2017 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
912
Complaints Reported
Complaints by Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
327 complaints
If the car engine does not run for more than 4-5 days, the battery is drained completely dead and the car needs to be jump started to get the engine to run and have the alternator recharge the battery. Ongoing issue.
Jan 05, 2026
battery drains consistently after a few days of not driving/
Nov 02, 2025
Since purchasing this Subaru in 2017 there has been multiple incidents where the car battery drains overnight. Causing the car not to start due to a dead battery.
Oct 08, 2025
I'm the original owner, purchased May 2017, and have had to replace the battery five times. Online research indicates that the root cause is phantom draining caused by the DCM apparently searching for a no longer existent 3G signal. Subaru has not addressed the issue directly and has instead issued a technical service bulletin to AAA affiliates to advise their customers to go to dealerships for larger batteries, group 47, with higher cold cranking amps which will also require new battery trays, hold downs and an adjustment to the car's computer. My dealership in Carlsbad, CA informed me the cost might exceed $650 and would not be covered by Subaru. I strongly believe this is an issue that Subaru must address on their dime.
May 17, 2025
Repeatedly DEAD BATTERY Caused by a parasitic drain from a faulty DCM fuse, and an alternator programmed from the factory to NOT fully charge the battery.
Mar 19, 2025
+ 322 more complaints for this component
VISIBILITY/WIPER
180 complaints
My Outback has been through 5 genuine Subaru windshields this year, and 7 since 2019. Only one was impact damage, the rest developed cracks after installation. One only lasted 3 days after being replaced. Others have lasted 3 months. There is something defective with the current Subaru replacement windshields and the dealers can't help. These are $1,300 insurance claims each. Subaru needs to figure out what is happening with the poor quality before someone gets hurt from shattered glass or impaired visibility from cracks.
Dec 10, 2025
Ongoing problem with Subaru. Spontaneous windshield crack. 74 degrees, parked in shade, no chips. Came out and has the crack completely across windshield just above drivers eyeline. This is has happened to many Subaru owners and Subaru does nothing. Now I want Safelite to do repair, but Subaru will not honor any work involving eyesight navigation unless it is Subaru glass,
Apr 14, 2025
I have had to replace the windshield three times in this vehicle since purchasing it. I've had it repaired one other time. The most recent incident was this past week when I came out of work and found a large crack near the Eyesight/rear view mirror area for no apparent reason
Nov 13, 2024
windshield cracked 3 years in a row found it odd that we were needed yearly new windshields on line search lead to class action law suit due to defective glass
Jan 10, 2024
As I was driving my car today I saw a crack suddenly appear in the windshield -- running horizontally two and half to three feet from one side to the other. It's quite a crack -- about three inches from the bottom, just above the edge of the black band. This is the third time this has happened -- although the first in this particular pattern -- and it will be the third time I have had to replace the windshield. I have always been told that it is dangerous to drive with a cracked windshield. And here in Maine it is impossible to pass the annual safety inspection with even a small crack. This is a big one. I see quite a few other Outback owners have had to deal with this issue. It would be nice if Subaru would take responsibility. But it won't.
Dec 03, 2023
+ 175 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
121 complaints
My car caught on fire while I was driving in 3/30/26. The far started somewhere in/near the front driver’s side, initial observed flames were coming from just above the front driver’s side tire. There were no warning lights on at the time the fire started. The car was a total loss by the time firefighters arrived.
Apr 06, 2026
While driving, the car suddenly shut off while in motion. It came to a stop at the bottom of hill where we were able to put it in neutral, and push it into a parking lot. After that we attempted to start it 4 or 5 times, and the engine would turn over and shut off after a couple of seconds. After leaving it off for about 5 minutes, it was able to start. Additionally, it occasionally feels jerky while driving, usually at lower speeds.
Feb 22, 2026
Driving on a flat dry road with cloudy conditions we heard what sounded like a shotgun. Pulled over and found our Moonroof exploded. I have dashcam video with audio of the explosion as well as photos and video of the damage immediately after
Dec 29, 2025
The key gets stuck in the ignition when turning off the ignition.
Nov 03, 2025
The design of the dashboard along with the dashboard screen has a very poor design that makes it nearly impossible to see when the sun is out. When the sun is out and especially when driving towards the sun during sunset and sunrise, the dashboard reflects back the light onto the windshield making it essentially impossible to see objects that may be on the side of the road. Even with polarized sunglasses, I often find myself having to reduce my speed on 50 mph zones by as much as 30 mph under the speed limit in order to give myself enough time to potentially see hazards that would be unseen at higher speeds do to the severe glare. Without sunglasses, even driving during the middle of the day, the dashboard reflects light off the windshield that can make it nearly impossible to see objects, especially objects that are only visible on the lower third of the windshield. This faulty design has almost caused me to hit cyclist and or joggers on the road even going substantially below the speed limit due to being blinded by the sun. The second issue I have is with the backup screen on the dashboard. Whenever any sun hits the dashboard screen, it is essentially useless as the sun almost completely makes it impossible to see where I'm backing into. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone or any law enforcement, but I do feel this is a serious safety hazard and the design of the dashboard in that it reflects light right back into the windshield makes for an undue stressful experience and a very huge liability.
Sep 15, 2025
+ 116 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
26 complaints
AT ABOUT 112,000 MILES, MY 2017 SUBARU OUTBACK'S TRANSMISSION SHOWED SIGNS OF FAILURE. THE "MANUAL SHIFT" GEAR LEVER POSITION WOULD NO LONGER INCREASE OR DECREASE THE TRANSMISSION RPM AND A WHIRRING AND CLICKING NOISE BECAME APPARENT AND INCREASED OR DECREASED WITH SPEED. THE SUBARU DEALER IN SALISBURY, MD DIAGNOSED A FAILING TRANSMISSION AND QUOTED $9,916 TO REPLACE IT.
Aug 19, 2025
Unable to remove key from ignition when vehicle placed in ‘Park’ and vehicle easily changes to ‘Reverse’ when unable to remove key, potential safety hazard to driver and anyone standing behind vehicle. Started around 40,000 miles, repair facility thought replacing the key cylinder would fix the problem but it recurred in less than 1,000 additional miles. Subaru Forums cite many, many owners with the same issue on multiple vehicle types resulting in replacement of the shifter mechanism due to a malfunctioning ‘Park’ sensor.
Mar 09, 2023
My car had it's third transmission installed in October 2021 at 42,730 miles. The car currently has just under 52,000 miles. The current transmission is exhibiting symptoms of slipping and delayed gear engagement. The slipping is most concerning due to the unpredictable and non-linear acceleration when I press the accelerator. I don't know if a light accelerator application will give the expected acceleration or a 1-2 second delay followed by either weaker than expected acceleration or a surge in engine RPMs (up to 3,000 at times) with significantly more acceleration than expected. I also don't know if the acceleration will decrease or increase if I keep the accelerator position the same. This is especially problematic in stop and go city driving where light on/off pedal application is required. The more I'm on/off the accelerator, the less predictable the acceleration becomes. My fuel economy is also down from ~25.5 MPG lifetime average to less than 20 MPG the last few tanks. Subaru dealers have not been helpful or receptive to my concerns. All the loaners I've driven behaved as expected and had smooth, linear acceleration.
Aug 26, 2022
It was a few days ago, the vehicle suddenly have shuttering or sputtering type of noise when accelerating from a stop. During the drive, I also started to hear a creaking type of noise. This became worse when accelerating uphill. I took the car to a Subaru dealership, and the service technician reproduced these problems. He then detected an transmission related error code P0841. He replaced the sensor related to this error code, but found he couldn’t get rid of the initial problems. In fact, when he checked the error code, P0841 came back again. Check Engine light come out during his examination. Even he could get rid of the warning, Check Engine light came back when I drove the vehicle back home. The technician found internal transmission failure and recommended to replace transmission assembly. The cost quoted at $10996, so no further repairs was made. Subaru recalled transmission of its outback vehicle in the past for the same type of problems, and I am wondering if my vehicle has a similar faulty transmission. I reported the problem to Subaru US customer service online, but didn’t hear back from them.
Aug 18, 2022
Rear bearing/hub assembly failure. Appears to be a known problem per information readily available online. Failure occurred at 40,746 miles. Replaced at dealership at my personal cost, out of warranty period. Hubs and bearings should not be failing at such low mileage. Could have caused other driveline or suspension problems and poses a safety issue as wheels would be unable to spin freely.
Jun 11, 2022
+ 21 more complaints for this component
VISIBILITY
25 complaints
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and unoccupied in the garage, the contact’s son opened the garage door and became aware of a crack on the front passenger’s side windshield. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was determined that the windshield needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The contact was informed that vehicle was too old to repair. The approximate failure mileage was 110,000.
Apr 29, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, a foot-long crack appeared on the lower driver’s side windshield. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 116,000.
May 22, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that the windshield was cracked. The vehicle was not diagnosed, inspected, nor repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 65,000.
Jan 27, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while her daughter was sitting inside the vehicle, the front windshield suddenly started to crack. The crack extended approximately sixteen inches from the driver’s side to the passenger’s side. The contact indicated that no objects had struck the windshield to cause the crack. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 50,000.
Aug 23, 2022
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that the front windshield was previously replaced; however, the windshield was again cracked. There was no impact on the windshield that could have caused the crack. An auto glass company replaced the windshield. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 40,000. The VIN was unavailable.
Aug 09, 2022
+ 20 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
23 complaints
I think recall work was not done, but says it was done (or is not open). Does it say when and where recall work was done? This car has a parasitic battery drain, 3 batteries in 3 years, required 2 jump starts, 1 call to AAA. There is a recall for such an issue, but I do not believe it was fixed and done. It showed NO open recalls, and just last week I had brake work for a recall done.
Apr 07, 2026
Subaru was not willing to cover the cost to replace their faulty gear shifter. My key gets stuck in the ignition. This problem has been confirmed by a dealership. No warnings happen, it gets stuck. This is a safety issue because I have to leave my keys in my car (unlocked) and come back for them when the car decides to recognize that it is in park. This is a know issue and Subaru wiped its hands of me and said deal with it by yourself.
Aug 19, 2025
My battery continues to die leaving me stranded every winter for the past several years. It is a known issue I believe with the wiring/ fuse for the trunk hatch door. Subaru only offers a new battery - so every year I replace the battery and then end up stranded somewhere again.
Dec 16, 2024
The automatic back hatch came down with out pushing button or key fob. The fob was in the ignition and nobody was around to push the button to make it go down. It caused damage to my spine and gave me a concussion. Capitol Subaru of Salem Oregon said it was a Glitch that happens sometimes when wires get crossed. After they inspected. Plus changed information on our documents without our knowledge. It did go to Subaru for almost a month the said they found nothing in the EDR report. So they feel I do not need to see it.
Aug 22, 2023
We have owned our previously owned Subaru Outback 2017 for 18 months and have replaced the battery 3 times. We are now on our 4th battery. That battery turnover seems rather excessive, doesn't it? My thoughts: 1. Phantom drain 2. Short (harness or wires cut by abrasion) 3. Programming (shut alternator off to increase mpg) 4. Faulty programming - see 3.
Feb 17, 2023
+ 18 more complaints for this component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
16 complaints
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving at a slow speed, the brake pedal was depressed, but the vehicle experienced unintended acceleration. The contact lifted her foot off the brake pedal and then firmly depressed the brake pedal another time. The vehicle was able to come to a stop. The contact stated that prior to the failure, the vehicle had stalled while driving. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the dealer, who were unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 129,000.
Mar 24, 2026
While in a parking lot moving at very slow rate speed the car suddenly accelerated on its own. I had just slowly turned within a parking lot in preparation to backing into a parking space. I had just removed my foot from the accelerator and the car was almost at a stop and I was about to brake and put the car into reverse when it suddenly and rapidly accelerated on its own. My foot was not touching the accelerator at the time (it was over, but not yet touching, the brake). The car felt as if someone had suddenly slammed on the accelerator, but my foot was not on the accelerator at the time. Luckily my foot was over the brake when the rapid unexpected acceleration occurred and also luckily there were no cars in front of me. I was able to immediately slam on the brake so that the car did not hit anything. Before I was able to brake, the car quickly lurched forward at a surprisingly rapid rate of speed for a short distance. Quick application of the brakes stopped the sudden and rapid forward movement of the car. I did not notice any warning lights or messages on the car. This could have been a very dangerous situation. If someone had been walking in front of the car, they would have been hit and potentially seriously injured. If there had been cars parked in front of the space I was about to back into, the car would have hit them and caused damage. This happened earlier today and I have not yet reported it to the dealer. No police or insurance personnel were involved as I managed to avoid an accident. The event occurred today, Wednesday December 3rd at about 11 am. There were no other witnesses. To my knowledge this is the first occurrence of this rapid unexpected acceleration for this car.
Dec 03, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that after driving onto the driveway and pressing the brake pedal to park, the vehicle suddenly experienced unintended acceleration, drove forward, and crashed into the garage door. The contact shifted to the reverse position and the vehicle drove in reverse but would not stop while pressing the brake pedal. Eventually, the contact was able to shift to the park position, and the vehicle was stopped. During the incident garage door was severely damaged along with the rear end of a classic vehicle parked inside the garage. No injuries were reported, and no police report was filed. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer was notified of the incident. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 41,000.
Sep 15, 2025
12/13/24 Incident 1: I braked as I approached a stop sign, but instead the car accelerated, running the stop sign. 12/16/24 Incident 2: I braked to slow down to turn right, but instead the car accelerated. There were no prior warnings or indications of the problem.
Dec 16, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that the vehicle was shifted into reverse with the brake pedal depressed; however, the vehicle independently accelerated. The vehicle reversed quickly; however, the contact's wife was able to regain control of the vehicle. The contact's wife stated that the failure recurred while shifted into drive with the brake pedal depressed. The contact stated while driving under 5 MPH, the vehicle independently accelerated forward. The contact's wife stated that the second failure recurred. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.
May 07, 2024
+ 11 more complaints for this component
ENGINE
14 complaints
I been hearing a loud humming sound like a sports car and smell of fumes inside the cabin.
Oct 30, 2025
Hi I had my car into the local Subaru Dealership (Wheeling Subaru) a few weeks ago to investigate a couple of issues that the car has been having for years (and they have never been able to find). Over the course of that investigation, they finally were able to recreate two issues that should have been covered under the warranty since it's been happening and reported to them for years (the seat memory programming button isn't working and the right sight steering wheel controller isn't working). The parts and labor for those two issues come to $545. But the much bigger issue is that they told me the engine needs to be pulled out and resealed because of cam carrier and spark plug gasket leaks, and that repair is $5,076 plus tax. When I expressed astonishment over this and asked what is going on, the service advisor explained this is a common problem with Subaru cars from this model year because of the switch from timing belts to whatever it has now. with the CVT engine I looked around online and discovered that this is a common issue with 2017 Outbacks. I thought I was making an investment that would last when I bought a brand new Subaru rather than a Ford, Honda, Toyota, Hyundai, etc because Subaru was supposed to be a car that did not have poor quality manufacturing issues like this. Given that this appears to be a common issue with the way this model and year car was manufactured, I am very upset that Subaru is not fixing this under recall but is expecting me to pay $5076 (before tax) to have what was explained to me as a manufacturing defect repaired. Since I've seen a lot of reports for other Subaru owners of this issue, I was advised to file a report with you to investigate. Thank you so much for investigating. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Mar 21, 2025
PER SUBARUS BULLETIN 02-192-25 POSED ON 10-26-2024 THEY PROVIDED DETAILS ON HOW TO FIX A LEAK FROM ZONE 4 FOR CAM SHAFT CARRIER AND VALVE COVER. I HAVE A LEAK FROM THESE TWO ITEMS NOTED. I HAVE BEEN BREATHING THE OIL FUMES FOR WHO KNOWS HOW LONG. I HAVE HAD THESE ISSUES CONFIRMED BY BOTH SUBARU DEALERSHIP SERVICE CENTER AND AN INDEPENDENT SERVICE CENTER. NO ENGINE LIGHTS HAVE BEEN DISPLAYED OR CAME ON TO INDICATE ANY OF THESES ISSUES. THE ODOR OF STRONG OIL JUST GOT WORSE OVER TIME AND MY VEHICLE ONLY HAS 87000 ORIGINAL MILES ON IT AND HAS PROPER DOCUMENTED OIL CHANGE AND SERVICE EVERY 3000 MILES.
Mar 11, 2025
My Subaru Outback developed a strong smell of exhaust in the cabin last year. We finally had a chance to get it fixed in January, and it turned out the catalytic converter manifold had rusted through. The car is not that old, and is driven primarily in central North Carolina where road salt is not a major concern. An internet search reveals many other drivers with the same issue - metal corrosion at the "accordion" part of the exhaust pipe. I have no idea how much engine exhaust my family and I were exposed to, but it was significant enough to cause headaches and exhaustion.
Mar 05, 2024
There is a known cam carrier leak issue for this engine, and no safety recall has been issued. The motor oil leaks down to the hot exhaust creating smokes and may cause a fire.
