Owners have filed 469 complaints
about the 2010 Subaru Outback with NHTSA between 2009 and 2026.
The largest single group is the transmission & drivetrain.
Across this model's run it ranks 12 of 31 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 59
Against the median year of the Subaru Outback. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 40
7.7% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 71
41% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Engine
1530.0%
Body
816.0%
Frontal
714.0%
Automatic Transmission
714.0%
Manual Transmission
612.0%
Front
36.0%
Torque Converter
24.0%
Sun/Moon Roof Assembly
24.0%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
4512.4%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
6517.9%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
267.1%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
298.0%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
339.1%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
4011.0%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
8523.4%
150,000+ miles
4111.3%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Sep 2009peak 23Jul 2026
Recalls on the 2010 Subaru Outback
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2024546499,490 units in Canada
Label
Issue: On certain vehicles, the compliance label may be missing information in French. The words listed on the label for "Tires", "Rims", "Front" and "Rear" appear in English only, when they should be listed as "Tires/Pneus", "Rims/Jantes", "Front/Avant" and "Rear/Arriere". Canadian regulations require this information to be listed on the label in both English and French. Safety Risk: These small errors do not affect vehicle safety. Corrective Actions: This is not a recall. Subaru has corrected the compliance label for all new vehicles.
Recall 202000123,159 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: This recall is for certain vehicles that had an airbag inflator replaced as a part of an earlier recall campaign. This recall provides a final repair. Long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. If the airbag inflator ruptures, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants or cause damage to the airbag assembly, preventing its proper function. Safety Risk: If the vehicle is involved in a crash requiring an airbag deployment, the airbag inflator could rupture and create a risk of injury. Corrective Actions: Owners will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to inspect the passenger-front airbag inflator. The passenger-front airbag module or inflator will be replaced as necessary. Note: The Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. This recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk. It is expected that all airbag inflators will be replaced before their function would be affected.
Recall 2019191100 units in Canada
Electrical
Issue: A problem with certain replacement ignition switches may allow the key turn out of the “ON” position while driving. This could cause the engine to turn off suddenly. It could also cause the airbag system not to work properly in a crash. Note: This is a voluntary service campaign that is not being conducted under the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. This problem only affects certain parts used for replacement of original parts. Safety Risk: A sudden loss of engine power could increase the risk of a crash. An airbag system that does not work properly in a crash could cause an increased risk of injuries. Corrective Actions: The company will notify owners by mail and instruct them to take their vehicle to a dealer to inspect the ignition switch, and replace it as necessary.
Recall 2019013102,110 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. If the airbag inflator ruptures, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants or cause damage to the airbag assembly, preventing its proper function. Safety Risk: If the vehicle is involved in a crash requiring an airbag deployment, the airbag inflator could rupture and create a risk of injury. Corrective Action: Owners will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to have the passenger-front airbag inflator replaced. Note: The Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. This recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk. It is expected that all airbag inflators will be replaced before their function would be affected.
Recall 20185023,486 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain vehicles equipped with manual transmissions, components within the control unit for the electronic parking brake (EPB) may crack with vehicle use over time. If this were to occur, the brake warning lamp would illuminate and the EPB may not apply as intended. This could result in the unintended movement of a parked vehicle, increasing the risk of crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will replace the Parking Brake Actuator with a more durable one.
Recall 201647138,629 units in Canada
Visual System
On certain vehicles, a manufacturing defect could cause the windshield wipers to become inoperable. If an obstruction (such as snow or ice in the cowl area of the windshield) prevents the wipers from returning to the “park” position when wipers are turned off, the wiper arms would be forced to "park" at a higher than intended position on the windshield. The wiper arms will continuously attempt to return to the normal park position, generating an excessive amount of electrical current in the wiper motor bottom cover, possibly resulting in overheating. This could result in the windshield wipers becoming inoperable, or a possible fire in the bottom cover area of the wiper motor. These issues could impair the driver’s visibility and increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will replace the front wiper motor bottom cover assembly with a countermeasure one.
Recall 20130632,813 units in Canada
Accessories
On certain vehicles equipped with a dealer-installed accessory remote engine starter, if the fob is dropped, movement of the internal battery retaining clip may occur and cause damage to a component on the printed circuit board. Under this condition, the fob may transmit an engine start (or stop) request without the user pressing the button. If the vehicle is in range and receives the request, the engine may start and run for up to 15 minutes (or until a stop request is received). The engine may continue to start and stop until the fob battery is depleted, or until the vehicle runs out of fuel. If that occurs when the vehicle is parked in an enclosed area, such as a garage, there is a risk of carbon monoxide build-up, which could result in asphyxiation or carbon monoxide poisoning. Correction: Dealers will replace the remote engine starter fob.
