BE THE PROBLEM.
Dec 17, 2015
THREE TIMES ENGINE HAS FAILED TO RESPOND TO ACCELERATOR INPUT. DURATION, 3 TO 15 SECONDS. HAPPENS AT LOW SPEED (<20MPH) JUST AFTER COASTING FOR A FEW SECONDS AND AS ENGINE IS HEATING UP. LAST INCIDENT, 9/27/2015, BACKED OUT OF PARKING SPACE, THEN SHIFTED INTO FORWARD, DID NOT USE ACCELERATOR BECAUSE COLD ENGINE SPEED WAS HIGH ENOUGH TO MAINTAIN 5MPH THROUGH VERY CONGESTED PARKING LOT. 20 SECONDS LATER ATTEMPTED TO ACCELERATE TO 35MPH, ENGINE SPEED NEVER RESPONDED FOR THE NEXT 15 SECONDS, THEN ENGINE STARTED RESPONDING NORMALLY. NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. THESE FAILURES STARTED 4 MONTHS AGO, AND HAPPENS WHEN CVT TRANSMISSION IS IN AUTO OR MANUAL MODE. I CHECKED INTERNET AND FOUND SEVERAL SIMILAR REPORTS. DEALERS AND SUBARU CORP., NO HELP AT ALL. IN CERTAIN DRIVING SITUATIONS, LOSS OF ENGINE CONTROL COULD BE JUST AS DANGEROUS AS LOSS OF BRAKES.
Sep 30, 2015
+ 2 more complaints for this component
STRUCTURE
6 complaints
VEHICLE LEAKS WATER INSIDE ON DRIVER SIDE FLOOR AND PASSENGER FLOOR.
Sep 23, 2020
IN SEPTEMBER 2017, THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR DOOR CHILD SAFETY LOCK ON MY 2014 OUTBACK BECAME STUCK IN THE LOCKED POSITION. THIS MEANS PASSENGERS CANNOT GET OUT UNLESS SOMEONE OPENS THE DOOR FROM THE OUTSIDE. THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY CONCERN. ASKED DEALERSHIP TO FIX IT FOR FREE, BUT THEY WOULD ONLY GIVE ME HALF OFF. THEN TODAY (JULY 10, 2019) I DISCOVERED THAT THE SAME DOOR ON MY 2009 IMPREZA IS HAVING A SIMILAR PROBLEM. THE SWITCH CAN STILL MOVE FROM LOCKED TO FREE, BUT THE DOOR WILL NO LONGER OPEN FROM THE INSIDE. I THINK SUBARU HAS A DEFECTIVE CHILD SAFETY LOCK THAT NEEDS TO BE RECALLED.
Jul 10, 2019
ON TWO OCCASIONS IN THE LAST SIX MONTHS MY HOOD LATCH HAS RELEASED WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT SPEEDS OF 65 TO 70 MPH. THE FIRST OCCASION WAS ON NOVEMBER 14, 2018 AND THE SECOND OCCASION WAS TODAY FRIDAY MARCH 29, 2019. ON BOTH OCCASIONS, THE SAFETY LATCH HELD BUT THE HOOD VIBRATED UP AND DOWN UNTIL I WAS ABLE TO COME TO A COMPLETE STOP AND PUSH DOWN ON THE HOOD TO RE-ENGAGE THE PRIMARY LATCH. ON BOTH OCCASIONS I WAS SURROUNDED BY NUMEROUS VEHICLES GOING THE SAME SPEED. I HAVE SIGNIFICANT CONCERNS THAT THE HOOD MAY OPEN COMPLETELY WHILE I AM DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY CREATING AN ACCIDENT AND OR INJURIES. I HAVE CHECKED THE MECHANISM AND THERE ARE NO OBSTACLES. ADDITIONALLY, THE TIME BETWEEN THE FIRST DISENGAGEMENT AND THE SECOND WAS MORE THAN FOUR MONTHS AND THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN IN FOR ANY SERVICES THAT WOULD REQUIRE THE HOOD BEING OPENED. I HAVE SEEN THAT OTHER SUBARU MODELS HAVE BEEN RECALLED FOR THIS SAME ISSUE AND BELIEVE THIS NEEDS TO BE THOROUGHLY INVESTIGATED. A REVIEW OF THE WEB SHOWS NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS. I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE NEW AND DID NOT HAVE ANY PROBLEMS PRIOR TO THESE TWO OCCASIONS.
Mar 29, 2019
HOOD LATCH IS NOT HOLDING AT SPEEDS ABOVE 45 MPH EFFECTIVE 1/20/2019. OVER THE PAST WEEKS IT IS POPPING UP MORE FREQUENTLY. SO FAR SAFETY LATCH APPEARS TO BE HOLDING BUT DUE TO FREQUENT POP UPS, I HAVE SECURED MY HOOD WITH DUCT TAPE UNTIL I GET TO THE DEALER. IN CROSSING A BRIDGE ON 02/09/19 IN WINDY CONDITIONS, I BECAME VERY CONCERNED THAT THE LIFTING OF THE HOOD WOULD CAUSE A SAFETY ISSUE UNTIL I COULD SECURE IT. I HAVE AN APPT ON FRIDAY, 02/15,2019 BUT THEY INDICATE MY VIN IS NOT PART OF A SAFETY RECALL.
Feb 11, 2019
I WAS IN HEAVY TRAFFIC ON I-17 NORTH OF PHOENIX AZ. ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL (ACC) WAS SET AND I WAS FOLLOWING THE CAR AHEAD AT THE MAXIMUM DISTANCE SET BY ACC. MY FOOT WAS NOT ON THE ACCELERATOR OR THE BRAKE. I SAW THE PRECEDING CAR'S BRAKE LIGHTS COME ON, AND I FELT MY CAR START TO SLOW. THE PRECEDING CAR STOPPED AND IT BECAME APPARENT THAT MY CAR WAS NO LONGER BRAKING, OR IF IT WAS, NOT HARD ENOUGH TO STOP. I APPLIED THE BRAKES BUT IT WAS TOO LATE AND WE HIT THE CAR IN FRONT OF US AT A SPEED GREAT ENOUGH TO DO $7000 OF DAMAGE TO THE FRONT OF MY CAR. CURIOUSLY THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. PASSENGERS IN THE CAR INCLUDED MY WIFE IN THE FRONT SEAT, WHO WAS THROWN INTO THE SEAT/SHOULDER HARNESS HARD ENOUGH TO KNOCK THE WIND OUT OF HER. SHE COMPLAINED OF CHEST PAINS AND WAS TAKEN BY AMBULANCE TO THE HOSPITAL. NO SERIOUS INJURIES WERE FOUND. MY DAUGHTER IN THE BACK SEAT AND I WERE RESTRAINED PROPERLY BY THE SEAT BELT AND SUSTAINED NO INJURIES. I CONTACTED SUBARU AND TOLD THEM ABOUT THE ACCIDENT. THEY RESPONDED BY TELLING ME THAT THEY WERE SENDING TWO ENGINEERS TO INSPECT MY VEHICLE. AFTER A MONTH OR 6 WEEKS THEY RESPONDED THAT THEIR INVESTIGATION WAS COMPLETE. THEY FOUND THAT 5 SECONDS BEFORE THE CRASH I WAS TRAVELING AT 45 MPH. 1.5 SECONDS BEFORE THE CRASH THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED (DISABLING ACC). THEY TOLD ME THAT THE EYESIGHT WAS FUNCTIONING NORMALLY AND WILL NOT STOP ALL CRASHES. SO SORRY. I BELIEVE THERE IS SOMETHING WRONG, EITHER WITH THE DESIGN OR THE FUNCTIONING OF EYESIGHT AND ACC. MY CAR HAD 60,000 MILES ON THE ODOMETER AT THE TIME OF THE CRASH. I HAVE USED ACC HUNDREDS (PERHAPS THOUSANDS) OF TIMES IN HEAVY TRAFFIC. IT HAD ALWAYS PERFORMED AS ADVERTISED, I.E. MAINTAINING A CONSTANT DISTANCE BETWEEN ME AND THE CAR AHEAD. IT SLOWED AS NEEDED, AND CAME TO A STOP WHENEVER TRAFFIC STOPPED. THEN ONE DAY IT DIDN'T
Apr 04, 2018
+ 1 more complaint for this component
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
5 complaints
my air bags didn't deploy when I hit a tree, and the seat belt gave loose. A police report was filed, and the car was evaluated by a collision center. The insurance company has not yet evaluated the vehicle. The air bag indicator light indicated the air bags were in good working order. I slid off the road in snow and hit a tree dead on and my entire front end crumpled, but my air bags didn't deploy and my seat belt was fully extended when I exited the vehicle to get into the ambulance.
Dec 30, 2021
THE SEAT SENSOR FOR THE PASSENGER SIDE IS NOT WORKING IN COLD WEATHER, CAUSING THE AIRBAG TO BE DEACTIVATED. THE SEATBELT INDICATOR SIGNAL BEEPS REGARDLESS OF WHETHER SOMEONE IS SITTING IN THE SEAT WITH THE SEATBELT ON OR NO ONE IS SITTING IN THE SEAT. THIS HAPPENS WHEN THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION AND HAPPENS ANY TIME THE TEMPERATURE IN THE VEHICLE IS BELOW FREEZING.
