MileageCurve What breaks, and at what mileage
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Subaru Outback 2010–2014

4th generation (BR)

NHTSA data through 13 August 20262,378 complaints, 1,698 with mileageMethod

Reports with mileage
1,698
Median of reported failures
67,000 mi
Most-reported system
Transmission and driveline (21.1%)
Recalls
25

Before-you-buy checklist ↓Check this VIN — NHTSA ↗

On this generation, 24% of complaints that record mileage fall within the first 12,000 miles, against 9 reports per 1,000 miles between 20,000 and 80,000.

Figure 1 · Subaru Outback 2010–2014 · 1,698 reports with mileage

Mileage at failure

Complaints per 5,000-mile bin, 0 to 200,000 miles, equal bins on a linear scale. Tallest bar = 289 complaints.

Mileage at failure, Subaru Outback 2010–2014Histogram of 1,698 owner-reported failures by mileage, in 5,000-mile bins from 0 to 200,000. The tallest bin is 0 to 5,000 miles with 289 complaints, 17.0 percent of the total. 24% of complaints that record mileage fall within the first 12,000 miles, against 9 reports per 1,000 miles between 20,000 and 80,000. A further 19 complaints, 1.1 percent, were reported above 200,000 miles and are shown as a separate detached bar. Median mileage at failure is 66,600.
  • First 12,000 miles — 24% of all failures
  • Rest of the range
  • Median
  • 200,000+ — 19 complaints (1.1%), plotted separately
10%
1,174
25%
13,725
Median
66,600
75%
110,871
90%
142,000

Tallest bin: 289 complaints between 0 and 5,000 miles. Based on 1,698 complaints that record mileage. Bin width 5,000 miles.

Show the numbers
Complaints by mileage bin
MileageComplaintsShare
0–5,00028917.0%
5,000–10,000865.1%
10,000–15,000563.3%
15,000–20,000321.9%
20,000–25,000482.8%
25,000–30,000372.2%
30,000–35,000482.8%
35,000–40,000372.2%
40,000–45,000462.7%
45,000–50,000432.5%
50,000–55,000442.6%
55,000–60,000261.5%
60,000–65,000442.6%
65,000–70,000412.4%
70,000–75,000573.4%
75,000–80,000422.5%
80,000–85,000533.1%
85,000–90,000402.4%
90,000–95,000643.8%
95,000–100,000331.9%
100,000–105,000492.9%
105,000–110,000452.7%
110,000–115,000573.4%
115,000–120,000472.8%
120,000–125,000573.4%
125,000–130,000331.9%
130,000–135,000452.7%
135,000–140,000150.9%
140,000–145,000241.4%
145,000–150,000271.6%
150,000–155,000321.9%
155,000–160,000201.2%
160,000–165,000120.7%
165,000–170,000120.7%
170,000–175,00060.4%
175,000–180,00080.5%
180,000–185,000100.6%
185,000–190,00030.2%
190,000–195,00070.4%
195,000–200,00040.2%
200,000+191.1%

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain. Complaint counts reflect what owners reported and are not a measure of failure rate per vehicle sold.

What this can and cannot tell you: these are complaints owners chose to file, not a failure rate. Popular models accumulate more of them simply by being common. How this is built.

Owners filed 2,378 complaints with NHTSA about the 2010–2014 Subaru Outback, and 1,698 of them record the mileage at which the failure happened. That is enough to show not just what fails, but when.

24% of complaints that record mileage fall within the first 12,000 miles, against 9 reports per 1,000 miles between 20,000 and 80,000. Failures clustered that early usually indicate a design or manufacturing problem rather than wear.

The most-reported areas are the transmission and driveline (21.1% of complaints, typically around 106,000 miles), the engine (11.8% of complaints, typically around 88,000 miles), the airbag system (10.1% of complaints, typically around 40,000 miles).

25 recall campaigns cover this generation.

