2013 Subaru Outback Problems & Owner Complaints

Engine 67 1 crash 1 fire

“The contact owned a 2013 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in the contact's residential driveway, the contact noticed the smoke exiting from the hood area of the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was on fire. The fire department arrived on the scene and extinguished the fire. A fire report was filed. The vehicle remained at the contact's residence. The vehicle was condemned to total loss. The contact stated that as a result of the fire, the contact's residential driveway was damaged and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of…”
NHTSA complaint #11598029, 2024 · fire

“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…”
NHTSA complaint #11089972, 2018 · crash

“I purchased this car may 28th 2025 and had it over the weekend and check engine light came on and took it Monday once shop opened and came back for catalytic converter and o2 sensor I letted the dealership know about it and said its not much that i can fix it but I figured would say that since was a as is car and just had to come up with money... only thing month later it stalled on me and had to take to a shop to see what it is and came back for transmission but that shop told me the car never should have been sold I never try to let them know about that its been sitting since July when that…”
NHTSA complaint #11708999, 2025

Power Train 59

“Please contact Carvana and make them take that vehicle off the market. I purchased it and by chance found out that bottom parts like subframe and exhaust pipe were inadequately installed . The mechanic said eventually I was going to flip over myself on the highway in that car. He also stated that this repair cost would be around $8000 - more than half of this used car was offered for on Carvana. I returned the car. Half a month later is back on Carvana website for the same price. Please help! I have no alt motive but try and save someone’s life.”
NHTSA complaint #11750991, 2026

“I purchased this car may 28th 2025 and had it over the weekend and check engine light came on and took it Monday once shop opened and came back for catalytic converter and o2 sensor I letted the dealership know about it and said its not much that i can fix it but I figured would say that since was a as is car and just had to come up with money... only thing month later it stalled on me and had to take to a shop to see what it is and came back for transmission but that shop told me the car never should have been sold I never try to let them know about that its been sitting since July when that…”
NHTSA complaint #11708999, 2025

“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…”
NHTSA complaint #11564224, 2023

Air Bags 42 10 crash 1 fire 11 injury

“MY FRIENDS' SON AND WIFE HAD A CRASH ON I 55 NORTH NEAR MEADOWBROOK ROAD ON JANUARY 28, 2018. THE CAR HIT A HIGHWAY BARRIER AND SPUN AROUND AND RESULTED IN AN EXTREME FIRE AFTER IMPACT AND THE SIDE AIRBAG, NOR THE SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY ON DRIVERS' SIDE. THE INSURANCE COMPANY DID NOT GET CONSENT FROM MY FRIEND TO TAKE IT FROM THE TOWED DESTINATION TO ANOTHER DESTINATION. SHE HAS YET TO RECEIVE INFORMATION REGARDING HER CLAIM STATUS WHICH SHE WAS INFORMED OF ONLY WHEN SHE INITIATED THE CALL. INSURANCE ADJUSTER INQUIRED WHO AND WHY SOMEONE ELSE WANTED TO LOOK AT CAR WHEN TELLING AD…”
NHTSA complaint #11067175, 2018 · crash · fire · 2 injury(ies)

“SUDDEN UNWANTED FORCEFUL ACCELERATION (SUSPECT AUTO CRUISE CONTROL GOT ENGAGED VIA EYESIGHT MALFUNCTION), COLLISION AVOIDANCE FAILED TO ENGAGE. BACK HOME SAFELY FROM A LOCAL GROCERY, PULLED THE CAR SLIGHT ON THE DRIVEWAY, STOPPED WITH FOOT ON THE BRAKE TO OPEN THE GARAGE, ABOUT TO HIT THE HOME LINK, MUST REMAIN STOPPED WHILE GARAGE DOOR OPENS BECAUSE DRIVEWAY SLOPES DOWNWARD, HEARD ENGINE ROAR WITH FOOT STILL ON THE BRAKE, CAR STARTED THROTTLE FORCEFULLY, GOT BEWILDERED, PRESSED HARD ON THE BRAKE; IT DID NOT RESPOND, THE CAR HIT HARD ON THE GARAGE AND BRICK WALL, CAUSING EXTENSIVE DAMAGES. A…”
NHTSA complaint #11112135, 2018 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“TAKATA RECALL- WE HAD A CAR ACCIDENT 4-4-2016. WE WERE TURNING INTO A PARKING LOT AND ANOTHER CAR DID NOT STOP AT THE STOP LIGHT AND HIT OUR CAR ON THE LEFT SIDE. POLICE WERE CALLED AND A REPORT WAS FILED. OUR AIR BAGS DID NOT OPEN UP.”
NHTSA complaint #11014951, 2016 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