Nov 26, 2018
AIRBAG ALARM SETOFF AND BLINKING WHETHER SOMEONE OCCUPIES THE PASSENGER SEAT OR NOT. CAN NOT TURN THE ALARM OFF
Dec 20, 2016
I WAS HIT BY A 1979 DODGE PICKUP THAT RAN A RED LIGHT ON 6TH STREET WHILE I WAS DRIVING 30 MPH HEADED NORTH ON JACKSON STREET IN TOPEKA, KANSAS. IT IMPACTED MY SUBARU ON THE PASSENGER SIDE IN THE AREA OF THE FRONT FENDER AND FRONT DOOR. UPON IMPACT, NONE OF MY AIRBAGS DEPLOYED NOR DID MY SEAT BELT RESTRAIN ME. I HIT THE STEERING WHEEL WITH MY CHEST....UPDATED 12/03/15 *BF UPDATED 04/25/18 *JB *TR
Nov 23, 2015
WITH A PASSENGER IN THE FRONT SEAT AND THE SEAT BELT FASTENED, THE SEAT BELT WARNING CHIME AND LIGHT ACTIVATED AND THE PASSENGER AIR BAG WAS DEACTIVATED. IN A LATER INCIDENT, THE PASSENGER MOVED TO THE BACK SEAT AND THE SEAT BELT WARNING CHIME AND LIGHT CONTINUED TO BE ACTIVATED WITH NO ONE IN THE PASSENGER SEAT (BUCKLING OR UNBUCKLING THE SEAT BELT MADE NO DIFFERENCE. *TR
Sep 02, 2014
VISIBILITY/WIPER
5 complaints
WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY WINDSHIELD CRACKED IN AN ARC PATTERN STARTING FROM THE DRIVERS SIDE TO PASSENGER SIDE RESULTING IN A PERFECT SYMMETRICAL PATTERN. IT WAS AROUND 10 DEGREES OUTSIDE AND THE VEHICLES DEFROST AND HEAT WERE ON HIGH. NO OBJECT HIT WINDSHIELD BEFORE CRACK FORMED. VERY LOUD CRACKING NOISE AND SLOW FROM LEFT TO RIGHT FORMATION. I WENT TO THE DEALERSHIP TO HAVE THEM LOOK AT WHAT CAUSED CRACK AND THEY SAID "MUST HAVE BEEN CAUSED BY A ROCK". AT THAT TIME THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE OF A CHIP IN WINDSHIELD, JUST THE CRACK. LATER IN THE YEAR I AGAIN WENT TO THE DEALERSHIP BECAUSE OF THE TECHNICAL BULLETIN ABOUT CRACKS HAPPENING IN THIS LOCATION ON THE WINDSHIELD AND WHILE USING DEFROSTER. THEIR RESPONSE WAS NOT OCCURRING WITH 2014 OUTBACKS. IN JUNE I WENT TO LOU FUSZ DEALERSHIP TO DISCUSS THIS PROBLEM. BY NOW MORE THAN 6 MONTHS SINCE OCCURRENCE, THERE ARE ROCK CHIPS IN WINDSHIELD THEREFORE THEY SAID CAUSED BY ROCK. I FIRMLY BELIEVE THIS HAPPENED DUE TO THE DEFROST MECHANISM LOCATION AND THE INTEGRITY OF THE WINDSHIELD GLASS.
Dec 28, 2019
SPONTANEOUS CRACK IN WINDSHIELD, BEGINNING AT THE BOTTOM CENTER, WHILE CAR WAS PARKED OVERNIGHT.
May 29, 2019
BACKUP CAMERA ALLOWS WATER TO SEEP IN AND FRY THE CAMERA WHICH PRESENTS A SAFETY HAZARD WHEN BACKING UP (SMALL CHILDREN, PETS, ETC YOU COULDN'T SEE OTHERWISE IF DIRECTLY BEHIND -IN THE MOST DANGEROUS PLACE). SUBARU IS AWARE OF THIS DEFECT BUT HAS NOT CORRECTED IT, SO IF YOU HAVE THEM INSTALL A NEW CAMERA FOR APPROXIMATELY $350.00) YOU'RE GETTING ANOTHER LEAKY CAMERA THAT IS DOOMED TO FAIL. THE DEALER SAID REPLACEMENT CAMERA IS THE SAME ONE AS ORIGINAL.
Feb 17, 2019
I BOUGHT OUTBACK FROM DEALER ON 9/26/2018, AND WHEN WEATHER TURNED COOL, WINDSHIELD CRACKED. I HAD SAFELITE/LIBERTY REPLACE ON 10/22/2018, AND DIDN'T DRIVE UNTIL WEDNESDAY, 10/24/2018 WHEN I DROVE ON I81. TRUCK THREW STONE AND I CALLED TO REPAIR, BUT THEY COULDN'T FIX IN AFTERNOON. THURSDAY AT 8 A.M. THE WINDSHIELD WAS ALREADY CRACKED BEYOND REPAIR. HAD TO CALL INSURANCE COMPANY AND REPLACE AGAIN ON 10/25/2018. SEEMS WINDSHIELDS ARE DEFECTIVE ONLY ON HIGHWAY TWICE, CRACKED TWICE! I HAD MY PREVIOUS CAR 17 YEARS AND NEVER CHANGED WINDSHIELD. I HAVE ONLY PUT APPROXIMATELY 500 MILES ON CAR AND HAVE TO CHANGE TWICE. AFRAID TO GO ON HIGHWAY. THANK YOU
Oct 27, 2018
THE WINDSHIELD POPPED AND CRACKED ACROSS THE BOTTOM FROM THE HEAT OF THE DEFROST FUNCTION. *TR
Apr 24, 2014
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
4 complaints
The innermost taillight located on the liftgate melted the taillight housing and burned the socket in which it sits. This could have started a fire putting the safety of those in the vehicle and on the road at risk. The problem has not been inspected by a dealer or any other party. The taillights are available for inspection and the bulbs as well. there was no warning. The problem was noticed because the bulbs burned out and needed replaced. they have been replaced by me with LED bulbs to reduce the risk of fire or more damage. the problem was discovered on 8/23/2023. It is unknown when this problem started.
Aug 23, 2023
LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS KEEP BURNING OUT EVERY FEW MONTHS.
May 18, 2019
REARVIEW CAMERA STOPPED WORKING. IT APPEARS TO BE IN WET CLIMATE, MOISTURE IS PENETRATING THROUGH THE REAR VIEW CAMERA AND CORROSION HAPPENS TO CAMERA WIRING AND STOPS TO DISPLAY THE IMAGE WHILE TAKING REVERSE/BACK. CAMERA DOES NOT DISPLAY ANY IMAGE (BLACK SCREEN) BUT SHOWS ONLY THE COLORED LINES. ITS BEEN NOTICED THAT ITS HAPPENING IN MOST OF THE OUTBACKS, KINDLY VERIFY AND RECOMMEND FOR NECESSARY RECALL NOTICE AS THIS RELATES TO SAFETY FEATURE WHICH COMES AS STANDARD FEATURE.
Jul 26, 2018
REGULAR DRIVING LIGHTS FOR NIGHT TRAVEL ARE TOTALLY INSUFFICIENT AND DO NOT FULLY LIGHT STREET MORE THAN 1- 2 CAR LENGTHS IN FRONT OF CAR. DEALER CHECKED DIRECTION AND POWER OF LIGHTS AND CLAIMS ALL IS NORMAL. WHEN I DRIVE IN A DARK AREA, I FEEL UNSAFE. I CAN;T BELIEVE THIS IS NORMAL BUT DEALER CLAIMS IT IS.
Oct 31, 2017
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
4 complaints
1. REAR LIFTGATE WILL NOT OPEN WHEN USING REMOTE OR SENSOR ON VEHICLE. ONLY WAY TO OPEN IS TO CRAWL FROM INSIDE TO THE BACK, POP A LID AND THEN MANEUVER LATCH RELEASE. NO WAY TO OPEN LIFTGATE FROM OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE. I'M 66 AND DISABLED. 2. EXCESSIVE OIL USE REPORTED BY TECHNICIANS DURING OIL CHANGE.
Feb 16, 2021
SPONTANEOUS ENGINE FIRE WHILE DRIVING - MAR 07,2019 - 2014 SUBARU OUTBACK WITH CURRENT MAINTENANCE AND NO PRIOR HISTORY OF MALFUNCTION. DURING A 2.1 MILE DRIVE ON CITY STREETS ELECTRICAL DISTURBANCES OF THE RADIO/MEDIA CONSOLE WERE NOTED, FOLLOWED SHORTLY THEREAFTER BY BLACK SMOKE FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE CAR WAS IMMEDIATELY PULLED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. UPON EXITING THE CAR, THE SMOKE HAD BECOME WHITE AND FLAMES WERE NOTED UNDER THE CAR. THE FRONT OF THE CAR SOON BECAME ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE ENTIRE FRONT OF THE CAR WAS BURNT/MELTED. NO ONE WAS INJURED.
