2010 Subaru Outback
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Power train is the leading concern among 360 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 9th highest complaint count among 26 Outback model years with reports.
Of the 2010 reports, 12 involved a crash and 3 involved a fire. 8 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 2, 2020
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-20.
Campaign 20V003000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 2, 2020
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-20.
Campaign 20V002000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 2, 2020
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators with alternate inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-20.
Campaign 20V001000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, ignition, switchApr 11, 2019
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch installed as a replacement part. The ball spring inside the switch may break, reducing the strength of the ignition switch. If this occurs, the weight on the key ring and certain road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. If a crash occurs under this condition, the air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ignition switch, replacing the ignition switch, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 10, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUF-91.
Campaign 19V297000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 9, 2019
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-19.
Campaign 19V009000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 9, 2019
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, and Legacy vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-19.
Campaign 19V008000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 9, 2019
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Forester, 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, Legacy, and 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-19.
Campaign 19V007000 on NHTSA.gov
Parking brakeSep 13, 2018
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Subaru Legacy and Outback vehicles equipped with a manual transmission. The electronic parking brake (EPB) may not engage as intended, allowing the vehicle to rollaway if the transmission is not in the proper gear when parked.
A vehicle rollaway can increase the risk of a crash.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the EPB actuator assembly, free of charge. The recall began July 19, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WTV-81.
Campaign 18V626000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 9, 2018
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2010 Tribeca, Impreza, Forester, WRX, Legacy, and Outback vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-18.
Campaign 18V013000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 9, 2018
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Legacy, Forester, Tribeca, WRX and Outback vehicles, and 2009-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-18.
Campaign 18V012000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleJan 10, 2017
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Subaru Baja, 2006-2011 Impreza (including WRX and STI models), 2006-2012 Tribeca, 2009-2012 Forester, Legacy, Outback, and 2012 WRX vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2017. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-17.
Campaign 17V014000 on NHTSA.gov
Visibility, windshield wiper/washer, motorSep 27, 2016
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Legacy vehicles manufactured November 26, 2008, to June 7, 2013, and 2010-2014 Outback vehicles manufactured January 9, 2009 to June 7, 2013. Due to contamination, components within the windshield wiper motor bottom cover may interfere with each other. If an obstruction, such as a buildup of snow or ice prevents the wiper arms from being able to stop in the parked position, the wiper motor may overheat and the bottom cover may melt.
If the windshield wiper motor overheats, the wipers may fail, reducing driver visibility and increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, the wiper motor cover may melt, increasing the risk of a fire.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the windshield wiper motor bottom cover assembly, free of charge. The recall began October 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTK-71. Note: This recall supersedes recall 11V-469. All vehicles that were remedied under that campaign are affected by this campaign, and need to have their wiper motor bottom cover replaced again.
Campaign 16V694000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleMay 25, 2016
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2009-2011 Legacy, Outback, Forester, 2006-2011 Impreza, Tribeca, 2003-2006 Baja, and 2006 Saab 9-2x vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." These vehicles may be equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 26, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Saab owners may contact GM at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-16.
Campaign 16V358000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical systemFeb 25, 2013
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Legacy and Outback vehicles equipped with an automatic or CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory, certain model year 2012-2013 Impreza vehicles equipped with a CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory, and certain model year 2013 XV Crosstrek vehicles equipped with a CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory. Additionally included are certain model year 2013 Legacy and Outback vehicles that may have received replacement RES fobs. If the RES fob is dropped, the fob may malfunction and randomly transmit an engine start request without pressing the button.