Aug 11, 2023
+ 9 more complaints for this component
STRUCTURE
13 complaints
On 08/17/17 I purchased a new Outback off a Subaru dealers' lot. The fall of 2023 I noticed rust starting on the column portion of the driver's side door. It is on the CAR INTERIOR, ABOVE THE WINDOW. This is a highly unusual area for rust to start. Typically rust starts on the bottom of a car, not 2/3 of the way up from the bottom. I was told by the dealership that it was not covered under warranty, and I was on my own. On 10/22/24 I went to an autobody shop to have the rust repaired. I was told that based off of the bubbling that was occurring on the rust, the rust is not surface rust but occurring on the interior of the door. He said that this was a flaw in production as this should not be occurring. This is evident by the fact that there is no rust on any of the other doors or anywhere else on the car. I called the Subaru dealership and had them look at it. They did not have an autobody shop but the appointment clerk submitted a request for a review to Subaru of Americ. The outcome of the review was a rejection due to being beyond the warranty of the car. This was a production error. I drove out of the lot with a defective door. This resulted in the door being completely rusted on the interior as is evident by the rust through on the INTERIOR of the door. Also, the rust is now presenting itself on the bottom seam. To have this patched is a waste of money as the whole door interior is rusted. I am concerned about the integrity of the door. If I was T-boned or in a roll-over accident, would this door provide the safety I am expecting from a fairly new car? I believe it will crumble in a pile of rust. Subaru is aware of this issue as there are a couple of forums about this reoccurring problem. I hope enough people file a complaint so some action can be taken to keep us safe. I am now forced to pay out $3,368.53 in order to replace the door so I and my passengers have the safest auto construction this car should offer. Car is available.
Jan 06, 2025
When I drove on the highway 90 on Oct 5th, 2024, my windshield suddenly cracked.
Oct 05, 2024
Retractable sun roof exploded/disintegrated while vehicle was under power on an open road . Photo of damage exceeds the maximum size for uploading. Can be transmitted by email if desired
Jan 19, 2023
While driving on 9/14/21 at about 40 mph, we heard a loud crash and the sound of broken glass. I pulled off the road shortly after to inspect my vehicle and found that the sun/moon roof had literally exploded. The shade was closed and no broken glass entered the passenger compartment. Upon closer inspection, the remaining hole in the sun roof (measuring approx. 14 in. wide by 8 inches deep) indicated that the force breaking the glass had come from the inside rather than the outside as the rim around the hole was convex rather than concave. Also there was very little glass resting on the outside surface of the closed shade inside the cavity, with the majority of it on the roof toward the rear of the vehicle. I am now in discussion with both my insurance company and the dealer that I bought the vehicle from. I did take 3 pictures but am unsure how to send them with this report.
Sep 15, 2021
THE WINDSHIELD IS CRACKING AND IT SEEMS TO BE WITHOUT ANY REASON. THERE IS A VERY TINY DINK THAT CAN BE SEEN, BUT THE CRACK IS SIGNIFICANT COMPARED TO THE SLIGHT DINK. THERE WAS NO INCIDENT THAT OCCURRED PRIOR TO MY NOTICING THE CRACK.
Feb 09, 2021
+ 8 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
11 complaints
I was recently involved in a multi-car accident, where the vehicle rammed into my outback from behind, leading to a spin-up and hit again by the driver side, forcing me to collide into a vehicle that had side-lined on a highway. In this situation, I would expect the airbags to get deployed, but to my surprise and shock, none of the airbags were deployment (both frontal as well as side)
Apr 09, 2026
Was in a car accident was hit from left front side and left rear passenger door. Other vehicle was going 62 mph when impacted. None of the air bags deployed in the vehicle. I hit my head twice on the window and was knocked unconscious. Insurance will be inspecting vehicle. No lights or failure before accident about airbags.
Sep 18, 2024
While troubleshooting an erratic cruise control switch, my mechanic found that the clock spring switch in my steering wheel was defective. This means that my air bags are disconnected and will not deploy in case of an accident. He read this from the cars computer yet my car did not alert me. The issue with the cruise control is connected so I know the problem has been there for likely months. This failure to alert me could have resulted in a death.
Nov 22, 2023
My airbag indicator light on the passenger side comes on. Then it goes off. Then it comes on again sometime and goes off. It has been off a while. But to me this indicates a system issue with the passenger airbag.
May 14, 2023
The SRS Warning light triggered on 1/12/2022. I took my vehicle to Hendrick’s Subaru in Hoover, Alabama on 1/13/2022. The service technician, using computer error codes, determined that the airbag control unit had failed. This repair will be approximately $1600.00 and I believe that my Outback should have been part of an airbag recall campaign WUX-09R. It was explained to me that the control module replacement will require the installation of a new passenger side airbag. This led me to investigate air bag issues on the NHTSA website.I feel that the scope of Recall Campaign WUX-09R should be expanded and I should not have to bear the cost of a known issue.
Jan 13, 2022
+ 6 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
10 complaints
After the car is shifted into park and the key is turned it does not shut off. The key remains stuck in the ingition.
Jun 02, 2024
Despite a replacement and multiple visits from AAA, the battery in our 2017 Subaru Outback dies constantly and leaves us stranded. Mechanics insist the batteries (both the original and the replacement) are fine and there must be a greater issue with the car itself. We drive regularly, run the engine in the driveway otherwise, and still continue to wake up and find the car dead.
Dec 05, 2022
I drove my Outback for 10 minutes. I stopped to run an errand that took 30 minutes. I then tried to start the car and it wouldn't start. All the lights on the dash turned on. I then tried several more times. It still would not start. Then I waited several minutes and it started. I drove it home. I have since tried to start it several times and it has started. The car has slightly less than 20K miles on it. This has never happened before. It was a very hot day - nearly 100 degrees and I was quite panicky that it would not start. I was worried I would be stranded. There was never any indication before that something like this might happen. I am going to call the dealership tomorrow.
Aug 01, 2021
IN 2018 THE BATTERY KEPT DYING AND HAD GO BE REPLACED. NOW, IN 2012, THE SAME THING IS HAPPENING AGAIN. IT HAD TO BE JUMPED OFF YESTERDAY MORNING, AGAIN THIS MORNING AND NOW THIS EVENING IS DEAD AGAIN. THE CAR ONLY HAS A VERY LITTLE OVER 32,000 ACTUAL MILES ON IT. THE VEHICLE IS KEOPT IN THE GARAGE ALL THE TIME AND THIS IS WHERE IT IS AS IT IS DYING.
May 01, 2021
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START MULTIPLE TIMES WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT PURCHASED A BATTERY CHARGER TO CHARGE THE BATTERY. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED OFF, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL SOUND COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE RECURRED 3 ADDITIONAL TIMES. NEIL HUFFMAN AUTOMOTIVE GROUP (1220 VERSAILLES RD, FRANKFORT, KY 40601, (502) 695-7500) WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE DEALER RECOMMENDED THAT THE VEHICLE BE TAKEN IN TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 24,000.
Apr 20, 2021
+ 5 more complaints for this component
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
10 complaints
While car was in motion car just stalled. Upon reading recalls the maker of the fuel pump which produce these pumps has recalled other models. Denso and Subaru should check these other models and replace the known issue. Vehicle had to be towed for safety of myself and my son.
Mar 08, 2023
On December 1, 2022, as I jockeyed my car out of my garage it accelerated as I tried to break and I slowly drove into a stack of boxes at the back of the garage. No damage and I was able to back out and continue my journey. My wife was in the car with me. I continued on my trip to North Carolina without incident. On Dec 5, 2022, on our return home I exited the highway in southern Pa. to get supper. After I entered the off ramp and then prepared to obey a yield sign, the car again accelerated despite my attempt to brake. I swerved to the right to avoid any traffic and the car did eventually stop. Again no damage. Subsequently we resumed our travel and arrived home with no further incident. On December 6, 2022, as I backed out of the garage again it accelerated as I tempted to brake. Fortunately no damage and the car did finally stop in the driveway. I called the dealer and drove the car in for a checkup. They found no problems and reported the car ran as designed. While in the service department they replaced the muffler, put in new spark plugs and replaced a wheel bearing. I have had no further problems since I picked up the car on December 12, 2022. The dealership was very cooperative but I wanted to issue this concern with your agency in case there have been other complaints of this nature. I drive my car with some anxiety that another incident may recur. Thank you for your review and anticipated response. [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Dec 14, 2022
CAR LOST POWER AND ENGINE SHUT DOWN WHILE AT FREEWAY SPEED WITH 1/8 TANK APPARENT REMAINING ON THE GAS GAUGE AND 60 MILES REMAINING ON THE MILES TO GO INDICATOR. ADDED 1 GALLON AT ROADSIDE AND CAR STARTED IMMEDIATELY. ADDED AN ADDITIONAL 15.5 GALLONS AT A STATION 12 MILES FROM POINT THE ENGINE SHUT DOWN. THIS LEAVES BETWEEN 2 AND 2.5 GALLONS OF UNUSED FUEL IN THE TANK AT THE POINT THE CAR SHUT DOWN FROM FUEL STARVATION.
Jan 29, 2020
FUEL GAUGE IS INACCURATE AND DOES NOT SHOW NEAR EMPTY WHEN NO USABLE FUEL IS LEFT IN THE TANK. WE WERE DRIVING TO AN EVENT WITH SLIGHTLY LESS THAN 1/4 OF A TANK OF GAS REMAINING WHEN THE VEHICLE RAN OUT OF FUEL. COMPLETE ENGINE STALL (NO SPUTTERING/ETC. BEFORE) AT 70MPH ON THE HIGHWAY, REQUIRING AN EMERGENCY STOP ACROSS SEVERAL LANES OF TRAFFIC. THIS IS CLEARLY A DANGEROUS PROBLEM, AND IT SEEMS SEVERAL OTHER 2017 OUTBACK OWNERS HAVE REPORTED SIMILAR ISSUES. IT APPEARS TO BE SIMILAR TO THE 2018 FUEL GAUGE RECALL (WTW-82) BUT FOR 2017 VEHICLES. UNFORTUNATELY, I DIDN'T THINK TO TAKE A PICTURE OF THE FUEL GAUGE, BUT WAS ACTUALLY PAYING CLOSE ATTENTION AS I HAD RECEIVED THE NOTIFICATION FOR SUBARU'S WUD-89 "DISTANCE-TO-EMPTY SOFTWARE UPDATE," SO I KNEW THE DISTANCE-TO-EMPTY INDICATOR WAS WRONG, BUT GIVEN THE NOTICE SAID NOTHING ABOUT THE FUEL GAUGE ITSELF AND ONLY MENTIONED THE DTE SOFTWARE WAS INCORRECT, I MADE THE NATURAL ASSUMPTION THAT THE GAUGE ITSELF WAS STILL AT LEAST REMOTELY ACCURATE.
Apr 15, 2019
WE WERE TRAVELING ON THE INTERSTATE AND THE MILES TO GO BEFORE NEEDING FUEL MONITORING SYSTEM SAID WE HAD 60 MILES OF FUEL LEFT. WHEN REACHED 30 MILES OF FUEL LEFT ON THE FUEL MONITORING SYSTEM THE CAR DIED AS IF WE WERE OUT OF GAS. IT WOULD NOT START AGAIN UNTIL BE PUT FUEL IN THE TANK. I FEEL THIS IS A DANGEROUS LIABILITY. IT JUST SO HAPPENED THAT WE HAD TAKEN AN EXIT AND COULDN'T EVEN MAKE IT TO THE GAS STATION WE COULD SEE A 100 YARDS FROM THE EXIT. WE DID MANAGE TO GET THE CAR PULLED OFF TO THE SIDE OF A VERY BUSY HIGHWAY, BUT IT WAS TO DANGEROUS TO LET ANYONE WALK TO THE STATION AND HAD TO CALL SOMEONE FOR HELP. I HEARD THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM BUT WE DID NOT RECEIVE A NOTICE FOR OUR CAR. I AM FILING THIS REPORT BECAUSE I FEEL SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE BEFORE IT HAPPENS AGAIN. WE CAN'T TRUST THE FUEL GAUGE AND THEREFORE WE MAKE SURE IT DOESN'T GET VERY LOW BEFORE REFUELING.
Feb 02, 2019
+ 5 more complaints for this component
STEERING
10 complaints
On January 24th, 2022, during a regularly scheduled maintenance services appointment at a Subaru dealership, the service technician discovered that the steering rack on my 2017 Subaru Outback needed replacement. At that time, I was advised it would be unsafe/dangerous to continue to drive my vehicle, unless I immediately replaced the steering rack. Therefore, at the guidance of the Subaru dealership, namely Freehold Subaru, I gave my consent for them to proceed with replacement of the steering components, which cost $2,223.86 (plus tax). Evidence of the cost is a copy of the detailed invoice and proof of payment is available upon request. At the time when the steering components were replaced, I was not aware of the Subaru Outback recall which involved steering components, nor did the Subaru dealership bring it to my attention, perhaps because they were also not aware of this specific recall. The recall I’m referring to is described under NHTSA Campaign Number 16V292000 (dated May 11th, 2016). As I paid for the steering rack replacement out of my own pocket, on November 29th, 2022, I contacted Subaru of America to seek reimbursement because this should’ve been covered under the steering components recall mentioned above. On December 15th, 2022, I received a message from Subaru of America stating that my particular Subaru’s VIN was not included in the recall. In my mind, this may have been an unintentional oversight on the part of the Subaru dealership by not including my Subaru’s VIN in the recall, when clearly other SAME Year Make and Model as my car (2017 Subaru Outback) were included in the recall.
Jan 18, 2023
Paddle shift levers--which are positioned on the steering wheel as opposed to the steering column--are too square-edged (shape), which is a design defect that can cause loss of steering control. Specifically, the sharp corner can catch on coat zippers. I was driving East, took a right turn, and intended to procced with driving South. When I attempted to straighten out the wheel, however, I was unable to do so. The paddle shifter corner "hooked" my coat zipper, along the track. This caused me to lose control of my vehicle steering, which resulted in collision with a bus stop/stand and a citation for failure to stay within my driving lane. The coat was a bit longer since it was fairly cold that morning. The zipper mechanism was made of a plastic material. The zipper was fully zipped, not half zipped and half unzipped. If the paddle shift levers were more round in shape/design, then the risk of the lever "hooking" onto clothing decreases significantly. I found examples of where other Subaru Outback drivers expressed concerns about the positioning and shape of the levers posing as a safety hazard, too.
Jan 08, 2023
KEY GET STUCK IN THE IGNITION LATELY WHEN I TURN OFF THE ENGINE AND IT TAKES AWHILE BEFORE IT'S RELEASED FROM THE IGNITION. I HAVE 52K PLUS MILES NOW ON MY 2017 SUBARU OUTBACK.
Feb 02, 2021
WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS ON CLEAR DRY ROADWAYS, THE STEERING FEELS AS IF I HAVE A BRIEF LOSS OF CONTROL. I LIKEN IT TO HITTING A PATCH OF ICE AND HAVING A SLIGHT LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL. I'VE NOTICED IT TWICE WHILE ENTERING A CURVE AND DECELERATING FROM 55 MPH TO 45 MPH (THE REDUCED SPEED LIMIT OF THE CURVE). THIS ISSUE HAPPENS ONLY INTERMITTENTLY AND IS ONLY NOTICEABLE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. WE HAD THE SUBARU DEALER LOOK AT IT AND THEY SAID NOTHING WAS WRONG.
Dec 28, 2019
THE KEY GETS STUCK IN THE IGNITION AND WILL NOT RELEASE. HAVE TO LEAVE THE KEY IN IGNITION ALL THE TIME.
Nov 26, 2019
+ 5 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
7 complaints
My windshield (which has had multiple class action lawsuits) cracked spontaneously sitting in my driveway. I contacted Subaru of America and they denied any responsibility and claimed there is no assistance they can provide. This crack has gone from about half of my windshield to nearly the entire windshield horizontally. This is clearly a defective product as numerous complaints have been made by owners of multiple Subaru models including the Outback. This is indeed a huge safety concern along with a very unfortunate lack of accountability by Subaru of America.
Jun 18, 2025
My Windshield was replaced on [XXX] for a spontaneous crack occurring behind the review mirror and where the eyesight is located. The crack was very long and serpentine-like. There was no history of "rock" damage. On [XXX] , 6,807 miles on city street driving early in the morning, another crack in the replacement windshield occurred spontaneously. I took the car to ONE Subaru of Hayward and they wanted $250 to tell me the window was cracked. Their first response was it is a result of a rock. This is the exact location and pattern of breakage as the window was replaced in [XXX]. I have 3 Subaru outbacks, and my daughter's 2015 broke in the exact location twice. My daughter's car was in the garage for two weeks while on vacation. Her Vin [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Aug 27, 2024
Windshield Cracked for no apparent reason. Parked the car in front of the house for a few hours. When I came out the windshield had a 6" crack (starting at the bottom of the windshield going up then towards the passenger side of the vehicle). by the next day it was more than 12".
Jan 11, 2023
A spontaneous crack began at the bottom, center of my windshield about a week ago and began inching up and over. It is continuing to grow while I try to figure out where and when to have it replaced. I live in the mountains and this is not an easy trip to the dealer. While searching for a dealer to replace the windshield, I found the problem with spontaneous cracks in other Outbacks.
Mar 15, 2022
ON THE MORNING OF FEBRUARY 23, 2018 AND WENT OUT TO MY VEHICLE THAT WAS PARKED (STATIONARY) IN MY ENCLOSED COVERED GARAGE TO FIND A GIANT CRACK THROUGH MY WINDSHIELD WITH NO DISCERNABLE CAUSE.
Feb 19, 2021
+ 2 more complaints for this component
VISIBILITY/WIPER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
5 complaints
WINDSHIELD WAS CRACKED FROM STONE CHIP. HAD TO BE REPLACED AND EYESIGHT SYSTEM RECALIBRATED. SECOND WINDSHIELD WAS INSTALLED. HAS 2 STONE CHIPS. I HAVE NEVER HAD TO HAVE A WINDSHIELD REPLACED PRIOR TO OWNING THIS CAR.