If you arrived asking “is it reliable?” — this page answers the version of that question the data can support: which problems owners reported, and at what mileage.

How many miles does a 2010–2014 Subaru Outback last?

Half of the failure reports on the 2010–2014 Subaru Outback were filed by 67,000 miles and 90% by 142,000 miles — figures drawn from 1,698 NHTSA complaints that record an odometer reading, so they time reported failures, not the cars whose owners never filed one.

19 reports (1.1%) came in past 200,000 miles — each one proof a Outback reached that mileage, not that it died there.

Before you buy a 2010–2014 Outback: the 3-minute check

Generated from 1,698 mileage-tagged complaints, 25 recall campaigns, 2 documented problem areas. Print this page — the checklist survives print.

  1. Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 25 campaigns cover this generation; an open recall is a free repair you can make the seller's problem.
  2. Ask for steering repair records. This area fails at a median of 2,000 miles — on any car this age it already happened or never will; the question is whether it was fixed under warranty.
  3. Ask for suspension repair records. This area fails at a median of 3,500 miles — on any car this age it already happened or never will; the question is whether it was fixed under warranty.
  4. Check transmission on 2010–2014 cars. Lineartronic CVT (TR580) chain, valve body and torque converter lock-up faults producing shudder, judder and failure. Subaru extended CVT coverage to 10 years / 100,000 miles on MY2010-2015 Legacy and Outback (up from 5…
  5. Check engine on 2013–2014 cars. FB25 excessive oil consumption from the low-tension piston ring design; subject of a class-action settlement covering certain FB-engine vehicles.
  6. Complaint reports are not spread evenly across model years here — see the by-model-year table below before you settle on a year.
  7. End with a pre-purchase inspection of this car. Aggregate data describes the population; the example in front of you has its own history.

For a buyer, an early-failure pattern is comparatively good news on a used example: 24% of the reported failures occur in the first 12,000 miles, which on a car of this age means they have already happened or they were never going to. Service history matters more than mileage here.

On inspection, the transmission and driveline and the engine are where this generation's reports concentrate, so those are the areas worth a specific look. The engine in particular shows a median failure mileage of 88,000, which gives a concrete number to compare against the odometer of any car you are considering.

None of this is a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection on the individual car. Aggregate patterns describe a population; the example in front of you has its own history.

What fails, and when

Figure 2 · Subaru Outback 2010–2014

When each system fails

Bar spans the middle half of reports; the notch inside each bar is the median. Miles at failure on a proportional scale — equal distances are equal ratios, not equal miles.

  1. Steering139 reports2,000250–20,000Steering: 139 reports, median 2,000 miles, middle half 250 to 20,000 miles.
  2. Airbag system241 reports40,0009,000–67,000Airbag system: 241 reports, median 40,000 miles, middle half 9,000 to 67,000 miles.
  3. Exterior lighting185 reports55,00024,000–84,000Exterior lighting: 185 reports, median 55,000 miles, middle half 24,000 to 84,000 miles.
  4. Electrical system192 reports64,00024,000–97,000Electrical system: 192 reports, median 64,000 miles, middle half 24,000 to 97,000 miles.
  5. Brakes181 reports76,00040,000–120,000Brakes: 181 reports, median 76,000 miles, middle half 40,000 to 120,000 miles.
  6. Engine281 reports88,00043,000–120,000Engine: 281 reports, median 88,000 miles, middle half 43,000 to 120,000 miles.
  7. Transmission and driveline501 reports106,00070,000–128,000Transmission and driveline: 501 reports, median 106,000 miles, middle half 70,000 to 128,000 miles.
  • Your odometer — appears after you enter it in “Where your car sits”

Ordered by median mileage, earliest first. The first 12,000 miles are shaded: that is the boundary this site uses between a manufacturing defect and ordinary wear, not a property of the world.

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.

