2015 Subaru Outback Problems & Owner Complaints

Visibility/Wiper 130 1 injury

“INTERIOR REAR VIEW MIRROR BROKE OFF THE MOUNTING WITH GLASS ATTACHED TO THE MOUNTING. THEIR WAS NO FORCEFUL MOVEMENT OR ADJUSTMENT BEING APPLIED TO THE MIRROR AT THE TIME, IT JUST CAME DOWN. DISTRACTING MY DRIVING.”
NHTSA complaint #10761638, 2015 · 1 injury(ies)

“Cracked windshield out of nowhere, starts from the bottom passenger side.”
NHTSA complaint #11727307, 2026

“Around 8 am on 1/4/2022, driving the car on I85 in Durham County, NC, at a normal highway speed, the sunroof glass shattered suddenly and without warning. The sunroof was fully closed at the time, but the inside cover was open. Shards of glass were sprayed within the cabin. This was a dangerous distraction to the driver, and could have been much more serious if he had gotten glass in his eyes from looking up to see what had happened. There was no apparent impact to the sunroof glass from a rock or other object outside the car, and the sunroof was not being opened or closed at the time. We con…”
NHTSA complaint #11500628, 2023

Electrical System 126 3 fire

“TECHNICIAN AND SERVICE ADVISOR INFORMED ME THAT A 80 PIN CONNECTOR THAT CONTROLS THE HEAD SYSTEM HAD CAUGHT ON FIRE AND FUSED TWO CONNECTORS TOGETHER. I USED THE HVAC SYSTEM ON MY WAY HOME FROM WORK AND PARKED THE VEHICLE IN THE GARAGE.IF THIS HAPPENED IN THE GARAGE IT COULD HAVE RESULTED IN A CATASTROPHIC HOUSE FIRE.”
NHTSA complaint #10881907, 2016 · fire

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A CHEMICAL ODOR IN THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER TO BE INSPECTED; HOWEVER, THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE ORIGIN OF THE ODOR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10788825, 2015 · fire

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS ON, THE FRONT WINDOW DEFROSTER CAUSED THE FRONT WINDSHIELD TO CRACK. THE CRACK WAS LOCATED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE WINDSHIELD AND EXTENDED UPWARD. ALSO, THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT THE PLASTIC EXTERIOR PANEL NEAR THE WINDOW MELTED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3,400...UPDATED 06/09/15*BF UPDATED 9/28/2017*CN”
NHTSA complaint #10695156, 2015 · fire

Unknown Or Other 107 6 crash 9 injury

“I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AND THE VEHICLE STOPPED, ROLLED TO A STOP, AND WOULDN'T START UP AGAIN. THIS RESULTED IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. I PUSHED THE HAZARD BUTTON BUT THE OTHER DRIVERS ACCOUNT OF THE ACCIDENT WAS THAT THE LIGHTS WERE OFF. THE CAR HAD ITS EPB REPROGRAMMED AND SUB RELAY REPLACEMENT DONE ACCORDING TO THE DEALERSHIP. I HAD NO PRIOR PROBLEM WITH THE CAR STOPPING UNEXPECTEDLY. I WAS KNOCKED OUT BY THE ACCIDENT, SO I DIDN'T HAVE MUCH TIME TO SURMISE WHAT THE PROBLEM MAY HAVE BEEN. IT MUST HAVE BEEN LIKE 30 SECONDS FROM THE TIME IT STOPPED UNTIL WE WERE HIT BY 3 CARS AT FREEWAY SPE…”
NHTSA complaint #11366591, 2020 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“UNEXPECTED ACCELERATION AFTER PARKING, JUMP CURB INTO TREE, CAUSING $7,000 IN DAMAGE. AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, BOTH MYSELF AND PASSENGER HIT KNEES ON DASH, EVEN WITH OUR SEAT BELTS STILL ON. HAD OTHER COMPUTER ISSUES EARLIER THAT DAY, BACK UP SENSORS DIDN'T WORK WHILE BACKING CAR RIGHT BEHIND MINE. CAR HAS NOW BEEN AT SUBARU FOR A MONTH, WAITING FOR ENGINEERS RESULTS AFTER THEIR INSPECTION 2/14/2018”
NHTSA complaint #11076432, 2017 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“THIS CONCERNS A 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK LIMITED 6 CYLINDER. AT APPROX 21,000 MI I WAS SLOWING TO SPEED TO PARK IN A PUBLIC PARKING SPACE ON A CITY STREET AND THE OUTBACK SUDDEN ACCELERATION. THE OUTBACK HIT A CITY METAL POST/SIGN, JUMPED THE CURB AND COLLIDED WITH A BUILDING AND DAMAGING A STORE FRONT WITH GREAT FORCE. THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE AUTOMATIC COLLISION PREVENTION FAILED TO WORK. ONCE BEFORE THE CAR HAD AN ACCELERATION SURGE WHILE DRIVING A PUBLIC CITY STREET AT LOW SPEED BUT DID NOT HIT ANYTHING. PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT I'VE ALSO EXPERIENCED SLIGHT HESITATION IN ACCELERATIO…”
NHTSA complaint #11051133, 2017 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Engine 47 2 crash 2 fire 2 injury