Jan 24, 2021
VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION ON A HIGHWAY WHEN THE DRIVER HEARD THE WINDSHIELD CRACK. DRIVER NEVER SAW ANY ITEM STRIKE THE WINDSHIELD. BECAUSE EYESIGHT SENSORS HAVE TO BE RECALIBRATED AFTER A WINDSHIELD REPLACEMENT, THIS INCIDENT COST ALMOST $1000 TO REPAIR.
Dec 10, 2020
MY VEHICLE DEVELOPED A CRACK THAT HAS TRANSVERSED THE ENTIRETY OF THE WINDSHIELD, NECESSITATING ITS REPLACEMENT. THE CRACK BEGAN ON THE LOWER LEFT (DRIVER'S) SIDE AND MOVED ACROSS TO THE RIGHT (PASSENGER'S) SIDE BEFORE CURVING BACK AND UPWARD TOWARD THE LOCATION OF THE REARVIEW MIRROR. THIS HAS OBSCURED THE EYE SIGHT CAMERAS AND IMPAIRED THE SAFETY MECHANISMS IN THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED WHEN THE CRACK BEGAN WITH NO PRECIPITATING DAMAGE OBSERVED TO THE WINDSHIELD. THE CRACK CONTINUED TO GROW OVER THE COURSE OF SEVERAL DAYS. ~`````````````
Dec 06, 2020
I HAD A CRACK REPAIRED, IT ISN'T GOOD THOUGH.
Nov 28, 2020
WINDSHIELD CRACKED
Nov 22, 2020
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
4 complaints
Headlight lenses fill up with water on interior of lenses causes headlights to distort lighting and reduced visibility.
Feb 15, 2025
My 2017 Subaru outback has moisture forming inside the passenger side headlight. Temperature does not appear to be a cause. The concern is freezing and light distortion affecting the night time auto headlight dimmer. There are no apparent cracks and front end has not been in any collision. Issue was noticed at least two months ago. Dealer is talking to manufacturer.
Nov 01, 2023
THE HEADLIGHTS (HID WITH AUTO-LEVELING) ARE POINTED DANGEROUSLY LOW. THEY DO NOT ILLUMINATE THE ROAD AHEAD FAR ENOUGH. A DRIVER WOULD HAVE VERY LITTLE TIME TO REACT, GIVEN THIS LIMITED ILLUMINATION DISTANCE. SUBARU DEALERSHIPS ARE ADAMANT THE HEADLIGHTS ARE ADJUSTED TO SPECIFICATIONS. THERE ARE MANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS ISSUE ALL OVER THE INTERNET FROM OWNERS, AND THE DEALERSHIPS I'VE MENTIONED THIS ISSUE TO HAVE EXPLAINED THEY ARE AWARE OF THE COMPLAINTS, BUT THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO. I AM VERY WORRIED FOR OUR SAFETY AND FOR THE PEDESTRIANS/VEHICLES WE WOULD NOT SEE IN TIME TO STOP. WE PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE NEW, AND THIS IS NOT A NEW ISSUE. I HAVE TRIED TO ADDRESS IT FOR SEVERAL YEARS. WHEN THE VEHICLE IS ACCELERATING FROM A STOPLIGHT, FOR EXAMPLE, THE HEADLIGHTS ARE BASICALLY FINE (GIVEN THE SHIFT OF WEIGHT TO THE REAR WHICH HAS THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE AIMED A BIT HIGHER), BUT AS SOON AS THE VEHICLE LEVELS OUT, THE ISSUE IS VERY EVIDENT. THE AUTOMATIC HIGH BEAM FEATURE SIMPLY DOES NOT COMPENSATE, AS THE AUTOMATIC HIGH BEAMS ARE NOT INTUITIVE ENOUGH TO PERFECTLY ACTIVATE AND STAY ACTIVATED EVERY TIME (IT MISREADS SURROUNDING STREET LIGHTS, FOR EXAMPLE, AS ONCOMING HEADLIGHTS VERY EASILY.
Apr 03, 2021
SUBARU MARKETS THEIR HIGH BEAM ASSIST (HBA) FEATURE AS WORKING 'IN CONJUNCTION WITH EYESIGHT TO AUTOMATICALLY SWITCH THE HEADLIGHTS BETWEEN THE HIGH AND LOW SETTINGS WHEN AN ONCOMING VEHICLE IS DETECTED.' THAT'S NOT ENTIRELY TRUE AND THAT'S WHERE THE SAFETY ISSUE COMES INTO PLAY. THE HBA FEATURE TURNS OFF HIGH BEAMS AT LOWER SPEEDS NO MATTER IF AN ONCOMING CAR IS PRESENT AND ABSOLUTELY TURNS THEM OFF AT A STOP SIGN. THIS MAKES FOR TRAVELING AT LOW SPEEDS IN RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITIES DANGEROUS. IN OUR COMMUNITY, FOR EXAMPLE, IT'S VERY HILLY AND CURVY WITH A LOT OF WILDLIFE AND PEOPLE WHO WALK/JOG SO SPEEDS ARE OFTEN BELOW 20 MPH, THE SPEED AT WHICH SUBARU'S MANUAL SAYS THIS FEATURE WORKS. IF ANYTHING, WHEN THERE IS NO ONCOMING TRAFFIC IN A RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITIES HIGH BEAMS SHOULD ALWAYS BE ON AT NIGHT. THIS ALLOWS FOR THE EARLIER DETECTION OF PEOPLE AND ANIMALS. IN TALKING TO SUBARU THEY REALLY DIDN'T CARE AT ALL THAT THIS CREATED A DANGEROUS SITUATION AND OFFERED TO TELL THEIR ENGINEERS. OF COURSE, THIS CAN BE TURNED OFF, BUT ONLY BY VISITING A DEALER AND PAYING THEM TO FIX SUBARU'S DESIGN FLAW. NHTSA SHOULD REQUIRE SUBARU TO 1) FIX THIS FEATURE SO THAT IT ONLY DIMS HIGH BEAMS WHEN THERE IS ONCOMING TRAFFIC; AND 2) REQUIRE SUBARU OFFER TO DISABLE THE FEATURE FREE OF CHARGE AT ANY AUTHORIZED DEALER UNTIL THE PROBLEM IS FIXED.
Aug 30, 2016
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
4 complaints
accelerator dangerously increased and could not slow down. i pressed the ignition button(to kill the engine and was "jamming on the brakes to no avail. to my knowledge subaru has not recalled vehicles for these reasons. no warning lamps or other symptoms. my car traveled approximately 1/4 before it stopped. i took out a tree or trees knocked down a light pole which slowed me down, hit a utility trailer. owner of trailer estimated my speed at 40mph. i was driving approximately 20mph when it violently accelerated. she witnessed my ride.
Jul 25, 2023
I was driving my 2017 Subaru Outback on a trip from New York to Florida. On I-95 in heavy traffic I hit a bump in the road, and at that instant, nearly every warning light on my dash came on, including EyeSight, lane departure, and emergency braking. My adaptive cruise immediately disengaged causing the vehicle to suddenly slow (this incident was at highway speed). The "brake" light was also illuminated. Not knowing what happened, I pulled over on the side of the highway and found that the wire to the electric parking brake on the passenger side had disconnected from the brake module. I tried to plug it back in, but it would not stay. I secured the cable with a hair tie and continued on the trip. Approximately 500 miles later, I hit another bump or pothole, and the same thing happened. I checked under the car again, and discovered that the driver side had failed in the same manner. I secured the cable with another hair tie and was able to complete my trip. When I returned home, I discovered that this is a known issue and there is a Subaru TSB published, 06-63-18R. There is no warranty on this issue, and I was charged nearly $750 to fix a KNOWN PROBLEM caused by a plastic retainer. In my opinion, this issue should be treated as a safety defect and subject to a recall to replace with the newer part. Having all of your vehicle assists suddenly fail at highway speed in heavy traffic is a disconcerting and dangerous event.
Nov 22, 2022
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 SUBARU OUTBACK. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY STOPPED, IT ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, BUT THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED CHEST AND STOMACH INJURIES AND THE CONTACT SUSTAINED WRIST INJURIES, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO YARK SUBARU (6141 CENTRAL AVE, TOLEDO, OH 43615). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 20,500.
Aug 06, 2018
WHILE BRAKING AT AN INTERSECTION THE CAR WOULD SUDDENLY ACCELERATE INTO THE INTERSECTION. THIS HAPPENS OFTEN. I NEED TO CONCENTRATE ON MY FOOT POSITION EVERY TIME I HIT THE BRAKES TO MAKE SURE THAT MY FOOT DOES NOT ACCIDENTALLY HIT THE GAS ALSO. FOR YOUR INFORMATION, I AM 6 FEET TALL AND WEAR A SIZE 11 1/2 SHOE.
Nov 25, 2017
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
4 complaints
My battery has died seven times. I have received three battery replacements. Never a full solution. Windshield wipers never work properly either, despite changing brands.
Dec 14, 2021
MY WINDSHIELD CRACKED ON THE INSIDE OF THE WINDOW WITHOUT ANY FORCE APPLIED ON A MODERATE TEMPERATURE DAY WITHOUT AC OR HEAT BLOWING. I WAS DRIVING DOWN A STRAIGHT WELL-MAINTAINED ROAD WHEN IT HAPPENED AND HEARD THE POP OF THE WINDSHIELD. APPROX SPEED WAS 20MPH WITH NO STREET BUMPS AND AGAIN ON A VERY CALM DAY AS FAR AS TEMPERATURE. ALSO, NO EQUIPMENT OR PEOPLE AROUND WHO COULD HAVE SEEMED TO 'TOSSED' ANYTHING AT THE WINDSHIELD. THE CRACK IS ON THE INTERIOR LAYER OF THE WINDSHEILD AND NOT THE OUTTER. ALSO, I HAVE HAD 2 INSTANCES NOW WHERE MY CAR HAS COMPLETELY DIED WITHOUT ANY ITEMS BEING LEFT ON TO DRAIN THE BATTERY. FIRST TIME WAS AFTER THE CAR HAD BEEN OFF ONLY A HOUR OR SO AND COMPLETELY DEAD. I REPLEACED THE BATTERY AND AT THAT POINT THE CAR WAS ONLY 2 YEARS OLD. THE SECOND TIME THE BATTERY AND SYSTEMS TESTED ALL FINE BUT IT WAS SO DEAD, POWER LOCKS WOULDNT WORK WITH THE KEY FOB.
Apr 20, 2021
1) WINDSHIELD CRACKED OVERNIGHT WHILE PARKED IN AN ENCLOSED GARAGE. THIS OCCURRED WITHIN THE FIRST FEW MONTHS OF OWNERSHIP. 2) THE ADVANCED COLLISION DETECTION/ LANE TRACKING SYSTEM CALLED EYESIGHT FAILED WITHIN THE FIRST FEW MONTHS OF OWNERSHIP. 3) BATTERY HAS REPEATEDLY FAILED AND REQUIRED ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE. CAR WAS PARKED IN AB ENCLOSED GARAGE MOST OF THE TIMES WHEN THIS FAILURE OCCURRED. 3) CURRENTLY, A FLAT TIRE INDICATOR IS ON EVEN THOUGH ALL TIRES ARE PROPERLY INFLATED. NOTE: EXCEPT FOR THE WINDSHIELD CASE, THE DEALER HAS BEEN UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE OR DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM AND THE ONLY REMEDY PROVIDED WAS A BATTERY REPLACEMENT.
Feb 17, 2021
MY WINDSHIELD HAS CRACKED WITHOUT BEING HIT BY ANYTHING ACROSS THE BOTTOM NEAR THE WIPERS. MY BATTERY CONTINUES TO DIE FOR NO REASON THAT I CAN FIND, EVEN AFTER I HAVE REPLACED IT. I DON'T LEAVE THE LIGHTS ON OR ANYTHING AND I CAN COME BACK TO MY CAR AND I HAVE TO JUMP IT. I HAVE ALSO BEEN IN IT AFTER DRIVING IT, STOPPED AND TURNED THE CAR OFF AND LISTENED TO THE RADIO AND 10 MINUTES LATER I GO TO TURN THE CAR BACK ON AND IT'S COMPLETELY DEAD. AFTER I GET IT GOING THE GATE WILL BEEP CONTINUOUSLY WHILE IT IS STILL CLOSED AND I HAVE TO RESET THE WHOLE VEHICLE TO GET THE BEEPING TO STOP. I TOOK IT TO GET CHECKED AND THEY TOLD ME TO REPLACE THE BATTERY. WHEN I GOT THE BATTERY CHECKED FOR POWER NOTHING SEEMED TO BE WRONG WITH THE BATTERY. AND YET THIS CONTINUES TO HAPPEN.
May 17, 2020
SERVICE BRAKES
4 complaints
TWICE, DURING A TIME PERIOD OF 10 MINUTES, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED SUDDENLY WHEN THE BRAKE WAS APPLIED. I COULD HEAR AND FEEL THE ACCELERATOR KICK IN WHEN MY FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE -- THE VEHICLE WAS PROPELLED FORWARD. FIRST AT A STOP SIGN BEFORE PULLING OUT ONTO A BUSY CITY STREET, THEN 10 MINUTES LATER WHEN STOPPING TO ALLOW CROSS TRAFFIC TO CLEAR BEFORE PULLING OUT OF A PARKING LOT. PAVEMENT WAS DRY (NO ICE, SNOW, OR WATER). I KNOW THAT MY FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE AND NOT THE ACCELERATOR. CALLED THE DEALER AND BROUGHT IT IN IMMEDIATELY. OVER ABOUT A 3-WEEK PERIOD, THE DEALER EVALUATED THE VEHICLE AND HAD A SAFETY ENGINEER FROM CORPORATE COME IN TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE, AND THE CONCLUSION WAS THAT NOTHING WAS WRONG WITH THE CAR, AND NOTHING SHOWED UP ON THE VEHICLE LOGS/DATA TO INDICATE A PROBLEM. I SAID I REFUSED TO DRIVE THE CAR ANYMORE. WE DECIDED TO TRADE IT IN, AND THEY DIDN'T GIVE US ANY TRADE IN ASSISTANCE BECAUSE THEY SAID NOTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. HOWEVER, THEY DID GIVE US $2,500 COUPON TOWARDS A BRAND NEW, 2020, VEHICLE, WHICH WE USED. *TR
May 16, 2020
I HAD TWO SIGNIFICANT BRAKING PROBLEMS WITHIN TWO DAYS. BOTH DAYS WERE CLEAR AND SUNNY, WITH NO SNOW, ICE OR RAIN. THE FIRST OCCURRED WHEN MY WIFE AND I WERE ON A LOCAL STREET. I STEPPED ON THE BRAKE TO STOP AT AN INTERSECTION. INSTEAD OF STOPPING, THE CAR ACCELERATED INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC. FORTUNATELY, THE DRIVER COMING TO MY RIGHT WAS ABLE TO STOP BEFORE PLOWING INTO MY CAR. MY WIFE AND I AVOIDED A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. THE FOLLOWING DAY WE WERE COMING UP TO A RED LIGHT BEHIND ANOTHER CAR IN THE TURN LANE. I STEPPED ON THE BRAKE - CAREFULLY SO I DIDN'T ACCELERATE - AND THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY DOWN TO THE FLOOR. EYESIGHT ASSISTED BRAKING STOPPED THE CAR BEFORE I REAR-ENDED THE CAR IN FRONT. SINCE IT WAS A TURN LANE, THE CAR IN FRONT MOVED UP AND I SLOWLY MOVED FORWARD. ONCE AGAIN THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT DOWN TO THE FLOOR AND ASSISTED BRAKING STOPPED THE CAR. I PULLED OVER ONTO A SIDE STREET AND THE BRAKES WORKED, BUT WERE SPONGY. FOR THE REST OF THE WAY HOME, ABOUT 3 MILES, THE BRAKES WORKED OK. AFTER THE SECOND INCIDENT MY WIFE AND I DISCUSSED WHAT HAPPENED. WE CAME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT WE BOTH HAD SIMILAR EXPERIENCES, TO A LESSER EXTENT, WITH THE CAR ACCELERATING WHEN BRAKING. WE BOTH THOUGHT THAT WE DID SOMETHING WRONG, BUT AFTER THE DRAMATIC ACCELERATION INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC REALIZED THAT IT WAS THE CAR. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP. OVER A FEW DAYS TIME THEY COULDN'T FIND A PROBLEM AND REFERRED IT TO SUBARU CUSTOMER CARE. IT'S FOUR WEEKS SINCE THE FIRST INCIDENT AND THEY'RE NO CLOSER TO IDENTIFYING THE PROBLEM.