Complaints by vehicle system
SystemComplaintsShareMedian25–75%
Transmission and driveline50121.1%106,00070,000–128,000
Engine28111.8%88,00043,000–120,000
Airbag system24110.1%40,0009,000–67,000
Electrical system1928.1%64,00024,000–97,000
Exterior lighting1857.8%55,00024,000–84,000
Brakes1817.6%76,00040,000–120,000
Steering1395.8%2,000250–20,000
Problems owners could not categorise1275.3%90,00053,000–130,000
Throttle and speed control863.6%31,0008,000–73,000
Suspension723.0%3,500500–50,000

Where your car sits

Failure reports by the odometer reading they were filed at. Pick the anchor nearest your car — or type the exact mileage: your marker lands on this curve and on the timing chart above.

Figure 3 · Subaru Outback 2010–2014 · 1,698 reports with mileage

Share of reports below each mileage

Share of mileage-tagged reports filed at or below each odometer reading. Steps rise only at bin edges, by exact counted shares.

Cumulative share of reports by mileage, Subaru Outback 2010–2014Of 1,698 reports that record mileage, the share filed below each odometer reading, rising in steps at each 5,000-mile bin edge. 47 percent below 60,000 miles. 63 percent below 90,000 miles. 80 percent below 120,000 miles. Median 66,600 miles.
  • 60,000 mi — 47% of reports below
  • 90,000 mi — 63% of reports below
  • 120,000 mi — 80% of reports below
  • Median — the staircase crosses the 50% line here
  • Your odometer — appears after you enter it below

The staircase tops out at 99%: the remaining 1.1% of reports (19) came above 200,000 miles.

Nothing is smoothed or interpolated. Linear axis, same as Figure 1.

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.

At 60,000 miles

47% of the failure reports on this generation came below this mileage. That describes reports, not your odds.

Reported earlier than this mileage — ask for repair records

  • Steering — median 2,000 mi

In the reporting window

  • Engine — middle half 43,000–120,000 mi
  • Airbag system — middle half 9,000–67,000 mi
  • Electrical system — middle half 24,000–97,000 mi
  • Exterior lighting — middle half 24,000–84,000 mi
  • Brakes — middle half 40,000–120,000 mi

Mostly reported later

  • Transmission and driveline — middle half 70,000–128,000 mi

At 90,000 miles

63% of the failure reports on this generation came below this mileage. That describes reports, not your odds.

Reported earlier than this mileage — ask for repair records

  • Airbag system — median 40,000 mi
  • Exterior lighting — median 55,000 mi
  • Steering — median 2,000 mi

In the reporting window

  • Transmission and driveline — middle half 70,000–128,000 mi
  • Engine — middle half 43,000–120,000 mi
  • Electrical system — middle half 24,000–97,000 mi
  • Brakes — middle half 40,000–120,000 mi

At 120,000 miles

80% of the failure reports on this generation came below this mileage. That describes reports, not your odds.

Reported earlier than this mileage — ask for repair records

  • Engine — median 88,000 mi
  • Airbag system — median 40,000 mi
  • Electrical system — median 64,000 mi
  • Exterior lighting — median 55,000 mi
  • Brakes — median 76,000 mi
  • Steering — median 2,000 mi

In the reporting window

  • Transmission and driveline — middle half 70,000–128,000 mi

Which systems, and when

Complaints about this generation are not spread evenly across the vehicle, and the systems that generate the most of them do not all fail at the same point in a car's life. The median failure across all systems here is 66,600 miles; the figures below show which parts of the car run ahead of that and which run behind.

The transmission and driveline accounts for 21.1% of complaints (501 reports, 412 of them with a mileage figure), and it fails late — a median of 106,000 miles, considerably beyond the vehicle's overall median. That pattern is consistent with normal service life rather than a defect, though it matters for anyone buying an example already near that mileage. The middle half of these reports falls between 70,000 and 128,000 miles.

The engine accounts for 11.8% of complaints (281 reports, 206 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 88,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 43,000 and 120,000 miles.

