2013 Subaru Outback
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 297 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 10th highest complaint count among 26 Outback model years with reports.
Of the 2013 reports, 18 involved a crash and 6 involved a fire. 13 people were injured and 1 person died.
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
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
SteeringMay 13, 2013
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2013 Outback and Legacy vehicles manufactured from February 15, 2012, through June 15, 2012. In the affected vehicles, the inner and outer shafts of the steering column assembly may become disengaged from one another.
If the shafts become disengaged, the driver would lose the ability to steer the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering column assembly with a new one, free of charge. The recall began on May 14, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's recall campaign number is WQI-45.
Campaign 13V194000 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
Representative owner complaints: service brakes
25 reports, newest first. Show all
Suspension, Structure, Service brakes, Sep 4, 2025
I purchased a car from Middletown Nissan on May 24, 2025. The car was assured to have all these different safety checks so far it had to have the power steering pump replaced twice the power steering lines replaced all new control arms a new bearing brand new back brakes which include rotors and pads, and four new tires When the tires were put on they found that the car had significant damage in the subframe from rotting there are holes in it. The car was at the dealership several times for different problems and they never disclose this problem. They basically told me it was my fault when I’ve had the car for two months that the frame is completely rotted. The car is clunking and not driving mechanically the way it should
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Dec 19, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while driving at approximately 35 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the brakes failed to engage. The contact stated that eventually, the brakes would return to normal operation. No warning light was illuminated. The contact researched and was made aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V562000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was taken back to the residence. A dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.
Power train, Service brakes, Jan 8, 2024
I was driving on a highway when my car started to suddenly stutter, hesitate, and jerk after about an hour on the road. I pulled over on the shoulder immediately and tried to better position the car further off the highway with the same vehicle behavior. Initially I thought a tire had blown so sudden was the impact but after exterior inspection I realized the tires were fine and the problem was probably under the hood. The CVT transmission and TCM malfunctioned, and electric parking brake engaged creating a noise. My ability to steer the vehicle in a predictable direction was gone creating a safety hazard on the highway or any road. The car had to be long-distance towed back to where I live; it could not be safely driven. The problem has been reproduced and confirmed by two independent service centers, one a general service center and the other a foreign car expert service center. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone else. There were dashboard warning lights that came on at the time the vehicle started to shake. The lights were the vehicle dynamics control warning light and the check engine warning light. A " boat load" of transmission codes that lead to the vehicle being assessed at the foreign car service center. I am asking for Subaru’s assistance in resolving this matter. I purchased a Subaru based on recommendations from other family members and their experience of having multiple Subaru vehicles some of which lasted 300,00 miles. If this is a manufacturing problem I believe that Subaru has a responsibility to notify their owners of the potential problem (which didn’t happen in my case) and a responsibility to resolve the problem when it occurs. I took my vehicle into my nearest Subaru dealership for a warranty repair that I was notified of approx. three years ago. No one notified me of the potential CVT transmission problem at that time. My vehicle cannot be driven in its current state and it is dangerous to drive because of this problem.
Service brakes, Sep 8, 2023
Over time, brake pedal travel has increased and brakes have a ‘soft’ or ‘mushy’ feel. Unable to ‘lock up’ the brakes, and can frequently hit the end of travel on the brakes. Cannot stop quickly. Rotors, pads and calipers have been replaced and passed state inspection, but still unable to stop quickly in an emergency situation.