Mar 15, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT INTERMITTENTLY WHILE THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO COME TO A COMPLETE STOP. THE CONTACT THEN STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO HEUBERGER SUBARU (1080 MOTOR CITY DR., COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80905 (719) 475-1920) WHERE THE BRAKES NEEDED TO BE FLUSHED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT THEN STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHERE NO DIAGNOSTIC FAILURE CODES WERE FOUND AND THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE WHERE THE FIELD ENGINEER ALONG WITH TECHNICIAN INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND DETERMINED THAT NO FAILURE HAD OCCURRED, AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE WARMED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Mar 27, 2018
THE FIRST OF 4 INCIDENTS OCCURRED ON STATE HIGHWAY 509 WHEN TRAVELING WITH MY 12 YEAR OLD GRANDDAUGHTER IN THE PASSENGER SEAT. AT THE SPEED LIMIT OF 60 MPH IN THE RIGHT LANE, THE PARKING BRAKE APPLIED ITSELF WITHOUT BEING TOUCHED. THE CAR SHUTTERED VIOLENTLY AS IT TURNED TO THE RIGHT HEADING FOR THE SHOULDER AND SLOWED THE CAR TO 35-40MPH BEFORE I SAW THE BRAKE LIGHT ON THE DASH AND WAS ABLE TO TURN OFF THE PARKING BRAKE SWITCH LOCATED ON THE CENTER CONSOLE. 2ND TIME GOING 35MPH ON A LOCAL STREET WHEN THE SAME THING HAPPENED WITHOUT WARNING. 3RD TIME ON THE SAME HIGHWAY AS 1ST INCIDENT BUT AT 55MPH AND BY MYSELF. 4TH TIME THIS HAPPENED WAS RIGHT AFTER I PICKED UP THE CAR FROM THE SHOP WHERE THEY TRIED TO REPAIR THE PROBLEM AND WERE UNABLE TO FIX IT. I WAS ON THE FREEWAY ONRAMP TO HIGHWAY 509 STARTING TO MERGE ON A BRIDGE WHEN FOR NO REASON THE BRAKE APPLIED ITSELF. AGAIN THE DEALER SHOP WAS UNABLE TO REPAIR THE CAR AND I PICKED IT UP AND TOOK IT TO ANOTHER SUBARU DEALER. THE PAPERWORK STATES THAT THE CAR IS NOT TO BE DRIVEN HOME OR LONG DISTANCES. THIS SUBARU OUTBACK IS A VERY SEVERE SAFETY RISK IF I KEEP ON DRIVING IT.
Jan 08, 2018
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
3 complaints
Noticed rust bubble in the inner and outer paint of the driver front door pillar December 2021. Noticed it was getting substantially worse and reported it to Subaru July 2022. They said there was no pinhole in the rust and would not be covered. Showed it to Subaru again in 2023, and said it is not covered under their 5 year rust plan. It is now January 2024, and the paint as well as base metal is peeling from the door. It is clear there is damage to the base metal, and represents a weakened location in the door/frame/pillar structure should there be a rollover accident. Bought this car for its safety reputation. Online forums have noted that Subaru has replaced doors for this same premature failure of the door in the same location on multiple vehicles.
Jan 03, 2024
I have a 2017 Subaru Outback. It rained hard Monday night into Tuesday. When I got in my car Tuesday am to take my kids to school, there a small crack, maybe 3 inches, there was no crack previously. As I drove my kids to school we watched the crack grow larger and larger. There was no debris or anything near the windshield when we got it. It seems to me that a windshield should be able to withstand a hard rain. I googled it and it seems that Subaru's have problem with their windshields and it doesn't seem right. Thank you
Dec 15, 2021
I PURCHASED A BRAND NEW 2017 SUBARU OUTBACK, IN NOV 2019, WINDSHIELD CRACK BY ITSELF WITHOUT ANY EXTERNAL INFLUENCE DURING NORMAL DRIVING @ 9200 MILES, GOT NEW ONE REPLACED ON 12/5/19, THEN AFTER 3 MONTHS DRIVING LESS 500 MILES, IT CRACKED AGAIN. MADE REPORT TO SUBARU OF AMERICA, THEY DENY THE DEFECTIVE OF THEIR WINDSHIELD AND REFUSE TO BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPLACEMENT COST..
Mar 14, 2020
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
3 complaints
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while driving approximately 55 MPH, the vehicle unintendedly accelerated towards a truck in front. The contact used excessive force to depress the brake pedal to stop the vehicle. The contact stated that the braking distance was extended due to the failure. Additionally, there was an abnormal thumping sound heard while the vehicle was coming to an abrupt stop. The contact pulled to the side of the road and inspected the vehicle but found no cause for the failure. After waiting momentarily, the contact proceeded to drive, and the vehicle operated as needed. The vehicle had been taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 32,000.
Mar 09, 2023
FIRST BRAKING ISSUE (ALSO POWER TRAIN): THE BRAKE PEDAL IS ONLY SLIGHTLY HIGHER THAN THE HEIGHT OF THE GAS PEDAL. CONSEQUENTLY, SEVERAL TIMES WHILE DRIVING, MY RIGHT FOOT HAS HIT BOTH THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE GAS PEDAL SIMULTANEOUSLY, ESPECIALLY IN AN EMERGENCY SITUATION. IN SUCH INSTANCE, THE RESULT IS A POWER SURGE WHILE BRAKING, POTENTIALLY EXTENDING THE STOPPING DISTANCE OF THE CAR. OTHER CARS (NON-SUBARU) HAVE THE BRAKE PEDAL HIGHER, SO THIS SIMULTANEOUS APPLICATION OF BRAKES AND POWER IS LESS LIKELY TO HAPPEN. THE DEALER'S SERVICE MANAGER SAYS THE HEIGHT OF THE BRAKE PEDAL IS NOT ADJUSTABLE, AND REFERS OWNERS TO SUBARU'S CUSTOMER RETAIL SERVICES. SUBARU'S CUSTOMER RETAIL SERVICES CLAIMS THERE IS NO WAY TO ADJUST THE HEIGHT OF THE BRAKE PEDAL TO AVOID THIS PROBLEM. SECOND BRAKING ISSUE: UNLIKE OTHER CARS, THERE IS NO EMERGENCY HAND BRAKE OR FOOT BRAKE ON THE SUBARU, SO THE RISK OF AN ACCIDENT IS HIGH IF THE REGULAR BRAKES FAIL. THE BRAKES HAVE NOT YET FAILED, BUT THERE SHOULD BE REDUNDANCY FOR THIS CRITICAL BRAKING FUNCTION.
Jul 24, 2017
AS EXIT MY LEVEL GARAGE THE DRIVEWAY IS ON AT 9% DOWN SLOPE WHEN I PUT MY CAR IN REVERSE AND BACK UP OUT OF THE GARAGE AND THEN PLACE THE CAR TO DRIVE TO MOVE BACK UP THE DRIVEWAY TO LOAD MY WIFE AND GRANDCHILD THE CAR SLIPS BACKWARDS BETWEEN ONE AND 3 FEET OR THREE SECONDS OF HIS FULL SLIPPAGE. MY GRANDDAUGHTER AT TWO YEARS OF AGE DOES NOT KNOW THAT THE CAR WILL SLIP BACK WITHOUT CONTROL. THIS IS A SAFETY CONCERN AND CAN CAUSE CRITICAL HARM TO HER AND/OR MY WIFE. OTHER CAR MANUFACTURES CVT TRANSMISSIONS HAS ALMOST ZERO SLIPPAGE FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE. THIS CHARACTERISTIC ON THE 2017 SUBARU OUTBACK CREATES A VERY UNSAFE CONDITION AND IF SAFETY IS YOUR BIGGEST CONCERN I FIND THIS A BIG SAFETY CHARACTERISTIC AND IF I KNEW THIS BEFORE I WOULD NOT HAVE LEASED THIS VEHICLE.
Mar 20, 2017
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
3 complaints
I purchased a used 2017 Subaru Outback in December 2020 from a friend whose mother had owned the car before her death in Nov. 2019. That owner purchased it used from dealer in Sevierville TN in 2019 and had to replace a battery at least once according to records. The battery has failed three times since Dec. 2020, totally drained and would not recharge so a replacement was needed. I replaced the first battery then took it to dealer for other two replacements. The previous owner had a garage under her mountain house. She was found dead in her den chair. After her burial the family later found the 2017 Subaru Outback parked in her garage underneath the house was totally empty of gas. I believe from reading issues other Subaru owners have had that this car did not turn off and this lady died from carbon monoxcide poisoning. This is an issue well documented over many years and it is way past due for a recall by the manufacturer. Since it continues even to 2020 models there should at least be a stop production order until this issue is corrected. It is not just an inconvenience but a very real danger for owners who park in a home garage. As the government agency trusted to oversight of manufacturing defects presenting a danger to the safety of the public it is way past time for you to act.
Oct 28, 2022
CANNOT REMOVE KEY FROM IGNITION WHEN IN PARK. MANY OTHERS HAVE REPORTED THIS ONLINE, AND THE DEALERSHIP IS CHARGING ME TO CHECK WHAT THE ISSUE IS. WHEN IN PARK, STEERING WHEEL IS STRAIGHT, NOT ON A SLOPE, THE KEY IS STUCK IN THE IGNITION. CAN TURN IT OFF, BUT CAN'T REMOVE THE KEY. SOMETIMES JIGGLING, SOMETIMES STARTING AND TURNING BACK OFF, AND SOMETIMES STARTING, PUTTING IN DRIVE, AND SLAMMING THE SHIFTER INTO PARK AGAIN SOLVES THE ISSUE, BUT SOMETIMES NOT. SPENT OVER 20 MINUTES TODAY TRYING TO GET IT OUT, DROVE TO THE DEALER, AND IT CAME OUT WITHOUT AN ISSUE. NO CONSISTENCY TO THE ISSUE.
Jul 31, 2019
DRIVING BACK TO MICHIGAN FROM FLORIDA, MY 2017 SUBARU OUTBACK (6000 MILES) STALLED TWICE UNEXPECTEDLY IN HEAVY TRAFFIC CONDITIONS ON I75. THE VEHICLE WAS IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC WHEN IT STALLED. I COASTED TO THE MEDIAN, PLACED THE CAR IN PARK AND RESTARTED THE ENGINE. (BOTH TIMES) THE CONDITION HAS NOT REPEATED ITSELF SINCE, NOW HAS (7800 MILES). SUBARU DEALERSHIP COULD NOT REPLICATE THE PROBLEM AND SUBARU CUSTOMER SERVICE CANNOT RESOLVE THE ISSUE.
Apr 19, 2017
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
3 complaints
Car accelerated unexpectedly causing a front end collision. Sudden acceleration had occurred previously without collision. No warning lights or emergency braking engages before collision
Aug 21, 2022
Wife was in a Collison on the freeway in Phoenix. She believes none of the collision avoidance devices worked properly to help prevent the accident. She heard no alarms or dings associated with the avoidance systems on her outback. She didn't feel the brakes lock up like they normally would. She feels if this truly is an issue, can she trust any of these safety features, which if working, could help avoid hitting everything from a person to a vehicle and injuring or killing her or someone else. We have not tried to reproduce this issue since the car is damaged and out our house. We have also not taken it to a dealer for the same reason. We did call Subaru and all they cared about was being sued. Which we said we did not want. We just wanted to make sure all systems are working or if there is an issue. They would not help or even offer to inspect the car. They told us we need to hire a 3rd party investigator. Which we don't even know who or where that would be or how to find one. No known issues with the system prior to the accident.
Dec 17, 2021
ON CURVY MOUNTAINOUS ROADS AT OR BELOW POSTED SPEEDS, THE EYESIGHT SYSTEM BRAKES ENGAGE DANGEROUSLY (E.G., TRAFFIC) AND UNEXPECTEDLY. THE EYESIGHT SYSTEM IS INCORRECTLY SENSING HILLSIDES AS HAZARDS. THE EYESIGHT ALARM IS SIMILARLY TRIGGERED ON STREET INTERSECTIONS.
Feb 11, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
3 complaints
The power rear lift gate mechanism frequently does not work. Even when car is unlocked the rear lift gate refuses to open just giving a 3 beep warning. The back can be manually opened but not by me as it is extremely hard to lift. Sometimes the gate only opens partially, or only closes partially. After my husband manually moves the gate it does not close fully and does not lock so we have no guarantee objects from inside the vehicle will not fall out while moving. Additionally, if my dog is in the car and the gate is inoperable I cannot get him out. Today it only opened part way and I accidentally walked straight into the edge of the gate almost knocking me out! This is a problem that comes and goes - it worked today in Walmart parking lot but not when I arrived home. The dealer said to bring it in when it doesn't work, but then it works when you get to the dealer and he says there is no problem!!
Aug 01, 2022
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that the battery drained without warning. Additionally, the liftgate would inadvertently open. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that a battery replacement was needed. An electronic update was completed. The battery had been replaced three times. The manufacturer was contacted but no further assistance was provided. The approximate failure mileage was 35,000.
Mar 11, 2022
Car back door won't open, despite 3 new batteries. Remained locked so that couldn't remove equipment from back--Dangerous. Have been through 3 batteries in 26,000 miles....all that the car has been driven since it's purchase, new, in 2017.
Jan 17, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
2 complaints
I drive 2.5miles to work, Tuesday [XXX], I was turning into the parking lot and my car just cut off. I couldn't use flashers, restart it, put it in park or anything else. I called my husband to come help. I thought maybe the battery cable might have come loose. It was dead. I couldn't get out, if I let my foot off the brake it would roll backwards, going into the road and I didn't want it to hurt anyone. It started smoking from the drivers front side of engine. I called my husband back and said please hurry. It took approximately 7 minutes for him to arrive. I was on the phone about the smoke when he drove up behind me. He told me to get out of the car it's on fire. He tapped my bumper to keep my car from rolling backwards. I jumped out, called 911.He had sandbags in the back of his truck. He put them under the back tires so it couldn't roll into the traffic. A lady stopped that had a fire extinguisher and [XXX] attempted to put the fire out. It was getting quite large. We couldn't open the hood, he could only spray it in the wheel area up front. He had to get back the fire was getting big. The car then exploded. It was so loud, fire and smoke. I went into work and asked to be let off for that day. I smelled like smoke and my lungs hurt. I inhaled so much smoke. My daughter got me a breathing treatment setup to help with breathing. The fire department came and put the fire out. They were so kind. No police showed up, so we only have a fire department report. The tow truck showed up and took my car away. When we got home we notified our insurance agent. :engine failed, if I had been on a busy street I would have been hit. The car just stopped where it was. Yes our insurance adjuster said it could be looked at by anyone. :Yes my safety and the ones around me were put at risk. My lungs are still suffering. :no it's not been reproduced by anyone I know of. :no, there was no indications that pointed at something being wrong. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Jan 08, 2025
I BELIEVE ALL OF THE FOLLOWING CIRCUMSTANCES TO BE CAUSED BY AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM: DEC.31, 2020: CAR HESITATES TO START. IT NEVER TURNS OVER SO IT DOES NOT EVER START. WE INSTALL NEW BATTERY & CAR STARTS. MID-JAN.2021: CAR WON'T START FROM PUSH START, BUT DOES START WHEN I USE MY REMOTE START KEY FOB. AFTER THAT, CAR STARTS WITH PUSH START. FEB.-APRIL 2021: CAR HAS A SEVERAL TIMES WHEN IT HESTITATES TO START, BUT ULTIMATELY IT DOES START. MAY 1-3 2021: CAR HESITATES TO START, BUT ULTIMATELY STARTS. MAY 4-5 2021: CAR NOT ONLY HESITATES TO START, BUT NOW I HAVE ALL KINDS OF LIGHTS LIT UP ON MY DASH, INCLUDING CHECK ENGINE, EYESIGHT, X-MODE LIGHT IS FLASHING, AND SEVERAL OTHERS THAT I CANNOT GET TO TURN OFF. IN ALL INSTANCES, VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY AND TURNED OFF. I HAVE PHOTOS & VIDEO BUT CAN'T SEEM TO REDUCE FILE SIZE TO REQUIRED 5MB. SIDE NOTE: UNLESS I AM AT WORK OR RUNNING ERRANDS, MY CAR IS ALWAYS IN THE GARAGE.
May 05, 2021
LANE DEPARTURE
2 complaints
THE LANE KEEPING ASSISTANCE FEATURE IS TURNED OFF IN MY VEHICLE BECAUSE I LIVE WHERE THERE ARE MANY TWO LAND ROADS AND OTHER DRIVES CONSTANTLY CROSS THE MIDDLE LINE, INCLUDING LARGE LOGGING TRUCKS. LATELY IT HAS BEEN COMING ON INTERMITTENTLY AND NUDGING MY CAR BACK TOWARD THE MIDDLE OF THE LANE EVEN WHEN I WOULD LIKE TO DRIVE VERY CLOSE TO THE SHOULDER OR WHITE LINE ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE ROAD. WHEN IT NUDGES THE CAR TOWARD THE CENTER OF THE LANE AND I ATTEMPT TO CORRECT, IT IS A BATTLE AND MAKES ME FEEL VERY UNEASY. I HAVE CONTACTED SUBARU OF AMERICA BECAUSE WHEN I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER, THEY TOLD ME IF I COULD NOT RECREATE IT, IT WAS UNLIKELY THEY COULD FIX IT. AFTER SEEING A POST ON REDDIT, I THINK I AM NARROWING DOWN RECREATING THE EVENT. I HAVE PICTURES OF THE DASHBOARD LIGHTS THAT SHOW LANE KEEPING ASSIST BEING ACTIVE DESPITE THE LIGHT SHOWING IT IS ALSO TURNED OFF.
Nov 07, 2024
SAFETY DEFECT OPERATOR DATA: BLIND SPOT INDICATOR IS ONLY PRESENTED ON EXTERNAL REVIEW MIRROR. DATA SHOULD BE PROVIDED IN CENTER INSTRUMENT CLUSTER RATHER THAN HAVING TO DEFLECT FOCUS FROM DIRECTION OF TRAVEL.