Steering 34 1 crash 1 injury

“2013 SUBARU OUTBACK 3.6R W/SAP I AM EXPERIENCING A HEAVY STEERING ISSUE. WHERE THE RETURN TO CENTER DOES NOT HAPPEN UNLESS I MANUALLY STEER IT BACK TO CENTER. STEERING IS SO HEAVY THAT AFTER 3000 MILES. (PURCHASED IN JUNE 2013), BOTH OF MY WRISTS ARE IN PAIN, MY RIGHT ELBOW IS IN PAIN, AND MY RIGHT HAND FEELS LIKE IT HAS CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME. CONSTANT CORRECTIONS ARE NEEDED TO KEEP TRACKING STRAIGHT. I INCREASED TIRE PSI TO 34/32, AND IT HELPED A LITTLE, BUT STEERING STILL DOES NOT RETURN TO CENTER. HERE ARE 2 LINKS TO SIMILAR ISSUES: HTTP://WWW.SUBARUOUTBACK.ORG/FORUMS/104-GEN-4-2010-PR…”
NHTSA complaint #10545155, 2013 · 1 injury(ies)

“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.”
NHTSA complaint #10795169, 2015 · crash

“* I detected a noise in the front end and an instability in the handling. My independent service mechanic found the cradle on the right front severely rusted out at the point where the control arm attaches. He had to condemn the vehicle. * My mechanic says that it could have resulted in a total loss of ability to steer. He says that he is unable to order the part from the manufacturer because so many are on back order. He is also unable to find any used ones. Finally, he says that in the last 3 months he has had to condemn 3 other Outbacks due to the same problem. THIS SOUNDS LI…”
NHTSA complaint #11591221, 2024

Vehicle Speed Control 26 7 crash 4 injury

“SUDDEN UNWANTED FORCEFUL ACCELERATION (SUSPECT AUTO CRUISE CONTROL GOT ENGAGED VIA EYESIGHT MALFUNCTION), COLLISION AVOIDANCE FAILED TO ENGAGE. BACK HOME SAFELY FROM A LOCAL GROCERY, PULLED THE CAR SLIGHT ON THE DRIVEWAY, STOPPED WITH FOOT ON THE BRAKE TO OPEN THE GARAGE, ABOUT TO HIT THE HOME LINK, MUST REMAIN STOPPED WHILE GARAGE DOOR OPENS BECAUSE DRIVEWAY SLOPES DOWNWARD, HEARD ENGINE ROAR WITH FOOT STILL ON THE BRAKE, CAR STARTED THROTTLE FORCEFULLY, GOT BEWILDERED, PRESSED HARD ON THE BRAKE; IT DID NOT RESPOND, THE CAR HIT HARD ON THE GARAGE AND BRICK WALL, CAUSING EXTENSIVE DAMAGES. A…”
NHTSA complaint #11112135, 2018 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“I was pulling into a parking space very slowly when the car went into overdrive and suddenly accelerated at a high speed. It plunged down a slight decline and hit a large tree. My airbag failed to deploy although I was thrown violently forward, and the car sustained severe front end damage. The car is considered a total loss and I spent a day at a hospital emergency room. The sudden unexpected acceleration and the lack of airbag inflation is going to be assessed by Subaru on 10/24/23. I understand that there are two class action lawsuits against Subaru (in NJ & CA) for this same unanticipated…”
NHTSA complaint #11548304, 2023 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE IN THE DRIVEWAY, IT ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING AND CRASHED INTO THE GARAGE DOOR. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED HEAD INJURIES, BUT DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10782394, 2015 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Service Brakes 25 2 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…”
NHTSA complaint #11089972, 2018 · 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.”
NHTSA complaint #10795169, 2015 · crash

“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’v…”
NHTSA complaint #11684961, 2025

Unknown Or Other 24 2 crash 1 fire 2 injury

“MY FRIENDS' SON AND WIFE HAD A CRASH ON I 55 NORTH NEAR MEADOWBROOK ROAD ON JANUARY 28, 2018. THE CAR HIT A HIGHWAY BARRIER AND SPUN AROUND AND RESULTED IN AN EXTREME FIRE AFTER IMPACT AND THE SIDE AIRBAG, NOR THE SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY ON DRIVERS' SIDE. THE INSURANCE COMPANY DID NOT GET CONSENT FROM MY FRIEND TO TAKE IT FROM THE TOWED DESTINATION TO ANOTHER DESTINATION. SHE HAS YET TO RECEIVE INFORMATION REGARDING HER CLAIM STATUS WHICH SHE WAS INFORMED OF ONLY WHEN SHE INITIATED THE CALL. INSURANCE ADJUSTER INQUIRED WHO AND WHY SOMEONE ELSE WANTED TO LOOK AT CAR WHEN TELLING AD…”
NHTSA complaint #11067175, 2018 · crash · fire · 2 injury(ies)