Recall 2012444293 units in Canada
Accessories
On certain vehicles equipped with dealer-installed accessory puddle lights, a short circuit may develop causing the lights to melt and/or emit smoke. This could result in a fire causing property damage and/or injury. Correction: Dealers will install an additional fused wiring harness to protect against short circuits.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Medford, ORFire
SEATS
I own a 2010 Subaru Outback. While parked at a college in Medford, Oregon, it suffered a spontaneous electrical fire that originated inside the driver's door. This is the exact failure described in Subaru Safety Recall Campaign WQE-41. The NHTSA website states the recall was completed on this VIN, meaning the recall repair itself has failed and caused a total loss of the vehicle at this time as we are unsure if it’s fixable or even worth fixing. Fire dept did come out and confirm fire was out completely and instructed me not to drive car at all until it could get looked at.
NHTSA complaint #11753313 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Medford, ORFire
STRUCTURE:BODY
I own a 2010 Subaru Outback. While parked at a college in Medford, Oregon, it suffered a spontaneous electrical fire that originated inside the driver's door. This is the exact failure described in Subaru Safety Recall Campaign WQE-41. The NHTSA website states the recall was completed on this VIN, meaning the recall repair itself has failed and caused a total loss of the vehicle at this time as we are unsure if it’s fixable or even worth fixing. Fire dept did come out and confirm fire was out completely and instructed me not to drive car at all until it could get looked at.
NHTSA complaint #11753313 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Medford, ORFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I own a 2010 Subaru Outback. While parked at a college in Medford, Oregon, it suffered a spontaneous electrical fire that originated inside the driver's door. This is the exact failure described in Subaru Safety Recall Campaign WQE-41. The NHTSA website states the recall was completed on this VIN, meaning the recall repair itself has failed and caused a total loss of the vehicle at this time as we are unsure if it’s fixable or even worth fixing. Fire dept did come out and confirm fire was out completely and instructed me not to drive car at all until it could get looked at.
NHTSA complaint #11753313 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 265,000 milesBucksport, MECrash
SERVICE BRAKES
I WENT OUT TO START MY CAR AND LET IT WARM UP. I GOT IN SET THE ELECTRONIC PARKING BRAKE STARTED THE CAR AND PUT THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION IN NEUTRAL. I WENT IN THE HOUSE TO FINISH GETTING READY, WHEN I LOOKED OUT THE WINDOW THE CAR WAS IN THE DITCH AT THE BOTTOM OF THE DRIVEWAY. I HAD THE PARKING BRAKE RECALL DONE IN MARCH AT THE LOCAL SUBARU DEALER
NHTSA complaint #11377704 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 83,000 milesLake Forest, ILFire
POWER TRAIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 10-15 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL BURNING ODOR IN THE VEHICLE. ADDITIONALLY, THERE WAS SMOKE EMERGING FROM THE HOOD AND INTO THE VEHICLE. THE GEAR SHIFTER WAS STUCK AND FAILED TO ENGAGE INTO FIRST GEAR. THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE LOCAL DEALER MULLER SUBARU (1350 PARK AVE W, HIGHLAND PARK, IL 60035 (888) 285-8152) WHERE DIAGNOSED THAT THE CLUTCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT DECLINED TO PAY FOR THE $1800.00 FEE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 1-373-484-69104 HOWEVER NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V626000 (PARKING BRAKE) WAS NOT RECEIVED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 83,000.
NHTSA complaint #11144460 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 83,000 milesLake Forest, ILFire
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 10-15 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL BURNING ODOR IN THE VEHICLE. ADDITIONALLY, THERE WAS SMOKE EMERGING FROM THE HOOD AND INTO THE VEHICLE. THE GEAR SHIFTER WAS STUCK AND FAILED TO ENGAGE INTO FIRST GEAR. THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE LOCAL DEALER MULLER SUBARU (1350 PARK AVE W, HIGHLAND PARK, IL 60035 (888) 285-8152) WHERE DIAGNOSED THAT THE CLUTCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT DECLINED TO PAY FOR THE $1800.00 FEE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 1-373-484-69104 HOWEVER NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V626000 (PARKING BRAKE) WAS NOT RECEIVED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 83,000.