Apr 08, 2021
SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
2 complaints
On [XXX], around noon, my wife and I were driving south on [XXX] in our 2017 Subaru Outback, at approximately 70 mph. It was a clear and sunny day. We were just north of the [XXX] exit (in Port St. Lucie, Florida) in the far right-hand lane when our vehicle violently jolted. It felt like we were being dragged from behind, although we were still moving forward at a reduced speed. It was making a terrible sound (tires screeching), and you could smell rubber burning. This sensation felt similar to an airplane’s hard landing on the tarmac. My initial thought was that someone hit us from behind, while my wife thought we may have blown a tire. I glanced at the instrument panel and noticed that the word “Eye Sight” was displayed. As we were coming to complete stop, we realized cars were speeding to the left and right of our car to avoid hitting us. We both immediately realized that we were in a very dangerous situation and at risk of being hit from oncoming traffic. My wife put the hazard lights on while I was attempting to drive the car off the road. However, the car would not move forward even though the engine was running, and it was in gear (drive). Several good Samaritans stopped to assist us in trying to move the car off [XXX]. However, the car would not move because all four wheels were locked. My wife called 911 and Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and Road Ranger arrived approximately twenty minutes later. They were unable to assist us with moving the car off the road. We called a tow truck company (Apex Towing) to move the car because all four tires were locked and had to be lifted off the road. Our car was towed to a safe location and we able to call AAA to have the car towed to Dyer Subaru in Vero Beach, Florida. As time has passed, we realize that our car was a stationary object on a heavily traveled interstate. If a car had hit us, the outcome could and most probable would have been catastrophic to everyone involved. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Apr 29, 2024
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED ON THREE OCCASIONS WHILE DRIVING 25-35 MPH, THE AUTOMATIC COLLISION BRAKING SYSTEM ENGAGED WHEN THERE WAS NO OBJECT PRESENT. THE CONTACT MENTIONED IT HAPPENED WHILE APPROACHING A CURVE. ADDITIONALLY, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED TO THE FLOORBOARD HOWEVER, AFTER PUMPING THE BRAKE PEDAL THE BRAKES WORKED AS DESIGNED. THE AUTOMATIC COLLISION WARNING INDICATOR WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO WYATT JOHNSON SUBARU (2425 WILMA RUDOLPH BLVD, CLARKSVILLE, TN 37040, (931) 648-4300) WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WORKED AS DESIGNED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 18,000.
Aug 14, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
2 complaints
The eyesight system not functioning and at this point has not been repaired and is available for inspection. Warning notices were intermittent with warning sound’s coming on each time. Eventually the warnings came on nearly all the time. I was alone in the dark and very nervous. no other injury Yes the vehicle was taken to dealer, also I took photos as it continued to intermittently occur. Yes there were warning notices that alerted me. Note: dealer states non OEM windshield is cause , however windshield has been in vehicle fo nearly 2.5 years with no issue. Other electrical issue has occurred since eyesight issue.
Dec 05, 2023
I experienced 2 incidences of sudden unexpected acceleration (SUA), the second one led to an explosive collision. Subaru asked that I sign the EDR release but refused to give me (rightful owner) a copy. With significant effort I obtained a copy of the EDR for myself. It is near impossible for the consumer to obtain their rightful copy, significant because it stinks of poor transparency for Subaru to investigate Subaru (see below). Once I obtained my copy, I released the EDR to Subaru and my vehicle was inspected by SOA at our local dealership. For some untold reason, the vehicle would "not to be released to me" at the end of the day but was held for additional time at the dealership. Later Customer "Advocacy" informed me that the results of the investigation was that the throttle was active 1.5 seconds prior to impact and that it was a case of "pedal misapplication". Because I also had the data I was acutely aware of how SOA cherry picked data to match their own narrative. I know for a fact what happened considering all the data, together with the actual facts of this potentially fatal accident. I was pulling straight into the parking spot, yet the EDR MISTAKENLY "thinks" that the car is turning sharply to the right the entire time (EDR shows this and why PBS not active). The electronic sensors are being fed ERRONEOUS information. With the steering wheel 'supposedly' at full lock, the power steering pump is told to spin faster to maintain pressure. The computer tries to pick up speed for this and sends an electronic message to open the throttle. The rpms suddenly surge and the vehicle explodes forward leaving only a fraction of a second to react before impact (at which point EDR confirms brake was on). Intermittent failures in electronic sensors do in fact happen as experts know. Incredibly, SOA refused to hear me. I am concerned for the safety of other Subaru drivers as well as those in the path of a Subaru SUA incidence. Ignoring this can have fatal consequences.
Feb 03, 2023
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
2 complaints
Vehicle lost engine power twice while on the road between 8/12/23 and ~9/25/23. Took to Subaru Santa Monica service on 9/26, left it overnight, and was unable to replicate the problem. I cleaned the K&N drop in filter after 8/12 incident since I haven't cleaned it in a while. Subaru Santa Monica service said that there's oil contamination from the filter into throttle body and I need cleaning and new air box. I don't think that's the problem and this is a major safety issue. Although I have a 7 year warranty that's still active, I paid $219 for diagnostic. Not covered under warranty because can't replicate issue. My plan is to sell this car as it's a personal and public safety danger. Don't have time to keep going to the dealer and paying out of pocket.
Oct 02, 2023
IN TWO SEPARATE EVENTS THE CAR LOST POWER WHILE ACCELLORATING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS TO MERGE INTO TRAFFIC FROM A STAND STILL. THE GAS PEDAL BECAME UNRESPONSIVE AND THE TRANMISSION STOPPED SHIFTING. IN THE FIRST INCIDENT THE ENGINE STALLED, AND IN THE SECOND IT SPUTTERED AND ALMOST DIED DURING A HEAVY MERGE ON AN ON RAMP. NO DIAGNOSTIC CODES WERE THROWN, SO THE MANUFACTURER CLAIMS THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR. IN THE FIRST INCIDENT THE CAR WAS LEAVING THE TOLL PLAZE ON THE DULLES GREENWAY HEAD TOWARD LEESBURG, VA. UNDER FULL ACELLERATION LEAVING THE TOLL PLAZA AND EFFECTIVELY DRIVING STRAIGHT, THE CAR STARTED SHUFTING ERRATICALLY, AND EVENTUALLY LOST POWER AND STALLED. IN THE SECOND INCIDENT, ABOUT TWO MONTHS LATER, THE CAR WAS ON A DECLINE ON-RAMP MERGING INTO HEAVY TRAFFIC ON RT-270N HEADING TOWARD FREDERICK, MD. THE CAR AGAIN STARTED TO SHIFT ERRATICALLY, THEN BEGAN TO STALL, BUT I WAS ABKE TO USE THE PADDLE SHIFTERS TO SHIFT THE 'GEAR' OF THE CVT AND PREVENT STALLING. AFGER ABOUT 30 SECONDS THE CAR WAS OPERATING AS NORMAL. AGAIN, THE DEALER HAS NOT FOUND ANY DIAGNOSTIC CODES, AND INDICATES THERE IS NITHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE.
May 18, 2019
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 complaints
Upon turning off my 2017 Subaru Outback Touring, the engine turned off via the push start/stop button. However, when I went to use the vehicle later the same day, the car would not start (starter would not engage). I determined that the steering wheel was NOT locked. The transmission was in Park, and I could not move the shift lever out of Park. I attempted engage the steering wheel lock by moving the steering wheel back and forth, but without success. Vehicle now totally inoperative. Vehicle is available for inspection at my residence upon request. The safety of owner and others is compromised as follows: Because of living in a semi-rural area, I rely on this vehicle to safely transport me and my family members everywhere (grocery store, doctor appointments, emergency room visits, etc.); Failure of the vehicle to operate property could expose operator and/or passengers to extremely cold weather, such as that recently experienced in December 2022. This is the second occurrence of the same malfunction. First was in July 2022. Vehicle was serviced by Subaru of Georgetown who informed me that the problem (car would not start because steering wheel lock was not engaged) was "fixed", but that they could not duplicate. No other entity, other than the dealer, has examined the vehicle. No warning lights, messages or symptoms prior to either occurrence. Driving was normal, engine shutdown appeared normal, but subsequent restarts were not possible due to the steering wheel lock not engaging (which is what the dealer informed me was the problem at the first occurrence).
Jan 01, 2023
After the transmission is in park and the key is turned to turn-off the engine, the key will not advance to the "LOCKED" position and cannot be removed. Also, the steering wheel does not lock. This apparently can be remedied by repeatedly shifting from drive to park forcefully. Also, disconnecting the car battery seems to allow turning the key to "LOCKED."
May 25, 2021
TIRES
2 complaints
Tires worn to wear bar 2/32 to 4/32 in in 28,000 miles. At severe risk for hydroplaning and possible accident related to all tires with premature wear. This is second full set of Michelin tires that have worn prematurely. The tires have been inspected by Costco tires which is the purchasing dealer. I have called the manufacture also Aug 18, 2022. They have started a warranty but was told it would be toward purchase of new set of Michelin. I do not wish to purchase their tires in the near future. I have been a customer with Michelin for many years and have always been very satisfied but recently the tires are very poor quality.
Aug 18, 2022
TIRE FAILURE AT LOW MILEAGE. TIRES NOT PASSING SAFETY INSPECTION AFTER APPX 20,000 USE. TREAD DOWN TO 4//32. TIRES PURCHASED AT COSTCO . LINE IS MICHELIN PREMIER A/S . MULTI VISITS TO COSTCO TO INSPECT AFTER TWO INDEPENDENT TIRE INSPECTORS STATED THEY WOULD NOT PASS SAFETY INSPECTION WITH WEAR BARES CLOSE TO TREAD SUFACE. COSTCO REFUSED TO CALL FAILURE STATING THAT IS NORMAL FOR THIS TYPE OF TIRES. THE RATING WAS AT LEAST 60.000 MILES. THERE WAS A RECENT ROAD HAZARD THAT PUNCTURED FRONT TIRE AND COSTCO WANTED TO CHARGE FOR NEW FRONT TIRE. VERY UNSTATISFIED WITH TIRES, FREQUENT SLIPPING AND LOSS OF TRACTION ON SNOW AND RAIN. UNSAFE.
Mar 21, 2020
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
2 complaints
THIS IS A RE-SUBMISSION OF COMPLAINT NO 11398779. PHOTO FILES FAILED TO UPLOAD. I HAD JUST ENTERED THE GOLF COURSE PARKING LOT AND HAD TURNED RIGHT TO ENTER A PERPENDICULAR PARKING SLOT. MY SPEED WAS LESS THAN 5 MPH. MY CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED OUT OF CONTROL, HIT A CONCRETE PARKING BLOCK (6 IN HIGH) AND THEN OVER A 1 FOOT HIGH WALL WHICH WAS 3 FEET FROM THE BLOCK. THE CAR ENDED UP ON A DOWN SLOPE AND THE REAR WHEEL FORTUNATELY CAUGHT ON A RETAINING WALL. I WAS NOT INJURED AND THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THERE WAS ONE WITNESS TO THIS TERRIFYING EVENT WHICH OCCURRED ON FEBRUARY 4, 2010 AT ABOUT 8:10 AM. IT OCCURRED IN A PART OF THE PARKING LOT I HAVE USED AT LEAST 50 TIMES IN THE PAST YEAR. SEVERAL MEMBERS HAVE SAID THEY ARE AFRAID OF PARKING IN THESE SPOTS AND WILL NEVER USE THEM AGAIN. THE COMPONENT THAT FAILED IS UNKNOWN TO ME, BUT I FEEL IT IS A DEFINITE SAFETY RISK. I WAS FULLY INSURED AND THE MINOR DAMAGE TO THE CAR WAS COVERED BY MY INSURANCE.
Apr 09, 2021
I HAD JUST ENTERED THE GOLF COURSE PARKING LOT AND HAD TURNED RIGHT TO ENTER A PARKING SLOT. MY SPEED WAS LESS THAN 5 MPH. MY CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED OUT OF CONTROL, HIT THE CONCRETE PARKING BLOCK AND JUMPED OVER A 1 FOOT HIGH WALL WHICH WAS 3 FT. AWAY FROM THE BLOCK. THE CAR ENDED UP ON A DOWNSLOPE AND THE REAR WHEEL FORTUNATELY CAUGHT ON A RETAINING WALL. I WAS NOT INJURED AND THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THERE WAS ONE WITNESS TO THIS TERRIFYING EVENT WHICH OCCURRED ON FEBRUARY 4TH AT ABOUT 8:10 AM IN A PARKING SPOT THAT I HAVE USED AT LEAST 50 TIMES IN THE PAST YEAR.
Mar 02, 2021
STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPER
2 complaints
WINDSHIELD IS CRACKING WITHOUT ANY CAUSE. IT CRACKED NEAR THE PASSENGER SIDE WIPER WHILE IT WAS SITTING IN A PARKING GARAGE UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS. I HAD THE WINDSHIELD REPLACED TODAY, WEATHER WAS PERFECT (SUNNY, 65 DEGREES F), AND IT CRACKED AGAIN, WHILE PARKED, ONLY HOURS AFTER THE REPLACEMENT IN ALMOST THE SAME SPOT..
Jan 05, 2021
MY WINDSHIELD DEVELOPED A CRACK STARTING FROM THE BOTTOM CENTER, RIGHT WHERE THE WINDHIELD HEATING ELEMENT IS. THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION BUT NOTHING HIT THE WINDSHIELD, I JUST HEARD A POP AND SAW THE CRACK APPEAR AND IN A MATTER OF MINUTES IT WAS HALF WAY UP. ENDED UP REPLACING THE WINDSHIELD WITH AN AFTERMARKET ONE AFTER SUBARU OF AMERICA SAID THEY WON'T COVER IT.
Mar 13, 2020
SUSPENSION
2 complaints
ABOUT A MONTH AGO, I BEGAN HEARING A PERIODIC LOUD METALLIC CLACK-CLACK-CLACK WHEN MAKING A LEFT U-TURN, WHICH SOUNDED AS IF IT WERE TIRE ROTATION DEPENDENT. IT SOUNDED AS IF IT CAME FROM THE FRONT END. AFTER A COUPLE OF WEEKS I COULD HEAR IT RANDOMLY WHEN GOING FROM A STAND STILL, AND VERY SELDOM WHEN BRAKING. LAST THURSDAY, I NOTICED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL CENTER POSITION HAD MOVED TO THE LEFT, AND I DECIDED TO CHECK THE WHOLE FRONT SUSPENSION. TIGHTENED A BUNCH OF UNDER TORQUED BOLTS, INCLUDING THE 8 THAT HOLD THE ENGINE CRADLE TO THE BODY. LAST NIGHT THE NOISE WAS NOTICEABLE WHEN DRIVING OVER AND BUMPS, AND THE CAR BEGAN TO PULL TO THE LEFT WHEN BRAKING. A FINAL ROAD BUMP AND THE CAR SOUNDED AS IF IT WAS FALLING APART. WHEN STOPPING AT THE NEXT TRAFFIC LIGHT, THE CAR PULLED MORE NOTICEABLY TO THE LEFT, AND THE REAR END CAME UP. I MADE IT TO A GAS STATION, WHERE I INSPECTED BOTH FRONT AND BACK BUT WAS NOT ABLE TO SEE ANYTHING. TRIED TO ROCK THE TOP OF ALL TIRES IN AND OUT AND THEY ALL SEEMED FIRM. DROVE 18 MILES AT 25-30 MILES PER HOUR, TRYING NOT TO USE THE BRAKES AT ALL. ONCE IN THE GARAGE, I GOT UNDER THE CAR AND VOIL... LEFT REAR TRAILING LINK COMPLETELY BROKEN. AT 74890 MILES. THE PICTURES SHOW ANOTHER CRACK STARTING ON THE UPPER BEND OF THE ARM. BY THE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CRACK, IT SEEMS AS IF THE PART HAD FATIGUED. THIS MORNING I CRAWLED THE CAR TO THE CLOSEST SUBARU DEALER, AND EVEN OUT OF WARRANTY, THEY REPLACED THE LINK FOR FREE, OF COURSE AFTER I GOT THE "NEVER SAW THIS KIND OF FAILURE BEFORE" INTERNET FORUMS HAVE MULTIPLE REPORTS OF THIS KIND OF FAILURE. PLEASE SEE THE ATTACHED PICTURES.
Aug 31, 2020
PASSENGER SIDE REAR STRUT COMPLETELY COLLAPSED/FAILED AT 45000 MILES. I REPLACED (NOT AN EASY JOB) WITH SAME KYB OE PART.
Oct 06, 2019
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GEAR BOX FAILED TO RECOGNIZE WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS IN PARK WHICH CAUSED THE KEY TO NOT BE ABLE TO BE REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION. THERE WAS NO WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE SUBARU OF KENNESAW DEALER LOCATED AT 905 ERNEST W. BARRETT PKWY NW, KENNESAW, GA 30144, WHERE IT WAS STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS A KNOWN ISSUE AND SCHEDULED AN APPOINTMENT FOR THE CONTACT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THERE WERE MULTIPLE COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE FAILURE AND THAT THE DEALER WOULD BE CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 93,700.*DT*DT CONSUMER WAS REIMBURSED FOR THE REPAIR.*JB
Aug 14, 2020
THE KEYS COULD NOT BE REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION AFTER SHIFTING THE CAR INTO PARK AND TURNING THE CAR OFF. THE PROBLEM FIRST APPEARED AROUND SEPTEMBER 2019 (APPROXIMATELY 42,000 MILES). OVER THE NEXT FEW WEEKS THE PROBLEM PROGRESSIVELY GOT WORSE, AND REQUIRED SHIFTING FROM NEUTRAL TO PARK MULTIPLE TIMES UNTIL THE KEYS COULD BE REMOVED. THE SELECT LEVER ASSEMBLY (PART 35111AL00B) WAS REPLACED WITH THE NEWER VERSION (PART 35111AL00C) WHICH FIXED THE ISSUE. THE ORIGINAL SELECT LEVER ASSEMBLY (35111AL00B) WAS TESTED AND IT HAD A PROBLEM WITH THE "P" RANGE SWITCH. RESISTANCE ACROSS SELECT LEVER ASSEMBLY PINS 1 AND 2 SHOWED A RESISTANCE OF 2-3 OHMS WHEN THE SELECT LEVER WAS IN THE PARK POSITION. THE SERVICE MANUAL STATES THAT THE "P" RANGE SWITCH RESISTANCE SHOULD BE LESS THAN 1 OHM WHEN IN THE PARK POSITION. THIS HIGH RESISTANCE LIKELY CAUSED THE IGNITION TO FAIL TO RECOGNIZE THAT THE CAR WAS IN PARK AND PREVENTED THE KEYS FROM BEING REMOVED.