“I was pulling into a parking spot, without any warning the car accelerated through a fence and hit a tree. There were no injuries and the airbags did not deploy. A man was waving me to stop and I could not. Fortunately the small tree stopped the car. At first I thought maybe the gas pedal stuck or in human error I hit the gas to hard. But that was not the case. I could not control the car and my thought "what is happening"!”
NHTSA complaint #11644740, 2025 · crash

“Strapped kayak to roof rack. Roof rack ripped off car while in traffic. Kayak went flying and was hit by a truck.”
NHTSA complaint #11575328, 2023

Electrical System 23 1 crash

“PRIOR TO THIS INCIDENT, I HAD NOTICED SEVERAL OCCASIONS WHERE THE ENGINE WOULD SUDDENLY REV FOR NO REASON WHILE I WAS DRIVING AT A SLOW SPEED OR BRAKING. THIS INCIDENT HAPPENED ON DEC 2, 2014 AT APPROX. 7:40AM EASTERN TIME. AS I WAS APPROACHING THE SECURITY CHECK-IN GATE AT MY JOB, TRAVELING ABOUT 10 MPH, I DEPRESSED THE BRAKE TO SLOW DOWN AND WAIT FOR THE GATE TO OPEN. AS I WAS SLOWING DOWN, THE ENGINE SUDDENLY REV'D TO MAXIMUM AND THE CAR ACCELERATED AND LURCHED FORWARD. I WAS NOT ABLE TO STOP OR CONTROL THE CAR AND IT CRASHED THROUGH THE SECURITY BARRIER GATE. NO ONE WAS INJURED AND TH…”
NHTSA complaint #10670219, 2014 · crash

“I purchased this car may 28th 2025 and had it over the weekend and check engine light came on and took it Monday once shop opened and came back for catalytic converter and o2 sensor I letted the dealership know about it and said its not much that i can fix it but I figured would say that since was a as is car and just had to come up with money... only thing month later it stalled on me and had to take to a shop to see what it is and came back for transmission but that shop told me the car never should have been sold I never try to let them know about that its been sitting since July when that…”
NHTSA complaint #11708999, 2025

“My horn became intermittent, and stopped working. The car will not pass state inspection. It was diagnosed as a faulty clock spring. The dealership stated that this was a common failure on Subaru's, especially those that had the Takata airbag replacement recall. They said there was no TSB or recall for the part. I reached out to Subaru customer service who said that due to the age and mileage on my car, there was nothing they could do to assist replacing the part.”
NHTSA complaint #11502707, 2023

Suspension 15

“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’v…”
NHTSA complaint #11684961, 2025

“* I detected a noise in the front end and an instability in the handling. My independent service mechanic found the cradle on the right front severely rusted out at the point where the control arm attaches. He had to condemn the vehicle. * My mechanic says that it could have resulted in a total loss of ability to steer. He says that he is unable to order the part from the manufacturer because so many are on back order. He is also unable to find any used ones. Finally, he says that in the last 3 months he has had to condemn 3 other Outbacks due to the same problem. THIS SOUNDS LI…”
NHTSA complaint #11591221, 2024

“WHEN DRIVING OVER 40MPH THE CAR SEEMS TO JERK OUT OF THE BLUE IT EVEN SEEMS LIKE ONE SIDE OF THE VEHICLE LIFTS OR TILTS AS IF IT HAS HYDRAULICS MAKES IT HARD TO CONTROL CONTINUOUSLY GRIP THE STEERG WHEEL IN ORDER TO KEEP CONTROL IS UNBEARABLE. THERE IS SOMETHING SERIOUSLY WRONG AFTER READG ONLINE&ON THIS WEBSITE OBVIOUS SOMETHINGS WRONG. WHY R U WAITING FOR CRASHES& POSSIBLE DEATHS TO RAISE THIS ISSUE? WHEN DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT NORMAL HIGHWAY SPEEDS ALL OF A SUDDEN YOU FEEL A QUICK PULL AS IF A MAGNET JUST PULLED YOUR CAR AND IT ALSO STARTS TO LIFT WHEN DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT NORMAL…”
NHTSA complaint #11241617, 2019

Fuel/Propulsion System 12 4 crash 1 injury

“I was pulling into a parking space very slowly when the car went into overdrive and suddenly accelerated at a high speed. It plunged down a slight decline and hit a large tree. My airbag failed to deploy although I was thrown violently forward, and the car sustained severe front end damage. The car is considered a total loss and I spent a day at a hospital emergency room. The sudden unexpected acceleration and the lack of airbag inflation is going to be assessed by Subaru on 10/24/23. I understand that there are two class action lawsuits against Subaru (in NJ & CA) for this same unanticipated…”
NHTSA complaint #11548304, 2023 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“Upon entering a parking space,my 2013 Subaru Outback went from idle to full acceleration,hitting a parked,unoccupied truck. Braking had no effect on the car,the air bag did not deploy,and the car did not decelerate until I was able to engage Park-within a few seconds it resumed the idle. The police made a report,car was taken to wrecking yard,and is now at repair facility for possible repair. There were no prior warnings or messages. I was unaware of a safety issue with Subaru and when I contacted my local dealer,I was told they were unaware of any issues. I then did research online and fou…”
NHTSA complaint #11418358, 2021 · crash