Mar 11, 2019
ON OR ABOUT NOV 24, 2015, AN IGNITION PROBLEM DEVELOPED. WHEN TURNING THE IGNITION SWITCH THERE WAS NO POWER. WITH EACH TURN, MORE AND MORE POWER TURNED UNTIL IT FINALLY STARTED. ACCORDING TO SHEEHY SUBARU, SPRINGFIELD, VA, THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE AND STATED "I NEEDED TO START THE CAR EVER COUPLE OF DAYS." ABOUT 2 WEEKS LATER, REYNOLDS GMC SUBARU CAME AND PICKED UP THE CAR AND SAID THERE WAS TECHNICAL BULLETIN OUT FOR THIS PROBLEM (I WAS NOT ABLE TO LOCATE) AND THEY HAVE FIXED TWENTY OTHER CARS WITH THIS SAME PROBLEM. THE CAR WAS FINE UNTIL JANUARY 11, 2016, THE CAR STARTED EXHIBITING THE SAME IGNITION ISSUES. I CONTACTED REYNOLDS WHO CONTACTED SUBARU ENGINEERS WHO SAID NOT TO HAVE MY FOOT ON THE GAS PEDAL WHEN I TURN THE IGNITION KEY. THE VEHICLE STARTS WITH A FOOT ON THE GAS PEDAL OR NOT. THEY STATED THE CAR WAS DESIGNED NOT TO START WITH A FOOT ON THE PEDAL. I WAS CALLED BACK AND THEN TOLD THE SUBARU ENGINEERS SAID THE PROBLEM IS INTERMITTENT, SOME VEHICLES HAVE THIS PROBLEM AND OTHERS DON'T. DEAL WITH IT. THE CAR HAS 15K MILES AND IS ALMOST BRAND NEW AND HAS MAJOR ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS. ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 12TH, 2015, DASH INSTRUCTIONS BEGAN FLASHING ON AND OFF. THAT IS NOT NORMAL. PRIOR TO HAVING NITROGEN PUT IN THE TIRES, THE CAR CONSTANTLY PULLED TO THE RIGHT AND LOST AIR PRESSURE WEEKLY. BUT NOW I AM VERY CONCERNED ABOUT THE ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS. SUBARU HAS BEEN NOTIFIED.
Jan 15, 2016
ZERO OIL PRESSURE (RED) INDICATOR LIGHT ILLUMINATED AT SAFE AND PRUDENT OPERATING SPEED. LOW OIL INDICATOR LIGHT (YELLOW) NEVER ILLUMINATED. LIGHT REMAINED ON FOR THREE MILES, ONE AT SPEED 55 MPH TO ZERO AND TWO AT 20 MPH. THEN WENT OUT. INSPECTION OF OIL LEVEL SHOWED LEVEL APPROXIMATELY ONE CENTIMETER ABOVE LOW LEVEL MARKER ON DIPSTICK. ADDITION OF .5 QUART US RAISES LEVEL TO APPROXIMATELY ONE CENTIMETER BELOW FULL LEVEL MARKER ON DIPSTICK. VEHICLE RETURNED TO DEALERSHIP; HAD FULL OIL SERVICE PERFORMED 2,500 MILES AHEAD OF SCHEDULED SERVICE. DEALERSHIP CLAIMS "SENSOR RESISTANCE IS HIGH, WILL R&R." DEALER FAILED TO PROVIDE EMPIRICAL OIL PRESSURE PSI READING DESPITE REQUEST. PART REPLACEMENT YET TO BE DONE. *TR
Jul 16, 2014
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
4 complaints
AT APPROXIMATELY 50K MILES, A YEAR OR SO AGO, THIS CAR DEVELOPED A SERIOUS HESITATION WHEN TAKING OFF FROM A STANDSTILL OR TRYING TO GAIN SPEED FROM ANYWHERE FROM 20 TO 40 MPH. TRIED SEVERAL METHODS TO CORRECT THIS SUGGESTED BY OUR MECHANIC WHICH INCLUDED INJECTOR CLEANER, HIGH OCTANE GAS, MORE CLEANER, BETTER QUALITY GAS AND NOTHING HAS WORKED, WE HAVE READ THAT THERE NUMEROUS CUSTOMERS WITH THIS SAME PROBLEM BUT SUBARU DOES NOTHING. THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL ORE BUY-BACK. WE ARE CONCERNED WE WILL BE IN AN ACCIDENT BECAUSE IT WON'T MANEUVER PROPERLY WHILE IN TRAFFIC. *TR
May 16, 2020
DELAYED GAS PEDAL RESPONSE=HESITATION TO ACCELERATE WHEN GAS PEDAL ENGAGED FROM A STATIONARY STOP. I HAVE EXPERIENCED THIS FAILURE TO ACCELERATE THE VEHICLE FROM A STOPPED POSITION IN EXCESS OF 25 TIMES OVER A MORE THAN 5 YEAR PERIOD. THE SUBARU IS NOT MINE BUT A RELATIVES CAR. IN EARLY FEBRUARY 2019, I WAS STOPPED AT A LIGHT ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A LEFT HAND TURN. TRAFFIC COMING AT ME WAS UP A HILL WITH A GRADE OF 6% OR MORE WHICH LIMITED THE LINE OF SIGHT FOR SOMEONE WANTING TO MAKE A LEFT HAND TURN AT THAT INTERSECTION. AS I STEPPED ON THE GAS TO MAKE THE TURN THERE WAS NO RESPONSE FROM THE CAR. THE CAR COMING UP THE HILL WAS UPON ME. I PUMPED THE GAS SEVERAL TIMES AND LUCKILY WAS ABLE TO MAKE IT THROUGH THE INTERSECTION. MY WIFE AND I WERE INCHES AWAY FROM BEING WACKED BY THE OTHER CAR. THE CAR APPROACHING HAS A SPEED LIMIT OF 45 MPH BUT WAS MOST LIKELY TRAVELING IN EXCESS OF 45 MPH. ONCE THROUGH THE INTERSECTION, WE PULLED TO THE CURB TO GATHER OURSELVES. THAT'S WHEN I SAID ENOUGH IS ENOUGH AND SENT TWO LETTERS TO TOM DOLL OF SUBARU. ONE IN FEBRUARY & APRIL 2019. HE OF COURSE PASS IT ON TO CSERVICE. THE INDIVIDUAL WROTE BACK SAYING NOTHING IS WRONG. I AM A PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER AND HAVE BEEN FOR MANY YEARS. I POINTED OUT ALL ENGINEERS INCLUDING AUTOMOTIVE ENGINEERS MUST ADHERE TO A CODE OF ETHICS & ADHERE TO THE ''HIGHEST STANDARDS OF HONESTY AND INTEGRITY, AND MUST BE DEDICATED TO THE PROTECTION OF THE PUBLIC HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE AND MUST ADHERE TO THE HIGHEST PRINCIPLES OF ETHICAL CONDUCT.'' THAT MEANT NOTHING TO SUBARU. CLEARLY FROM MY EXPERIENCE THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE 2014 SUBARU OUTBACK AND IT'S RANDOM FAILURE TO ACCELERATE DUE TO A DELAYED GAS PEDAL RESPONSE.
Mar 15, 2020
ACCELERATION FROM A STOP OR SLOW SPEED TAKES 5-6 SECONDS FOR A PROPER RESPONSE. TURNING LEFT IS A VERY REAL PROBLEM OR PULLING INTO ON COMING TRAFFIC. I HAVE YET TO HAVE AN ACCIDENT BECAUSE I AM EXTREMELY CAREFUL, BUT HAVE COME FRIGHTINGLY CLOSE A FEW TIMES. CAN THIS PROBLEM BE FIXED? THIS HAPPENS WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STATIONARY, TURNING,BRAKING (SLOWING DOWN AND THEN TRYING TO GO BACK TO NORMAL SPEED. THIS HAPPENS ON INTERSTATES, AROUND TOWN, ETC.
Aug 17, 2017
AT TIMES WHEN YOU PRESS THE ACCELERATOR FROM A STOP IT TAKES 5 OR 6 SECONDS TO RESPOND.I WAS PULLING ON TO THE HIGHWAY TURNING LEFT.THIS COULD BE A VERY DANGEROUS OR EVEN FATAL INCIDENT IF THERE WAS ONCOMING TRAFFIC.READING FROM THE INTRNET I SEE THAT THIS HAS BEEN A PROBLEM AS FAR BACK AS 2013.SOMEONE NEEDS TO FIX THIS PROBLEM BEFORE SOMEONE DIES.