Service brakes, Forward collision avoidance, Jul 25, 2023
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? ACTUATOR ASSY-EPB, part number 26002aj02c (from technical service bulletin), part is not available How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Brake light and iSight warning light comes on. Safety systems will not operate properly when these lights are on Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Brake light and iSight warning light comes on, this started several months ago After driving this car for about an hour, shutting it off then starting it back up after short amount of time, like 20 minutes, the brake warning light and iSight light (safety system/adaptive cruise control/automatic braking) will come on immediately, they will stay on until the car has been allowed to cool down for several hours. This happens more often in hot weather. This has happened about a couple dozen times already. Took the car to Eurasian Autoworks in Tilton NH, the mechanic, who i'm told is a former Subaru master tech says this is a common problem and is usually fixed by replacing the emergency brake actuator under Technical Service Bulletin 06-58-17R. I called the local dealership and they do not have any of these parts available. I called Subaru customer support, case number [XXX] . and was told the part is discontinued and essentially said I should get one from a junkyard. I do not believe a 10 year old car should have safety related parts unavailable, especially on a common issue with this year/model of car. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Vehicle speed control, Apr 7, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that on two separate occasions while driving at undisclosed speeds, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The contact stated that after several attempts of applying pressure to the brake pedal, the vehicle stopped. The contact was unsure if any warning lights were illuminated. The contact then stated that on a separate occasion, while driving at an undisclosed speed, she depressed the brake pedal, but the vehicle failed to respond. The contact then stated that the after approximately thirty seconds of applying pressure to the brake pedal, the vehicle stopped. Additionally, the cruise control warning light intermittently illuminated, and the contact heard the engine revving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed but no cause for the failure was determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was notified of the failure and an appointment was scheduled for the following day. The vehicle had not yet been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 117,000.
Service brakes, Mar 30, 2023
The electronic parking brake warning light keeps flashing indicating a failure in the off-on mechanism. The brake could go on while the car is in motion, causing loss of control. Or the brake could fail while in park, and the car could roll. Subaru mechanic has been telling me they are waiting for a part, which is on back order nationwide. This has been going on with my car for months, literally. I deal with Subaru of Rockville, MD, (240)903-9338.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Service brakes, Apr 13, 2022
When backing out of garage, car seemed to rev up and increase speed. I was unable to stop the car while applying the brakes. Car went down over an embankment and stopped only after I put transmission into Park and car was slowed down by running over a large shrub. Luckily, I was unhurt, but easily could have been. This is the second time a similar incident has happened. I have not reported the incident previously nor had the car inspected yet.
Service brakes, Dec 6, 2021
The brakes are spongy and the car doesn't stop properly. We've had repairs done and took it to the dealership and they tell us nothing is wrong.
Service brakes, Mar 9, 2021
BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER IS FAILING, ACCORDING TO SUBARU SERVICE MECHANIC. PRIOR 4 YEARS OF SAME MODEL WERE UNDER RECALL FOR MASTER CYLINDER DEFECT, REPLACEMENT. THIS IS TECHNICALLY THE SAME PROBLEM. SUBARU HAS PROVIDED FREE REPLACEMENTS FOR SOME 2013 OWNERS WHO HAD THIS PROBLEM WITH MASTER CYLINDER. SEAL IN MC IS BROKEN.
Service brakes, Aug 31, 2020
BRAKE LIGHT FLASHES AND PARKING BRAKE DOES NOT FUNCTION
Exterior lighting, Vehicle speed control, Service brakes, Jun 3, 2020
THE WARNING LIGHTS- BRAKES, TIRE PRESSURE, CRUISE CONTROL, ENGINE LIGHTS AND TRACTION CONTROL ALL COME ON AND WON'T GO OFF. HAD THEM RESET BY THE MECHANICS BUT A DAY LATER THEY CAME BACK ON WHILE I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY FOR NO REASON. CRUISE NO LONGER WORKS AS THE LIGHTS ARE ON. A LOT OF PEOPLE ON LINE SEEM TO HAVE THIS PROBLEM AND I THINK YOU SHOULD MAKE SUBARU ISSUE SOME KIND OF RECALL TO FIX THIS PROBLEM. THANK YOU. *TR
Service brakes, Engine, Mar 15, 2020
USE MORE THAN A QUART OF OIL A WEEK AND JUST CHANGE BRAKES AND THEY SHIMMY AND JOLT
Air bags, Service brakes, Visibility/wiper, Feb 12, 2020
MY 2013 SUBARU OUTBACK HAS THREE OPEN RECALLS, NUMBERED 19V009000 (AIRBAG), 18V626000 (PARKING BRAKE), AND 16V694000 (WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR). SUBARU OF AMERICA HAS TOLD ME, WITHIN THE PAST WEEK, THAT THE CAR IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE BECAUSE OF THE AIRBAG. I LIVE 138 MILES FROM THE NEAREST SUBARU DEALER. I HAVE GIVEN SUBARU TWO QUOTES, REQUESTED BY THEM, INCLUDING CONTACT INFORMATION AT TWO COMPANIES, FOR TRANSPORTING THE CAR TO THE NEAREST DEALER, RIMROCK SUBARU IN BILLINGS, MT. SUBARU OF AMERICA REFUSES TO CONTACT OR MAKE ARRANGEMENTS WITH THE TWO COMPANIES AND REFUSES TO SCHEDULE THE REPAIRS UNLESS I PAY IN ADVANCE, APPROXIMATELY $1,700.00, FOR ROUND TRIP TRANSPORTATION AND CAR RENTAL, TO GET THE CAR TO THE DEALER AND BACK. SUBARU TOLD ME, IN AN EMAIL TODAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2020, FROM [XXX] OF SUBARU CUSTOMER SERVICE, "MY ABILITY TO ASSIST IS ON A REIMBURSEMENT BASIS. THERE IS NO WORKAROUND FOR THIS." HIS EMAIL IS CUSTDLRSERVICES@SUBARU.COM THIS IS AN EXTREME HARDSHIP FOR ME AS I AM RETIRED WITH LIMITED DISCRETIONARY FUNDS. I HOPE YOU CAN CONVINCE SUBARU TO FULFILL ITS LEGAL RESPONSIBILITY TO COMPLETE THESE RECALLS WITHOUT MY FINANCIAL INVOLVEMENT. THANK YOU. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Electrical system, Electronic stability control (ESC), Service brakes, Sep 5, 2019
TOOK IT HOME FROM DEALER AND THE ELECTRONIC PARKING BRAKE WOULD NOT TURN ON. THE BRAKE LIGHT WAS ALSO BLINKING. A COUPLE DAYS LATER, ON THE WAY TO DEALER, I STOPPED AT A GAS STATION AND TURNED ON THE ELECTRIC PARKING BRAKE. IT WORKED THIS TIME, BUT WHEN I GOT IN THE CAR TO DRIVE, THE ELECTRIC PARKING BRAKE WOULDN'T TURN OFF. I WAS STUCK. THERE WAS NO WAY TO MOVE IT. I WAS BLOCKING THE GAS PUMP FOR ABOUT AN HOUR WAITING FOR A TWO TRUCK. TOW TRUCK DRIVER HAD DIFFICULTY LOADING VEHICLE AND TAKING OFF VEHICLE BECAUSE THE PARKING BRAKE WAS ON AND IT WAS AN AWD MEANING NONE OF THE WHEELS CAN MOVE.
Power train, Service brakes, Mar 15, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 SUBARU OUTBACK. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE BRAKES SEIZED WITHOUT WARNING. LAST WEEK, THE TRANSMISSION SEIZED WHILE IN TRAFFIC ON THE GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE. ON BOTH OCCASIONS, THE CONTACT HAD TO PULL THE VEHICLE OVER TO PREVENT A CRASH. THE TRANSMISSION WARNING INDICATOR WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED THREE TIMES TO MARIN SUBARU (595 FRANCISCO BLVD E, SAN RAFAEL, CA 94901, (415) 454-9240) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT A NEW TRANSMISSION WAS NEEDED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED FIVE ADDITIONAL TIMES, BUT THE FAILURE CONTINUED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 250,000.
