2011 Subaru Outback
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Power train is the leading concern among 652 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 5th highest complaint count among 26 Outback model years with reports.
Of the 2011 reports, 23 involved a crash and 6 involved a fire. 6 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 2009-2013 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
Visibility, sun/moon roof assemblySep 7, 2011
SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 OUTBACK AND LEGACY VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 3, 2010, THROUGH JULY 1, 2011. THE MOONROOF GLASS MAY COME LOOSE OR DETACH. THE AMOUNT AND POSITION OF THE ADHESIVE BETWEEN THE GLASS AND RETAINER WAS INADEQUATELY APPLIED.
THE MOONROOF GLASS CAN LOOSEN AND DETACH FROM THE VEHICLE DURING DRIVING, RESULTING IN A POTENTIAL ROAD HAZARD FOR OTHER VEHICLES, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
SUBARU WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE GLASS ADHESION CONDITION AND EITHER APPLY ADDITIONAL ADHESIVE OR REPLACE THE MOONROOF GLASS, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING OCTOBER 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
Campaign 11V467000 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
Representative owner complaints
652 reports, newest first.
Exterior lighting, Dec 2, 2014
THIS CAR IS SUBJECT TO PREMATURE AND FREQUENT HEADLIGHT BURN OUT. FOR EXAMPLE, BOTH HEADLAMPS WERE REPLACED BY DEALER IN LATE JANUARY 2014. THEY BOTH ARE BURNED OUT BY DECEMBER 2014, CREATING A VERY UNSAFE SITUATION. *JS
Exterior lighting, Dec 2, 2014
WE HAVE HAD TO REPLACE BOTH FRONT HEADLIGHTS MULTIPLE TIMES SINCE WE BOUGHT OUR OUTBACK. IT SEEMS MY WIFE IS DRIVING WITH ONE HEADLIGHT WAY TOO OFTEN. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS PROBLEM AND WE ARE NOT ALONE. ONLINE I HAVE FOUND HUNDREDS OF OTHER PEOPLE WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. I AM CONVINCED THAT THIS IS A SAFETY PROBLEM THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED BY SUBARU NOT TO MENTION IT'S A HUGE FINANCIAL BURDEN SINCE ACCESS TO THESE BULBS IS DIFFICULT EVEN FOR REPAIR SHOPS. *JS
Power train, Nov 23, 2014
SERVICE BULLETIN # 16-90-13 DESIGN CHANGE TO LOCK-UP TYPE TORQUE CONVERTER WHEN I HAVE TO COME TO A STOP OR IF I GO UP A HILL SLOW, OR IF I HAVE TO STOP QUICK MY VEHICLE WILL STALL. THIS IS DANGEROUS, ESPECIALLY IN TRAFFIC. I HAVE CHECKED EVERY OTHER POSSIBLE PROBLEM AND THEY ALL CHECK OUT FINE. I DO NOT FEEL THAT THE CONSUMER SHOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR A DEFECTIVE PART. IF I HAD TO STOP QUICK IN TRAFFIC IT WOULD BE VERY DANGEROUS. I HAVE ALREADY HAD THIS PROBLEM WHERE THE VEHICLE STALLED WITH TRAFFIC BEHIND ME. I FEEL THIS IS A "RECALL" AND NOT A ROUTINE MAINTENANCE PROBLEM. *TR
Air bags, Nov 21, 2014
THE AIRBAG INDICATOR FOR THE PASSENGER WILL NOT REMAIN ON, EVEN THOUGH THE PASSENGER MEETS THE REQUIRED WEIGHT. *TR
Steering, Service brakes, Engine, Nov 18, 2014
WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES HARD AT THE A STOPPING POINT OF THE CAR IT KILLS THE ENGINE LEAVING YOU DEAD IN THE STREET. EMERGENCY PRESSURE HARD! OTHER THAN THAT THE BRAKES WORK GREAT. NOW IF YOU PUSH TRANS INTO NEUTRAL AND BRAKE HARD AS YOU WILL THE ENGINE IS NOT EFFECTED AND KEEPS ON RUNNING. THIS IS A AUTOMATIC BUT IT FEELS LIKE YOU DID NOT DEPRESS THE CLUTCH ON STOPPING THE CAR IF IT WERE A STANDARD STICK SHIFT TRANS. THERE IS A BUCKING AT STOPPING THEN THE ENGINE IS DEAD IN THE STREET. IF YOU LET UP THE BRAKE BEFORE THIS KILLS THE MOTOR THEN IT KEEPS RUNNING OR IF JUST LIGHT BRAKING THAT IS NORMAL NEEDED NO PROBLEM. OTHER THAN THAT DANGEROUS CONDITION IN CITY TRAFFIC THE CAR RUNS GREAT. THIS HAS TO BE A DEFECT IN DESIGN OF THE SYSTEM NEVER IN 30+ YEARS OF AUTO MECH TRADE HAVE I RUN ACROSS THIS IN ANY WORLD BRAND NAME CARS. *TR
Exterior lighting, Nov 17, 2014
HEADLAMPS (EITHER SIDE) TEND TO GO OUT YEARLY. THIS IS RIDICULOUS! IN ADDITION, IN ORDER TO CHANGE THEM OUT YOURSELF, YOU NEED TO HAVE LITTLE GIRL HANDS. NOT ONLY IS THIS A NUISANCE, BUT A SAFETY ISSUE. I CAN BARELY SEE WITH ONE LAMP OUT AND THERE ARE DEER EVERYWHERE...RIGHT NOW IT'S FREEZING IN DENVER AND I DO NOT HAVE ACCESS TO A HEATED GARAGE TO FIDDLE WITH THIS FOR AN HOUR. SUBARU NEEDS TO GET ON THEIR HORSE AND ADDRESS THIS WIRING ISSUE. IT IS A WIRING ISSUE. NO OTHER EXPLANATION! *TR
Exterior lighting, Nov 17, 2014
THIS VEHICLE BUNS OUT A SET OF HEADLIGHTS EACH YEAR. *TR
Exterior lighting, Nov 13, 2014
OVER THE SPAN OF 4 YEARS OWNING MY SUBARU OUTBACK, I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE SAME HEADLIGHT TWICE, AS WELL AS A PARKING LIGHT AND A TAIL LIGHT. THE HEADLIGHTS ARE IMPOSSIBLE TO REACH UNLESS YOU ARE A MECHANIC. MY UNDERSTANDING IS THAT THIS IS A COMMON ISSUE WITH SUBARU OUTBACK. I WOULD LIKE SUBARU TO ACKNOWLEDGE AND FIX THIS COSTLY AND POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS PROBLEM. *TR
Steering, Suspension, Nov 11, 2014
SUBARU OUTBACK VIBRATES IN STEERING WHEEL AND SEATS AT SPEEDS FROM 60 TO ABOVE. THERE IS A SERVICE BULLETIN WHICH STATES THE STEERING COLUMN AND STEERING WHEEL GETS REPLACED. HAVE NOT FOUND ANY INFORMATION THAT THIS RECTIFIES THE ISSUE OR THAT IT MAKES THE CAR ANY MORE SAFE OR PLEASANT TO DRIVE. POSTINGS SUGGEST THAT THIS REPAIR DOES NOT IMPROVE THE ISSUE. *TR
Exterior lighting, Nov 5, 2014
THE FIRST TIME THE HEADLIGHT WENT OUT WAS DURING THE COLD MONTHS TWO YEARS AGO AND IT WAS ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE. A YEAR LATER (2013) , THE PASSENGER'S SIDE HEADLIGHT WENT OUT. I JUST REPLACED THE DRIVER'S SIDE HEADLIGHT AGAIN ON NOVEMBER 2, 2014. I HAVE NEVER HAD A VEHICLE, NOR HEARD OF ANYONE I KNOW HAVING A VEHICLE, THAT REQUIRES ANNUAL HEADLIGHT REPLACEMENTS. *TR
Electrical system, Exterior lighting, Oct 27, 2014
AFTER OWNING THIS CAR FOR LESS THAN ONE YEAR, I HAD TO CHANGE THE LEFT HEADLAMP. I DO MY OWN WORK AND HAVE NEVER HAD AS MUCH TROUBLE WITH CHANGING A BULB THAN I HAVE WITH THIS OUTBACK. I HAD NO IDEA THAT THIS WOULD BECOME A "ROUTINE" SERVICE, ALTERNATING FROM LEFT TO RIGHT HEADLAMP(S). AFTER CHANGING OUT THE 5TH ONE (3 LEFT HEADLAMPS & 2 RIGHT HEADLAMPS) I PHONED THE DEALER TO SEE IF THERE HAD BEEN A RECALL, TSB OR IF OTHER OWNERS OF THIS OUTBACK HAD THE SAME TROUBLE. I WAS TOLD THEY COULD FIX THE PROBLEM AT MY COST. I WAS TOLD THEY KNEW OF A PROBLEM HOWEVER THERE WAS NO TSB ISSUED AND NO RECALL FOR THIS ISSUE. JUST YESTERDAY (26-OCT-2014) I HAVE DISCOVERED THE 3RD HEADLAMP ON THE RIGHT SIDE IS OUT AGAIN (RIGHT ON "SCHEDULE"). I DON'T REMEMBER HOW MANY LOW BEAM VS. HIGH BEAM BULBS I HAVE CHANGED BUT KNOW I HAVE ALSO CHANGED OUT THE FOG LIGHT ON THE LEFT SIDE ONCE. *TR