“The contact owned a 2015 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, he was alerted by another driver that the vehicle was smoking and flames were coming from under the vehicle. The contact stated that warning lights flashed off and on. The contact stated that he pulled over, exited the vehicle, and saw flames coming from underneath the vehicle before it was engulfed in flames and exploded. The contact stated that he sustained minor burns on his hands from the steering wheel however, medical attention was not required. The fire was extinguished by the fire department. A fi…”
NHTSA complaint #11467050, 2021 · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“EXHAUST SYSTEM ISSUE. EXHAUST MAINFOLD LEAK AT CATALYST CONVERTER. FOR OUR OUTBACK WE NOTICED A SIGNIFICANT LEVELS OF EXHAUST FUMES IN PASSENGER CABIN. THEY WERE NO INDICATION OF FAILURE OF EXHAUST SYSTEM OR CATALYST CONVERTER ON THE CAR. BUT WE ARE GETTING SOME MUCH FUMES SMELL WHEN WE STOPPED AT THE TRAFFIC SIGNAL OR PARKING LOT. IT ALL MOST MADE US SICK. LUCKILY I GOT IT CHECKED AT THE SERVICE CENTER AND THEY FIND THE LEAK. THIS IS POTENTIALLY A VERY RISKY THING FOR PEOPLE WHO DON'T NOTICE THE SMELL MIGHT GET SLOW POISONED WITH CARBON MONOXIDE OR OTHER ELEMENTS IN EXHAUST FUMES. THERE MAY…”
NHTSA complaint #11152117, 2018 · 1 injury(ies)

“THE SUBARU OUTBACK 2015 WAS PARKED IN A LOT AFTER A 12 MINUTE DRIVE AND BURST INTO FLAMES. IT WAS PURCHASED IN FEBRUARY 2015 AND WAS NOT YET DUE FOR SERVICING WHEN THE EVENT HAPPENED. THE SUBARU OUTBACK MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 3RD-27TH 2015 HAS BEEN RECALLED DUE TO "POSSIBILITY OF FIRE DUE TO A TRANSMISSION FLUID LEAK". I BELIEVE THE SAME THING OCCURRED WITH MY CAR AND I AM CONCERNED THAT IF THE MODEL IS NOT RECALLED SOMEONE WILL GET BADLY INJURED OR KILLED DUE TO FIRE.”
NHTSA complaint #10780961, 2015 · fire

Power Train 37 1 crash 2 injury

“UNEXPECTED ACCELERATION AFTER PARKING, JUMP CURB INTO TREE, CAUSING $7,000 IN DAMAGE. AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, BOTH MYSELF AND PASSENGER HIT KNEES ON DASH, EVEN WITH OUR SEAT BELTS STILL ON. HAD OTHER COMPUTER ISSUES EARLIER THAT DAY, BACK UP SENSORS DIDN'T WORK WHILE BACKING CAR RIGHT BEHIND MINE. CAR HAS NOW BEEN AT SUBARU FOR A MONTH, WAITING FOR ENGINEERS RESULTS AFTER THEIR INSPECTION 2/14/2018”
NHTSA complaint #11076432, 2017 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“After a transmission replacement performed by Bud Clary Chevrolet, Inc. in Longview, WA on September 9, 2025, my vehicle was returned to me with critical components left unsecured. On November 19, 2025, an independent mechanic discovered loose suspension bolts connecting the ball joints to the spindles on both front wheels. On November 29, 2025, Subaru of Portland documented additional unsecured and unattached components related to the prior transmission replacement, including loose mounting hardware and a disconnected PCV hose. Subaru of Portland’s written inspection states that the loose b…”
NHTSA complaint #11705980, 2025

“A transmission that was replaced in July of 2023 went bad un December of 2024 and dealership won't give reasons why transmission went bad or what caused a almost brand new transmission with less than 50,000 miles on it went bad. They are demanding we pay $5000.00 dollars on a transmission that was replaced under the extended warranty on cvt transmission from subaru. Which also extends to the brand new transmission. They are demanding their loaner car back and refusing to honor extended warranty on new transmission which the gave us which is bad. They will not give us anything other than it is…”
NHTSA complaint #11630731, 2024

Structure 33 1 crash 1 fire

“THE SUBARU OUTBACK 2015 WAS PARKED IN A LOT AFTER A 12 MINUTE DRIVE AND BURST INTO FLAMES. IT WAS PURCHASED IN FEBRUARY 2015 AND WAS NOT YET DUE FOR SERVICING WHEN THE EVENT HAPPENED. THE SUBARU OUTBACK MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 3RD-27TH 2015 HAS BEEN RECALLED DUE TO "POSSIBILITY OF FIRE DUE TO A TRANSMISSION FLUID LEAK". I BELIEVE THE SAME THING OCCURRED WITH MY CAR AND I AM CONCERNED THAT IF THE MODEL IS NOT RECALLED SOMEONE WILL GET BADLY INJURED OR KILLED DUE TO FIRE.”
NHTSA complaint #10780961, 2015 · fire

“TAPPED THE ACCELERATOR. THE CAR SUDDENLY LURCHED BACKWARD. I PUT IT IN NEUTRAL AND HIT THE BRAKES. NOTHING HAPPENED.I DIDNT WANT TO HIT THERE GARAGE OR MY SON IN LAWS CAR SO I SWERVED TO THE RIGHT. I HIT THE BRAKES AND AGAIN NOTHING HAPPENED. THE CAR HIT THE NEIGHBOR BUSH AND EVENTUALLY CAME TO REST WHEN IT HIT THE NEIGHBORS HONDA RIGHT DOOR. I THEN PUT IT DRIVE AND PULLED BACK ONTO MY DAUGHTERS DRIVEWAYS AND HAD A DIFFICULT TIME STOPPING THE VEHICLE. IT DID APPROX. $2200 DAMAGE TO MY SUBARU OUTBACK SENDING IT TO THE COLLISION SHOP FOR TWO WEEKS.”
NHTSA complaint #11387902, 2020 · crash