The airbag system accounts for 10.1% of complaints (241 reports, 97 of them with a mileage figure), and it fails early — a median of 40,000 miles, well before the vehicle's overall median. Failures clustered this far below the rest of the car usually point to a design or manufacturing problem rather than wear, because wear does not selectively target one system on low-mileage examples. The middle half of these reports falls between 9,000 and 67,000 miles.

The electrical system accounts for 8.1% of complaints (192 reports, 143 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 64,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 24,000 and 97,000 miles.

The exterior lighting accounts for 7.8% of complaints (185 reports, 141 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 55,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 24,000 and 84,000 miles.

The brakes account for 7.6% of complaints (181 reports, 116 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 76,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 40,000 and 120,000 miles.

Differences between model years

Within this generation, complaint volume is not constant across model years. The 2011 model year drew the most — 857 complaints — while 2014 drew the fewest at 276. The median year sits at 408.

That makes 2011 an outlier: roughly 2.1 times the median year of this generation. A single year standing that far apart usually reflects either a first-year issue that was later corrected, or a component change introduced for that year. Anyone shopping this generation has a straightforward reason to prefer a different year, all else being equal.

Recalls and what they cover

NHTSA records 25 recall campaigns covering vehicles in this generation. A recall means the manufacturer or the regulator concluded there was a safety defect or a standard was not met, and that a free remedy is owed to owners — including second and later owners.

The campaigns cluster around the airbag system (11), visibility equipment (3), the transmission and driveline (2). Repeated recalls against the same area of the car generally mean the first remedy did not fully resolve the underlying problem.

Recall status is specific to the individual vehicle, not the model. Checking a VIN against NHTSA's lookup is free and takes under a minute, and it is the only way to know whether a particular car has had the work done.

Reported severity

What owners reported alongside the failure itself, out of 2,378 complaints against this generation:

Crashes
137 (5.8%)
Fires
38
Injury reports
60
Fatality reports
2

These flags are self-reported by complainants and unverified by NHTSA; one report can carry several flags, so the counts overlap and do not sum to a total. They are not adjusted for how many of these vehicles are on the road. No chart is drawn here on purpose: overlapping counts spanning very different magnitudes cannot be honestly encoded as lengths.

Documented problems

Transmission 2010–2014

Lineartronic CVT (TR580) chain, valve body and torque converter lock-up faults producing shudder, judder and failure. Subaru extended CVT coverage to 10 years / 100,000 miles on MY2010-2015 Legacy and Outback (up from 5 years / 60,000 miles) with reimbursement for prior repairs, and issued TSB 16-90-13R revising the lock-up torque converter on 2010-2012 cars.

Engine 2013–2014

FB25 excessive oil consumption from the low-tension piston ring design; subject of a class-action settlement covering certain FB-engine vehicles.

By model year

Complaints by model year
YearComplaintsWith mileage
2010469363
2011857606
2012368249
2013408279
2014276201

Recalls (25) — is your car included?

Recalls are fixed free of charge at any dealer, for any owner. Check a specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. The text below is NHTSA’s own wording.

  1. Jan 2020 · 2010–2014 · Air BagsAn inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in…

    The defect. 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 us

    What can happen. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 20V003000, reported 2020-01-07.

  2. Jan 2020 · 2010–2014 · Air BagsAn inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in…

    The defect. 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

    What can happen. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 20V002000, reported 2020-01-07.

  3. Jan 2020 · 2010–2014 · Air BagsAn inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in…

    The defect. 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 de

    What can happen. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 20V001000, reported 2020-01-07.

  4. Jul 2019 · 2010–2014 · Parking BrakeA vehicle rollaway can increase the risk of a crash.

    The defect. 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.

    What can happen. A vehicle rollaway can increase the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 18V626000, reported 2019-07-19.

  5. May 2019 · 2010–2014 · Electrical SystemThe engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash.

    The defect. 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.

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 19V297000, reported 2019-05-10.