Service brakes, Dec 28, 2018
WAS DRIVING SOUTH ON I-5 NEAR ORLAND, CA ON 12/26/18 WHEN MY OUTBACK BEGAN SHAKING AND ATTEMPTING TO "BRAKE" (I WAS DOING BETWEEN 65 - 70 MPH). I LOOKED DOWN AND THE PARKING BRAKE SIGNAL WAS ILLUMINATED. (I HAD NOT ENGAGED THE BRAKE.) I WAS ABLE TO PULL TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. I DISENGAGED THE BRAKE AND RESUMED. IT HAPPENED AGAIN. I PULLED OFF THE ROAD AND CALLED MY SUBARU DEALERSHIP, CARLSEN SUBARU, REDWOOD CITY, CA. I DISENGAGED THE BRAKE -- BUT THE BRAKE KEPT TRYING TO RE-ENGAGE. I COULD DRIVE BUT ONLY HAVE CONSISTENTLY AND CONSTANTLY MAKING SURE THE BRAKE WAS NOT ENGAGED. THE BRAKE LIGHT WOULD FLASH ON AND OFF PERIODICALLY. I IMMEDIATELY TOOK THE CAR INTO THE DEALERSHIP ON 12/27/18. AS SUSPECTED, THE DEALERSHIP DIAGNOSED THE PROBLEM AS THE PARKING BRAKE MODULE. THE CHARGE WAS $185 FOR DIAGNOSIS AND ANOTHER ESTIMATED $1,250 FOR THE REPAIR. (SEE ATTACHED DIAGNOSTIC/ESTIMATE) ONE OF THE SERVICE TECHNICIANS GAVE ME THE NATIONAL SUBARU CUSTOMER SERVICE NUMBER -- I CALLED AND ALERTED THEM. THEY ARE INVESTIGATING. HOWEVER, LATER THAT EVENING I DISCOVERED SUBARU HAS RECALLED 27,000 2010-2014 OUTBACKS & LEGACYS WITH FAILING PARKING BRAKES. THE SUBARU RECALL IS OFFERING REPLACEMENT OR EXTENDED WARRANTY PROVISIONS DEPENDING ON WHETHER THE CAR IS MANUAL OR AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (WITH AFFECTED VIN NUMBERS). (RECALL BEGAN IN OCT 2018. I HAVE RECEIVED NO NOTIFICATION.) THE NATIONAL SUBARU REPRESENTATIVE MADE NO MENTION OF THE CURRENT RECALL TO ME. I WENT TO THE DEALERSHIP AGAIN THIS MORNING (12/28/18)--GOT A COPY OF THE DIAGNOSIS/ESTIMATE. THE SERVICE TECHNICIANS DO NOT SEE THE RECALL IN THEIR SYSTEM WITH MY VIN NUMBER. THIS APPEARS TO BE A SIMILAR ISSUE TO OTHERS REPORTED IN THE RECALL -- SUBARU SHOULD LOOK CAREFULLY AT OTHER VEHICLES WITHIN THOSE SAME YEAR/MODEL RANGES. I FEEL THE CAR MAY BE DANGEROUS TO DRIVE.
Vehicle speed control, Service brakes, Engine, Apr 24, 2018, crash
SUBARU OUTBACK SELF-ACCELERATED (UNINTENDED ACCELERATION) ON MARCH 22, 2018 AS I WAS ATTEMPTED TO PARK THE CAR IN A PARKING LOT. DUE TO THE SELF-ACCELERATION THE CAR HOPPED OVER THE CURB IN THE PARKING LOT AND RAN OVER A BUSH. MY FOOT WAS NO WHERE NEAR THE ACCELERATOR AND EVEN WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKE, I HAD TO PRESS EXTREMELY HARD ON THE BRAKE TO STOP THE VEHICLE. WHILE IT SELF-ACCELERATED THE ENGINE MADE A LOUD REVVING SOUND. ON MARCH 23, 2018 THE CAR SELF-ACCELERATED AGAIN WITH MY HUSBAND DRIVING ON THE OPEN ROAD. AFTER THIS INCIDENT WE HAD THE CAR TOWED TO OUR CAR DEALERSHIP. SUBARU HAS HAD THE CAR SINCE MARCH 23 AND DENIES ANY PROBLEM WITH THE ACCELERATOR OR CAR.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Apr 12, 2018
I TOOK MY CAR IN FOR AIRBAG RECALL, THE BRAKE LIGHT INDICATOR FLASHES ON/OFF ON DASH, INTERMITTENT. SERVICE DEPT COULD NOT REPLICATE AT FIRST, DISCOVERED ELECTRONIC PARKING BRAKE COMPONENT FAULTY. PARKING BRAKE COULD ENGAGE WHILE CAR IS IN DRIVE OR FAIL ON HILL. CHARGING ME 1100 FOR REPAIR, SAYS ITS NOT UNDER WARRANTY OR RECALL. THIS IS SAME DEFECT/RECALL ON 2015 MODEL OUTBACK. DEALER SAYS NO RECALL FOR 2013 MODEL OUTBCAK. I DISPUTE THIS.