The engine may inadvertently start and run for up to fifteen minutes. The engine may continue to start and stop until the fob battery is depleted, or until the vehicle runs out of fuel. If the vehicle is parked in an enclosed area, there is a risk of carbon monoxide build-up which may cause headaches, dizziness or, in extreme cases, unconsciousness and/or asphyxiation.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the RES key fobs, free of charge. The recall began on April 22, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
Campaign 13V061000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lightingDec 26, 2012
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010 and 2011 Legacy and Outback vehicles, certain model year 2006 through 2012 Tribeca vehicles sold before January 2012, and certain model year 2009 through 2012 Forester vehicles sold before January 2012. Up to 78,650 of these vehicles may have been equipped with accessory puddle lights that, when illuminated, brighten the area under the doors of the vehicle. A short circuit can develop when either the puddle light or connector are exposed to an electrolytic moisture source (such as road spray that has road salt in it) and it penetrates the circuit board of the puddle light or the pins of the puddle light connector(s).
Over time, migration of the moisture into the circuit board and/or into the connector cavity, may result in a short circuit of the puddle light system. This may generate heat which may melt the plastic resulting in smoke or fire.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional fused-harness, free of charge. The recall began February 19, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
Campaign 12V602000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, manual transmissionJul 20, 2010
SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 AND 2011 OUTBACK AND LEGACY PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 28 THROUGH JUNE 23, 2010. DUE TO A PROGRAMMING ERROR, A LUBRICATION HOLE WITHIN THE 6-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION WAS OMITTED.
IF THE TRANSMISSION GEARS ARE NOT PROPERLY LUBRICATED, A GROANING SOUND MAY BEGIN TO DEVELOP ALERTING THE DRIVER OF A PROBLEM. IF THE SOUND IS IGNORED AND NO ACTION IS TAKEN, THE GEARS WILL EVENTUALLY BREAK AND THIS CONDITION WILL LEAD TO VEHICLE POWER LOSS, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.
SUBARU WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES BY DRILLING AN OIL LUBRICATION HOLE AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE INTERNAL PARTS WITH NEW ONES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
Campaign 10V326000 on NHTSA.gov
Steering, columnJun 24, 2010
SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 OUTBACK AND LEGACY PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 16, 2009 THROUGH APRIL 12, 2010. THE WIRING IN THE STEERING COLUMN ELECTRICAL ROLL CONNECTOR LOCATED BEHIND THE VEHICLE'S STEERING WHEEL MAY DEVELOP STRESS CRACKS AND EVENTUALLY BREAK. IF THIS WERE TO HAPPEN CERTAIN ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS MAY NOT OPERATE AS INTENDED.
POSSIBLE CIRCUITS AFFECTED ARE THE DRIVER'S FRONTAL AIRBAG, PADDLE SHIFTER FUNCTION, CRUISE CONTROL, HORN CONTROL AND RADIO FUNCTIONS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL CHECK LOT NUMBER OF THE STEERING ROLL CONNECTOR. THE ROLL CONNECTOR WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW ONE IF THE LOT NUMBER SHOWED ANY AFFECTED RANGE OF THE FAILURE OCCURRENCE. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 7, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
Campaign 10V283000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine cooling, cooling system, hoses/lines/piping/fittingsMay 7, 2010
SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 OUTBACK AND LEGACY PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 31 THROUGH DECEMBER 1, 2009. A CRACK OR SPLIT CAN OCCUR IN THE CVT COOLER HOSE RESULTING IN A FLUID LEAK.
IF THE FLUID IS COMPLETELY LEAKED DURING DRIVING, THE VEHICLE WILL COME TO A STOP, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.
SUBARU WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE ANY AFFECTED COOLER HOSES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 8, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-SUBARU3 (1-800-782-2783).
Campaign 10V196000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: service brakes
38 reports, newest first. Show all
Electrical system, Service brakes, Engine, Mar 12, 2026
This car is a very well-maintained, low-use vehicle with regular oil changes and routine maintenance performed on schedule. Early in this drive, I noticed an unusual hissing sound as I approached a stop. When I tried to brake, I realized my brakes didn't seem to be responding. I pressed the brake pedal harder and realized that with 50-100 pounds of pressure (guess), I could slow the car down. As I came to a stop, the engine died. I restarted the car, and it died again immediately. After the following restart, I realized I could manually keep the RPM up in neutral while at stops, and press with significant force to get the car to stop. Had I not been comfortable two foot driving or understood the issue, this surely would have resulted in a crash of some sort. The car indicated a check engine light, loss of traction control, a flashing BRAKE light, and a flashing cruise control light. I took the car immediately to a local shop where they identified the problem as a vacuum leak at the brake booster. The plastic piece that the hose clamps onto had cracked off, leading to this problem. This make and model does not seem to have a check valve downstream of this component.