“The contact owns a 2015 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while the vehicle was at the dealer for an oil change and snow tire replacement, the contact was informed that the sub frame and the brake lines were severely corroded and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was taken to a second dealer, 802 Toyota (30 Berlin Mall Rd, Berlin, VT 05602) for a Trade-In, and it was confirmed that the sub frame was corroded during the appraisal inspection. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the failure was caused by salt damage; however…”
NHTSA complaint #11700816, 2025

Service Brakes 28 5 crash 3 injury

“The contact owns a 2015 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while driving at 20 mph, the brakes would not engage as the brake pedal was depressed. As a result, the vehicle rear-ended a parked vehicle on the side of the road. The air bags failed to deploy. A police report was not filed. Three of the passengers in the vehicle sustained head and neck injuries that required medical treatment. The vehicle was drivable and was taken to a local dealer where it has been for 5 months. The vehicle was diagnosed with nothing needing to be replaced. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure and ref…”
NHTSA complaint #11419687, 2021 · crash · 3 injury(ies)

“I was within the town limits so I was driving slowly. When I approached the first stop light in town I saw that it was red. There were of three or four vehicles stopped at that light. At that point I was probably only going 5mph. I took my foot off of the gas pedal and put my foot on the brake to make a slow stop. Instead, the car accelerated rather quickly. I continued to brake but the car seemed to speed up. I was able to avoid hitting the truck in front of me by going around it. No vehicles were coming towards me but there were some stopped at the other side of the light. I drove u…”
NHTSA complaint #11689049, 2025 · crash

“ATTEMPTED TO COME TO A STOP AT A PARKING SPOT IN FRONT OF A SHOP BUT CAR SPED UP AND COLLIDED WITH A WALL 6 FEET IN FRONT OF THE CAR. AUTOMATIC BRAKING SYSTEM DID NOT WORK OR ENGAGE AT SLOW SPEED.”
NHTSA complaint #11060724, 2018 · crash

Vehicle Speed Control 26 6 crash 2 injury

“THIS CONCERNS A 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK LIMITED 6 CYLINDER. AT APPROX 21,000 MI I WAS SLOWING TO SPEED TO PARK IN A PUBLIC PARKING SPACE ON A CITY STREET AND THE OUTBACK SUDDEN ACCELERATION. THE OUTBACK HIT A CITY METAL POST/SIGN, JUMPED THE CURB AND COLLIDED WITH A BUILDING AND DAMAGING A STORE FRONT WITH GREAT FORCE. THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE AUTOMATIC COLLISION PREVENTION FAILED TO WORK. ONCE BEFORE THE CAR HAD AN ACCELERATION SURGE WHILE DRIVING A PUBLIC CITY STREET AT LOW SPEED BUT DID NOT HIT ANYTHING. PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT I'VE ALSO EXPERIENCED SLIGHT HESITATION IN ACCELERATIO…”
NHTSA complaint #11051133, 2017 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“I WAS SLOWING PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE AND JUST STRAIGHTENING OUT THE CAR WHEN I HEARD A STRANGE SOUND COMING FROM THE ENGINE. IMMEDIATELY AFTER THAT I HEARD A VERY LOUD ENGINE REVVING SOUND AND THEN SUDDENLY THE VEHICLE SHOT FORWARD LIKE A ROCKET, WENT OVER THE CEMENT BARRIER AND INTO THE WALL OF A BUILDING. IT SEEMED LIKE A VERY HIGH RATE OF SPEED, THOUGH THE DISTANCE WAS ONLY ABOUT 8 FEET. THE SEAT BELT DID NOT RESTRAIN ME AND MY CHEST SLAMMED INTO THE STEERING WHEEL. IT WAS DETERMINED LATER AT THE HOSPITAL THAT I HAD A CRACKED STERNUM AND SEVERAL BROKEN RIBS. I BELIEVE THERE…”
NHTSA complaint #10713619, 2015 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“I was within the town limits so I was driving slowly. When I approached the first stop light in town I saw that it was red. There were of three or four vehicles stopped at that light. At that point I was probably only going 5mph. I took my foot off of the gas pedal and put my foot on the brake to make a slow stop. Instead, the car accelerated rather quickly. I continued to brake but the car seemed to speed up. I was able to avoid hitting the truck in front of me by going around it. No vehicles were coming towards me but there were some stopped at the other side of the light. I drove u…”
NHTSA complaint #11689049, 2025 · crash

Fuel/Propulsion System 18 1 crash

“Entering a residential garage to park; experienced sudden acceleration while braking. Vehicle went through drywall/wall about 2 feet. Placed vehicle in park to stop vehicle. No airbags went off. Driving vehicle to repair shop later; experienced same rapid unexpected acceleration with different driver. No issue with floor mats. OEM mats. Service center cannot provide any insight or reproduction of event.”
NHTSA complaint #11483793, 2022 · crash

“NHTSA issued a notice for a recall on the 2015 Subaru Outback for an exhaust pipe bellows crack which causes exhaust noise and odor which affects emission and engine performance. I had noticed our Subaru's exhaust smoke coming in through the air vents while idling and also a general loss of power for the vehicle. When I dug into the causes, I came across this recall and did the VIN look up on the NHTSA website and also the Subaru website for active recalls. The Subaru website states that the recall was completed. I then called the subaru retailer to check if there were any records for the…”
NHTSA complaint #11746783, 2025