Apr 24, 2017
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
3 complaints
ON 3/22/15 WHILE APPROACHING A STOP SIGN THE ELECTRIC PARKING BRAKE LOCKED ON AT 10 MPH. AFTER PULLING OFF TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND RELEASING AND APPLYING THE PARKING BRAKE SEVERAL TIMES IT FINALLY RELEASED WHILE THE CHECK ENGINE AND FLASHING BRAKE LIGHT REMAINED ON. AFTER SHUTTING THE VEHICLE OFF FOR 10 MINUTES THE SYSTEM RESET TO NORMAL. THE SYSTEM REMAINED NORMAL UNTIL ARRIVING AT A SUBARU DEALER ON 3/24/15 WHEN THE SAME PROBLEM OCCURRED. THE DEALER TOOK CONTROL, IDENTIFIED AND REPLACED A RELAY AND SEVERAL SENSORS. THE CAR PERFORMED NORMAL UNTIL 4/1/15 WHEN THE SAME PROBLEM OCCURRED WHILE TRAVELING 25 MPH. AFTER STOPPING AND RELEASING AND APPLYING THE PARKING BRAKE SEVERAL TIMES THE SYSTEM RESET BUT THE CHECK ENGINE, BRAKE AND CRUISE CONTROL LIGHTS REMAINED STEADY OR FLASHING. AFTER LETTING THE VEHICLE SET FOR A PERIOD OF TIME THE SYSTEM RESET ITSELF. ANOTHER APPOINTMENT HAS BEEN MADE AT THE DEALER FOR 4/6/15. THE CONCERN IS THAT IF THE PARKING BRAKE LOCKS AT HIGH SPEED OR IN HEAVY TRAFFIC IT COULD CAUSE A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. *TR
Apr 04, 2015
THIS IS AN UPDATE: DEALER CALLED US TO HAVE [XXX] DRIVE THE CAR WITH A SERVICE TECHNICIAN PRESENT ( TECH NAMED [XXX]) CAR WAS DRIVEN APROX 5-6 MILES WITHOUT INCIDENT ...SYSTEM DID NOT FAULT. DEALER TOLD US THEY HAVE BEEN ON THE PHONE WITH SUBARU TECH CENTER & COMPLETED ALL THE TEST PROCEDURES BUT HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO DUPLICATE ANY OF THE BRAKE-CHECK/ ENGINE FAULTS EXPERIENCED 3 ON 5/22 OR 1 ON 5/23/2014. [XXX] SERVICE COORDINATOR IS NOT CERTAIN WHAT ELSE CAN BE DONE AT THE DEALERSHIP. WE ASKED IF THE VEHICLE WAS SAFE ONCE THE SYSTEM FAULTED & THE ELECTRONIC STABILIZATION & TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM ARE SHUT DOWN ( AS A RESULT OF THE FAULT). I ASKED THEM NOT TO GUESS WHEN THEY ANSWERED THIS QUESTION. DEALERSHIP HAS DECIDED TO KEEP THE CAR AN ADDITIONAL DAY FOR ADDITIONAL TESTING. THEY ARE TRYING TO GET THE SYSTEM TO FAULT WHILE UNDER TEST PROCEDURE. THE DEALERSHIP APPEARS TO HAVE EXHAUSTED ALL THE STANDARD PROCEDURES TO DETERMINE ROOT CAUSE. IT SEEMS SUBARU FACTORY MUST GET INVOLVED WITH THIS VEHICLE BEYOND THE DEALERSHIP TELEPHONE CALLS. OUR CONCERN IS A VEHICLE WILL BE RETURNED TO US IN AN CONDITION WHICH MAY PROVE TO BE UNSAFE...SINCE THEY HAVE DONE ALL THEY CAN ON THE TELEPHONE. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
May 29, 2014
THIS IS THE SECOND INCIDENT WHERE THE ELECTRIC PARKING BRAKE LIGHT INDICATES THE BRAKE HAS BEEN SET & NOT RELEASED. THE CAR WAS TOWED INTO DEALERSHIP YESTERDAY (5/22/2014) FOR SAME REASON. DEALER STATED THEY SPOKE WITH SUBARU & WERE UNABLE TO FIND ANY REASON FOR THE FAULT. THEY STATED COMPUTER INDICATED THE BRAKES WERE NOT ENGAGED BUT THAT THIS SAME SYSTEM DOES DISABLE THE ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL WHEN THIS FAULT OCCURS. WE ARE VERY CONCERNED THE VEHICLE IS SAFE TO DRIVE DESPITE THE ASSURANCES OF THE SERVICE MANAGER ( [XXX]) THAT THE VEHICLE IS SAFE (NO WORRIES). THE INSTRUMENT LIGHT ON THE PANEL ALSO FLASHES "CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AT THE SAME TIME LIGHT FLASHES INDICATING PARKING BRAKE HAS BEEN SET & NOT RELEASED. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
May 23, 2014
VISIBILITY
2 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 SUBARU OUTBACK. DURING A RAINSTORM, WATER ENTERED THE VEHICLE THROUGH THE SUN ROOF AND DRENCHED THE CABIN. THE FAILURE CAUSED $1,769 WORTH OF DAMAGE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED BECAUSE A DRAIN TUBE ON THE SUN ROOF BECAME CLOGGED AND CAUSED THE WATER TO BACK UP AND ENTER THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO CHATHAM PARKWAY SUBARU (7 PARK OF COMMERCE WAY, SAVANNAH, GA 31405, (888) 430-0231) WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE DRAINS WERE CLOGGED. THE DEALER CLEANED THE DRAINS, REPLACED THE CARPET, AND REPLACED THE AMPLIFIER AT THE CONTACT'S EXPENSE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS MISSED DURING AN EARLIER SERVICE VISIT WITH THE DEALER THAT COULD HAVE PREVENTED THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 89,904.
Aug 21, 2019
2014 SUBARU OUTBACK. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO SUNROOF DRAINS BEING CLOGGED WHICH CAUSED WATER TO LEAK INTO VEHICLE WHEN RAINING. *LD *JS
Apr 19, 2018
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
2 complaints
SUNROOF DRAINS CLOG CAUSING WATER TO LEAK INTO CAR. THIS OCCURS WHEN RAINING OR WASHING CAR. INTERIOR WINDOWS BECOME VERY FOGGY AND OFTEN TIMES IT IS NECESSARY TO WIPE THEM DOWN WITH A CLOTH. DEALER WAS WILLING TO REMOVE STANDING WATER FROM CAR AND SEATS AS A "ONE TIME COURTESY" AND INDICATED THAT THEY WOULD CLEAR DRAINS DURING EACH CAR SERVICE PERFORMED BY THEM. RECENTLY HAD THE DRAINS CLEANED, WE HAVE HAD 4 FLASH FLOOD WARNINGS SINCE THEN AND WATER CONTINUES TO LEAK INTO THE INTERIOR (BOTH WHEN DRIVING OR STATIONARY). THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM TO SUBARU BUT I HAVE YET TO SEE A RECALL. THIS IS CERTAINLY BOTH A SAFETY AND HEALTH ISSUE (VISIBILITY/MOLD/MILDEW). LEAKING HAS OCCURRED DURING THE PAST 3 YEARS, PERHAPS A BIT MORE. WE HAVE A 2006 VOLVO THAT HAS A SUNROOF AND NO LEAKS!
May 30, 2019
THE INTERIOR WINDOWS WILL SUDDENLY GET COVERED WITH FOG. THIS HAS HAPPENED OVER TWENTY FIVE TIMES TO MY CAR. IT DOESN'T MATTER WHAT THE WEATHER, OR OUTSIDE TEMP IS. THIS, CAUSES A SERIOUS PROBLEM TRYING TO SEE OUT OF THE CAR. THE FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED I CALED THE DEALERSHIP. I WAS TOLD TO RUN THE AC. IT CAN HAPPEN EVEN WHEN THE AC , IS ALREADY ON. I'VE HAD IT INTO THE DEALERSHIP FIVE TIMES IN THE 14 MONTHS I'VE HAD THE CAR. THEY CAN'T FIND THE PROBLEM. I'VE TAKEN CLEAR PHOTOGRAPHS 3 TIMES SHOWING CLEAR IMAGES OF HOW BAD THE INTERIOR FOGGING GETS. DEALERSHIP TOLD ME TO CONTACT SUBARU AMERICA ASK FOR RPLACMENT. I HAVE SPOKEN TO THREE PEOPLE AT SUBARU, PROVIDED ALL PHOTOS. THEY REFUSE TO REPLACE. THIS IS GOING TO CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. MUNN 16 2015 IT HAPPENED WHILE I WAS ON INTERSTATE I-205 AND IT MADE SEEING OUT OF THE CAR ALMOST IMPOSSABLE. I HAD TO CAREFULLY PULL OF TO ROAD SIDE WIPE WINDSHIELD AND ALL INTERIOR WINDOWS OFF. I HAVE TO CARRY TOWELS WITH ME AT ALL TIMES. PROBLEM HAPPENS WITHOUT ANY INDACATION, IT'S ABOUT TO HAPPEN. I'M DISABLED VETERAN AND REQUIRE A LOT OF MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS AT THE VA MEDICAL CENTER. I LIVE ALONE SO I'M TAKING A CHANCE JUST TRYING TO GET TO THE VA. AT SOME POINT THIS IS GOING TO CAUSE AN ACCADENT. SUBARU SHOWED LITTLE CONCERN, EVEN IF THERE ARE OTHERS WITH THE SAME OR SIMILE PROBLEM.
Jul 01, 2015
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
3 TO 15 SECOND HESITATION IN THROTTLE RESPONSE. LAST INCIDENT NEARLY RESULTED IN A COLLISION. I STOPPED WAITING FOR TRAFFIC TO CLEAR BEFORE MAKING AN LEFT TURN. MADE THE LEFT TURN, GENTLY APPLIED THE THROTTLE PEDAL, NO RESPONSE, PUSHED IT TO MAXIMUM TRAVEL, STILL NO RESPONSE, CAR COMING TOWARD ME IN ONCOMING LANE, THEN MY CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED SO THAT A COLLISION WAS AVOIDED. CITY 2 LANE STREET, TURNING LEFT.
Feb 03, 2019
VEHICLE HESITATES OCCASIONALLY ON ACCELERATION COMING OFF A STOP.
May 20, 2015
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
2 complaints
REAR TAIL RUNNING LIGHT BULBS INSIDE THE LIFT/TAIL GATE WERE BURNT OUT AND WHEN REPLACING THE BULBS THE PLASTIC HOUSING THE BULBS PRESS INTO WERE CHARRED AND CRACKED. I FEAR THIS IS A POTENTIAL FIRE HAZARD GIVEN THE STATE OF CHARRING. MY VEHICLE DID NOT EXPERIENCE A FIRE, BUT I AM SUBMITTING THIS COMPLAINT IN CASE SIMILAR VEHICLES HAVE CAUGHT FIRE FROM THIS AREA.
Dec 13, 2018
4 HEADLAMPS CHANGED. 2 FOG LAMPS, BOTH FRONT MARKER LIGHTS, BOTH REAR STOP LIGHTS AND TURN SIGNALS. UNIT WAS PURCHASED IN MAY OF 2014 FROM DEALER SHOWROOM. I HAVE CHANGED MORE LIGHTS ON THIS VEHICLE THAN MY LAST 5 CARS COMBINED. IS THERE AN ELECTRICAL OR WIRING ISSUE HERE?