Oct 06, 2019
VISIBILITY,VISIBILITY/WIPER
2 complaints
I HAVE HAD TWO BRAND NEW SUBARU OUTBACKS. MY FIRST WAS A 2015 AND MY SECOND IS A 2017 OUTBACK. MY 2015 HAD 4 BROKEN WINDSHIELDS IN LESS THAN 2 YEARS. MY 2017 HAS HAD 3 BROKEN WINDSHIELDS IN 3 YEARS. ALL TOGETHER I HAVE HAD 7 BROKEN WINDSHIELDS IN 5 YEARS. SOME HAPPEN WHEN THE CAR IS NOT IN MOTION AND SOME HAVE HAPPENED WHEN THE CAR IS IN MOTION. ALL THE BREAKS BEGIN SOMEWHERE AROUND THE PERIMETER OF THE WINDSHIELD (UP TO ABOUT 3-4" FROM THE EDGE. I CAN'T TELL WHAT IS CAUSING THE CRACKS TO HAPPEN BECAUSE THERE IS EITHER NO INDICATION OF ANYTHING STRIKING THE WINDSHIELD OR THERE IS A TINY "FLICK" CRACK SOUND AS IF A SPECK OF SAND HIT THE WINDSHIELD. I HAVE REPORTED THIS PROBLEM TO YOU BEFORE WHEN I OWNED THE 2015 OUTBACK. I SEE THAT THERE ARE NOW 2 CLASS ACTION SUITS PERTAINING TO THIS. HOPE THIS CAN BE REMEDIED. *TR
Jun 05, 2020
WINDSHIELD CRACKED ALL THE WAY ACROSS AFTER BEING EXPOSED TO EXTREME HEAT AND COLD. *TR
Jun 04, 2020
VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
2 complaints
PARKED MY LEASED 2017 OUTBACK IN MY DRIVEWAY LAST NIGHT WITH NOTHING OVERHEAD, NO TREES, ETC. THIS MORNING THERE WAS A LARGE CRACK IN THE WINDSHIELD WHICH BEGAN AT THE BOTTOM OF THE GLASS ON THE PASSENGER SIDE AND CONTINUED ON FOR OVER 15 INCHES. TOTAL MYSTERY. *TR
May 20, 2020
HELLO, SEE ATTACHED PICS OF OUR OUTBACK SUNROOF THAT EXPLODED WHILE TRAVELING SOUTHBOUND ON I-95 IN GA CROSSING SOUTH NEWPORT RIVER IN TOWNSEND, GA 31331 AROUND 10:55 A.M ON 11/19/17. ALL OCCUPANTS HEARD A LOUD POP AND SOUND OF GLASSING EXITING THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE PRIOR TO PULLING OVER. I CLEARED TO THE SIDE OF THE INTERSTATE, DOCUMENTED THE SUNROOF DAMAGE AND THEN DROVE 40 MPH TO NEXT EXIT WHERE I LOCATED A VACUUM TO CLEAN UP THE MESS SO THAT WE COULD DRIVE 35 MILES BACK HOME. THERE WAS A COLD FRONT PASSING THROUGH THE AREA, SO THERE WERE SOME GUSTY WINDS, BUT TEMPS WERE ONLY AROUND 60 DEGREES. WE HAD JUST REFUELED AND WERE ACCELERATING TO 60 MPH TO MERGE WITH TRAFFIC. WE WERE USING A SEAR'S X-CARGO CARRIER ON TOP FOR PERSONNEL STORAGE. I HAVE AN APPT WITH THE DEALER TOMORROW TO ASSESS WARRANTY, ETC. THE VEHICLE IS SIX MONTHS OLD. *TR
Nov 20, 2017
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
Total of 3 incidents when my car had approx 1/8 to 1/4 of a tank of gas....as going up incline on interstate....car like stalls and slows down, will not speed up....get it over to the side to avoid being hit and it finally starts going again...close call with vehicles behind us in the passing lane. Below listed the last time it happened... Did not use to do this...first time was same area listed below in November 2025.
Mar 16, 2026
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
The contact's sister owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, the hood unlatched, flew open, and struck the windshield, causing the windshield to shatter. The driver was able to pull over to the side of the road. It was unknown whether the driver was able to close the hood. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the driver was provided a loaner vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. It was unknown if the manufacturer was contacted or notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Feb 05, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
Car was being driven on the highway in cruise control, when the cruise control turned off and the car began to decelerate. When the gas pedal was pressed, the RPMs shot up but there was no acceleration. The car was pulled over, turned off, and we were not able to turn it on again. The car was towed to a shop, where they were able to identify the engine wasn’t working but not the root cause, and also mentioned the possibility of there being a transmission problem. We then brought it to a Subaru dealer, and they said a similar thing without being able to diagnose anything more specific. This car is 8 years old and has had routine, consistent maintenance the entire time. The surprise of an engine failure with no warning is very alarming and dangerous.
Jul 06, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
was at a stop in the middle lane going to turn left, got hit straight head on by a driver driving in the middle lane. his air bags deployed, none of mine deployed. the front end and drivers side of the subaru was impacted
Oct 15, 2024
PARKING BRAKE,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that the electric parking brake was stuck intermittently. The contact stated while shifting to drive(D) or reverse(R), the vehicle failed to respond. The contact stated that failure occurred after reversing several times. The message "Park" was displayed. The contact stated that upon jiggling the electric parking brake knob several times, the vehicle responded as needed. The vehicle was taken the dealer, where the failure could not be duplicated. The Subaru dealer was contacted and advised the contact to tow the vehicle to their location for a diagnostic test. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 24,000.
Jul 02, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
Throttle fails to respond for a brief but serious amount of time. When pulling into traffic, instead of accelerating the engine remains at an idle and the car moves forward slowly. I push on the throttle trying to make it go. Then it takes hold and the car leaps forward. Safety: Normal power is delayed as the car moves into traffic. Oncoming traffic must slow to prevent an accident. The dealer where I purchased the car, Santa Monica, CA, tried to find error codes. Also removed the throttle valve to check that it wasn't somehow stuck. They drove the car briefly. They say they've done all they can. No warning lamps, messages, codes stored in the computer. Note that the throttle pedal signals the computer to work the engine throttle valve (so I'm told). Problem occurs about once a month. First time was when I took posession at the dealer's. I requested to recind my purchase but, because I didn't by the cancellation option ($250), they refused.
May 31, 2024
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
I experienced sudden acceleration in downtown and almost hit three cars, caused me to run three red lights and almost hit pedestrians. I had the car, 2017 outback Subaru towed to the dealer and was told there are no recalls, but saw many problems listed on the NHTSA website. It was terrifying and still shakes me up when I think what could have happened. Subaru told me this was the first they have seen this and that I do not have the extended warranty and I would be held for the cost. I am beyond upset. They tried to have me pick up the car after finding nothing. I told them they are to keep it until they find the issue. I have a loaner from them.
Apr 17, 2024
SUSPENSION,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 25 MPH, the front wheel turned at a 45-degree angle. The contact was able to pull over. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact who is an independent mechanic installed Monroe strut and coil system part number 173112 on the driver side front, the top nut fractured after two weeks. The contact repaired the vehicle. The local dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000.
Nov 06, 2023
STEERING,LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaint
Had new tires installed and on the way home kept feeling wheel pulling to the right. Eyesight/lane assist feature was turned off. At one point the steering wheel dramatically jerked right and locked, completely immoveable. It jerked me into the other lane and almost into the median of the highway. I got to safety and had it towed to the dealership. I originally thought it was an issue with the tire alignment or the AWD system. They took it on a test drive and confirmed lane assist was malfunctioning in a dangerous way. They confirmed that eyesight/lane assist was turned off when this issue happened. They reset the system and said they couldn't guarantee the vehicle was safe to drive and suggested bringing it in if it happened again. I asked them to document everything they said over phone calls and voicemail. They agreed, but it took them weeks to provide a repair order. When they wrote up the repair order it included none of the information that was previously given and they said the car was, and always had been in perfect working order. I opened a case with Subaru of America and they were unable to get the information they needed from the dealership to proceed with the investigation. Upon further research, I found many similar accounts of this happening with Subarus of the same and similar year(s) and model(s). There is a class action lawsuit open for this but currently there are so many plaintiffs they cannot accept more. I refuse to drive this car as I feel that this malfunction is of life and limb consequence. I do not feel it would be ethical to sell this car without full disclosure and then would be out 30k on the car I purchased just three years ago. Reliable Subaru and Subaru of America refuse to offer a solution or help me in any way.
Jun 23, 2023
STEERING,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
In the morning of Jan 28th, I drove this car off highway(North bound MoPac) to the ramp to frontage road to 360 in Austin TX. the vehicle lost control out of sudden and crashed to the left side of the road. the accident caused total loss of the vehicle but luckily a>the passages and the the driver on the car are OK. b>no other vehicle was involved . As the drive of this vehicle , I feel the crash was so strange so later on I requested both insurance company (AAA) and Subaru to investigate the possibility of malfunctions of the car. AAA -- claim number 015641968 Subaru --case 230128-1800367 AAA claimed the total lost but refused to do further investigation. Subaru took my request in March. Early this month, Subaru said their finished the comprehensive inspection and simply claimed the car was running normal when the accident happened. They don't want to share any further information about what they've found and they also don't want the inspect technician to talk to me about the results. I would like ask NHTSA, as the regulatory authority, to look into the their inspection report to make sure this vehicle does not have any abnormalities as their claimed. Thanks!
May 21, 2023
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
I was pulling into a space in a parking deck, foot on brake. Just as I was shifting into Park, the car lunged forward and slammed into the guard rail. Popped the fender and did some paint damage. Thankfully no one was hurt, but frightening to think that this could have happened in an intersection.
Jan 24, 2023
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
2 yo 2017 Subaru Outback was left untouched for 2 weeks. When trying to start, it had a dead battery. 2 years later, 2017 Subaru Outback was left untouched for 1 week. When trying to start, it had a dead battery. 2017 Subaru Outback was left untouched for 2 days. When trying to start, it had a dead battery with a 1 - and 8 month old battery. Basically, when this 2017 Subaru Outback hasn't been started every day, it will have a dead battery.
Dec 27, 2022
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
I have been stranded repeatedly by my subaru since it was purchased with drained batteries, no explanation from subaru. Safety issues arise from the stranding. There is a lawsuit now with subaru but they are not acutally fixing the cars? No warnings were given and I now have a unreliable vehicle with no proposed fix from the manufacturer.
Sep 30, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
This is the same issue we are seeing with our other Subaru where we come out to drive and the battery is dead. We would jump the battery and be able to drive for the day and the next day the battery is dead in the morning. I replaced the battery several times over the last few year and the battery would die with a less than 2 month old battery. I was driving around in both cars with jumper cables permanently. After taking it to the dealer, the battery was in great condition, the alternator was charging properly and there is a known electrical issue with this model and year that is part of a class action lawsuit. I had to replace my rear gate module electrical unit because it was going on and off in the night and draining my battery. I will be looking to get re-eimbursed for this company issue.
Sep 12, 2022
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaint
While driving at full speed on Interstate 80 through Sacramento CA while the outside temperature was 116 degrees, most of the more advanced systems of the car failed. I should have taken a picture of the control panel. I stopped the car and pulled out the user manual. Indicators illuminated included Eye Sight, Check Engine, tire pressure, and many many others. In fact, there were symbols on the dash that I could not find in the manual after extensive investigation. I attempted to drive the car after letting it cool down. The alerts persisted. I did check the tire pressure in all wheels and they were normal. The following day I checked the car in the morning (the temperature had subsided substantially) and the condition was still present. I made arrangements to go to the dealer, and upon getting into the car at about 2pm the indicators were all normal again. I did not go to the dealer. This may or may not be related to a prior issue which is covered in NHTSA complaint #11480372.
Sep 09, 2022
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
I was pulling into a parking lot. The attendant told me to back our 2017 Outback into a spot running along a fence and row of trees. I pulled forward, put my foot on the brake to fully stop. I then moved from "drive" to "reverse". Immediately, the engine started to rev very loudly as if my foot was on the accelerator (it was not!). The accelerator seemingly went to the floor and within a few seconds our car was in reverse at high speed. The only thing that stopped us was a maple tree and fence that we hit - about 15-20 yards behind us. The backend of the car is pushed in, including into the cabin, the rear window shattered etc. The fence is destroyed and tree damaged. My spouse, in the passenger seat, experienced a minor concussion and we both ended up with severe whiplash. If it weren't for the tree we would have just kept going. We are waiting on State Farm claim adjustor to see the car. I did inform Subaru (where the car was towed) what happened; they didn't seem particularly interested. We did get a police report. Thankfully, no one was hit. There were no signs of any problem with the accelerator prior to this incident. I am now, however, aware of numerous complaints and suits in related cases.
Aug 23, 2022
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
I arrived at my destination. I turned the ignition OFF. The engine turned OFF. I opened the driver's door and the engine turned ON. I did not turn the ignition ON. I again turned the ignition OFF. This time the engine remained OFF.
Aug 20, 2022
BACK OVER PREVENTION,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
While attempting to park in a parking spot with a concrete parking lot stop the car experience an unintended acceleration and did not engage the safety braking system causing the car to jump over the concrete parking lot stops and hit a light lost and concrete supporting barrier behind the concrete parking lot stop. There were no warnings and this caused injury to the driver and passenger. A police report is being issued as well as contact with the car manufacturer. This is the second time this unintended accelerated occurred however this is the first incident where damage to the car and injury occurred,
Aug 11, 2022
VISIBILITY/WIPER,LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
Front windshield without warning had a stress crack appear on the passenger side from the top of the windshield to the middle. NO foreign item caused the damage. Again, the crack appeared without warning. My insurance company set up appointment with Safe Lite Auto Glass to replace the cracked windshield on August 2, 2022. The crack has now extended diagonally across the windshield as of Sunday July 31,2022. Because of the safety risk involved, I felt it was imperative to have it replaced ASAP. Plans are to reach out to the dealership on Monday August 1,2022 for their inspection and assessment.
Jul 31, 2022
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
The contact owned a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while reversing, the vehicle accelerated backward. The contact pumped the brake pedal and was depressed aggressively several times however the brakes failed to respond. The vehicle collided with a pillar of bricks causing the vehicle to stop. No airbag deployed and no one was injured. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a collision center where the insurance deemed the vehicle a total loss. The manufacturer was contacted and a complaint was filed. The failure mileage was 41,806.
Jun 13, 2022
STEERING,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
System does not recognize the car is in park mode correctly. The side effect of this is ignition key gets locked in the key hole and cannot be pulled out. Repeated problem in all weather situation once the failure started to show symptom. This issue is common enough across multiple product line of Subaru vehicles with a service bulletin reference 16-112-18R with google search. Plenty of website postings and you tube videos showed different work around to resolve the issue. Dealer charges parts and labor cost to repair each vehicle request for service that could possible is a design or sensor defect issue from production quality issue. The trigger point of my vehicle having this problem could be due to recent cold weather, but this issue does not go away even after the temperature gets warmer. Trying to fix the car key situation with a young child in the back seat wanting to get out daily makes this a repeated challenge. Reference link below to share and please consider this is a case for possible safety and manufactuer defects problem that impacts a good group of Subaru fans. https://www.subaruoutback.org/threads/key-stuck-in-ignition.495265/
Feb 26, 2022
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
On 2/13/22 I started my vehicle to move it back into the garage. Upon putting it into 'Drive' the engine unexpectedly started to ramp up the RPMs accelerating the vehicle forward. Fortunately I had my foot on the break slowing the progression and I was able to switch the gear to 'Neutral'. At that point the engine began to continue to ramp up the RPMs. I tried depressing and releasing the accelerator to see if the engine would respond and decrease the RPMS, it did not. I then switched off the engine to keep it from accelerating/increasing the RPMs. About five minutes after the initial incident I started the vehicle. Immediately upon startup the vehicle RPMs starting to ramp up. I tired depressing and releasing the accelerator to see if the engine would respond and decrease the RPMS, it did not. I then switched off the engine to keep it from accelerating/increasing the RPMs. After another five minutes I started the vehicle again. This time I let the car warmup for a minute before placing it into gear. During this time I did not experience another incident.