“Within the last few months, my 2015 Outback has been unreliable with the fuel gauge indicator, causing me to run out of gas three times, stranded roadside, with supposedly 30 miles in rank. Fortunately, there were no accidents, but two out of three times, I was left stranded on highways, that put me at risk of being struck.”
NHTSA complaint #11660515, 2025

Air Bags 14 7 crash 6 injury

“The contact owns a 2015 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while driving at 20 mph, the brakes would not engage as the brake pedal was depressed. As a result, the vehicle rear-ended a parked vehicle on the side of the road. The air bags failed to deploy. A police report was not filed. Three of the passengers in the vehicle sustained head and neck injuries that required medical treatment. The vehicle was drivable and was taken to a local dealer where it has been for 5 months. The vehicle was diagnosed with nothing needing to be replaced. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure and ref…”
NHTSA complaint #11419687, 2021 · crash · 3 injury(ies)

“UNEXPECTED ACCELERATION AFTER PARKING, JUMP CURB INTO TREE, CAUSING $7,000 IN DAMAGE. AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, BOTH MYSELF AND PASSENGER HIT KNEES ON DASH, EVEN WITH OUR SEAT BELTS STILL ON. HAD OTHER COMPUTER ISSUES EARLIER THAT DAY, BACK UP SENSORS DIDN'T WORK WHILE BACKING CAR RIGHT BEHIND MINE. CAR HAS NOW BEEN AT SUBARU FOR A MONTH, WAITING FOR ENGINEERS RESULTS AFTER THEIR INSPECTION 2/14/2018”
NHTSA complaint #11076432, 2017 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“THIS CONCERNS A 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK LIMITED 6 CYLINDER. AT APPROX 21,000 MI I WAS SLOWING TO SPEED TO PARK IN A PUBLIC PARKING SPACE ON A CITY STREET AND THE OUTBACK SUDDEN ACCELERATION. THE OUTBACK HIT A CITY METAL POST/SIGN, JUMPED THE CURB AND COLLIDED WITH A BUILDING AND DAMAGING A STORE FRONT WITH GREAT FORCE. THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE AUTOMATIC COLLISION PREVENTION FAILED TO WORK. ONCE BEFORE THE CAR HAD AN ACCELERATION SURGE WHILE DRIVING A PUBLIC CITY STREET AT LOW SPEED BUT DID NOT HIT ANYTHING. PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT I'VE ALSO EXPERIENCED SLIGHT HESITATION IN ACCELERATIO…”
NHTSA complaint #11051133, 2017 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Visibility 14 1 fire

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS ON, THE FRONT WINDOW DEFROSTER CAUSED THE FRONT WINDSHIELD TO CRACK. THE CRACK WAS LOCATED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE WINDSHIELD AND EXTENDED UPWARD. ALSO, THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT THE PLASTIC EXTERIOR PANEL NEAR THE WINDOW MELTED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3,400...UPDATED 06/09/15*BF UPDATED 9/28/2017*CN”
NHTSA complaint #10695156, 2015 · fire

“The contact owns a 2015 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while driving at approximately 55 MPH, the front windshield suddenly developed a crack which quickly extended approximately 8 inches horizontally and later extended more than 35 inches across the windshield. The contact stated that the crack began on the passenger’s side and extended to the driver’s side of the windshield. The contact stated that the failure had occurred approximately 15 minutes after having the original windshield replaced after the same failure. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local service cente…”
NHTSA complaint #11582157, 2024

“The contact owns a 2015 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving 50 MPH, the sunroof glass exploded. There was no impact to the sunroof that could have caused the sunroof glass to explode. The shards of glass from the sunroof fell onto the contact, his wife, and his son; however, no injuries were sustained, and medical attention was not received. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who replaced the sunroof glass. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.”
NHTSA complaint #11533057, 2023

Steering 13 2 crash 1 injury

“DRIVING DOWN STRAIGHT STRETCH OF FREEWAY ON THE INSIDE LANE AT 65-70MPH IN WET BUT SATISFACTORY CONDITION, MY VEHICLE SUDDENLY VEERED VIOLENTLY TO THE LEFT RESULTING IN COLLISION WITH CENTRAL ISLAND. NO PRIOR WARNING. VEHICLE IS VERY GOOD CONDITION AND MECHANICALLY SOUND. ALTHOUGH THE LEFT FRONT TIRE WAS DAMAGED AND DEFLATED, IT DIDN'T DISINTEGRATE AS I WOULD HAVE EXPECTED IF IT HAD BURST AT HIGH SPEED. I HAVE EXPERIENCED BLOWOUT TIRE PUNCTURES IN THE PAST AND IT DIDN'T FEEL LIKE THAT. THERE WAS A STEERING COLUMN RECALL FOR 2016/17 OUTBACKS WHICH MY VEHICLE WAS NOT A PART OF. COULD THIS BE AN…”
NHTSA complaint #11389828, 2020 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“WE BUILT AND BOUGHT A BRAND NEW 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK AND WE HAVE EXPERIENCED: - A CONSTANT SUDDEN LOSS OF EYESIGHT SYSTEM WHILE CRUISING OR SOMETIMES JUST DRIVING WITH NO CRUISE CONTROL ON. -GAS RELEASE LEVER FREEZES UP AND WE HAVE TO FORCEFULLY USE A FLAT SCREWDRIVER TO UNLOCK THE GAS LID DOOR. -PRE COLLISION WARNING BRAKE SYSTEM DOES NOT RESPOND PROPERLY: WE GOT SO MANY CLOSE CALLS. - ON MARCH, 2020 ; THE STABILITY CONTROL SYSTEM WAS NOT WORKING PROPERLY ON SNOWY/ICY CONDITIONS : THE CAR SLED OFF AND ALMOST HIT A GUARD RAIL, SOON AFTER THAT ; THE STEERING WHEEL GOT TOO LOOSE /WOBBLY AND HAD A…”
NHTSA complaint #11413124, 2021 · crash