Sep 08, 2018
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaints
ELECTRONIC PARKING BRAKE ACTUATOR FAILED. WHEN THIS OCCURS YOU CAN'T USE THE PARKING BRAKE AND THE EYESIGHT SAFETY EQUIPMENT DOES NOT WORK. THIS OCCURS AT STARTUP, WHEN THE VEHICLE GOES THROUGH IT'S DIAGNOSTIC CHECKS. CAR HAS STRANDED US TWICE WITH THE BRAKE NOT ALLOWING US TO DISENGAGE. EVENTUALLY, AFTER STARTING CAR MULTIPLE TIMES OR REMOVING BATTERY, IT WILL WORK BRIEFLY TO ALLOW TO DISENGAGE. NOW WE DON'T SET THE PARKING BRAKE, OR USE THE EYESIGHT. SUBARU HAS RECALLED THEIR MANUAL TRANSMISSION MODELS WITH THIS ISSUE, BUT NOT THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION MODELS.
Nov 05, 2018
THE ELECTRONIC PARKING BRAKE ENGAGES WHILE THE VEHICLE IS UNDERWAY. WHEN THE FAULT IS CLEARED AND DRIVING RESUMES THE ELECTRONIC PARKING BRAKE AGAIN ENGAGES. THE MFG ( SUBARU) PROVIDES A SMALL TOOL & INSTRUCTIONS HOW TO CRAWL UNDER THE CAR, USE THE TOOL TO MECHANICALLY RELEASE THE ELECTRIC PARKING BRAKE. IF A TOOL IS PROVIDED ALONG WITH INSTRUCTIONS IN THE OWNER MANUAL HOW TO RELEASE A FAULTY ELECTRONIC PARKING BRAKE ( WHICH MAY ENGAGE WHILE THE VEHICLE IS UNDER WAY ) THIS IS A CLEAR WARNING OF A POSSIBLE UNSAFE OPERATING CONDITION. THE CAR HAD TO BE TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIR. THE DEALERSHIP TELLS US ( THIS PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM HAS NEVER HAPPENED) THE TOW TRUCK OPERATOR TELLS US TOWING VEHICLES TO DEALERSHIPS BECAUSE OF FAULTY ELECTRONIC PARKING BRAKES IS A MAJOR PART OF HIS BUSINESS. *TR
May 23, 2014
STEERING,SUSPENSION
2 complaints
I PURCHASED THE OUTBACK 3.6 R LIMITED BRAND NEW AND SOON AFTER I NOTICED THAT VEHICLE PULLED RIGHT AND I HAD TO CONSTANTLY CORRECT IT -WHICH BECAME EXHAUSTING AND A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. AT FIRST I THOUGHT IT WAS RELATED TO ALL WHEEL DRIVE (SINCE I NEVER OWNED AN ALL WHEEL DRIVE). AFTER SOME RESEARCH I REALIZED VEHICLE SHOULD NOT HAVE THIS ISSUE. I REPORTED THE PROBLEM WHEN I TOOK IT TO DEALER FOR ITS FIRST MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE AT 3,000 MILES. I WAS INFORMED THAT IT WAS THE WHEEL ALIGNMENT AND THEY FIXED. THE PROBLEM APPEARED TO BE RESOLVED AT FIRST BUT AFTER 1 WEEK IT STARTED PULLING RIGHT AGAIN -BUT NOT AS NOTICEABLE AS BEFORE. I REPORTED TO DEALER BUT WAS TOLD THAT THAT IS THE WAY ITS SUPPOSE TO DRIVE. PLEASE INVESTIGATE AS MANY OTHERS HAVE HAD THE SAME COMPLAINT AND APPEARS TO BE A REPETITIVE PATTERN AND I AM VERY CONCERNED. *JS
Feb 08, 2015
STEERING NEEDS CONSTANT CORRECTION, IF THE CAR DRIFTS TO THE RIGHT AND YOU CORRECT BY SLIGHTLY TURNING LEFT IT WILL OVER CORRECT & DRIFT TO THE LEFT FORCING THE DRIVER TO CORRECT BY SLIGHTLY TURNING RIGHT, WHICH IS THE CONSTANT CYCLE WHILE DRIVING THIS VEHICLE. IT WILL NOT TRACK STRAIGHT DOWN THE ROAD. THIS IS DANGEROUS AS IT CAUSES THE VEHICLE TO WEAVE BACK & FORTH IN THE LANE. YOU CAN NOT GET THE CAR TO TRACK STRAIGHT, IT IS ALWAYS EITHER PULLING RIGHT OR PULLING LEFT. THE DRIFTING IS NOT DRASTIC BUT IT IS CONSTANT. I HAVE OWNED MANY CARS AND TRUCKS INCLUDING 4 WD, THIS IS NOT NORMAL. I AM FILING THIS COMPLAINT IN ORDER TO HEIGHTEN AWARENESS OF THIS HAZARDOUS CONDITION WHICH IS COMPOUNDED BY THE FACT THAT IT CAUSES DRIVER FATIGUE, LESSENING THE DRIVER'S ABILITY TO REACT TO THE VEHICLES CONSTANT NEED FOR STEERING CORRECTION. THE CONSUMER STATED THE ISSUE WAS RESOLVED. THE DEALER PERFORMED A FOUR WHEEL ALIGNMENT. UPDATED 12/02/14*JB
Oct 18, 2014
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
1. The under carriage has corroded creating a safety hazard. Senior dealer representative indicated verbally that 2010-2014 models years are the most prone. 2. If the under carriage fails the engine and transmission could fall out of the car potentially creating a serious issue. 3. The dealer brought the issue to my attention after performing an inspection of the car. 4. I was unaware of the issue until the dealer brought the issue to my attention. 2014 Subaru Outback. The car has been taken care of in a manner that exceeds the manual recommendations including always flushing the underside of the chassis during washes; especially the winter season. The car was taken to a dealer to have the intake manifold gasket looked at. The dealer took the opportunity to raise the car in the air, conduct an inspection and reported that the front carriage assembly is rusting away and considered dangerous. The Service Manager indicated that the model years 2010 to 2014 exhibit a high-degree of corrosion to the supportive member which holds the engine and transmission in place and if it fails could cause an extremely dangerous situation. What if any information has NHTSA compiled regarding these issues and Subaru's use of an under-designed, defectively manufactured part that could potentially cause a serious accident if the support structure collapsed? And if the NHTSA has conducted any research into this issue is there any option for a consumer to recoup or require Subaru to cover the cost of replacement which according to two Subaru Dealers is approximately $4,200. Below is a recap of the repair costs including parts and labor: CRADLE FRM CP OBK 2-3 Day QT 1 $842.66 20202AJ04B ARM ASSY F RH In Stock QT 1$173.41 901000346 BOLT FLG 14X128 In Stock QT 2 $8.18 / $16.36 20420XA000 LINK AY F STABILIZER In Stock QT 2 $72.85 / $145.70 20202AJ05B ARM ASSY F LH In Stock QT 1 $173.41 901000060 BOLT FLANGE In Stock QT 2 $2.88 / $5.76 The labor is calculated at 13.5 Hours @ $189.00
Jan 15, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
I purchased this vehicle in May 2024 within 2 months of purchase the eyesight function malfunctioned. I took it back to the dealership where I purchased it and they attempted to diagnose it at cost of parts and I ended up paying a few hundred dollars for that repair. That didn’t work and they offered to attempt something else but this was just guessing. Then a few months down the line I receive a post card in the mail for a ‘warranty extension’ on the exact issue I am having. I take it to the Subaru dealership once and they had me return a second time saying they couldn’t diagnose it at that time because the lights that appear on and off weren’t appearing for them. Returning a second time they said they were able to diagnose the issue but the warranty only covers 75%. The remaining 25% that’s left to me comes to $1098.34. The issue I have with this is being it is a safety concern. The features eyesight provides are to be additional safety features. The biggest one being the cruise control that has gone out on me while using it. Going high velocity down the freeway using it and it shuts off completely, luckily I it hasn’t caused an accident and there hasn’t been anyone behind me when it happens and no one to close in front of me but this has happened on multiple occasions to myself, my boyfriend and most recently a friend when we went out of town when I didnt think to inform her of it. We no longer use the cruise control being it is scary and a risk to our safety. I have escalated to Subaru of America who says that it is a warranty extension to care for their customers but the representative I spoke with denied it being a known issue. He says the warranty expired in 2016 for my vehicle but Subaru extended it as to care for the customers. With that in mind I do not think I’m the only one with this issue and concern or else why would they put this extension out if they’re no just trying to be compensated and avoid a recall for the issue.
Sep 11, 2025
STEERING,SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2014 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH or above, the front end and the steering wheel were shaking abnormally. While driving at various speeds, there was a metallic grinding sound coming from the passenger side of the vehicle. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal went to the floorboard and the braking distance became extended. The contact stated that the brakes were squeaking while the brake pedal was depressed. The contact stated that the brakes, check engine, power steering, and engine overheating warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer seven times; however, the dealer was unable to determine the cause of the failures. The contact stated that the dealer replaced the passenger’s side rear wheel bearing. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 201,206.