Feb 14, 2022
STEERING,SUSPENSION
1 complaint
2017 SUBARU OUTBACK 2.5 LIMITED HAS LOOSE STEERING IN THE RAIN AND GOING DOWN HILLS. DRIFTS A LOT WITH CROSS WINDS VEHICLE HAD ALIGNMENT AND TIRE INSPECTION AND SUSPENSION CHECKED AND ALL WAS FINE BUT CAR STILL IS UNSTABLE IN BAD WEATHER. FEELS LIKE IT IS SWAYING AND THE TIRES ARE NOT ON THE GROUND. TIRES HAVE 13K MILES ON THEM AND ARE IN GOOD SHAPE. SHOCKS ARE FINE. REPAIR SHOPS CAN NOT DETERMINE THE PROBLEM
Feb 04, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaint
received clean bill of health for battery after 10/24/19 service at dealership. AAA replaced battery on 10/31/19 when car would not start. Car would not start. Had to jump battery on 3/15/21. Car would not start. Had to jump battery on 6/20/21. Car would not start. Had to jump battery on 6/21/21. AAA replaced battery on 6/22/21 when car would not start. Blind spot monitoring turns itself off about 50% of the time. Repaired multiple times at dealership.
Jul 12, 2021
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
MY NEW BATTERY WAS DRAINED TO A POINT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START. I MESSAGED SOME BIBLE STUDY FRIENDS AND ONE WAS GOING TO COME OVER AND JUMP MY VEHICLE. WHILE WAITING I PUT THE CAR IN NEUTRAL AND PUSHED IT OUT OF MY GARAGE INTO THE DRIVEWAY. THE DRIVEWAY IS ON A STEEP SLOPE. ONCE IN THE DRIVEWAY I TRIED PUTTING THE CAR INTO PARK, IT WOULD NOT GO INTO PARK. IN FACT IT WOULD ONLY GO INTO DRIVE WHICH DID NOT STOP THE VEHICLE FROM ROLLING BACKWARDS. I TRIED THE EMERGENCY BRAKE BUT IT IS ELECTRICALLY OPERATED AND DID NOT WORK. THE BRAKES WERE VERY HARD TO HOLD SINCE THE HYDRAULICS WERE NOT KICKING IN, SAME WITH THE POWER STEERING. I AM A BIG STRONG GUY SO I WRESTLED THE CAR TO TURN IT DIAGONALLY IN THE DRIVEWAY AS IT ROLLED BACKWARDS, TRYING TO PREVENT IT FROM GOING INTO THE STREET AND FLYING INTO SOMEONE'S HOUSE OR VEHICLE. ONCE DIAGONAL IN THE DRIVEWAY I THREW A PADLOCK UNDER THE FRONT TIRE FROM THE DRIVERS SEAT WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE TO PREVENT IT FROM ROLLING BACK. AT THIS POINT IT WAS BARELY HELD BUT STATIONARY SO I GOT OUT, CHALKED THE WHEELS WITH 2X4'S UNTIL BY BIBLE STUDY FRIENDS CAME OVER AND JUMPED MY CAR. I DID NOT HAVE MY CELL PHONE AND NO ONE ELSE WAS AROUND TO HELP ME. I LITTERALLY THOUGHT I WAS GOING TO HAVE TO JUST LET MY CAR ROLL DOWN INTO THE STREET AND LET IT GO BECAUSE I HAD NO OTHER OPTIONS. I CALLED SUBARU OF AMERICA AND THEY DIRECTED ME TO A YOUTUBE VIDEO THAT SHOWS ONCE THE BATTERY COMPLETELY DIES, THERE IS A SPECIAL TOOL YOU NEED IN ORDER TO GET THE CAR IN AND OUT OF PARK. BUT IT DOESN'T TELL YOU THAT IF THE CAR WON'T START AND THERE IS ENOUGH POWER TO GET IT INTO REVERSE, DON'T DO IT WITHOUT THE TOOL. WHAT IF THIS HAPPENED IN THE MOUNTAINS OR SAN FRANCISCO OR ANY HILLY OR MOUNTAINOUS LOCATION? I BELIEVE THIS IS A HIGH POTENTIAL FOR LIFE THREATING INJURY OR LOSS OF PROPERTY. E-BRAKES SHOULD NOT BE ELECTRIC IN MY OPINION.
May 10, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
THE BATTERY KEEPS FAILING. IT'S MY 4TH BATTERY CHANGE AND I CAN FEEL THAT I WILL NEED TO CHANGE THE 4TH ONE SOON.
Apr 25, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaint
COMPLAINTPURCHASED VEHICLE ON 8/15/2017. STARTED HAVING ELECTRICAL ISSUES THAT HAVE PERSISTED CONSISTENTLY. INCIDENTS INCLUDE RADIO FREEZING, RADIO UPDATES AND PROBLEMS STILL PERSIST, FULL RADIO / SCREEN REPLACED, LIGHTS ON THE CPNSOLE PULSING DURING A HIGHWAY NIGHT DRIVE, NOTICE FROM STARLINK THAT MY SYSTEM WAS NOT WORKING AND I RECENTLY JUST HAD MY BATTERY REPLACED FOR THE FOURTH TIME IN 43 MONTHS OF OWNING THIS AUTO. MOST RECENTLY I COULDNT START MY CAR AND WAS STUCK AT THE SOUTH RIM OF THE GRAND CANYON. HAD TO GET THE AUTO TO FLAGSTAFF SUBARU TO GET THE BATTERY REPLACED. NO ONE MENTIONED THAT THIS ISSUE WAS RECURRING AND WIDESPREAD PROBLEM. WHEN I GOT MY CAR BACK TO LAS VEGAS, I TOOK THE CAR IN TO THE LAS VEGAS SUBARU DEALER ON APRIL 8, 2021. THE CAR WAS PICKED UP BY ME ON TUESDAY AP 13, 2021. I WAS TOLD THAT THEY DID AN UPDATE AND THAT THE PROBLEM WOULD BE FIXED. THERE IS NO WAY TO TELL IF THAT IS EVEN REMOTELY CORRECT AS THERE IS A NEW BATTERY (AGAIN THE 4TH BATTERY) IN THIS VEHICLE AND WHO KNOWS WHEN AND WHERE I WILL GET STUCK NEXT. THE TIME PERIODS BETWEEN INCIDENTS ARE AS LITTLE AS A FEW MONTHS AND BEYOND. I LITERALLY JUST READ AN ARTICLE TODAY ABOUT THERE BEING A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT FOR THIS VERY SAME ISSUE FOR 2016-2020 SUBARU OUTBACKS. NO ONE IN THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT OR AT SUBARU NATIONAL 800 NUMBER MENTIONED THIS TO ME. AFTER THIS 4TH BATTERY INCIDENT, I DID MAKE A COMPLAINT TO SUBARU'S NATIONAL OFFICE
Apr 17, 2021
STRUCTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaint
I HAD BACKED MY CAR UP TO THE FRONT OF THE GARAGE. I CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP. AS I TRIED TO PUT MY CAR IN PARK, MY VEHICLE CATAPULTED INTO THE GARAGE WHICH WAS DIRECTLY BEHIND IT. I BELIEVE MY CAR EXPERIENCED "SUDDEN UNINTERRUPTED ACCELERATION". MY CINDER BLOCK GARAGE PARTIALLY COLLAPSED AND NEED TO BE COMPLETELY RAZED.
Feb 18, 2021
SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT DOES NOT FULLY RETRACT ALL WAY BACK AFTER USE, WHICH CAUSED THE SEAT BELT TO GET STUCK INTO THE DOOR CAUSING DOOR JAMS AND DENTS INTO THE DOOR FRAME OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO A LOCAL DEALER CAPITOL SUBARU (920 CAPITOL EXPRESSWAY AUTO MALL, SAN JOSE, CA 95136) WHO COULD NOT DIAGNOSE OR REPAIRED THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 43,300.
Jan 21, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION
1 complaint
THE REAR HATCH AFTER USE IT APPEARS TO BE CLOSED. IT DOES NOT INDICATE IT IS NOT LATCHED OR CLOSED AND DRAINS THE BATTERY AND THE CAR DOES NOT START. THE BACK UP INDICATOR DID NOT ALERT ME THAT THERE WAS A CAR COMING ACROSS BEHIND ME.
Jan 20, 2021
STEERING,POWER TRAIN,WHEELS
1 complaint
WHILE TRAVELING THROUGH MICHIGAN'S UPPER PENINSULA AND NORTHERN WISCONSIN DURING SNOW FALL WITH A FULLY PACKED CAR ON THE HIGHWAY I EXPERIENCED THE REAR END "GHOST WALKING" OR "STEERING" OR "PULLING" TO THE LEFT AND TO THE RIGHT. I HAD TO DRIVE 40MPH WHILE TWO-WHEELED DRIVE CAMRYS, CIVICS, VANS, ETC. PASSED US BY. GROWING UP IN NORTHERN MICHIGAN, I'M NO STRANGER TO WINTER CONDITIONS AND ALL WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLES. I DON'T THINK ALL-WHEELED DRIVE VEHICLES MAKE ME INVINCIBLE, BUT THEY DO MAKE DRIVING IN WINTERY CONDITIONS BETTER. AFTER OUR TRIP, I TOOK THE CAR INTO THE SUBARU DEALER AND THEY SAID AT 37K MILES, THE SUSPENSION LOOKED GREAT, ALIGNMENT LOOKED GREAT, AND THAT THEY WOULD RECOMMEND NEW TIRES (TIRES ARE AT 4/32 AND HAVE EVEN WEAR AND TEAR). I ASKED TO SPEAK DIRECTLY TO THE TECH WORKING ON MY CAR AND HE SAID THAT THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE AND THAT ALTHOUGH THEY WERE RECOMMENDING NEW TIRES, THE CURRENT TIRE CONDITION WOULD NOT CAUSE WHAT I WAS DESCRIBING. MY WIFE AND I THEN RESEARCHED AND CAME ACROSS SEVERAL ONLINE FORUMS WITH OTHER DRIVER'S EXPERIENCING THE SIMILAR ISSUES, BUT WITH PRIOR YEAR MODELS. I CALLED SUBARU'S MAIN CUSTOMER SERVICE LINE TO SEE IF THEY COULD HELP AND THEY SAID THAT THEY WOULD MAKE NOTE OF MY COMPLAINT, BUT THAT IF THE SUBARU DEALER TECH SAID THE VEHICLE WAS FINE OTHER THAN SUGGESTING NEW TIRES, I SHOULD GET NEW TIRES AND THE VEHICLE WOULD BE FINE. SUBARU ALSO SAID THERE WERE NO "CAMPAIGNS" OPEN WITH RESPECT TO THIS PROBLEM AND THAT THEY WERE SORRY I "FELT LIKE I HAD THIS EXPERIENCE" AND THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO. HERE'S A LINK TO A FORUM, WHERE THE PEOPLE SEEM TO KNOW WHAT IS GOING ON: HTTPS://WWW.SUBARUOUTBACK.ORG/THREADS/2005-2009-GHOSTWALKING-ABNORMAL-WINTER-HANDLING-FIXES.30747/PAGE-2. WE PLAN TO BUY NEW TIRES, BUT ARE WILLING TO OFFER OUR CAR UP FOR TEST DRIVING TO SEE WHAT IS GOING ON.
Dec 31, 2020
VISIBILITY/WIPER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaint
PASSENGER SIDE ON WINDSHIELD GOT CRACKS ABOUT 2 FEETS WHEN WE ARE DRIVING ON I5 NEAR SACRAMENTO CITY 6/26/2020 DRIVING TOWARD LA
Nov 28, 2020
SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
PULLING INTO OUR GARAGE (AS WE HAVE DONE PROBABLY THOUSANDS OF TIMES SINCE OWNING THE CAR), OUR 2017 OUTBACK ACCELERATED OUT OF CONTROL INTO THE BACK WALL OF OUR GARAGE. CAR HAD BEEN STOPPED AT THE PARKING POSITION IN THE GARAGE AND WAS BEING SHIFTED INTO PARK WHEN THE ACCELERATION OCCURRED. GAS PEDAL WAS NOT TOUCHED (CAR ALWAYS COASTS INTO GARAGE UNDER IT'S OWN POWER, AND FOOT IS ONLY ON THE BRAKE ALWAYS). EXTENSIVE DAMAGE TO CAR AND GARAGE. BOTH SUBARU AND OUR INSURANCE COMPANY HAVE BEEN ALERTED.
Oct 17, 2020
VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
THE WINDSHIELD CRACKED FOR NO APPARENT REASON. THE WINDSHIELD THE SPIDER WEB CRACKED ACROSS WINDSHIELD. *TR
Jun 03, 2020
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
OUTBACK ACCELERATES BY ITSELF RANDOMLY. I NOTICE MOST WHEN APPROACHING STOP SIGN AND SWITCH FOOT FROM GAS PEDAL TO BRAKE. *TR
May 16, 2020
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
KEY STUCK IN THE IGNITION AFTER ENGINE TURN OFF AND IN PARK. *TR
May 14, 2020
SEATS,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
TWO ISSUES: - WINDSHIELD - I CAME OUT OF THE GYM TO SEE A HUGE CRACK IN MY WINDSHIELD. ON THE VERY NEXT DAY AS I WAS DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE A WHAT I ASSUME A SMALL ROCK HIT MY WINDSHIELD AND ANOTHER CRACK SPREAD ACROSS THE WINDSHIELD. -LEATHER DRIVER CAR SEAT - WITHIN ONLY TWO YEARS OF USE, THE CAR SEAT IS RIPPED IN SEVERAL PLACES. NOTHING HAS EVER HAPPENED TO WARRANT SUCH RIPS.
Mar 29, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
WINDSHIELD CRACKS AND INSTANTLY SPREAD WITH MINIMAL IMPACT DISABLING CAR SPEED CONTROL AND SAFETY SYSTEMS SUCH AS PRE-COLLISION BRAKING AND LANE KEEP ASSIST.
Dec 06, 2019
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
KEY GETS STUCK IN THE IGNITION. THE CAR DRIVES, TURNS OFF, AND TURNS ON LIKE NORMAL HOWEVER, WHEN THE CAR IS PUT INTO PARK, TURNED OFF, AND THE THE KEY IS ATTEMPTED TO BE REMOVED THE KEY DOES NOT COME OUT. IT ONLY COMES OUT AFTER SOMETIMES AN HOUR OR MORE OF PUTTING THE CAR INTO DRIVE AND THEN INTO PARK AGAIN. THIS HAPPENS EVERY TIME I ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE KEY.
Dec 01, 2019
STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS (WHEN STARTING IN DRIVEWAY - STOPPED, WHILE DRIVING IN PARKING LOT - 5 MPH, DRIVING IN TOWN - 25 MPH, WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY - 60 MPH) ALL ADVANCED SAFETY FEATURES ARE DISABLED INCLUDING (BUT NOT LIMITED TO) EYE SIGHT (FAB - FORWARD AUTO BRAKE, ACC - ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL, LAS - LANE ASSIST STEERING), RAB - REAR AUTO BRAKE, REAR CROSS TRAFFIC ALERT, BLIND SPOT DETECTION, PARK BRAKE, ABS, TRACTION CONTROL, POWER STEERING. NOTE THAT THE FAILURE OF THESE SYSTEMS DOES NOT CAUSE A CHECK ENGINE CONDITION AND NO ERROR CODES ARE LOGGED. THE DEALER INDICATED THAT THE FIRST 4/5 FAILURES LEFT NO CODES. THE NEXT FAILURE WAS DELIVERED TO DEALER WHILE RUNNING IN A FAILED STATE. DEALER REPORTED NO CODES FOUND. SINCE THE DEALER DID NOT REPORT THIS TO SUBARU I WILL BE REPORTING THIS PROBLEM TO SUBARU.
Nov 14, 2019
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
1 complaint
YESTERDAY MORNING, I STOPPED MY SUBARU IN ORDER TO BACK INTO A PARKING SPACE. THE CAR WAS IN DRIVE AND MY FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE. WHILE MY FOOT WAS STILL ON THE BRAKE AND I WAS CHANGING GEARS FROM DRIVE TO REVERSE, THE ENGINE STARTED ACCELERATING FULL-THROTTLE. I HAD TO PRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL VERY HARD TO PREVENT THE CAR FROM GOING DOWN THE HILLSIDE BEHIND THE PARKING LOT. I PUT THE CAR BACK IN PARK WITH THE ENGINE REVVING FULL-THROTTLE AND TURNED THE IGNITION OFF. AFTER THIS INCIDENT THE CAR OPERATED NORMALLY ' UNTIL TODAY. TODAY, MY CAR WAS PARKED IN MY DRIVEWAY IN FRONT OF MY GARAGE. WHEN I STARTED THE CAR EVERYTHING SEEMED FINE ' UNTIL, WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE, I ATTEMPTED TO CHANGE GEARS FROM PARK TO DRIVE. AGAIN THE ENGINE IMMEDIATELY AND UNEXPECTEDLY ACCELERATED FULL-THROTTLE. AS I WAS MOVING THE GEAR SHIFTER FROM PARK TO REVERSE TO NEUTRAL TO DRIVE, I AGAIN HAD TO PRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL VERY HARD TO PREVENT THE CAR FROM BACKING INTO MY GARAGE DOOR. I IMMEDIATELY CALLED MY SUBARU DEALER BUT COULD NOT REACH THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT. AFTER 10-12 RINGS I GOT A MESSAGE INSTRUCTING ME TO LEAVE A MESSAGE FOR THEM TO CALL ME BACK SINCE THEY WERE CURRENTLY EXPERIENCING HEAVY CALL VOLUME DUE TO AN INCREASE IN RECALL ISSUES. I CALLED BACK AND GOT THROUGH TO SOMEONE IN THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT AND EXPLAINED THE PROBLEM TO THEM. THEY SAID THEY WERE UNFAMILIAR WITH THIS PROBLEM ON SUBARU OUTBACKS.