“The clock spring (steering roll connector) component has failed, confirmed by the resulting complete loss of the horn function. SAFETY HAZARD: The component failure has resulted in the loss of the electrical connection to the Driver's Airbag System, rendering the primary airbag inoperable. This creates an unreasonable, life-threatening risk in the event of a collision. The problem has been diagnosed based on common failure patterns for this vehicle platform and confirmed via manufacturer correspondence. The problem first occurred on or about [Input Approximate Date] with the simultaneous fai…”
NHTSA complaint #11693803, 2025

Wheels 8

“Wheel Lug bolts continue to snap off. Have had 5 so far and this could effect the ability of the wheel to stay attached to the vehicle. I have several friends with the same vehicle (different years) that have had the same issue multiple times. In 50 years of vehicle ownership have never had this happen once, let alone 5 times.”
NHTSA complaint #11522605, 2023

“Failure on multiple lug nuts due to rust and corroding bolts. The vehicle is mostly garaged, and exposed to the elements only when driven. For a < 68000 mile vehicle, this type of failure is on the higher side. Additionally, the lug nuts break when trying to open using company specific torque. The repair facilities advise me that it is a known Subaru issue. This is a safety hazard in that, if I am stranded due to a flat tire, I will not be able to change my tire.”
NHTSA complaint #11480497, 2022

“HAVE HAD 2 WHEEL BEARING FAIL AND NEED REPLACEMENT. THE FIRST AT 45000 MILES AND THE SECOND AT 65000 MILES.”
NHTSA complaint #11311625, 2020

Equipment 5

“2015 SUBARU OUTBACK. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO ROUGH IDLING IN VEHICLE. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE ANNOYINGLY VIBRATED WHEN THE AIR CONDITIONER WAS ON. *JS”
NHTSA complaint #11032394, 2017

“CAR BROUGHT IN 4 TIMES TO SERVICE FOR RADIO FREEZING NAVIGATION SYSTEM AND OTHER PARTS ON DASH INCIDENTS HAPPENED FROM DATE OF PURCHASE BUT THOUGHT IT WAS BREAKING IN. FIRST TIME BROUGHT IT IN TO BE CHECKED . WAS TOLD THERE IS NO PROBLEM, THEN TOLD HAD TO UPDATE SOFTWARE, THEN TOLD HAD TO HAVE RADIO (HEAD UNIT) REPLACED WHICH I HAD TO WAIT FOR SINCE SO MANY OTHER SUBARU OWNERS HAS SAME PROBLEM. REPLACEMENT HEAD UNIT NO GOOD (WAS A REFURBISHED RADIO SINCE THEY HAD NO NEW ONES (SUBARU HAS SINCE SWITCHED TO ANOTHER VENDOR BECAUSE OF ALL THE PROBLEMS) NOW CAR IS AT SERVICE CENTER WAITING FOR ENG…”
NHTSA complaint #10937437, 2015

“THE TOUCH SCREEN THAT CONTROLS THE SYSTEM'S RADIO/NAVIGATION IS VERY GLOSSY AND WHILE DRIVING HOME, THE SUN HIT IT AT AN ANGLE AND BLINDED ME. WAS BARELY ABLE TO DRIVE, HAD TO PLACE MY HAND OVER THE 7" SCREEN TO REDUCE THE BRIGHT SUN GLARE WHICH WAS IMPEDING MY VISIBILITY AND MADE IT VERY UNSAFE TO DRIVE THE CAR. THIS NEEDS TO BE RECALLED AS IT WILL CAUSE ACCIDENTS IF DRIVERS ARE BLINDED BY THE LIGHT THAT BOUNCES BACK.”
NHTSA complaint #10692735, 2015

Lane Departure 5 1 crash

“TAPPED THE ACCELERATOR. THE CAR SUDDENLY LURCHED BACKWARD. I PUT IT IN NEUTRAL AND HIT THE BRAKES. NOTHING HAPPENED.I DIDNT WANT TO HIT THERE GARAGE OR MY SON IN LAWS CAR SO I SWERVED TO THE RIGHT. I HIT THE BRAKES AND AGAIN NOTHING HAPPENED. THE CAR HIT THE NEIGHBOR BUSH AND EVENTUALLY CAME TO REST WHEN IT HIT THE NEIGHBORS HONDA RIGHT DOOR. I THEN PUT IT DRIVE AND PULLED BACK ONTO MY DAUGHTERS DRIVEWAYS AND HAD A DIFFICULT TIME STOPPING THE VEHICLE. IT DID APPROX. $2200 DAMAGE TO MY SUBARU OUTBACK SENDING IT TO THE COLLISION SHOP FOR TWO WEEKS.”
NHTSA complaint #11387902, 2020 · crash

“On my 2015 outback limited my SRVD off warning light is on and I have lost its function. I have not been in any kind of fender bender, it was taken to a state licensed shop and was told and have read in its Manuel it is a dealer repair issue. I have read other posts regarding same issue and the run around the dealer mechanics give to it’s customers. My car is available for inspection anytime if I do not incur a service charge!”
NHTSA complaint #11462537, 2022