Jan 13, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
I was in a store parking lot, putting purchases into the trunk of my 2014 Subaru Outback. The rear gate had been opened for about five minutes. As I was leaning into the trunk, as I'd just done 2 or 3 times, with no warning I suffered, a sudden forceful blunt impact on the back of my head. I was so startled, I didn't know for a second what had happened, then realized, I couldn't move, as the rear gate was on top of me. I lifted it up off my head. It was quite heavy as there was no help from the hydraulic arms. I stepped back, while holding the gate/door, and let it go. It rapidly slammed shut. I tried to open it again, and realized the hydraulic arms were not activating to lift it. Each time it is opened, it only stays open for as long as I hold it and then slams closed. It is clear how I or my family could have been seriously injured or killed. If I had looked up to close the gate in the second preceding the failure, the gate would have come down on my face. I or a family member could have had hands or arms crushed when the gate crashed down, and would have been trapped under the gate until help came. I have not used the trunk since the incident as am trying to get Subaru to repair it this week. The problem remains, exactly the same and can be replicated by anyone. There were no warning messages that this was coming and no previous signs that the hydraulic system was going to imminently malfunction and fail. I have seen other reports by Subaru Outback owners that they have had similar failures with their gates and one was almost identical to my situation.
Aug 04, 2024
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
I was driving home on a road I drive on regularly at 40 mph. The car unexpectedly accelerated to a high rate of speed causing me to go off the road. I was unable to stop. The brake pedal went to the floor. The car went airborne, just missing a huge tree. It slammed into the ground & continued on to crash into 3 cars & someone’s garage! The car continued to rev & was bouncing back & forth between the 2 vehicles in the garage. The engine continued to rev after I got out. The homeowner shut it off. He said my brake lights were flashing on and off on the dash. The air bags never deployed. I have a witness. I wasn’t able to do anything!! I’ve since learned there’s a class action lawsuit against Subaru for this problem. Please do something about this. I could be dead, that homeowner that was in his garage could be dead right now. All I want is for people to be aware of this & for Subaru to get held accountable. It’s not right that they are aware of this and doing nothing about it!!
Aug 27, 2022
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
The Roll Connector Harness failed, and use of the horn was disabled. It is due to the mechanical steering of the vehicle, and fails over time. As a multiple Subaru owner this has been a topic of safety with most of the owners with 2014 Subarus. Subaru changed the design/engineering of this part in 2016 due to the concern. Because they won't issue a recall, and the cost of repair is high ($400+), mainly due to the location of the part, many will not fix the issue. There is no way to warn other drivers or deer without use of the horn. This has put me in harm's way multiple times until I finally got it fixed. I have contacted my dealer who says it is one of the more common issues they see with this year and probably 2015 as well. It needs to be recalled so everyone with this problem can get their cars fixed instead of Subaru charging for a known problem and making money over safety.
Mar 04, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
Driving at highway speeds with over half a tank of gas and car just shut down, no warning lights, no noise just shut down and lost all control. Fortunately was able to safely move to shoulder. Sat there for a few minutes, called subaru dealer (no suggestions though i now know there is a recall (NHTSA 21V587000) for an identical problem in newer subaru outbacks and also plenty of online sites suggesting this has happened to other outbacks. Car restarted and we were able to complete our ride home, very scary to think of what could have happened if we were in a different situation of traffic or highway conditions.
Aug 31, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
Horn malfunctions. Press horn on steering wheel is dead silent. However, if I enable the Panic button on key, the alarm sounds. When I start the car after pressing Panic button, the horn I steering wheel works. Sporadic operation.
Jul 04, 2021
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
I AM UNABLE TO REMOVE MY VEHICLE KEY FROM THE IGNITION AFTER PLACING MY 2014 SUBARU OUTBACK INTO THE PARK POSITION WHILE THE VEHICLE IS STATIONARY AND I WANT TO GET OUT OF IT. THIS IS ALSO HAPPENING TO MY FATHER'S 2016 SUBARU OUTBACK. I DON'T WANT TO LEAVE THE KEY IN THE IGNITION WHEN IT IS PARKED ON A STREET. I CAN'T LOCK THE VEHICLE WITH THE KEY IN THE IGNITION BECAUSE I WOULDN'T BE ABLE TO GET BACK INTO IT UNLESS I CARRIED A SECOND KEY. PLEASE POST THIS FOR OTHER USERS. IT SEEMS A VEHICLE DEFECT AT LEAST WITH A SUBARU OUTBACK AS ANOTHER FRIEND ALSO HAD THIS HAPPEN TO HER. IT COST OVER $300 TO GET REPAIRED. THANK YOU.
Sep 10, 2020
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING AT ABOUT 65 MILES/HOUR ON HIGHWAY 17 NEAR APALACHIN, NY, WHEN A DEER JUMPED FROM THE RIGHT SIDE AND HIT THE FRONT OF MY CAR. BOTH FRONT AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. IMMEDIATELY, THE GAS RELEASED FROM THE AIRBAGS COMPLETELY FOGGED THE WINDSHIELD REDUCING VISIBILITY ZERO, SO I COULD NOT SEE WHERE I WAS GOING DURING THE BRAKING PERIOD. FORTUNATELY, I ONLY SHIFTED TO THE OTHER LINE AND THERE WERE NO OTHER CARS AROUND. THE GAS DEPOSIT REMAINED ON THE WINDSHIELD AND I HAD TO USE A CLOTH TO CLEAN IT. IN MY OPINION, THE FOGGED WINDSHIELD RESULTING FROM THE AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT WAS A MUCH HIGHER SAFETY HAZARD THAN THE COLLISION WITH THE DEER ITSELF. AN UNRELATED COMPLAINT IS THAT AFTER THE CAR STOPPED, THE DOORS WERE BLOCKED (WOULD NOT OPEN) FOR HALF A MINUTE OR SO.
Sep 16, 2019
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
ON FEB 28, 2019 I WAS DRIVING MY 2014 SUBARU OUTBACK ON INTERSTATE 64 ON A STRAIGHT STRETCH AT APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH GOING UPHILL WHEN ACCELERATOR BECAME SUDDENLY AND COMPLETELY UNRESPONSIVE. I WAS IN THE FAR LEFT LANE OF 3 LANES OF TRAFFIC ALSO TRAVELING AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED AND HAD TO TRY TO GET TO THE EMERGENCY LANE TO THE RIGHT OF THE 3 LANES. I HAD ABSOLUTELY NO RESPONSE WHEN PUSHING ON THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND COULD HAVE BEEN HIT BY NUMEROUS SEMI TRAILER TRUCKS. I WAS ABLE TO COAST TO THE RIGHT INTO THE EMERGENCY LANE WHICH WAS A MIRACLE BECAUSE I WAS ON A STEEP UPHILL INCLINE. WHEN I REACHED THE EMERGENCY LANE, I STOPPED THE CAR, SHIFTED INTO PARK, AND BACK INTO DRIVE MODE AND THE ACCELERATOR DID ENGAGE AT THAT POINT. I IMMEDIATELY TOOK THE CAR TO A SUBARU DEALER BUT THEY HAVE NOT DIAGNOSED IT AS OF YET. I HAVE BEEN RESEARCHING ON THE INTERNET TO SEE IF OTHER 2014 OUTBACK OWNERS HAVE THE SAME COMPLAINT AND CAME ACROSS NUMEROUS OTHER COMPLAINTS OF THE SAME PROBLEM ON THE WEBSITE WWW.CARCOMPLAINTS.COM. THOSE COMPLAINING OF THE SAME PROBLEM HAVE NOT HAD ANY SUCCESS WITH A FIX FROM SUBARU. PLEASE LOOK INTO THIS BEFORE SOMEONE IS INJURED OR KILLED AS I COULD HAVE EASILY BEEN TODAY.
Feb 28, 2019
PARKING BRAKE,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
MY E-BRAKE HAS NOT BEEN WORKING FOR THE PAST YEAR. THE RED BRAKE LIGHT COMES ON AT RANDOM TIMES WHEN PARKED AND IN MOTION AND I CANNOT ENGAGE THE E-BRAKE. SUBARU IS SAYING THAT I NEED TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE ELECTRONIC BRAKE MECHANISM FOR A COST OF $1,000.00 - THIS FOR A 2014 CAR.
Aug 01, 2018
TIRES,WHEELS
1 complaint
INSPECTION NOTED BELT SEPERATION ON GOODYEAR ASSURANCE TIRES, VEHICLE STATIONARY
Apr 16, 2018
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
THERE IS NO EMERGENCY BRAKE ON A 2014 OUTBACK,THE PARKING BRAKE DOES NOT WORK WHEN THE CAR IS MOVING.UNSAFE, IF ANYTHING HAPPENS WITH BRAKES THERE IS NOTHING TO STOP CAR FOR SAFETY THE HAND EMERGENCY BRAKE SHOULD BE IN THE CENTER CONSOLE, SO PASSENGER COULD ALSO PULL IT ON. .FRONT SPRINGS BOTTOM OUT FOR THE SLIGHTEST DIP IN THE ROAD.. I COMPLAINED TO SUBARU ABOUT THE BRAKE AND THEY TOLD ME BUY ANOTHER CAR
Aug 25, 2017
AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
WE HAVE HAD THREE ACCIDENTS INVOLVING THE SAME THING. YOU CAN'T SEEM TO SLOW THE CAR DOWN ENOUGH TO STOP IT. TWO OF THE TIMES, WE HAVE PULLED INTO A PARKING PLACE,GOING AT A LOW SPEED,AND WHEN YOU STEP ON THE BRAKE,THE CAR ACCELERATES AND JUMPS FORWARD INSTEAD OF STOPPING. ALSO THE AIR BAGS DOESN'T COME ON.