Air bags, Service brakes, Oct 27, 2017
I HAVE A LEGAL NOTICE FOR AIRBAGS. THE BRAKES DIDN'T WORK PROPERLY RECENTLY IN AN EMERGENCY SITUATION.
Power train, Service brakes, Engine, Apr 29, 2016
THIS VEHICLE HAS SEVERAL ISSUES. I HAD AN OIL CHANGE AND WITHIN 1 WEEK THEY HAD TO ADD 1.3 QUARTS. CAR HAD 23,767 MILES. IN JUST OVER A MONTH I HAVE HAD TO ADD ALMOST 4 QUARTS OF SYNTHETIC OIL AND SPENT CLOSE TO $100 FOR THE OIL. THE CAR IS AN AUTOMATIC WITH A MANUAL OPTION AND I AM ALSO HAVEING PROBLEMS WHERE THE GEARS WON'T CHANGE IN AUTO NOR MANUAL OPERATION. IT REVS THE ENGINE AND I HAVE TO STOP, TURN IT OFF THEN RESTART. IT HAPPENS ALL THE TIME BUT THE DEALER SAID THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH IT..THERE IS ALSO AN ISSUE WITH VIBRATION OF THE STEERING WHEEL ALL THE TIME AND THE BRAKES DON'T WANT TO CATCH ALL THE TIME. SHOULD NOT HAVE TO PUMP THE BRAKES 2 OR 3 TIMES TO GET THEM TO ENGAGE.
Steering, Traction control system, Service brakes, Nov 20, 2015, crash
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 SUBARU OUTBACK. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH IN INCLEMENT WEATHER, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SLIDE WHILE DRIVING DOWNHILL. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO CONTROL THE STEERING, BUT IT WOULD NOT MOVE. THE VEHICLE DID NOT RESPOND AND STRUCK A DELINEATOR POST, SLID IN THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION TOWARDS A CONCRETE WALL, AND SUDDENLY STOPPED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 37,000.
Service brakes, Jun 19, 2015
I HAVE 2013 SUBARU OUTBACK. COUPLE OF MONTH AFTER BUYING IT I DISCOVERED THE ISSUE WHERE MY FOOT WOULD BE STUCK ON THE BRAKE PEDAL. THERE IS SOME KIND OF A FLAP ABOVE THE PEDAL. THE FLAP NORMALLY JUST TOUCHES THE TOP OF A SHOE. BUT IN SOME SITUATIONS/POSITIONS OF THE PEDAL IT PRESSES ON THE FOOT. WHEN YOU TRY TO MOVE THE FOOT OUT OF THE PEDAL, IT BENDS AND BRACES IT, PRACTICALLY LOCKING THE FOOT. IT DOES NOT HAPPEN CONSISTENTLY, BUT RATHER INFREQUENTLY. WHAT MAKES IT WORSE IS WEARING BULKY SHOES LIKE SNEAKERS, SHOES WITH BUCKLES, OR WITH A MESH TOP. THE MESH ALSO GETS CAUGHT ON THE FLAP. A COUPLE OF TIMES I WAS IN SITUATIONS WHERE IT TOOK 10-15 SECONDS TO GET THE FOOT OUT OF THE BRAKE PEDAL. AT LEAST ONCE I HAVE BEEN NEARLY REAR-ENDED BECAUSE I COULDN?T ACCELERATE IMMEDIATELY AFTER BREAKING. I COMPLAINED ON THIS ISSUE 4 TIMES AT SUBARU SERVICE. THEY TWEAKED IT SOMEWHAT, BUT NEVER COMPLETELY FIXED, AND IT GOT WORSE AGAIN AFTER EVERY MAINTENANCE SERVICE. WHILE TRYING TO UNDERSTAND HOW IT IS REMEDIED, I FOUND THAT THE DEALERSHIP DIDN?T RECORD THESE COMPLAINTS IN MY CAR HISTORY. SO I WROTE AN EMAIL TO SUBARU. SUBARU CUSTOMER SERVICE PERSON TOLD ME TO MAKE ANOTHER APPOINTMENT, AS HE?LL