  6. Jan 2019 · 2010–2014 · Air BagsAn explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments…

    The defect. 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 equipm

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 19V009000, reported 2019-01-25.

  7. Jan 2019 · 2010–2014 · Air BagsAn explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments…

    The defect. 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 rep

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 19V008000, reported 2019-01-25.

  8. Jan 2019 · 2010–2014 · Air BagsAn explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments…

    The defect. 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 de

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 19V007000, reported 2019-01-25.

  9. Feb 2018 · 2010 · Air BagsAn explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments…

    The defect. 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 cra

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 18V013000, reported 2018-02-09.

  10. Feb 2018 · 2010–2013 · Air BagsAn explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments…

    The defect. 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

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 18V012000, reported 2018-02-09.

  11. Mar 2017 · 2010–2012 · Air BagsAn inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury…

    The defect. 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 e

    What can happen. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 17V014000, reported 2017-03-06.

  12. Oct 2016 · 2010–2014 · VisibilityIf the windshield wiper motor overheats, the wipers may fail, reducing driver visibility and increasing the…

    The defect. 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.

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 16V694000, reported 2016-10-25.

  13. Jul 2016 · 2010–2011 · Air BagsAn inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury…

    The defect. 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

    What can happen. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 16V358000, reported 2016-07-22.

  14. Aug 2013 · 2014 · Power TrainAs a result of the parking rod detaching, the transmission may not be able to be moved from the "park"…

    The defect. Subaru of America is recalling certain model year 2014 Legacy 3.6R and Outback 3.6R and 2013 Tribeca vehicles manufactured June 12, 2013, through June 28, 2013 and equipped with 5-speed automatic transmissions. In the affected vehicles, the parking rod may come loose inside the automatic transmission.

    What can happen. As a result of the parking rod detaching, the transmission may not be able to be moved from the "park" position preventing the vehicle from being moved or driven. Furthermore, even with the transmission shifted into the 'park' position, the parking mechanism may not engage, and the vehicle may roll away while in the "park" position, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the transmission, free of charge. The recall began during August 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's recall number is WQJ-46.

    NHTSA campaign 13V336000, reported 2013-08-13.

  15. May 2013 · 2013 · SteeringIf the shafts become disengaged, the driver would lose the ability to steer the vehicle, increasing the risk…

    The defect. 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.

    What can happen. If the shafts become disengaged, the driver would lose the ability to steer the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 13V194000, reported 2013-05-14.

  16. Apr 2013 · 2010–2013 · EquipmentThe engine may inadvertently start and run for up to fifteen minutes.

    The defect. 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 droppe

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 13V061000, reported 2013-04-22.

  17. Feb 2013 · 2012 · Visibility/WiperIf the components overheat, the wiper motor bottom cover may melt and potentially catch fire.

    The defect. Subaru is recalling certain model year 2012 Outback and Legacy vehicles manufactured from April 6, 2011, through May 12, 2011. Components inside the wiper motor bottom cover may overheat.

    What can happen. If the components overheat, the wiper motor bottom cover may melt and potentially catch fire.

    The free fix. Subaru has notified all affected owners, and dealers will replace the front wiper motor bottom cover assembly free of charge. The safety recall began February 22, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783.

    NHTSA campaign 13V078000, reported 2013-02-22.

  18. Feb 2013 · 2012 · VisibilityThe moonroof glass can loosen and detach from the vehicle during driving, resulting in a potential road…

    The defect. Subaru is recalling certain model year 2012 Outback and Legacy vehicles manufactured from April 6, 2011, through May 12, 2011. The moonroof glass may come loose or detach. The amount and position of the adhesive between the glass and retainer was inadequately applied.

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. Subaru has notified the affected 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 began February 22, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783.

    NHTSA campaign 13V077000, reported 2013-02-22.

  19. Feb 2013 · 2010–2011 · Exterior LightingOver time, migration of the moisture into the circuit board and/or into the connector cavity, may result in a…

    The defect. 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 b

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 12V602000, reported 2013-02-19.