Service brakes, Sep 20, 2025
On Saturday, August 9, 2025, my brakes failed at highway speed. My vehicle's stopping distance was severely increased, forcing me to perform an emergency swerve into the leftmost lane to avoid rear-ending a truck. The maneuver was extremely hazardous, as it occurred in a construction zone with concrete barriers and no shoulder, leaving no safe escape path and endangering myself and others. I confirmed the cause was a catastrophic failure of the four-way brake line union block due to severe corrosion. There were no warning lamps or symptoms prior to the incident; the failure was sudden and total. I found that this defect is difficult to spot during inspections because the part is hidden by a plastic panel. The failed union block and corroded lines were removed and are available for inspection upon request. My research shows this is a widespread issue and the exact failure mode covered by Subaru Recall WQK-47R for 2005-2009 models. This known safety defect persists in the 2010-2014 generation, which is not covered by the recall. Prohibitive dealer repair costs are forcing unsafe workarounds. This defect presents an unreasonable risk to public safety, and I urge the NHTSA to investigate.
Service brakes, Jun 2, 2025
Brake pedal went to the floor while applying the brake. Pulled car back up driveway and parked and noted almost zero ability to brake the car, pedal goes to floor when applying pressure to the pedal, almost zero ability to come to stop. Checked fluid - was still in reservoir but not at max. level (b/n max and min.). Checked under hood at and no signs of any leaks in engine compartment or on any lines in engine compartment (all good). Looked under car and no signs of leaking. Opened reservoir to top off to max. and by time I went into garage and came back with brake fluid the reservoir was empty, reexamined and found brake fluid leaking from a plastic cover on passenger side rear of car. Placed cover to soak up all fluid dripping/ streaming down to the ground. Called my local mechanic, and he indicated car may need to be towed to be serviced. In looking online, I have found many accounts of this issue with 2010 Subaru outback owners in northern areas where corrosion at the 4-way connector of the brakes lines causes immediate loss of braking and loss of all fluid. Not sure of cost, but I am thinking once it is examined the 4-way connector and all 4 brake lines may need to be replaced. This appears to be a widely known issue and for some reason this was never included or changed from 2005-2009 Subaru recalls to change for 2010 models, so I would like to know why this and the cost for repairs are not covered by Subaru as a RECALL. This could have caused a major accident and severe injury or death if traveling at speed on highway or in area needing hard braking to come to immediate stop. This is now the third major issue I have had in less than 12-months and 2nd from corrosion on my 2010 Subaru. Last summer my front frame had corrosion damage and required replacement. This brake issue with corrosion at the lines to the 4-way connector had recalls in earlier models, but why not in 2010 Subaru Outbacks? Very Unsafe and No Warning Light prior to brake loss !
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Apr 8, 2025
The contact owns a 2010 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while driving at 5 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed and failed to respond. The brake warning light was illuminated. The contact attempted to contact the manufacturer and was informed that the vehicle would not be covered under a recall. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with catastrophic brake line failure due to corrosion. The vehicle was repaired. The dealer was not made aware of the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Service brakes, Feb 2, 2025
I noticed my brake pedal suddenly sink to the floor, and I have to press the pedal all the way to the bottom to get a little bit of brake. Was able to make it back home. Upon inspection, I noticed brake fluid dripping from rear passenger side brake pipe, I took off a plastic cover that covers the brake line, and noticed heavy rust on a "Manifold" where two brake lines coming from front of the car and two lines going to two side of rear brakes. The brake line is leaking right from there. I feel sudden failure of this part can lead to fatal accident, luckily I was very close to home and on a local road when I experience this. And Subaru should 1. make it more easy for inspection. 2. notify the public. 3. get more rust proof measures, 4. get it fixed for the current owners. Thanks.