INSTRUCT THE DEALERSHIP HOW TO FIX THE ISSUE. I BROUGHT MY CAR IN, WAITED FOR AN HOUR, BUT THEN WAS TOLD NO INSTRUCTIONS WERE RECEIVED FROM SUBARU. ON THE NEXT CONTACT WITH THE SUBARU CUSTOMER SERVICE I RECEIVED THE FOLLOWING REPLY: ?THERE ARE NO REPAIRS REQUIRED AND NO REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED. WE HAVE NO RECOMMENDATIONS AS THERE WERE NO PROBLEMS FOUND.? HOWEVER, IT APPEARED THAT SUBARU HAS FIXED THE PROBLEM DURING THAT APPOINTMENT, WHILE TELLING ME NOTHING WAS DONE. THE FLAP WAS REPLACED WITH THE LONGER VERSION, SO THAT THE FOOT NEVER GETS UNDER IT, BUT RATHER PUSHES THE FLAP INSIDE. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. IT IS OBVIOUS SUBARU IS AWARE OF IT, BUT DOESN?T ADMIT IT EXISTS. ...UPDATED 07-16-15 *BF MA 07/30/15 UPDATED 10/26/2017*CN
Vehicle speed control, Equipment adaptive/mobility, Service brakes, Feb 22, 2013
EYE SIGHT SYSTEM. WHEN USING CRUISE CONTROL THE ADAPTIVE SYSTEM SENSES THE AUTO IN FRONT OF YOUR CAR AND MAINTAINS A SET DISTANCE. THE AUTO THAT WAS IN FRONT OF ME MOVED INTO A LEFT TURN LANE AND SLOWED TO TURN. MY CARS EYE SIGHT SYSTEM DETECTED THE CAR WAS STILL IN FRONT OF MINE AND EVEN THOUGH IT WAS NOT, INITIALED A HARD STOP AUTOMATICALLY. LUCKY FOR ME THE CAR BEHIND ME WAS ALERT AND WAS ALSO ABLE TO STOP BEFORE REAR ENDING MY CAR. THIS HAS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES AFTER WITH CARS MOVING EITHER INTO LEFT OR RIGHT TURN LANES OR MERGING OFF INTERSTATES ON THE EXIT RAMP. SUBARU HAS NO IDEA HOW TO FIX THIS ISSUE. THE DEALERSHIP HAS BEEN ABLE TO DUPLICATE THE SITUATION. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS OCCURRENCE OF THE EYE SIGHT SYSTEM THAT COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. THERE IS NO MENTION OF THIS POSSIBILITY IN THE EYE SIGHT MANUAL. I DISABLE THE SYSTEM NOW TO PREVENT IT FROM HAPPENING TO ME, BUT OFTEN MY WIFE FORGETS. SUBARU NEEDS TO FIND A SOLUTION. I AM HOPING YOU CAN HELP. *TR
Power train, Electrical system, Service brakes, Nov 25, 2012
MADE A TURN AND WAS HALFWAY DOWN THE BLOCK GOING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH WHEN THE ENGINE SUDDENLY SHUT OFF. THE INSTRUMENT GAUGE LIT UP WITH ALL SORTS OF ANNUNCIATORS. I WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER TO A SAFE LOCATION AND PARK. THE FOLLOWING ANNUNCIATORS WERE FLASHING; AT OIL TEMP, CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR, AND THE BRAKE LIGHT. THE FOLLOWING ANNUNCIATORS WERE LIT SOLID; CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT /MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT AND THE VEHICLE DYNAMICS CONTROL WARNING LIGHT. TURNED OFF VEHICLE. WAITED. TURNED ENGINE ON AND THE ANNUNCIATORS WERE STILL PRESENT AND THE INSTRUMENT GAUGE REMAINED UNCHANGED. *TR