“ON A CLEAR DRY MORNING I PULLED INTO A PARKING SPACE ON A SLIGHT INCLINE IN FRONT OF A BRICK OFFICE BUILDING. WHEN I RELEASED THE SERVICE BRAKE (HAVING REACHED THE END OF THE PARKING SPACE) THE CAR BOLTED FORWARD, JUMPED THE CURB, CROSSED A SIDEWALK, WENT THRU SHRUBS, AND HIT THE BRICK WALL, CAUSING SEVERE DAMAGE TO THE CAR AND BUILDING. THE DISTANCE TRAVELED WAS ABOUT 10 FEET.”
NHTSA complaint #10884972, 2016 · crash

Structure 11 2 crash 1 fire 2 injury

“SUDDEN UNWANTED FORCEFUL ACCELERATION (SUSPECT AUTO CRUISE CONTROL GOT ENGAGED VIA EYESIGHT MALFUNCTION), COLLISION AVOIDANCE FAILED TO ENGAGE. BACK HOME SAFELY FROM A LOCAL GROCERY, PULLED THE CAR SLIGHT ON THE DRIVEWAY, STOPPED WITH FOOT ON THE BRAKE TO OPEN THE GARAGE, ABOUT TO HIT THE HOME LINK, MUST REMAIN STOPPED WHILE GARAGE DOOR OPENS BECAUSE DRIVEWAY SLOPES DOWNWARD, HEARD ENGINE ROAR WITH FOOT STILL ON THE BRAKE, CAR STARTED THROTTLE FORCEFULLY, GOT BEWILDERED, PRESSED HARD ON THE BRAKE; IT DID NOT RESPOND, THE CAR HIT HARD ON THE GARAGE AND BRICK WALL, CAUSING EXTENSIVE DAMAGES. A…”
NHTSA complaint #11112135, 2018 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“The vehicle caught fire while driving along the interstate. It's a total loss.”
NHTSA complaint #11713975, 2025 · fire

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 SUBARU OUTBACK. WHILE DRIVING AT A LOW SPEED, THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL BUT HIS FOOT BECAME WEDGED IN BETWEEN THE ACCELERATOR AND BRAKE PEDALS. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO THE FRONT OF ANOTHER VEHICLE AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT DID NOT SUSTAIN ANY INJURIES. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED, BUT WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTO BODY REPAIR CENTER FOR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10773836, 2015 · crash

Visibility/Wiper 11 1 fire

“2013 SUBARU OUTBACK FRONT WIPER MOTOR CAUGHT FIRE WHILE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION. JUST PRIOR TO FIRE, WIPERS HAD BEEN ACTIVATED BUT WOULD NOT RETURN TO HOME OR STOP WHEN TURNED TO OFF POSITION. VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED NEW IN OCTOBER 2012. ROOT CAUSE OF WIPER MOTOR AS DETERMINED BY SUBARU DEALER SHOP. SUBARU CLAIMS THIS IS UNRELATED TO PRIOR RECALL FOR WIPER MOTORS WVW32 WHICH HAD BEEN EXTENDED TO 2012 MODELS.”
NHTSA complaint #10870295, 2016 · fire

“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 REP…”
NHTSA complaint #11308689, 2020

“WHEN IN REVERSE, THE REAR CAMERA DISPLAYS ON THE SCREEN AS IT SHOULD. THE PROBLEM OCCURS WHEN THE SYSTEM CONNECT VIA BLUETOOTH TO A MOBILE DEVICE, THE REAR CAMERA VIEW IS BLOCKED BY A LARGE NOTIFICATION WINDOW REPORTING THAT THE CONNECTION HAS BEEN MADE TO THE MOBILE DEVICE. THIS OBSTRUCTS THE VIEW. THE TIMING OF THIS PROCESS OFTEN OCCURS JUST AS ONE HAS STARTED BACKING UP SINCE IT TAKES 30-60ISH SECONDS TO GET SITUATED AND THEN START REVERSING AND IT ALSO TAKE ABOUT THIS MUCH TIME FOR THE BLUETOOTH CONNECTION TO ESTABLISH ITSELF. A SOLUTION COULD BE TO A) NOT DISPLAY OTHER NOTIFICATIONS WHEN…”
NHTSA complaint #11192603, 2019