Service brakes, Feb 1, 2025
Complete brake failure due to leakage at 4 way b8rake line junction located above the gas tank on right side rear of vehicle. Known and reported issue due to rust and corrosion of brake lines in this UNPROTECTED area of vehicle. It has been a known problem on these 4th generation vehicles...no recall instituted. Wife and I lucky to be alive. Ridiculous that Subaru America has not been SUMMONED to conform to a NTHSA recall and make repairs on those vehicles affected. Absolutely NO indication failure was about to occur resulting in complete brake failure. Amazingly, this happened in such an area where I was able to roll to a stop and take action to transport the vehicle to my home where it is officially grounded in my garage. Condition was confirmed by a Subaru Master Technician.
Service brakes, Sep 20, 2024
The brake system failed when the brake lines burst at the four way connector on the right, rear side of the vehicle. There were no indicator lights lit on the dash until after losing all braking. Luckily I was traveling slowly and was able to roll to a stop safely. This is due to corrosion on the brake lines in the area of the four way connector. There is a small inspection door on the cover for this connector, so the issue is easily seen. This has been an issue for Subarus in the past with many recalls for this issue on similar models. Unfortunately the recalls end in 2009 for Outbacks while mine is a 2010. Obviously this issue has not been corrected by the manufacturer.
Service brakes, Jun 20, 2024
Brake failure - after inspecting vehicle 6/20/2024 noted brake fluid leaking from underneath the vehicles right hand side. Removed splash guard and noticed the brake lines had extensive corrosion in a small section with no protective coating. Brake fluid noted leaking from the unprotected area. The rest of the brake lines were fully intact.
Service brakes, Aug 10, 2023
Brake line corrosion, I noticed it about 10 months after buying the car. they finally broke five days ago I called Subaru. They told me it’s just regular wear and tear and there is no recall for the corroded brake lines and the junction box.
Service brakes, Jun 18, 2023
The brakes completely gave out while the vehicle was being driven, without warning. The BRAKE light did not turn on until after the car had been stopped and restarted and the brakes had already gone out. Fortunately, the vehicle was being driven on a side street, and it was able to coast into a parking lot. Had the brakes given out before then, when it was on the highway, the outcome could have been far worse. The vehicle was towed to a mechanic. The mechanic stated that once they removed the cover over the rear junction box near the fuel tank, they found the junction box to be corroded away. The vehicle has been to several mechanics over the past several years, and none of them have ever identified any issues with the brakes or brake lines. Subaru had issued a recall for the same issue but for model years 05 to 09.
Service brakes, Jul 26, 2022
I have a 2010 Subaru Outback that has significant corrosion on the rear four-way brake joint connector that can lead to a serious accident. There was a campaign that addressed this very issue (NHTSA ID: 14V-311) but it did not include 2010 Outback even though it had the same design. This issue is very serious.
Service brakes, Nov 17, 2021
Failure of rear hydraulic braking system (brake lines) due to corrosion. Steady loss of fluid due to corrosion around the double brake line union underneath rear passenger side. Plastic cover prevents corrosion issues from being spotted prior to it becoming a catastrophic failure. Vehicle has been inspected by a service center. The "brake" warning lamp illuminated in the dash to alert the drivers of a possible problem, but a significant amount of fluid was lost.
Service brakes, Jul 27, 2021
The abs system failed at 117K miles and rendered the ABS inoperative. The Electronic parking brake recall could not be completed because of this. We were quoted $1600 to replace the abs pump and computer so that the recall could be completed. The vehicle was dangerously difficult to stop and almost caused a crash.