Aug 19, 2019
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
I HIT A LARGE DEER ON IH 10 AT 75 MPH. ALL AIRBAGS DEPLOYED SAFELY BUT CONPLETELY BLOCKED MY VISION AND PREVENTED ME FROM EXITING THE VEHICLE AS THE BAGS BLOCKED DOOR HANDLES, WINDOW CONTROL SWITCHES AND MY SEAT BELT RELEASE. ANOTHER MOTORIST CUT AIR BAG STRIPS AND HELPED ME TO EXIT THE CAR. FORTUNATELY, NO FIRE.
Apr 24, 2019
STEERING,ENGINE
1 complaint
NOT ABLE TO TAKE KEY OUT OF THE IGNITION, KEY IS BEING STUCK 50% OF THE TIME. SECOND ISSUE IS THE ENGINE IS MAKING BIRD CHIRPING NOISE, IT COMES AND GOES BUT IT GETS LOUDE!! TOOK IT TO DEALER A YEAR AGO BY THE TIME I GOT THERE THE NOISE STOPPED SO THEY COULD NOT FIGURE OUT THE ISSUE, TOOK IN THE SECOND TIME ABOUT 8 MONTHS AGO THE SERVICE TECH HEARD IT AND BOOKED ME FOR AN APPOINTMENT. BY THE TIME MECHANIC GOT TO IT NEXT DAY IT STOPPED. THIS WAS ALL UNDER WARRANTY AND NOW I AM OUT OF WARRANTY AND HAVE NO SUPPORT FROM A LOCAL DEALER FROM WHERE I BOUGHT THE CAR. I DID SOME RESEARCH ON THIS ISSUES AND THERE IS A HUGE PROBLEM WITH THIS AND SUBARU IS NOT DOING ANYTHING ABOUT IT.
Mar 14, 2019
STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
WHEN LANE KEEP ASSIST IS ON AT NIGHT (USES EYESIGHT TO KEEP YOU IN YOUR LANE) THE CAR STEERING WHEEL HAS ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS SUDDENLY JERKED TO THE RIGHT. THE FIRST TIME THERE HAD BEEN SOME ROAD REPAIRS WITH SOME PARTS OF THE ROAD HAVING NEW ASPHALT AT SOME NOT, AND THE ROAD WAS STILL WET FROM A PREVIOUS RAINSTORM. THE MOST RECENT TIME THE ROAD WAS DRY AND THIS HAPPENED WHEN THE CAR REACHED AND EXIT WHERE THE PAINTED STRIPE ON THE RIGHT SIDE OPENED AT THE ANGLE FOR CARS TO DEPART THE INTERSTATE TO ALLOW FOR THE EXIT. THE FIRST TIME THERE WERE TWO IMMEDIATE JERKS TO THE RIGHT. THE LAST TIME A SINGLE JERK. EACH TIME I HAD TO FORCIBLY JERK BACK THE CAR BACK TO THE MIDDLE OF THE LANE I WAS IN, OR WE WOULD HAVE LEFT THE ROAD AT 65 MPH. I HAVE STOPPED USING LANE KEEP ASSIST - THIS WAS VERY DANGEROUS. THE FIRST TIME I ASKED THE SALESMAN AT SUBARU OF CHAMPAIGN ABOUT THIS, AND HE DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT IT. AFTER THE SECOND OCCURRENCE I DECIDED IT WAS A DANGEROUS DEFECT AND HAD TO REPORT IT. THANK YOU.
Dec 25, 2018
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,WHEELS
1 complaint
HAVING PROBLEM TO REMOVE KEY FROM THE IGNITION WHEN THE CAN WAS ONLY DRIVEN FOR YEAR AND HALF AND HAS LESS THAN 10000 MILES ON.
Dec 18, 2018
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
SIMILAR TO COMPLAIN DATED 12/09/2016 BY SOMEONE ELSE. ABOUT A YEAR AGO I WAS AT A LIGHT WAITING TO TURN LEFT, MY FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE WHEN SUDDENLY THE ENGINE REVVED UP AND I HAD TO SWITCH TO NEUTRAL TO RETURN TO IDLE SPEED. I NOTIFIED A SUBARU REPRESENTATIVE ON THE INTERNET. THIS MONTH I HAD 4 OCCASIONS THAT I HAD SIMILAR EXPERIENCE IN A SHOPPING MALL TRYING TO TURN RIGHT INTO A PARKING SPACE. THIS FRIDAY I TRIED TO PARK IN MY GARAGE AFTER 5 MILES DRIVE, AND MY WIFE WAS A PASSENGER, I TURNED THE WHEEL SLIGHTLY TO THE LEFT WHEN THE ENGINE REVVED UP FROM IDLE OF 600 TO 2000 RPM AND THEN WENT TO 4000 RPM. I WAS USING THE BRAKE AND I FELT A SKID OF A TIRE. SWITCHED TO NEUTRAL AND PARK AND TURNED OFF THE ENGINE. MY WIFE WAS SCARED AND WOULD NOT RIDE IN MY CAR. I HAVE AN APPOINTMENT WITH MY WAKEFIELD SUBARU DEALER ON 09/25/18, I DID NOT DRIVE MY CAR SINCE THE LAST EPISODE. MY ODOMETER IS 14241 MILES. I AM POSITIVE I DID NOT STEP ON THE GAS, ONLY THE BRAKE.
Sep 24, 2018
BACK OVER PREVENTION
1 complaint
THE AUTOMATIC REAR BRAKING IS OVERLY SENSITIVE AND SLAMS ON THE BRAKES ANYTIME I BACK OUT OF A DRIVEWAY; UNLESS I COME TO A COMPLETE STOP AT THE MOMENT THE TIRES MAKE CONTACT WITH THE STREET. THE DEALER TELLS POTENTIAL CUSTOMERS THIS CAN BE ADJUSTED, BUT WHEN I TOOK THE CAR IN FOR AN ADJUSTMENT, THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT TOLD ME IT WAS AGAINST THE LAW TO ADJUST IT. SUBARU CLAIMS IT'S WORKING AS DESIGNED, BUT THEY'VE NEVER TESTED IT ON THE ROAD. THE ONLY THING THEY DO IS PLUG IT IN TO THEIR COMPUTER; AND THEY FIND NO ERROR CODES. THE 2018 SUBARU OUTBACK IS NOT AS SENSITIVE.
Apr 30, 2018
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
LEASE DATE | 08/25/17 ON 01/17/18 AFTER SEVERAL DAYS OF THE EYE SIGHT SYSTEM TURNING ON AND OFF, I NOTICE THAT A PIECE OF FOAM HAD FALLEN IN THE WAY OF THE PASSENGER CAMERA. I NOTIFIED SUBARU OF AMERICA OF THIS THROUGH THEIR WEBSITE AND MIKE SHAW SUBARU FIXED THE ISSUE. TODAY, AFTER TWO DAY OF EYE SIGHT SYSTEM TURNING ON AND OFF, I NOTICE THAT A PIECE OF FOAM HAD NOW FALLEN IN THE WAY OF THE DRIVER SIDE CAMERA. I HAVE NOT HAD THIS REPAIRED. BOTH EVENTS SEVERELY INTERFERE WITH THE CARS SAFETY FEATURES FROM OPERATING AND, IN THE CASE OF THE FIRST OCCURRENCE, THE AUTO BRAKING SYSTEM DID DEPLOY INCORRECTLY AT TIMES.
Feb 13, 2018
STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
SINCE PURCHASE ON 2/19/17 FROM PARKER SUBARU CDA, COMPLAINT OF SHAKING FRONT END, WANDERING ON HIGHWAY AND FREEWAY FROM SIDE TO SIDE IN A DANGEROUS MANNER, FROM COMPLETE LOSS OF STEERING IN SNOW, SLUSH AND GRAVEL AS OF 2/28/17. I HAVE BEEN VERY SPECIFIC ABOUT THE INCIDENCE. GOING IN MY DRIVEWAY AT LEAST 8 INCCIDENTS; IN SNOW OR SLUSH CONDITIONS, IN DEPTS ON ONLY A COUPLE INCHES OR LESS IN THE WINTER OF 2017. IN THE SUMMER OF 2017 THREE INCIDENTS OF COMPLETE FAILURE WAS REPORTED ON GRAVE ROAD AT SPEEDS OF 15-MPH, I HAVE HAD THE VERY SAME COMPLAINT EVERY VISIT: 2/28/17, 3/23/17, 4/6/17. 9/13/17, 10/22/17, 1/22/17- @ PARKER SUBARU CDA.
Jan 26, 2018
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,BACK OVER PREVENTION
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REVERSE AUTOMATIC BRAKING SYSTEM INDEPENDENTLY APPLIED ITSELF. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THIS WAS DUE TO THE ASPHALT BEING AT AN ANGLE WHERE IT WAS CLOSE TO THE SENSORS OF THE VEHICLE. AUTONATION SUBARU SCOTTSDALE (15678 N NORTHSIGHT BLVD, SCOTTSDALE, AZ) INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THEY WOULD NEED TO TEMPORARILY DISABLE THE FEATURE TO PREVENT FUTURE FAILURES WHEN REVERSING THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THE BRAKING SYSTEM WAS OPERATING AS DESIGNED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 2,000.... .UPDATED 11/16/17 *BF VEHICLE PURCHASE DATE SHOULD BE OR BEFORE INCIDENT DATE UPDATED 9/7/18*JB
Oct 03, 2017
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
SEPTEMBER 9TH 2017, OUR OUTBACK WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT ON A MIXED RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL STREET INTERSECTION, WHEN IT WAS HIT ON THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL, HARD ENOUGH TO SPIN THE CAR SO THAT THE LEFT REAR CORNER MADE CONTACT WITH THE OTHER VEHICLE. THE IMPACT RESULTED IN SERIOUS INJURIES REQUIRING HOSPITALIZATION AND WEEKS OF RECOVERY. THE AIRBAGS & SEATBELT PRE-TENSIONERS DID NOT ACTIVATE. AFTER THE COLLISION, THE "SOS" BUTTON WAS PRESSED, BUT THERE WAS NO RESPONSE FROM STARLINK. SEVERAL DAYS LATER THE STARLINK CONCIERGE CALLED TO ADVISE US THAT THE LIGHTS WERE "ON" AND CHECKING ON OUR WELLBEING. THEY WERE UNAWARE THAT THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT SEVERAL DAYS PRIOR, NOR DID THEY HAVE ANY RECORD THAT THE "SOS" BUTTON HAD BEEN ACTIVATED. THE CAUSE OF THE NON-ACTIVATION IS STILL UNDER INVESTIGATION BY OUR INSURANCE AND SUBARU
Sep 19, 2017
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
ON 8 JUNE 2017 I HAD JUST PULLED INTO A PARKING SPOT IN FRONT OF A MEDICAL SUITE WHEN MY LEASED THREE MONTH OLD 2017 SUBARU OUTBACK WITH 1,000 MILES SUDDENLY HAD AN UNINTENDED ACCELERATION EPISODE JUMPING THE CURB AND CRASHING INTO A BRICK WALL AND SUITE DOOR AFTER DISPLACING A THRESHOLD COLUMN BY TWO INCHES. THE AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY, THE "EYESIGHT" FUNCTION DID NOT STOP THE VEHICLE, THE SEAT BELT DID NOT RESTRAIN ME AND MY CHEST SLAMMED INTO THE STEERING WHEEL, MY KNEES CRASHED INTO THE DASHBOARD. ON 2 JUNE, LESS THAN A WEEK EARLIER, THE CAR HAD DONE THE SAME UNINTENDED ACCELERATION WHILE BACKING OUT OF A PARKING SPOT, BUT NOTHING WAS HIT AT THAT TIME. AFTER THE INITIAL AMBULANCE ER VISIT, PLUS TWO MORE, MY PHYSICAL INJURIES CONSISTING OF ACHES AND PAINS, BRUISES, XRAYS, IV TREATMENT FOR PERSISTENT HEADACHE AFTER THE ACCIDENT, ARE INSIGNIFICANT COMPARED TO THE MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL DAMAGE. NOT TO MENTION THE ECONOMIC BURDEN AND FRUSTRATING SITUATION THIS LEAVES ME IN. I CONTACTED THE DEALERSHIP AND SENT IN PICTURES OF THE VEHICLES AND DAMAGED BUILDING. THEY IN TURN REFERRED MY COMPLAINT TO SUBARU OF AMERICA WHO WAS VERY DILIGENT IN PERFORMING AN INVESTIGATION AND KEEPING ME UPDATED WITH THE PROCEDURE. HOWEVER, ALMOST TWO MONTHS AFTER THE ACCIDENT, SUBARU OF AMERICA CLAIMS THEIR RESULTS INDICATE "MISAPPLICATION OF THROTTLE AND BREAK" CLEARLY PUTTING THE BLAME ON ME, WITHOUT MENTIONING ANYTHING ABOUT THE FIRST INCIDENT, AND THE LACK OF RESPONSE OF THE SAFETY FEATURES OF THE VEHICLE DURING THE ACCIDENT. THERE ARE AT LEAST 34 REPORTS OF SIMILAR ACCIDENTS DUE TO UNINTENDED ACCELERATION OF OUTBACK VEHICLES, AND AT LEAST 70 RELATED TO THE SUBARU FORESTER ON CARPROBLEMZOO.COM SINCE 2000. I NOW FIND MYSELF WITH A BEAUTIFUL BRAND NEW VEHICLE THAT I WILL PAY THE LEASE FOR, BUT DON'T FEEL COMFORTABLE DRIVING OUT OF FEAR THAT THE UNINTENDED ACCELERATION WILL REOCCUR.
Jul 29, 2017
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
CAR ATTEMPTED TO ACCELERATE WITHOUT INPUT FROM DRIVER.WHILE APPROACHING A STOP SIGN I WAS SLOWING DOWN WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE CAR ENGINE SUDDENLY RAVED UP TO 4000 K, WHEN I SHIFTED TO NEUTRAL ENGINE REVVED TO 7000K. I PUT CAR BACK IN GEAR AND DROVE CAR APPROXIMATELY A QUARTER MILE BACK TO MY HOME USING THE BRAKES TO CONTROL SPEED OF CAR AND CALLED THE DEALER. HAD CAR TOWED TO DEALER WHERE IT REMAINS.
Jun 06, 2017
STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING 75 MILES PER HOUR ON A BUSY HIGHWAY IN HOLIDAY SKI TRAFFIC AND THE PANEL JUST ABOVE THE BRAKE AND GAS PETAL FELL DOWN AND BLOCKED MY ACCESS TO THE BREAK PETAL AND LIMITED MY ABILITY TO MOVE MY FOOT OFF THE GAS PETAL. I WAS ABLE TO GAIN CONTROL OF THE CAR, WHILE DRIVING AT A HIGH SPEED IN THE LEFT LANE BY YANKING THE PANEL OFF MY FEET AND SLOWING DOWN TO EXIT THE HIGHWAY. I STOPPED THE CAR, PUT THE PANEL BACK IN IT'S PLACE AND SECURED IT WITH DUCK TAPE. I PURCHASED THIS BAND NEW CAR ON 12/30/16 AND THIS HAPPENED ON 2/17/17.
Feb 20, 2017
TIRES,WHEELS
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 SUBARU OUTBACK. WHEN ROTATING OR REPLACING TIRES, THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR LIGHT ILLUMINATED. FLASHED AT THE SUBARU DEALER SINCE 2015. IF NOT, THEY WOULD NOT BE IN COMPLIANCE WITH NEW YORK AND WOULD FAIL INSPECTION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. UPDATED 01/25/2017*CT
Nov 14, 2016
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,ENGINE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THERE WAS AN LOUD ABNORMAL SOUND. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE THE FAILURE WAS UNDETERMINED. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THE ALL THE WINDOWS FAILED TO FUNCTION EXCEPT FOR THE DRIVER SIDE WINDOW. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 2,000. UPDATED 01/11/2017*CT UPDATED 06/07/17*LJ CONSUMER DEALER WAS MADE AWARE OF WINDOW FAILURE AND IT WAS FIXED. (STILL MAKING SAME LOUD NOISE (12-3-16). UPDATED 7/9/18*JB *TR
Oct 19, 2016
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
FAULTY OCCUPANT DETECTION SYSTEM. TURNS OFF AIRBAG WITH PASSENGER. TURNS ON AIRBAG AND SEATBELT CHIME WITH NO PASSENGER/WEIGHT. INTERMITTENT. BRAND NEW CAR WITH 700 MILES AND BROUGHT IN 3 TIMES TO SUBARU SANTA MONICA. SERVICE CENTER UNABLE TO REPLICATE PROBLEM, BUT I SENT THEM VIDEOS.
Sep 26, 2016
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 2017 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 2017 SUBARU Outback 17-digit VIN helps identify specific complaints and problems affecting your vehicle model.
How to Check 2017 SUBARU Outback Problems in 3 Steps
1
Locate Your VIN
Find the 17-character VIN on your 2017 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 2017 SUBARU Outback have?
The 2017 SUBARU Outback currently has 912 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 2017 SUBARU Outback?
The most common problems reported for the 2017 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 2017 SUBARU Outback problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2017 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 2017 SUBARU Outback?
You can report safety problems with your 2017 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 2017 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 2017 SUBARU Outback reliable?
Reliability can be assessed by reviewing the number and severity of owner complaints for the 2017 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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