Jul 02, 2017
WHEELS
1 complaint
I HAVE HAD SEVERAL INSTANCES WHERE WHEN DRIVING IN SNOW ON INTERSTATE THE SNOW GETS PACKED IN THE WHEELS IT CAUSES SEVERE PROBLEMS STEERING. ON MORE THAN ONE INSTANCE I HAVE HAD TO PULL OFF THE ROAD AND FIND A CAR WASH TO CLEAN THE SNOW IN ORDER TO BE ABLE TO DRIVE SAFELY. FRONT END VIBRATES SO MUCH I HAD TO REDUCE SPEED TO BELOW 45 MPH AND TO PULL OFF THE ROAD. I HAVE ASKED SUBARU THROUGH THEIR NATIONAL SUPPORT HOTLINE HOW TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM. THEIR RESPONSE WAS THAT THEY HAD NEVER HEARD THIS COMPLAINT AND DID NOT HAVE A SOLUTION. I ASKED THAT THEY EMAIL THEIR RESPONSE SO I WOULD HAVE IT IN WRITING. THEY SAID THEY WOULD DO THAT BUT NO RESPONSE WAS EVER RECEIVED. I DID CONFIRM THEY HAD MY CORRECT EMAIL ADDRESS AND HAVE RECEIVED SURVEY FOLLOWUPS USING MY EMAIL ADDRESS BUT NOTHING FROM THE SUPPORT CENTER. PURCHASING REPLACEMENT STEEL WHEELS CAN RESOLVE THE PROBLEM BUT THEY ARE EXPENSIVE ( $400 TO $1000) DEPENDING ON WHEEL TYPE. THE LOCAL DEALER OFFERED THE SOLUTIONS OF SPRAYING PAM INSIDE THE WHEEL WELL, BUYING AFTER MARKET WHEEL COVERS ( NONE EXIST PER MY RESEARCH), OR DEALER REPLACING THE WHEELS AT COST OF $1200 WHICH MAY INCLUDE TIRES, NOT SURE. LOCAL DEALER ALSO OFFERED TO HOSE OUT MY WHEELS IF I BROUGHT IT IN WHICH WOULD REQUIRE DRIVING THE VEHICLE WITH THE PROBLEM WHICH IS UNSAFE. WHEN I ASKED ABOUT TOWING THEY POINTED OUT THE VEHICLE IS OUT OF WARRANTY, 39,000 MILES. I POINTED OUT THAT IT HAD HAPPENED PRIOR TO WARRANTY RUNNING OUT AND HAD BEEN PREVIOUSLY REPORTED WITH NO SOLUTION PROVIDED. I LIVE IN A SNOWY AREA AND HAVING TO PULL OFF THE ROAD EACH TIME THIS ISSUE OCCURS IS UNSAFE. MY CONCERN IS THAT SUBARU DOESN'T WANT TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE PROBLEM FORMALLY AND THAT THE SAFETY OF THE OWNERS SHOULD BE CONSIDERED. *TR
Jan 06, 2017
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SEATS
1 complaint
THE SEAT SENSOR FOR THE PASSENGER SIDE IS NOT WORKING CAUSING THE AIRBAG TO BE DEACTIVATED. THE SEATBELT INDICATOR SIGNAL BEEPS REGARDLESS OF WHETHER SOMEONE IS SITTING IN THE SEAT WITH THE SEATBELT ON OR NO ONE IS SITTING IN THE SEAT. IT IS FAILING TO SENSE ANY WEIGHT. I BOUGHT THIS CAR BRAND NEW ON 9/9/13 AND THIS SHOULD NOT BE FAULTY.
Sep 07, 2016
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
PULLING CAR INTO PARKING SPACE AT SLOW SPEED WHEN CAR, WITHOUT DRIVER INPUT, SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. HEAVY PRESSURE ON BRAKES, DRIVER FELT THE ABS CYCLING, DID NT STOP VEHICLE. FINALLY, AFTER COLLIDING WITH A PARKED CAR, NOSE TO NOSE AND PUSHING OTHER CAR OUT OF ITS PARKING SPOT, DRIVER WAS ABLE TO STOP THE CAR MY MOVING TRANSMISSION GEAR SELECTOR TO PARK
Jul 11, 2016
TIRES
1 complaint
MY 2014 SUBARU OUTBACK 3.6R CAME WITH CONTINENTAL PRO CONTACT GX P225/60 R17 TIRES. NOTICE ONE OF THE TIRES WAS SIGNIFICANTLY DEFLATED. TOOK TO DEALER AND I WAS TOLD THAT THERE WAS A SMALL HOLE BUT NO NAIL AS THE CAUSE. NOW MY PASSENGER SIDE REAR TIRE HAS DEVELOPED SIDE WALL BUBBLE. I TOOK TO SUBARU DEALER WHO DID NOTHING AND TOLD ME TO CALL CONTINENTAL TIRES ABOUT WARRANTY (DIDN'T EVEN WARN ME OF THE DANGER NOR DID THEY PUT THE SPARE TIRE ON) CONTINENTAL SAID PASSED RESPONSIBILITY BACK TO DEALER. I THEN WENT TO DISCOUNT TIRES THEN AMERICAS TIRES. ALL SAID (BEFORE EVEN LOOKING AT THE TIRE) THAT IMPACT DAMAGE IS NOT COVERED. FIRST 95% OF MY DRIVING IS HIGHWAYS AND I HAVE HIT NO POT HOLES OR HAD ANY TYPE OF IMPACT. I HAVE BEEN DRIVING FOR 35 YEARS AND I HAVE NEVER HAD THIS PROBLEM WITH TIRES. THERE IS 350 COMPLAINTS IN DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS ABOUT SIDEWALL PROBLEMS WITH THESE TIRES. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE. WHAT WILL IT TAKE FOR CONTINENTAL TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY?
Jul 21, 2015
SEATS
1 complaint
I USED THE OPTIONAL SEAT WARMERS AND TURNED THE ENGINE OFF AT THE END OF A TRIP. WHEN I STARTED THE ENGINE AGAIN LATER THAT DAY, THE SEAT WARMERS WERE ON. WHEN I FELT THE HEAT, I WAS CONFUSED, AND THOUGHT THERE MIGHT BE A FIRE, UNTIL I NOTICED THE SEAT WARMER LIGHT WAS ON. I THINK WHEN THE CAR IS STOPPED AND TURNED OFF, THE SEAT WARMER FUNCTION SHOULD BE CANCELLED.
May 20, 2015
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
FOR THE PAST FEW DAYS, MY VEHICLE MANY TIMES HESITATES FOR AT LEAST 3-5 SECONDS WHEN TRYING TO ACCELERATE FROM A STOP/REST AT A STOP LIGHT, ALMOST CAUSE ACCIDENT WHEN TRYING TO ENTER INTO AN INTERSECTION. IT SEEMS TO HAPPEN AROUND 2000 - 3000/RPM. THE CAR EVEN EXHIBITED SLIGHT JERKY WHEN AT THE START OF ACCELERATING UP A SLIGHT SLOPPY HILL. THIS IS SERIOUS ISSUE AS ACCIDENT IS IMMINENT WHEN THE CAR HAS NO ACCELERATION WHEN TRYING TO GET GOING IN TRAFFIC. THIS ISSUE IS COMMONLY EXPERIENCED BY OTHER DRIVERS (ONLINE FORUM) : HTTP://WWW.SUBARUOUTBACK.ORG/FORUMS/66-PROBLEMS-MAINTENANCE/98450-2014-OUTBACK-ACCELERATION-HESITATION.HTML
May 09, 2015
STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
I WAS PULLING UP TO PARK BEHIND A TOYOTA PRIUS ON A ROAD THAT WAS PARTIALLY COVERED WITH SNOW & ICE. THE WHEELS ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE VEHICLE WERE ON SNOW & ICE AND THE WHEELS ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE OF THE CAR WERE ON DRY ROADWAY. I WAS DRIVING SLOWLY TO PARK WHEN THE CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED INTO THE REAR BUMPER OF THE TOYOTA PRIUS. THE ENGINE WAS RACING WILDLY AND MY ATTEMPT TO BRAKE WERE INEFFECTIVE. THERE WAS DAMAGE TO THE REAR TRUNK & BUMPER OF THE PRIUS AND DAMAGE TO THE FRONT OF THE SUBARU. I SUSPECT THAT THE SUBARU TRACTION/SPEED/STABILITY/ELECTRONIC THROTTLE CONTROLS HAD MALFUNCTIONED. *TR
Mar 08, 2015
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
WHEN DRIVING A 2014 SUBARU OUTBACK I EXPERIENCE A 2-4 SECOND HESITATION UPON ACCELERATING. IT FIRST HAPPEN WHEN TURNING LEFT, CROSSING TRAFFIC. I STEPPED ON THE GAS PEDAL AND NOTHING HAPPENED FOR A FEW SECONDS AND THEN SUDDENLY ACCELERATED INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC. FORTUNATELY THERE WAS NO ACCIDENT JUST HORNS BEEPING FROM THE CAR I CUT OFF. IT HAPPENED AGAIN WHEN ACCELERATING FROM A STOP ONTO A HIGHWAY. THAT TIME I APPLIED THE BRAKES AS IT LUNGED FORWARD BEFORE ENTERING TRAFFIC. IT HAPPENED A FEW MORE TIMES AT A STOP LIGHT IN THE 1 WEEK I DROVE IT. THE ENGINE SEEMS TO STAY AT AN IDLE AND THEN AFTER THE 2-4 SECOND DELAY SUDDENLY ACCELERATES ACCORDING TO THE LEVEL THE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED. THIS IS MY DAUGHTER'S VEHICLE AND I AM CONCERNED ABOUT HER AND HER FAMILY'S SAFETY. THERE ARE MANY COMPLAINTS ON LINE REGARDING THIS PROBLEM WITH SUBARUS, NOT JUST OUTBACKS. I ACTUALLY BROUGHT THE CAR IN TO GET THIS CHECKED OUT AND THEY TOLD ME THERE ARE NO SERVICE NOTIFICATIONS REGARDING HESITATIONS SO THEY CAN'T DO ANYTHING! THEY STATED THAT IS NORMAL WITH A CVT TRANSMISSION. BELIEVE ME, THAT IS NOT NORMAL AND IS AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN. PLEASE REVIEW THE ON LINE COMPLAINTS. *TR
Feb 23, 2015
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