Electrical system, Exterior lighting, Oct 3, 2014
CAR WAS JUST INSPECTED SEPT 2014. THREE LIGHT BULBS REPLACED. PRIOR TO THIS, WE HAVE BEEN REPLACING LIGHTBULBS EVERY FEW MONTHS. IT IS EXPENSIVE BECAUSE WE CANNOT CHANGE THE FRONT LIGHTS OURSELVES....IT HAD TO GO INTO THE SHOP. WE ACTUALLY NOW STORE BULBS IN THE GLOVE BOX BECAUSE THE HEADLIGHTS BURN OUT SO OFTEN. OUR MECHANIC SAID SUBARU HAS A PROBLEM WITH ITS WIRING HARNESS. SUBARU NEEDS TO STEP UP AND ADDRESS THIS AS I SEE IT IS A COMMON COMPLAINT HERE. *TR
Exterior lighting, Sep 2, 2014
OUR 2011 SUBARU OUTBACK WAS PURCHASED NEW IN SUMMER 2010 AT CONTINENTAL MOTORS, ANCHORAGE, ALASKA. THE DRIVER'S SIDE LOW-BEAM ERRATICALLY DIMMED AND AFTER THREE SERVICE REQUESTS OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS THE DEALER FINALLY AGREED THAT MY COMPLAINT WAS VALID AND REPAIRED THE PROBLEM. THE DRIVER'S SIDE HEADLIGHTS HAVE WORKED CONTINUOUSLY SINCE. LAST SUMMER (2013) THE PAX-SIDE LOW-BEAM DIED AND THE BULB WAS REPLACED. THIS SUMMER IT DIED AGAIN AND IS IN THE SHOP TODAY FOR REPLACEMENT (AS IS THE SMALL MARKER LIGHT IN THE SAME UNIT). I ASKED THE SERVICE REP IF THIS IS A CHRONIC SUBARU PROBLEM AND HE ACKNOWLEDGED THAT IT IS, ESPECIALLY IN THE LOWER 48. ACCORDING TO HIM THE DEALER(S) HAVE SUBMITTED COMPLAINTS TO THE MANUFACTURER REQUESTING A "FIX" OR REDESIGN OF THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUITRY. IT CERTAINLY SEEMS TO WARRANT A RECALL AND REPAIR. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Power train, Aug 28, 2014
THE ENGINE SHUTS DOWN WHENEVER YOU BRAKE SUDDENLY OR USE ANY PRESSURE TO BRAKE (NOT COAST TO A STOP). THE CAR SHAKES AND THEN DIES AND YOU HAVE TO RESTART THE CAR. THIS HAPPENS ALMOST DAILY AND AFTER TAKING IT TO SEVERAL SHOPS IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE TORQUE CONVERTER IS BAD AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. THERE IS A SERVICE BULLETIN OUT ABOUT FIXING THIS SO IT APPEARS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM. EVEN A QUICK SEARCH ONLINE PRODUCES HUNDREDS OF SIMILAR COMPLAINTS FOR THIS MAKE & MODEL. GIVEN THAT THIS CAN STALL OUT AT ANY SPEED WITH ANY PRESSURE IN APPLYING THE BRAKES WITH THE TORQUE CONVERTER, THIS SHOULD BE AN IMMEDIATE RECALL FOR SAFETY CONCERNS!!! IT'S A FAULTY PART ON THE CAR, NOT A WEAR & TEAR ITEM. *TR
Electrical system, Air bags, Seats, Aug 11, 2014