Seats 9 1 crash 2 fire 1 injury 1 death

“THE HEADREST POINTS AT A HARSH ANGLE FORWARD AND MAY CAUSE SEVERE NECK INJURY. TWO SEPERATE INCIDENTS: 1. MOVING FORWARD AT A LEFT TURN ANGLE, CARS HITTING EACH OTHERS RT FRONT. RESULT BRAIN STEM HEMORRHAGE AND BILATERAL HEMATOMA. APRIL 3, 2018 2. STOPPED IN TRAFFIC HIT FROM THE REAR. RESULT NECK STRAIN. MAY 10, 2018 *TT *TR”
NHTSA complaint #11099247, 2018 · crash · 1 death(s)

“The contact owns a 2013 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that after driving for about two hours, she switched seats with her boyfriend. While her boyfriend was driving, there was an abnormal odor present. The contact noticed smoke under the front passenger seat. The driver was able to pull over to the side of the road. There were no warning indicator lights illuminated. The driver attempted to put out the fire. The fire department was able to extinguish the fire and disconnect the battery. The contact removed the passenger seat fuse. The passenger seat was jammed. A police report was fi…”
NHTSA complaint #11452044, 2022 · fire

“I TOOK THE CAR INTO DEALERSHIP SERVICE TO REPORT AN ELECTRICAL DRAIN ON THE BATTERY, REQUIRING THE CAR TO BE JUMPED STARTED IF LEFT SEVERAL DAYS PARKED. SERVICE DEPARTMENT TESTED ELECTRICAL SYSTEM AND REPLACED THE BATTERY. CAR WAS PARKED IN THEIR LOT FOR SEVERAL HOURS AND ON RETURN THE CAR WAS WAS FOUND TO BE HEAVILY DAMAGED BY SMOKE AND FIRE FROM PASSENGER SEAT. THE CAR WAS TOTALED BY MY INSURANCE COMPANY.”
NHTSA complaint #10985455, 2017 · fire

Exterior Lighting 8

“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”
NHTSA complaint #11327068, 2020

“WATER POURS INTO VEHICLE FROM CENTER REAR BRAKE LIGHT EVERY TIME IT RAINS. BLOOMINGTON SUBARU CONFIRMED ISSUE IS WATER LEAK VIA CENTER REAR BRAKE LIGHT. SOA CONTACTED, NO RESPONSE RECEIVED. ORIGINAL OWNER SINCE NEW, CURRENT MILEAGE IS 30,000. STILL LEAKS.”
NHTSA complaint #11291661, 2019

“REPEATED LIGHTING FAILURES ON EXTERIOR LIGHTS ALL AROUND CAR. HAVE REPLACED HEADLIGHTS, TAIL AND SIDE LIGHTS REPEATEDLY AT MY COST. SOME COMPLETED AT DEALERSHIP, SOME COMPLETED AT HOME AFTER COST TOO MUCH.”
NHTSA complaint #11063292, 2017

Parking Brake 6

“The contact owns a 2013 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the parking brake warning light illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that several other unknown warning lights illuminated, and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact stated that the parking brake had seized. The parking brake was released, and the vehicle was restarted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the dealer declined to inspect the vehicle due to a title alert for a total loss report. In addition, the contact stated that he had owned the vehicle for eight years, an…”
NHTSA complaint #11614806, 2024

“The contact owns a 2013 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while parking the vehicle, the parking brake was applied, and the parking brake warning light was illuminated. The parking brake would not disengage when the contact attempted to drive the vehicle. The contact stated that the electric motor for the parking brake had failed. The contact crawled underneath the vehicle and rotated the electric motor 250 times as per the owner’s manual instructions. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and the c…”
NHTSA complaint #11431922, 2021

“The contact owns a 2013 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while entering the vehicle, her knee hit the button next to the center console labeled push on/push off parking brake which activated the parking brake. The contact was unable to turn off the button. The vehicle was taken to her son who works as an independent mechanic to release the activated parking brakes. The failure persisted. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage is 116,067.”
NHTSA complaint #11422838, 2021

Wheels 6 1 crash

“Not really sure, I don’t remember. It’s a wooded area , lots of deer etc. But I honestly don’t remember I saw my car It it fully intact , all doors , hood,trunk Open, car starts too Only front drivers wheel is bent in and lowest part of front bumper needs repair”
NHTSA complaint #11742914, 2026 · crash

“Driver side rear wheel bearing speed sensor experienced a spontaneous failure, leading to ABS failure and nearly lost control when rapidly decelerating from 45mph to 0mph in a short left turning lane. Failure occurred in well maintained 2013 Subaru Outback with less than 70,000 miles on it. Vehicle immediately lit up several dashboard lights (CHECK ENGINE, CRUISE CONTROL, ABS, and BREAK lights) indicating the car was unsafe to drive at moderate/high speed following the incident. ABS failure could have led to an accident in inclement weather. Wheel bearing is being replaced by mechanic.”
NHTSA complaint #11448686, 2022