Service brakes, Apr 15, 2021
CODE C0251 ELECTRONIC PARKING BRAKE MALFUNCTION/INOPERATIVE; SOMETIMES EPB WILL ENGAGE WHEN DRIVING AT A SLOW PACE <10MPH NO ACCIDENTS ASSOCIATED
Service brakes, Feb 21, 2021
2010 SUBARU OUTBACK. WHEN MY WIFE WAS ENTERING A 4-WAY STOP, THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. WAS ABLE TO GET HOME WITHOUT INCIDENT. UPON INSPECTION, FOUND THE BRAKE LINES AT A JUNCTION BLOCK NEAR THE GAS TANK SEVERELY CORRODED AND LEAKING. WHY WAS THIS NOT PART OF THE RECALL WHICH WENT FROM 2005-2009. CAR WAS MFG'D IN 2009, ABOUT 150000 MILES
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Service brakes, Jan 21, 2021
MULTIPLE TIMES OVER THE PAST 6 YEARS I WILL BE DRIVING AND IF USING MY CRUISE IT STOPS WORKING AND I HAVE FLASHING LIGHTS , BRAKE AND CRUISE LIGHT FLASHES ON AND OFF, CHECK ENGINE AND TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT STAY ON. THESE LIGHTS STAY ON FROM 1 DAY TO ALMOST 2 WEEKS BEFORE THEY GO OUT. I HAVE HAD THEM CHECKED MANY TIMES BY SUBARU DEALER AND OTHER MECHANIC SHOPS WITH NO RESOLUTION EXCEPT TO CLEAR THE CODES
Service brakes, Dec 29, 2020
I LOST THE BRAKES GOING DOWN OUR STEEP DRIVEWAY INTO THE PRIVATE ROAD. WE DISCOVERED THAT THE BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR WAS EMPTY. WHEN MY HUSBAND REMOVED THE PLASTIC FUEL TANK COVER TO CHECK FOR A LEAK, HE DISCOVERED THAT THE HARD BRAKE LINES WERE HEAVILY CORRODED RIGHT AROUND THE BRAKE LINE JUNCTION BOX, SIMILAR TO THE 2005-2009 OUTBACKS. THE CAR HAD ONE OWNER BEFORE US, IN MASSACHUSETTS. WE ARE IN MAINE. .
Service brakes, Dec 3, 2020, crash
I WENT OUT TO START MY CAR AND LET IT WARM UP. I GOT IN SET THE ELECTRONIC PARKING BRAKE STARTED THE CAR AND PUT THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION IN NEUTRAL. I WENT IN THE HOUSE TO FINISH GETTING READY, WHEN I LOOKED OUT THE WINDOW THE CAR WAS IN THE DITCH AT THE BOTTOM OF THE DRIVEWAY. I HAD THE PARKING BRAKE RECALL DONE IN MARCH AT THE LOCAL SUBARU DEALER
Power train, Vehicle speed control, Service brakes, Nov 22, 2020
11/21/2020 AT OIL TEMP LIGHT, BRAKE LIGHT, AND VEHICLE DYNAMICS CONTROL LIGHTS COME ON WHILE DRIVING AFTER AROUND 30 MINUTES ON A MAJOR ROUTE (NOT HIGHWAY) AFTER ALREADY BEING "FIXED" BY A DEALERSHIP. AT THE END OF AUGUST I BROUGHT THE CAR TO THE DEALER BECAUSE ALL 3 LIGHTS HAD COME ON AFTER I HAD ARRIVED NEAR MY PLACE OF WORK. I HAD DRIVEN FOR 35 MINUTES ON THE HIGHWAY AND CRUISING LOCAL STREETS FOR A SPOT WHEN THEY CAME ON. WHEN I FIRST GOT BACK TO MY VEHICLE AFTER WORK (I HAD PARKED AND WAS WAITING UNTIL END OF DAY TO DEAL WITH IT) AND TURNED ON MY CAR - NO LIGHTS. I WAS NEARLY HOME WHEN ALL 3 CAME BACK ON (35 MINTUES OF HIGHWAY DRIVING). TOOK TO DEALER THAT WEEKEND WHERE THEY REPLACED ENGINE AIR FILTER, CABIN AIR FILTER, CVT- VALVE BODY AND BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH FOR $1934.97 ON 9/21 THE LIGHTS CAME BACK ON AFTER DRIVING FOR AROUND 20 MINUTES ON A 2 LANE ROUTE. DEALER HAD THE CAR FOR 1 WEEK AND ALL THEY COULD FIND / DO WAS CHANGE A BRAKE LIGHT BULB.