“CONSTANT CHECK ENGINE, NO ADAS FUNCTIONS AND MULTIPLE CODES AND HUD INDICATORS INCLUDING CKENGNE, XMODE FLASHING, ADAS DISABLE AND MAJOR ELECRTICAL PARASITIC DRAW AND TRANSMISSION AND OVERHEATING. I believe the past major leg relay was replaced during first recall, it was not performed correctly and tied into accesssorry aux into same wiring. defrost/ ac failure and clutch hums upon shutting down”
NHTSA complaint #11518655, 2020

Back Over Prevention 4

“Vehicle Component Affected: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM / FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE / BACK OVER PREVENTION Description of the Safety Defect: The factory infotainment touchscreen in my 2015 Subaru Outback Limited (VIN: [XXX]) has suffered a severe manufacturing defect where the internal chemical gel adhesive has melted, creating large, oily liquid bubbles across the display. This physical degradation causes the screen to suffer from continuous "ghost touches," registering non-stop phantom inputs while the vehicle is in motion. This hardware failure creates three active, severe driving safety hazards:…”
NHTSA complaint #11751408, 2023

“On my 2015 outback limited my SRVD off warning light is on and I have lost its function. I have not been in any kind of fender bender, it was taken to a state licensed shop and was told and have read in its Manuel it is a dealer repair issue. I have read other posts regarding same issue and the run around the dealer mechanics give to it’s customers. My car is available for inspection anytime if I do not incur a service charge!”
NHTSA complaint #11462537, 2022

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BACK-UP CAMERA VIEW WAS BLOCKED BY THE SUNLIGHT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GLARE WAS EVIDENT WHETHER THE SUN ROOF WAS OPENED OR CLOSED. THE GLARE PREVENTED THE DRIVER TO SEE CLEARLY WHAT WAS BEHIND THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER SUBARU OF SAN BERNARDINO (645 AUTO CENTER DR, SAN BERNARDINO, CA 92408 (877) 501-8065) WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE BUT OFFERED NO SOLUTION TO THE ISSUE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 45,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11355345, 2019

Exterior Lighting 4 1 crash

“TAPPED THE ACCELERATOR. THE CAR SUDDENLY LURCHED BACKWARD. I PUT IT IN NEUTRAL AND HIT THE BRAKES. NOTHING HAPPENED.I DIDNT WANT TO HIT THERE GARAGE OR MY SON IN LAWS CAR SO I SWERVED TO THE RIGHT. I HIT THE BRAKES AND AGAIN NOTHING HAPPENED. THE CAR HIT THE NEIGHBOR BUSH AND EVENTUALLY CAME TO REST WHEN IT HIT THE NEIGHBORS HONDA RIGHT DOOR. I THEN PUT IT DRIVE AND PULLED BACK ONTO MY DAUGHTERS DRIVEWAYS AND HAD A DIFFICULT TIME STOPPING THE VEHICLE. IT DID APPROX. $2200 DAMAGE TO MY SUBARU OUTBACK SENDING IT TO THE COLLISION SHOP FOR TWO WEEKS.”
NHTSA complaint #11387902, 2020 · crash

“Repeated dead batteries. Replaced OEM battery in year 2, new battery also comes up dead regularly. There is clearly a parasitic battery drain happening. Burning oil, this car burns more oil than any car I have ever owned. Subaru claims it is within specification, but their specification is 1 quart between changes, this is a ridiculous claim in 2021. Heat shield and exhaust noise. Always a new noise or exhaust leak. Lights are not adequate for country driving, it is dangerous.”
NHTSA complaint #11443769, 2016

“2015 SUBARU OUTBACK. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE TAIL LIGHT ISSUES. CONSUMER HAS PREVIOUS COMPLAINT WITH A DIFFERENT VEHICLE LISTED IN ARTEMIS. *SMD THE CONSUMER NOTICED WHILE DRIVING IN THE SNOW, THE HEAT FROM THE TAIL LIGHTS WAS NOT SUFFICIENT ENOUGH TO KEEP SNOW FROM ACCUMULATING ON THE TAIL LAMP. *JB”
NHTSA complaint #10689361, 2015

Forward Collision Avoidance 4 1 crash

“WE BUILT AND BOUGHT A BRAND NEW 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK AND WE HAVE EXPERIENCED: - A CONSTANT SUDDEN LOSS OF EYESIGHT SYSTEM WHILE CRUISING OR SOMETIMES JUST DRIVING WITH NO CRUISE CONTROL ON. -GAS RELEASE LEVER FREEZES UP AND WE HAVE TO FORCEFULLY USE A FLAT SCREWDRIVER TO UNLOCK THE GAS LID DOOR. -PRE COLLISION WARNING BRAKE SYSTEM DOES NOT RESPOND PROPERLY: WE GOT SO MANY CLOSE CALLS. - ON MARCH, 2020 ; THE STABILITY CONTROL SYSTEM WAS NOT WORKING PROPERLY ON SNOWY/ICY CONDITIONS : THE CAR SLED OFF AND ALMOST HIT A GUARD RAIL, SOON AFTER THAT ; THE STEERING WHEEL GOT TOO LOOSE /WOBBLY AND HAD A…”
NHTSA complaint #11413124, 2021 · crash

“A particular corner where the arterial has a y turn. With cruise engaged the vehicle will do the emergency braking even though the lane is clear. Has occurred several times at this same location.”
NHTSA complaint #11704294, 2025

“Vehicle Component Affected: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM / FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE / BACK OVER PREVENTION Description of the Safety Defect: The factory infotainment touchscreen in my 2015 Subaru Outback Limited (VIN: [XXX]) has suffered a severe manufacturing defect where the internal chemical gel adhesive has melted, creating large, oily liquid bubbles across the display. This physical degradation causes the screen to suffer from continuous "ghost touches," registering non-stop phantom inputs while the vehicle is in motion. This hardware failure creates three active, severe driving safety hazards:…”
NHTSA complaint #11751408, 2023