“ALLOY WHEELS FAILURE. THE WHEELS HAVE CATASTROPHIC FAILURE (LARGE CRACK AND HOLE IN CENTER OF RIM) WHILE DRIVING. VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AND THERE WERE NO POT HOLES OR DEBRIS IN HIGHWAY. LOCATION: EXIT 1, US 7 IN NORWALK CONNECTICUT. DATE/TIME: AUGUST 23, 2019 @ 6:00PM IN FULL DAYLIGHT.”
NHTSA complaint #11246653, 2019

Forward Collision Avoidance 4 1 crash

“Upon entering a parking space,my 2013 Subaru Outback went from idle to full acceleration,hitting a parked,unoccupied truck. Braking had no effect on the car,the air bag did not deploy,and the car did not decelerate until I was able to engage Park-within a few seconds it resumed the idle. The police made a report,car was taken to wrecking yard,and is now at repair facility for possible repair. There were no prior warnings or messages. I was unaware of a safety issue with Subaru and when I contacted my local dealer,I was told they were unaware of any issues. I then did research online and fou…”
NHTSA complaint #11418358, 2021 · crash

“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…”
NHTSA complaint #11534430, 2023

“On a handful of occasions while driving, suddenly the car detects an object in front of the car that it believes I will hit. The beeping and object collision detection message appears on my dash. On all these occasions, there has never been on object. One time it automatic to control the vehicle before causing an accident. I don’t remember exactly when this started happening but I thankfully engaged my brakes. This happened while I was on a highway. Luckily, no car was riding closely behind me so I was able it was 2 years ago. There is an option to turn off the detection sensor, but this must…”
NHTSA complaint #11428634, 2019

Seat Belts 4 1 crash 1 injury

“The contact owned a 2013 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while driving at approximately 35 MPH, he lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a metal guard rail on the driver's side along the length of the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle had bounced off of the rail and the front end on the passenger side had crashed into a metal post on the right side of the road. The contact stated that the force of the crash ejected him through the windshield. The contact stated that EMS and firemen were on scene but there was no police. The contact stated he had not lost consciousness. The…”
NHTSA complaint #11622969, 2023 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“middle seatbelt continues to tear in multiple placed . very disturbing”
NHTSA complaint #11551783, 2023

“THE PASSENGER OCCUPANT DETECTION SYSTEM (ODS) MALFUNCTIONED OR SHORTED OUT FOR NO APPARENT REASON. AS A RESULT, THE PASSENGER AIRBAG WILL NOT ENABLE EVEN WHEN OCCUPIED BY AN ADULT PASSENGER. THE PASSENGER AIRBAG IS CONSTANTLY IN OFF MODE. IN ADDITION THE ODS APPARENTLY CONTROLS THE SEATBELT WARNING FEATURE. REGARDLESS OF WHETHER OR NOT AN ADULT PASSENGER IS OCCUPYING THE SEAT THE ODS IS CONSTANTLY DETECTING A PASSENGER AND THE PASSENGER SEATBELT WARNING LIGHT AND CHIME CONTINUOUSLY ARE ON. WHEN THE PASSENGER SEATBELT IS BUCKLED THE WARNING LIGHT AND CHIME REMAIN CONTINUOUSLY ON. THE VEHI…”
NHTSA complaint #10733025, 2015

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 3

“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 WHEEL…”
NHTSA complaint #11253364, 2019

“2013 OUTBACK LIMITED 3.6R BOUGHT NEW AND HAS 40K MILES. ON 3 OCCASIONS OVER THE PAST 5 MONTHS, THE VEHICLE CAN'T CATCH 2ND GEAR AND REVS HIGH AND THEN A HEAVY JOLT PHYSICALLY FELT AND A LOUD CLUNK. HAVE TAKEN IT TO SUBARU SERVICE 3 TIMES AND THEY CANNOT REPRODUCE THE PROBLEM. EVEN AFTER FLUSHING TRANSMISSION FLUID AND RELEARNING THE TRANSMISSION, AND VEHICLE DID IT THE SAME DAY DRIVING HOME AFTER PICKING THE VEHICLE UP FROM RELEARNING THE TRANSMISSION. THIS IS AGGRAVATING, STRESSFUL, AND DANGEROUS. SUBARU NEEDS TO OWN UP AND ADDRESS A KNOWN ISSUE, AND DO A RECALL.”
NHTSA complaint #11245142, 2019

“LOUD NOISE WHEN MAKING A SHARP TURN DOWN HILL TO THE RIGHT. ALSO TRACTION CONTROL/CVT FAILS ON WET SURFACE OR SNOW.”
NHTSA complaint #11186953, 2019