  20. Feb 2012 · 2012 · Air BagsThe side curtain air bags may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.

    The defect. Subaru is recalling certain model year 2012 legacy and Outback vehicles, manufactured from december 1, 2011, through december 23, 2011. These vehicles may be equipped with side curtain air bags that contain an incorrect propellant mixture for the initiator component used, resulting in insufficient output of compressed gas.

    What can happen. The side curtain air bags may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.

    The free fix. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace one or both side curtain air bag modules, free of february 21, 2012. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783.

    NHTSA campaign 12V047000, reported 2012-02-21.

  21. Dec 2011 · 2012 · Service Brakes, HydraulicThe driver might misjudge the amount of brake pedal travel required to achieve the desired stopping distance.

    The defect. Subaru is recalling certain model year 2012 impreza sedans and wagons (except wrx/sti models), manufactured from april 21, 2011, through november 15, 2011, and legacy and Outback vehicles manufactured from october 17, 2011, through november 23, 2011. These vehicles may be equipped with a brake master cylinder that could malfunction and cause an increase in the amount of brake pedal travel distance required to slow or stop the vehicle.

    What can happen. The driver might misjudge the amount of brake pedal travel required to achieve the desired stopping distance. This could occur unexpectedly and without prior warning, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake master cylinder and if necessary, replace it, free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during december 2011. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783.

    NHTSA campaign 11V562000, reported 2011-12-05.

  22. Oct 2011 · 2011 · VisibilityThe moonroof glass can loosen and detach from the vehicle during driving, resulting in a potential road…

    The defect. 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.

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 11V467000, reported 2011-10-17.

  23. Jul 2010 · 2010–2011 · Power TrainIf the transmission gears are not properly lubricated, a groaning sound may begin to develop alerting the…

    The defect. 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.

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 10V326000, reported 2010-07-28.

  24. Jul 2010 · 2010 · SteeringPossible circuits affected are the driver's frontal airbag, paddle shifter function, cruise control, horn…

    The defect. 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.

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 10V283000, reported 2010-07-07.

  25. Jun 2010 · 2010 · Engine and Engine CoolingIf the fluid is completely leaked during driving, the vehicle will come to a stop, possibly resulting in a…

    The defect. 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.

    What can happen. If the fluid is completely leaked during driving, the vehicle will come to a stop, possibly resulting in a crash.

    The free fix. 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).

    NHTSA campaign 10V196000, reported 2010-06-08.

What owners reported

Purchased brand-new Subaru Outback-3.6 Limited in late march 2010. At time of delivery (prior to signing papers), i notified the dealer of steering vibration. The dealer assured me that this was due to the need for the tires to break-in and to call service if it continued. The vehicle only had 3 miles on delivery. The…

2010 · 3 miles · Steering

the contact owns a 2010 Subaru Outback. The headlights fail while driving without warning. When the he headlights are operative, they poorly project light onto the road-way. As a consequence she cannot see signs, parked vehicles and pedestrians. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for inspection. The technician stated…

2010 · 5 miles · Exterior lighting

Serious vibration problems in 2010 Subaru Outback. Upon delivery, would say it was dangerous at anything over 45mph. After multiple fixes, is now down to a much more moderate vibration, most notable at 65-70mph in the steering wheel. The steering wheel oscillates over approx a 1/8" range, with a period of around 3…

2010 · 5 miles · Steering

I purchased Subaru Outback 2.5I premium on 09/23/2009 and noticed a steering wheel vibration above 50 MPH speed 1st day. Called dealer and scheduled appointment for 09/25/2009. They rebalanced tires, and it did not have a vibration under 80mph. About month latter, i noticed vibration around 70 MPH, and i called a…

2010 · 10 miles · Steering

Built from 1,698 NHTSA complaints with mileage · snapshot 2026-08-18 · open data · reproduce this page

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