Seats 4 2 injury

“AUTOMATIC FRONT SEATS. WHEN WIFE OPENS THE PASSENGER DOOR FIRST (BEFORE THE DRIVER) THE DRIVER SEAT ADJUSTS TO HER SET POSITION. AN D IF I DON'T PAY ATTENTION THE DRIVER SEAT WILL PUSH/CRUSH ME INTO THE STEERING WHEEL. I HAVE A BAD BACK AND DROP FOOT, SO I DON'T HAVE THE STRENGTH OF A YOUNGER PERSON. MY ONLY SALVATION IS TO SQUEEZE OUT OR HIT THE POSITION BUTTON ON THE DOOR PANEL. ALSO, THE PRESETS GO OUT ALL THE TIME. I HAVE ASKED IF THEY COULD DISABLE THE PASSENGER SIDE DOOR SENSOR. NOTHING. REAR GATE OPENING: IT HAS HAPPENED SO MANY TIMES. I HAVE COMPLAINED DIRECTLY TO SUBARU ABOUT THE S…”
NHTSA complaint #11298330, 2019 · 1 injury(ies)

“I HAVE A NEW 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK LIMITED. WITHIN A MONTH OF PURCHASE, IT STARTED GIVING ME LOWER BACK PAIN. SEVERAL OWNERS OF NEW 2015 OUTBACK INCLUDING PROFESSIONAL REVIEWERS ARE ALSO REPORTING BACK PAIN AND INJURIES BECAUSE OF OVER EXTENDING LUMBAR SUPPORT - SOME EXAMPLES ATTACHED BELOW. WHEN CONTACTED SUBARU, I WAS ADVISED THAT NOTHING CAN BE DONE TO REDUCE THE LUMBAR SUPPORT. DEALER ALSO ADVISED ME THAT NOTHING CAN BE DONE FROM THEIR SIDE. IT WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED IF THIS CAN BE INVESTIGATED. HTTP://WWW.SUBARUOUTBACK.ORG/FORUMS/138-GEN-5-2015-PRESENT/210521-TOO-AGGRESSIVE-LUMBAR-SU…”
NHTSA complaint #10700936, 2014 · 1 injury(ies)

“Driver's seat started peeling off approximately a year after purchase. Notified dealer, they said to contact Subaru of America via social media. Now almost all peeled off, have to cover with towel possibly interfering with airbags. Steering column lock will not lock in top position. Dealer repaired once under warranty, now out of warranty. Unsafe when column moves when driving. Transmission started slipping or behaving strangely around 90,000 miles. Never received notice of extended warranty I read about on Subaru forums [XXX] ) Paid $531.43 for fluid change at dealership because of the probl…”
NHTSA complaint #11541975, 2023

Suspension 4

“The front subframe on my 2015 subaru 3.6r has rapidly rusted in a few years to the point of a safety concern. The vehicle is lightly driven, with 91,000 miles on it after almost 10 years. We live in the Northeast. I take this car in for regular inspections and service every six months and the service center I work with has not alerted me of any issues until this past march when they found the subframe almost completely rotted in the middle. Subaru has had similar issues subject to recalls for the rear subframe. Notably, my rear subframe does not have this issue. Evidence is available that t…”
NHTSA complaint #11652007, 2025

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE'S WHEELS SEIZED AND THE VEHICLE JERKED VIOLENTLY. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO SUBARU OF LAS VEGAS (6455 W ROY HORN WAY, LAS VEGAS, NV 89118) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT CV AXLES AND THE TRANSMISSION FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 24,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11097971, 2018

“DRIVERS SIDE FRONT WHEEL BEARING FAILED AT LESS THAN 8000 MILES. REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY BY DEALER. NO HISTORY OF DRIVING THROUGH WATER OR ACCIDENT. LARGE PORTION OF DRIVING DOES OCCUR ON MILD MOUNTAIN ROAD.”
NHTSA complaint #10840349, 2016

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 3

“FAILURE TO START. DEAD BATTERY FROM STATIONARY. ABOUT 5-6 TIMES.”
NHTSA complaint #11343485, 2019

“I'VE HAD MY 2015 OUTBACK FOR 3 YEARS NOW (2020 NOW) I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE BATTERY EVERY YEAR. THE FIRST YEAR I BELIEVED IT WAS TIME FOR A NEW BATTERY, WITHIN 6 MONTHS MY CAR DIED WHILE I WAS DRIVING INTO A PARKING LOT. THE ENTIRE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM SHUT DOWN AND I HAD TO MANUALLY MOVE IT. MY MECHANIC TOOK APART MY ENGINE AND DISCOVERED LOOSE SEALS THAT HAD ALLOWED MANY PARTS TO RUST OVER INCLUDING BROKEN BRACKETS AND A TORQUE CONVERTER. WARRANTY WON'T COVER ANY RUST BUT DID COVER THE $84 BROKEN SEAL. I SPENT CLOSE TO $3,000 ON REPAIRS AND A NEW BATTERY THEN. I WAS INITIALLY QUOTED FROM THE…”
NHTSA complaint #11307505, 2019

“ON SEPT.27TH, 2015, THE LIFTGATE OPENED ON ITS OWN. MANY TIMES THE LIGHTS ,ONE AT A TIME, OVER THE MIRROR, WILL TURN ON AND BE HOT TO THE TOUCH WHEN I GET INTO THE CAR AFTER BEING OUT OF CAR FOR HOURS OR OVER NIGHT.THE LIFTGATE IS A RECURRING PROBLEM,AS ARE THE LIGHTS.ALSO, THE BLUETOOTH TELLS ME I AM CALLING MYSELF FREQUENTLY.ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS?? ONCE THE LIFTGATE OPENED WHILE THE CAR WAS IN MOTION. I HAVE NOTES ON DATES & TIMES”
NHTSA complaint #10930254, 2015