WITH NO PASSENGER SEATED, THE SEAT BELT CHIME STARTED RINGING. TO TRY TO STOP IT, I LATCHED THE PASSENGER SEAT BELT. CHIMING CONTINUED. I NOTICE THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT WAS LIT. I DROVE THE CAR STRAIGHT TO MY SUBARU DEALER AND WAS TOLD THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG SENSOR HAD FAILED. I WAS ALSO TOLD THE ONLY WAY TO FIX IT WAS TO REPLACE THE SEAT AT WELL OVER $1000. I WAS STILL LEFT WITH THE PROBLEM OF THE SEAT BELT CHIME. THE DEALERSHIP WOULDN'T DISABLE THE CHIME SO I SEARCHED THE INTERNET FOR A SOLUTION. WHAT I FOUND IS THAT THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM WITH 2011 OUTBACKS. I DID ALSO FIND OUT HOW TO DISABLE THE SEAT BELT CHIME. BECAUSE THIS IS SUCH A COSTLY REPAIR AND A COMMON PROBLEM, I HAVE TO BELIEVE THERE ARE MANY SUBARU OWNERS DRIVING AROUND WITH UNPROTECTED PASSENGERS HAVING DISABLING THEIR SEAT BELT CHIMES AND HAVING NO AIR BAG PROTECTION. IN FAIRNESS TO SUBARU, I CONTACTED CUSTOMER SERVICE AND THEY OFFERED TO SPLIT THE COST OF THE REPAIR. IT WILL STILL COST ME $798 FOR WHAT SHOULD BE A SIMPLE REPAIR BUT BECAUSE OF POOR ENGINEERING, A REPLACEMENT SEAT. I WOULD APPRECIATE YOU LOOKING INTO THIS MATTER. *TR
Exterior lighting, Jul 30, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU OUTBACK. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED WITH THE LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS ACTIVATED, THE PASSENGER SIDE HEADLIGHT FAILED TO ILLUMINATE. THE CONTACT CONTINUED TO DRIVE WITH THE HIGH BEAMS ENGAGED. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE HEADLIGHT BULB. THREE MONTHS LATER, THE DRIVER SIDE LOW BEAM BULB FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE LOW BEAM BULBS WERE REPLACED FOUR TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50,000.
Fuel system, Gasoline, Power train, Electronic stability control (ESC), Jul 22, 2014
I BACKED OUT OF A PARKING SPOT, STOPPED AND, WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE, SHIFTED TO DRIVE TO PULL FORWARD. THE CAR SURGED FORWARD RAPIDLY. I STOOD ON THE BRAKES, THE SURGE CONTINUED VERY BRIEFLY AND THEN THE CAR FINALLY STOPPED. THIS WAS THE FIRST INCIDENT OF THIS KIND IN THE THREE YEARS I HAVE OWNED THE CAR. *TR
Fuel system, Gasoline, Equipment adaptive/mobility, Jul 22, 2014
WHEN I TURNED THE CAR IN THE AFTERNOON THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS FLASHING, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON AND E-BRAKE ON. I LOOKED ONLINE SUBARU FORUMS AND THEIR IS A LOT OF CHATTER FOR THE GAS CAP HAVING ISSUES. I CHECKED MY GAS CAP AND NOTICED THE RUBBER GASKET WAS BROKEN. I PURCHASED A NEW ONE FROM THE DEALERSHIP, DROVE THE CAR AND THE LIGHTS ARE NOW OFF AND WORKING NORMAL..WE'LL SEE WHEN I TAKE A 6HR TRIP IN A FEW DAYS.. *TR
Vehicle speed control, Electronic stability control (ESC), Service brakes, Jun 25, 2014
I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY WHEN MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, ABS BRAKE LIGHT, TRACTION CONTROL (ALL WHEEL DRIVE) LIGHT AND CRUISE CONTROL LIGHTS BEGAN FLASHING ALL AT ONCE. I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP IMMEDIATELY AND WAS TOLD THAT ALL THE LIGHTS FLASH BECAUSE MOST DRIVERS IGNORE JUST THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. AT THE DEALER THE NEXT DAY I WAS TOLD THE SAME THING WITH THE ADDITION OF THE FACTS THAT THE ABS BRAKE SYSTEM AND THE TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEMS WERE ACTUALLY DISABLED DURING THIS INCIDENT. DURING THE CONVERSATION