Fuel System 3

“IN TEMPERATURES LOWER THAN 45 DEGREES F, IF NOT 'WARMED UP' THE CAR WILL MAKE A LOUD THUNK NOISE AND LURCH FORWARD UPON BEING PUT INTO DRIVE. IF THE BRAKE IS NOT FIRMLY ENGAGE, THE CAR WILL JUMP FORWARD. THE SUBARU DEALER CLAIMS THIS IS CAUSED BY THE CAR'S STATUS AS A PERFORMANCE VEHICLE, AND ENGINE WARM UP NEEDS TO OCCUR TO LOWER THE RPMS. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10558134, 2013

“I STOPPED AT A STOPLIGHT. WHEN THE LIGHT CHANGED, I PRESSED THE ACCELERATOR AND MOVED FORWARD. I RELEASED THE ACCELERATOR TO SLOW UP BECAUSE OF TRAFFIC CONDITIONS. WHEN I PRESSED THE ACCELERATOR AGAIN TO MOVE FORWARD, THE ENGINE DID NOT REV UP. IT WAS AS IF THE CAR STALLED. AFTER SEVERAL PUSHES ON THE ACCELERATOR ( 8 SECONDS WORTH) THE ENGINE REVVED UP AND THE CAR ONCE AGAIN MOVED FORWARD JUST AS IF NOTHING WAS WRONG. ALL THIS TIME I WAS BLOCKING THE INTERSECTION. THIS HAS HAPPENED MULTIPLE TIMES NOW. DEALER INDICATES NO PROBLEM FOUND. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10555721, 2013

“AFTER STOPPING AT A STOP SIGN, I ATTEMPTED TO DRIVE OFF, BUT THE CAR DID NOT ACCELERATE ON APPLICATION OF THE THROTTLE PEDAL. THE ENGINE REMAINED AT IDLE, AND THE CAR ROLLED SLOWLY INTO THE INTERSECTION. NOTHING I DID CORRECTED THE PROBLEM UNTIL I PLACED THE TRANSMISSION IN PARK, TURNED OFF THE ENGINE, THEN RE-STARTED THE CAR. THE CAR THEN PERFORMED NORMALLY UNTIL I REACHED THE NEXT STOP SIGN, WHERE THE PROBLEM REPEATED. IN ALL, THE PROBLEM OCCURRED SEVEN (7) TIMES ON THIS DAY, APPARENTLY AT RANDOM. THAT IS, AT SOME STOPS THE CAR PERFORMED NORMALLY, AND AT OTHER STOPS, THE CAR FAILED TO ACCELE…”
NHTSA complaint #10553127, 2013

Visibility 3

“The sun roof exploded. There was not prior damage (at least not visible to the naked eye). When it happened there was a very loud popping noise, which could be jarring enough to cause an accident. My sunroof cover was closed when the glass broke, but if it was open I could have been covered in shards of glass. I’m not sure if the sunroof has been inspected by the manufacturer. I have seen that other Subaru owners have experience the same issue. There was no warning the the sunroof is fragile and will potentially explode.”
NHTSA complaint #11472291, 2022

“The contact owns a 2013 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while his wife was driving 75 mph, the sunroof exploded, and the glass shattered onto the shade guard. The contact stated that his wife veered to the side of the road, where she inspected the vehicle but could not determine the cause of the failure. The contact stated that his wife was able to drive to her destination. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The dealer and manufacturer were not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 134,900.”
NHTSA complaint #11426498, 2021

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED INSIDE THE GARAGE, A CRACK FORMED ON THE UPPER PASSENGER'S SIDE OF THE WINDSHIELD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE CHECKED THE SECURITY FOOTAGE AROUND HIS HOME WHERE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND SAW NO EVIDENCE OF AN IMPACT TO THE WINDSHIELD. THE CONTACT STATED THE CRACK IMPAIRED HIS VISIBILITY WHILE DRIVING. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 116,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11385629, 2020

Equipment 2

“TRAVELING THROUGH DESMOINES IOWA AND NAVIGATION SYSTEM INSTRUCTED ME AUDIBLY TO EXIT HIGHWAY TO LEFT WHEN THERE WAS NO EXIT AND NO REASON FOR ME TO EXIT. THIS HAS HAPPENED NUMEROUS TIMES AND SUBARU KNOWS THAT ITS NAVIGATION SYSTEM IS/WAS DEFECTIVE. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10669872, 2014