Service brakes, Jul 8, 2020
REAR BRAKE LINES ARE RUSTED AND ONE OFF THE PIPES HAS BUSTED I NOW HAVE NO BRAKES. HAPPENED ON MONDAY 7/6/2020.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Service brakes, Mar 13, 2020
WHILE DRIVING THE FOLLOWING WARNING LIGHTS HAVE COME ON: BRAKE, VEHICLE DYNAMICS CONTROL, AND AT OIL TEMP. IT HAS HAPPENED TWICE NOW AND LIGHTS GO AWAY ONCE CAR IS TURNED OFF AND BACK ON AGAIN.
Service brakes, Nov 14, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU OUTBACK. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, BUT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND. THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT CALLED WHITE RIVER SUBARU (429 SYKES MOUNTAIN AVE, WHITE RIVER JUNCTION, VT 05001, (802) 526-9810). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 1-50024654201. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS SIMILAR TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V311000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 190,000.
Vehicle speed control, Electronic stability control (ESC), Service brakes, Jul 20, 2019
WHILE DRIVING THE CHECK ENGINE, CRUISE CONTROL, ABS, AND VEHICLE DYNAMICS CONTROL LIGHTS ALL CAME ON. I LATER LEARNED THAT A BAD O2 SENSOR WAS THE CAUSE. IT WAS RAINING AND WHEN I APPLIED THE BRAKES MODERATELY FIRMLY DUE TO ANOTHER CAR STOPPING HARD IN FRONT OF ME, MY CAR'S BRAKES LOCKED UP AND I SLID ON THE WET PAVEMENT. FORTUNATELY NO ACCIDENT OCCURRED. AFTER REPLACING THE 02 SENSOR, THE LIGHTS WENT OFF. WEEKS LATER THE SAME LIGHTS CAME ON AGAIN DUE TO WHAT TURNED OUT TO BE A BAD GAS CAP. WHEN IT WAS REPLACED, THE LIGHTS WENT OUT. NOW THE OTHER 02 SENSOR IS INTERMITTENTLY GOING OUT, AND IT TRIGGERS THE SAME LIGHTS. HOWEVER I HAVE BEEN VERY SURPRISED TO LEARN THAT WHEN THESE LIGHTS ARE ON, THOSE SYSTEMS ARE DISABLED. IT IS ASTOUNDING THAT SAFETY IS INTENTIONALLY REMOVED FROM A CAR DUE TO A LOOSE GAS CAP OR BAD 02 SENSOR.
Service brakes, Engine, Apr 7, 2019
WHEN COMING TO A STOP ON ANY ROAD THE VEHICLE STALLS, UPHILL OR DOWNHILL. THE CAR THEN NEEDS TO BE RESTARTED AFTER PUTTING THE VEHICLE IN PARK THEN TURNING THE KEY TO RESTART, AS VEHICLES ARE COMING QUICKLY FROM BEHIND. THIS COULD BE A POTENTIALLY DEADLY VEHICLE FAILURE AND NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED AND RECALLED. IT STARTED ABOUT A WEEK AGO AND CONTINUES TO HAPPEN.
Service brakes, Engine, Dec 7, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU OUTBACK. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS AND DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART AND DRIVE NORMALLY, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED INTERMITTENTLY WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT CALLED HERITAGE SUBARU CATONSVILLE AT (844) 224-1954 (LOCATED AT 6624 BALTIMORE NATIONAL PIKE, CATONSVILLE, MD 21228) AND WAS INFORMED TO SCHEDULE A DIAGNOSTIC APPOINTMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 129,204. *DT CONSUMER STATED DEALER FIXED THE TRANSMISSION.*JB