Engine And Engine Cooling 3

“The contact owns a 2015 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the exhaust manifold detached from the vehicle. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to the residence. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer advised the contact that a recall repair was previously performed on the vehicle, which was related to an exhaust pipe cracking, and that additional repairs would be at the owner's expense. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 244,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11742301, 2025

“The contact owns a 2015 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, and while at a stop light, there was an abnormal exhaust fumes odor inside the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with a cracked exhaust pipe. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that the vehicle was previously repaired under Service Program Bulletin: WUJ-95 but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11696838, 2025

“The contact owns a 2015 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal exhaust odor entering the cabin of the vehicle through the vents. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of fuel. Before the contact purchased the vehicle, the contact became aware that the vehicle had been repaired under recall for the catalytic converter. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 135,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11689788, 2025

Equipment Adaptive/Mobility 2

“DOOR LOCKS, BOTH FRONT AND REAR REMAIN UNLOCKED WHILE DRIVING, UNLESS SOMEONE REMEMBERS TO MANUALLY ENGAGE THE LOCKING SYSTEM. THIS IS NOT ONLY A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE WHILE VEHICLE IS MOVING, CHILDREN COULD OPEN DOOR, PEOPLE COULD BE THROWN OUT OF VEHICLE BECAUSE OF UNLOCKED INSECURE DOORS ETC. BUT ALSO AIDS THE CRIMINAL ELEMENT BY ALLOWING THEM EASY ACCESS TO INSIDE THE VEHICLE FROM ANY DOOR WHILE STOPPED (TRAFFIC LIGHT SHOPPING CENTER LOTS ETC.)”
NHTSA complaint #10748151, 2015

“DRIVING IN A HEAVY THUNDERSTORM, EYESIGHT AUTOMATICALLY WENT OFF BUT AUTOMATICALLY CAME BACK ON AS THE RAIN DIMINISHED. SO DID THE ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL. THIS IS EXPECTED. HOWEVER, THE SRVD (BLIND SPOT MONITOR, ETC.) TOTALLY SHUT DOWN. THE CAR NO LONGER HAS WORKING BLIND SPOT MONITOR OR REAR BACK UP ALERT WARNING. CONTACTED DEALER SAID THAT THE RADAR IN THE REAR BUMPER SHUT DOWN. TWO WEEKS AND THE DEALER NOR SUBARU HAS NOT FOUND THE PART TO REPAIR THIS FEATURE. CAR WAS PURCHASED IN SEPT. 2014 NEW.”
NHTSA complaint #10724754, 2015

Seat Belts 2 1 crash 1 injury

“I WAS SLOWING PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE AND JUST STRAIGHTENING OUT THE CAR WHEN I HEARD A STRANGE SOUND COMING FROM THE ENGINE. IMMEDIATELY AFTER THAT I HEARD A VERY LOUD ENGINE REVVING SOUND AND THEN SUDDENLY THE VEHICLE SHOT FORWARD LIKE A ROCKET, WENT OVER THE CEMENT BARRIER AND INTO THE WALL OF A BUILDING. IT SEEMED LIKE A VERY HIGH RATE OF SPEED, THOUGH THE DISTANCE WAS ONLY ABOUT 8 FEET. THE SEAT BELT DID NOT RESTRAIN ME AND MY CHEST SLAMMED INTO THE STEERING WHEEL. IT WAS DETERMINED LATER AT THE HOSPITAL THAT I HAD A CRACKED STERNUM AND SEVERAL BROKEN RIBS. I BELIEVE THERE…”
NHTSA complaint #10713619, 2015 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“SUBSTANTIAL RUST HAS DEVELOPED AT THE ATTACH POINT OF THE DRIVER'S SEAT-BELT TO THE DRIVER'S SEAT AND OF THE ATTACH-POINT OF THE DRIVER'S SEAT TO THE CAR. WE'RE THE ORIGINAL OWNER AND THE CAR WAS NEVER FLOODED OR EXPOSED TO WATER IN ANY OTHER WAY. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER TWO WEEKS AGO AND THEY DIDN'T KNOW WHAT TO MAKE OF IT OR DO ABOUT IT. THEY REACHED OUT TO SUBARU AND (AS OF 4/24) THE DEALER HASN'T RECEIVED A RESPONSE. THE PASSENGER SIDE DOESN'T HAVE THIS PROBLEM, BUT THE DESIGN IS ENTIRELY DIFFERENT -- NO EXPOSED METAL. INTERESTINGLY, WHEN THE SERVICE ADVISOR CHECKED OTHER LATER-YEAR GEN 5…”
NHTSA complaint #11203440, 2019

Child Seat 1

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A BRITAX ADVOCATE 70 G3 REARFACING INFANT SEAT, MODEL NUMBER 39BG81A. THE SEAT WAS MANUFACTURED IN OCTOBER OF 2013. THE SAFETY SEAT WAS BEING UTILIZED IN A 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HARNESS STRAPS FRACTURED. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE LATCH STRAPS FRACTURED AND THE FOAM PADDING TO PROTECT THE CHILD FROM A SIDE IMPACT ALSO FRACTURED ON BOTH SIDES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE PURCHASE DATE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.”
NHTSA complaint #10712171, 2015