“THE NAVIGATION SYSTEM OVERRIDES THE SAFETY BACKUP CAMERA WITH MESSAGES WHEN THE CAR IS IN REVERSE. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS SINCE THE NAVIGATION SYSTEM CAN DISPLAY A MESSAGE ON THE SCREEN AND COMPLETELY OBSCURE THE BACKUP CAMERA DISPLAY WHILE BACKING UP. THIS HAPPENS EVERY TIME I START MY CAR AND BEGIN TO BACKUP. THE BACKUP CAMERA COMES ON WHEN I PUT THE CAR IN REVERSE BUT AS I'M BACKING UP, THE NAVIGATION SYSTEM DISPLAYS MESSAGES FROM MY BLUETOOTH PHONE CONNECTION AND I CAN'T SEE WHAT IS BEHIND ME VIA THE BACKUP CAMERA. NOTHING SHOULD OVERRIDE THE BACKUP CAMERA WHEN THE CAR IS IN REVERSE. *…”
NHTSA complaint #10499330, 2013

Latches/Locks/Linkages 2

“The hood latch released while I driving on the 101 freeway at about 70 MPH. The secondary lock held and I was able to get off the freeway. The hood would not latch after this occurred. I took the vehicle to Kirby Subaru of Ventura and had the latch replaced. I am from a medical background, where we have certain "never" events. I would consider this to be one of those never events. If the secondary latch had failed I likely would have had a catastrophic event.”
NHTSA complaint #11504954, 2023

“APPLY BRAKES WHILE IN MOTION AND CAR DOOR LOCKS OPEN. PASSENGER COMPLAINED WHEN GETTING OUT OF CAR THAT THEY GOT A SHOCK. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10607949, 2014

Tires 2

“YOUR MANDATE FOR THE USE OF TPMS IS ANOTHER EXAMPLE OF GOVERNMENT GOOD INTENTIONS RESULTING IN LITTLE BENEFIT AND UNNECESSARY COST TO CONSUMERS. I WANT TO RUN WINTER TIRES ON OUR SUBARU AND PLANNED TO PURCHASE THE TIRES ON WHEELS EQUIPPED WITH TPMS SENSORS. HOWEVER, THE ONLY WAY TO RE-SET THE SENSORS IS TO TAKE THE CAR TO THE SUBARU DEALER AND PAY $90 IN THE FALL WHEN THE WINTER SET GOES ON AND TO PAY ANOTHER $90 IN THE SPRING WHEN THE ALL-SEASON TIRE GO BACK ON THE CAR. THE WINTER TIRES ARE EXPECTED TO ADD A SIGNIFICANT MARGIN OF SAFETY IN SNOW/ICE CONDITIONS. THE ANNUAL COST OF RE-SETTIN…”
NHTSA complaint #10541955, 2013

“AFTER TWO MONTH OF USING A NEW CAR MODEL OUTBACK 2013 THE LEFT FRONT TIRE HAD EMPTIED AT THE PARKING LOT. AN INVISIBLE CUT WAS FOUND THAT IT WAS NECESSARY TO BOUGHT A NEW TIRE. A WEEKS LATER OF THIS EVENT THE BACK LEFT TIRE IS BEEN EMPTYING VERY FREQUENTLY SINCE. APPARENTLY THE ORIGINAL TIRES OF THE CAR HAS INVISIBLE DEFECTS THAT GET THE TIRE TO EMPTY WITH THE NORMAL ROAD USE. THIS CAR HAS A FREQUENTLY SIGNAL FOR VERIFICATION AND FILLING OF THE TIRES. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10493571, 2012

Back Over Prevention 1

“BACKUP CAMERA GETS BLOCKED COMPLETELY BY A LARGE "CONNECTED TO MOBILE PHONE" MESSAGE BOX WHEN IN REVERSE AFTER RECENTLY STARTING CAR. CAN HAPPEN WHEN YOU'RE HALF WAY IN THE ROAD AND SHOULD BE FIXED. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10499799, 2013

Engine And Engine Cooling 1

“OIL LIGHT CAME ON AND HAD TO ADD 1 QUART OF OIL AFTER ABOUT 4000 MILES SINCE PREVIOUS OIL CHANGE. THE CAR TAKES SYNTHETIC OIL AND IS SUPPOSED TO GO 7500 MILES BETWEEN OIL CHANGES. SINCE THEN, WE HAVE HAD TO ADD OIL IN BETWEEN OIL CHANGES SEVERAL TIMES, APPROXIMATELY 1-2 QUARTS EVERY 1500 TO 3000 MILES. SUBARU DEALER SAYS THIS IS NORMAL; HOWEVER, WE HAVE NEVER HAD THIS PROBLEM WITH ANY OTHER VEHICLE. WE ARE CONCERNED ABOUT DAMAGE TO THE MOTOR BY THIS CONTINUING TO HAPPEN. THE CAR WAS BOUGHT NEW AND ONLY HAS 23,000 MILES ON IT. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10691555, 2014

Equipment Adaptive/Mobility 1

“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…”
NHTSA complaint #10499651, 2012

Traction Control System 1 1 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.”
NHTSA complaint #10795169, 2015 · crash