IT WAS SAID THAT TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM, A "REFLASH " OF THE COMPUTER SYSTEM WAS NEEDED AND THAT THIS WAS A KNOWN PROBLEM ON SOME OUTBACKS. I ASKED WHY THERE WAS NO RECALL IF THE PROBLEM WAS KNOWN AND WAS TOLD THEY JUST FIXED THE PROBLEM WHEN IT HAPPENED. THIS SEEMS TO ME TO BE A SIGNIFICANT SAFETY PROBLEM SINCE IF THE PROBLEM OCCURRED WHILE THE DRIVER WAS ON ICE OR SNOW OR WET ROAD , VEHICLE STABILITY WOULD BE COMPROMISED. I THINK SUBARU SHOULD AT LEAST BE MADE TO RECALL THE SUSPECTED VEHICLES AND FIX THE PROBLEM EVEN THOUGH IT IS SOMETHING THAT MAY NOT HAPPEN TO ALL VEHICLES. *TR
Exterior lighting, May 29, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEADLIGHTS AND THE TAILLIGHTS FAILED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER, WHO STATED THAT THE HEADLIGHTS AND TAILLIGHTS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AN STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 12V602000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING). THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 28,000.
Exterior lighting, May 28, 2014
BOTH THE LOW BEAM HEADLIGHT BULBS WENT OUT AT THE SAME TIME. IT WAS NIGHTTIME, AND I HAD NO USE OF MY CAR. I BOUGHT NEW BULBS FROM THE AUTO PARTS STORE THE FOLLOWING DAY. WHEN I OPENED THE MANUAL TO GET INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE LIGHT BULB CHANGE, I FOUND THAT THE RECOMMENDED ADVICE IS TO BRING IN THE CAR TO THE DEALER! THERE ARE INSTRUCTIONS FOR THOSE WILLING TO BRAVE GETTING UNDERNEATH THE CAR! TO CHANGE A LIGHT BULB!! I AM FORTUNATE BECAUSE I WORK IN THE DAYTIME, AND DST HAS ALREADY STARTED. OTHERWISE I WOULD FIND IT NECESSARY TO GET A TOW TO A SHOP! FOR A LIGHT BULB! HEADLIGHTS ARE NECESSARY FOR SAFE AND LEGAL DRIVING AT NIGHT. JUST AS I SHOULDN'T NEED AN AUTO REPAIR SHOP TO CHANGE A TIRE, NOR SHOULD I NEED A HYDRAULIC CAR LIFT TO CHANGE A LIGHT BULB!! THIS IS SOMETHING THAT ANYONE WILLING TO GET A LITTLE GREASE ON THEIR FINGERS SHOULD BE ABLE TO ACCOMPLISH AT ANYTIME AT ANY PLACE SO THAT THE CAR WILL BE ROAD WORTHY AND THE DRIVER AND PASSENGERS WILL BE ABLE TO MAKE IT TO THEIR DESTINATION SAFELY. I HOPE THIS "ENGINEERING" CATASTROPHE WILL BE ADDRESSED AND RECTIFIED. *TR
Vehicle speed control, May 13, 2014, crash
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ENTERING A PARKING A PARKING SPOT, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AND THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A POLE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 39,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. UPDATED 7/31/14*CN THE CONSUMER NO LONGER OWNS THE VEHICLE. UPDATED 08/05/14
Exterior lighting, May 9, 2014
HEADLIGHTS KEEP GOING OUT. THIS WILL BE MY 4TH TIME REPLACING THE HEADLIGHT BULBS ON THIS VEHICLE. *TR
Seat belts, May 6, 2014
SEAT BELTS DO NOT RETRACT COMPLETELY. THIS CAUSES THEM TO GET CAUGHT IN CLOSING DOOR AND POSSIBLE BECOME BENT AND UNABLE TO LOCK. DEALER WANTED TO CHARGE $99 TO DIAGNOSE PROBLEM. *TR
Power train, Vehicle speed control, Apr 20, 2014
SAFETY CONCERNS WITH HESITATION ISSUE WITH TRANSMISSION AT SLOW SPEEDS WHEN APPLYING /GIVING MORE GAS. *TR