HAVING WARMED UP THE CAR IN THE DRIVEWAY FOR FIVE MINUTES AND HAVING DRIVEN FOR APPROXIMATELY 10 MINUTES, BRAKING SEVERAL TIMES, DRIVER APPROACHED THE STOP SIGN AT THE TOP OF THE HILL WHERE THE ROAD INTERSECTS WITH A BUSY HIGHWAY. SHE TRIED TO DEPRESS THE BRAKES AND NOTHING HAPPENED. TO STOP THE CAR, SHE THREW THE CAR INTO PARK. "CHECK ENGINE @ OIL TEMP" LIGHT OR SOMETHING SIMILAR CAME ON. SHE TURNED OFF THE CAR, WAITED A SHORT WHILE AND RESTARTED CAR, SHIFTED INTO DRIVE AND CAR WOULDN'T DO ANYTHING. TURNED OFF CAR. A SHORT WHILE LATER SHE STARED AGAIN; AFTER PUSHING GAS HARD, CAR STARTED TO SLOWLY MOVE FORWARD. PUT CAR IN P AND WAITED FOR ASSISTANCE, LEAVING HEAT ON. WHEN ASSISTANCE CAME 10-15 MIN LATER, CAR WAS ABLE TO BE DRIVEN TO A SAFE ROADSIDE SPOT AROUND THE CORNER. CONDITION: LOW TEMPS. NO ICE ON ROADS. *TR
Feb 20, 2015
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
CAR STOPS WITHOUT WARNING. A CLICKING SOUND IS HEARD AND THEN THE FRONT DISPLAY PANELS BECOME BLANK. THERE IS NO STEERING OR BRAKES. THIS HAS HAPPENED 10 TIMES. THERE IS NO WAY TO PREDICT WHEN THIS MIGHT HAPPEN AND THERE IS NO PRECIPITATING FACTORS. HAVE HAD THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP TWICE, BUT THE PROBLEM CANNOT BE FOUND AND AM STILL DRIVING THIS UNSAFE CAR. *TR
Jan 04, 2015
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
THE CAR DOES NOT STAY ON. STARTED THE CAR BY TURNING THE KEY TO THE "START" POSITION FROM THE "ON" POSITION. THE CAR STARTS BUT ONCE THE KEY MOVES BACK TO "ON", THE CAR STOPS. THIS IS THE SECOND TIME I'VE BEEN STRANDED BY THIS OCCURRENCE. AFTER 20-30MINS, THE CAR STARTS AGAIN. BOTH INCIDENTS OCCURRED WHEN IT WAS RELATIVELY HOT (+85 DEGREES F). SEEMS TO BE AN IGNITION ISSUE. *TR
Oct 15, 2014
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
1 complaint
THERE IS A HESITATION WHEN ACCELERATING, IT HAPPENS FROM COMPLETE STOPS BY STEPPING ON THE GAS, AND WHILE TURNING YOUR VEHICLE. I WAS ON A 35MPH. BACK ROAD AND WENT TO TURN LEFT ONTO A SIDE STREET, I YIELDED FOR 2 CARS AND THEN WENT INTO THE TURN AND STEPPED ON THE GAS, IT HESITATED AND THEN I WAS HIT IN THE REAR SIDE OF MY VEHICLE. IF IT WOULD HAVE RESPONDED CORRECTLY I WOULD NOT HAVE GOTTEN INTO THE ACCIDENT. *TR
Oct 09, 2014
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 20MPH, THE CAR SUDDENLY BEGINS TO SMELL OF GASOLINE. SOON THEREAFTER, ACCELERATION BECOMES HESITANT AND THE LOW-FUEL WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATES. THE VEHICLE QUICKLY BECAME INOPERABLE IN THE MIDDLE OF A BUSY ROAD. THE VEHICLE IS A MODEL YEAR 2014 AND WAS PURCHASED BRAND NEW, LESS THAN SEVEN [7] MONTHS AGO (FROM THE DATE THIS COMPLAINT WAS POSTED). THE VEHICLE HAS ONLY APPROXIMATELY 9,000 MILES ON THE ODOMETER AND HAS NOT BEEN DRIVEN UNDER ANY ESPECIALLY SEVERE WEATHER CONDITIONS OR THROUGH TREACHEROUS TERRAIN. *TR
Sep 01, 2014
POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
SUBARU OUTBACK WAS STARTED IN A PARKING LOT IN ORDER TO COOL INTERIOR DOWN. DRIVER EXITED VEHICLE AND WALKED BEHIND AND AROUND TO OTHER SIDE. DRIVE OPENED FRONT PASSENGER DOOR RETRIEVED AN ITEM AND CLOSED DOOR. DRIVER THEN WALKED AWAY A FEW YARDS IN ORDER TO PROVIDE WATER FOR A DOG. DRIVER HEARD A LOUD CRASH AND TURNED AROUND TO FIND CAR HAD ROLLED BACKWARDS OUT OF PARKING SPOT AND HIT A VEHICLE PARKED BEHIND IT. CAR WAS STILL RUNNING AND FOUND TO BE IN REVERSE. NO ONE WAS IN EITHER CAR AND NO INJURIES. BOTH CARS WERE DAMAGED. SUBARU OUTBACK COULD NOT BE DRIVEN. CAR WAS PARKED ON A VERY SLIGHT INCLINE. *TR
Aug 16, 2014
STEERING,TIRES
1 complaint
WE PURCHASED OUR OUTBACK ON APRIL 28,2014. ON MAY 1, 2014 WE BROUGHT INTO THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT BECAUSE IT WAS PULLING TO THE RIGHT. THEY APPARENTLY FIXED IT. THE NEXT DAY I WAD BACK AGAIN, THE CAR WAS STILL PULLING TO THE RIGHT. AFTER SEVERAL TIMES TRYING TO REALIGN THE CAR, IT WAS "FIXED". I HAD TO BRING IT BACK IN TODAY, IT IS PULLING AGAIN. THEY CAN'T FIX THE ISSUE BECAUSE NOW THEY SUSPECT IT IS A DEFECTIVE TIRE ISSUE. THEY ARE GOING TO REPLACE ALL 4 TIRES ON TUESDAY. I GET THE FEELING THERE IS SOMETHING MORE WRONG WITH MY CAR. *TR
May 28, 2014
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 complaint
IN TANK ELECTRIC FUEL PUMP CONTINUED RUNNING AFTER CAR WAS SHUT OFF AND KEY WAS REMOVED. *TR
Mar 17, 2014
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY DECELERATED. THE CONTACT HAD TO PUMP THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL SEVERAL TIMES BEFORE THE VEHICLE WOULD RESPOND AND DRIVE NORMALLY. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT WHILE AT A STOP LIGHT, THE VEHICLE STALLED AS THE CONTACT PROCEEDED THROUGH A BUSY INTERSECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Jan 17, 2014
SUBARU Outback VIN Decoder — Free VIN Check Video Guide
Watch our quick SUBARU Outback VIN decoder walkthrough. Learn how to decode any SUBARU Outback VIN number to get full vehicle history, recall alerts, specifications, fuel economy (MPG), safety ratings, and known problems — completely free on ForCar.org.
Where to Find VIN for Problems Check
To check for problems and complaints on your 2014 SUBARU Outback, you'll need the VIN number. Find your VIN in one of these 4 common locations.
Understanding VIN Structure for Problem Reports
Each character in your 2014 SUBARU Outback 17-digit VIN helps identify specific complaints and problems affecting your vehicle model.
How to Check 2014 SUBARU Outback Problems in 3 Steps
1
Locate Your VIN
Find the 17-character VIN on your 2014 SUBARU Outback dashboard (visible through windshield), door jamb, engine bay, or vehicle documents.
2
Review by Component
Browse owner-reported complaints organized by vehicle component (engine, transmission, brakes, electrical) to identify common issues and problem patterns for this model year.
3
Check Safety Issues
Review crash and fire incidents for each component to assess safety concerns. Contact your SUBARU dealer or report problems to NHTSA at SaferCar.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2014 SUBARU Outback have?
The 2014 SUBARU Outback currently has 207 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 2014 SUBARU Outback?
The most common problems reported for the 2014 SUBARU Outback are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 2014 SUBARU Outback problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2014 SUBARU Outback comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
How do I report problems with my 2014 SUBARU Outback?
You can report safety problems with your 2014 SUBARU Outback directly to NHTSA at SaferCar.gov or call 1-888-327-4236. Your complaint helps identify patterns and may lead to recalls or investigations.
Where can I find my VIN to check problems?
Your 2014 SUBARU Outback VIN is located in 4 places: (1) Dashboard near windshield on driver's side, (2) Driver's door jamb sticker, (3) Engine bay, (4) Vehicle registration and insurance documents.
Is the 2014 SUBARU Outback reliable?
Reliability can be assessed by reviewing the number and severity of owner complaints for the 2014 SUBARU Outback. Check complaints by component, crash reports, and fire incidents above to evaluate potential issues and problem patterns.
Other Years - SUBARU Outback Problems
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