NHTSA complaint #11144460 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Medford, ORFire
SEATS
I own a 2010 Subaru Outback. While parked at a college in Medford, Oregon, it suffered a spontaneous electrical fire that originated inside the driver's door. This is the exact failure described in Subaru Safety Recall Campaign WQE-41. The NHTSA website states the recall was completed on this VIN, meaning the recall repair itself has failed and caused a total loss of the vehicle at this time as we are unsure if it’s fixable or even worth fixing. Fire dept did come out and confirm fire was out completely and instructed me not to drive car at all until it could get looked at.
NHTSA complaint #11753313 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Medford, ORFire
STRUCTURE:BODY
I own a 2010 Subaru Outback. While parked at a college in Medford, Oregon, it suffered a spontaneous electrical fire that originated inside the driver's door. This is the exact failure described in Subaru Safety Recall Campaign WQE-41. The NHTSA website states the recall was completed on this VIN, meaning the recall repair itself has failed and caused a total loss of the vehicle at this time as we are unsure if it’s fixable or even worth fixing. Fire dept did come out and confirm fire was out completely and instructed me not to drive car at all until it could get looked at.
NHTSA complaint #11753313 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Medford, ORFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I own a 2010 Subaru Outback. While parked at a college in Medford, Oregon, it suffered a spontaneous electrical fire that originated inside the driver's door. This is the exact failure described in Subaru Safety Recall Campaign WQE-41. The NHTSA website states the recall was completed on this VIN, meaning the recall repair itself has failed and caused a total loss of the vehicle at this time as we are unsure if it’s fixable or even worth fixing. Fire dept did come out and confirm fire was out completely and instructed me not to drive car at all until it could get looked at.
NHTSA complaint #11753313 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Venice, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This car is a very well-maintained, low-use vehicle with regular oil changes and routine maintenance performed on schedule. Early in this drive, I noticed an unusual hissing sound as I approached a stop. When I tried to brake, I realized my brakes didn't seem to be responding. I pressed the brake pedal harder and realized that with 50-100 pounds of pressure (guess), I could slow the car down. As I came to a stop, the engine died. I restarted the car, and it died again immediately. After the following restart, I realized I could manually keep the RPM up in neutral while at stops, and press with significant force to get the car to stop. Had I not been comfortable two foot driving or understood the issue, this surely would have resulted in a crash of some sort. The car indicated a check engine light, loss of traction control, a flashing BRAKE light, and a flashing cruise control light. I took the car immediately to a local shop where they identified the problem as a vacuum leak at the brake booster. The plastic piece that the hose clamps onto had cracked off, leading to this problem. This make and model does not seem to have a check valve downstream of this component.
NHTSA complaint #11723980 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Venice, CA
ENGINE
This car is a very well-maintained, low-use vehicle with regular oil changes and routine maintenance performed on schedule. Early in this drive, I noticed an unusual hissing sound as I approached a stop. When I tried to brake, I realized my brakes didn't seem to be responding. I pressed the brake pedal harder and realized that with 50-100 pounds of pressure (guess), I could slow the car down. As I came to a stop, the engine died. I restarted the car, and it died again immediately. After the following restart, I realized I could manually keep the RPM up in neutral while at stops, and press with significant force to get the car to stop. Had I not been comfortable two foot driving or understood the issue, this surely would have resulted in a crash of some sort. The car indicated a check engine light, loss of traction control, a flashing BRAKE light, and a flashing cruise control light. I took the car immediately to a local shop where they identified the problem as a vacuum leak at the brake booster. The plastic piece that the hose clamps onto had cracked off, leading to this problem. This make and model does not seem to have a check valve downstream of this component.
NHTSA complaint #11723980 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Venice, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
This car is a very well-maintained, low-use vehicle with regular oil changes and routine maintenance performed on schedule. Early in this drive, I noticed an unusual hissing sound as I approached a stop. When I tried to brake, I realized my brakes didn't seem to be responding. I pressed the brake pedal harder and realized that with 50-100 pounds of pressure (guess), I could slow the car down. As I came to a stop, the engine died. I restarted the car, and it died again immediately. After the following restart, I realized I could manually keep the RPM up in neutral while at stops, and press with significant force to get the car to stop. Had I not been comfortable two foot driving or understood the issue, this surely would have resulted in a crash of some sort. The car indicated a check engine light, loss of traction control, a flashing BRAKE light, and a flashing cruise control light. I took the car immediately to a local shop where they identified the problem as a vacuum leak at the brake booster. The plastic piece that the hose clamps onto had cracked off, leading to this problem. This make and model does not seem to have a check valve downstream of this component.
NHTSA complaint #11723980 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Creston, OH
SERVICE BRAKES
On Saturday, August 9, 2025, my brakes failed at highway speed. My vehicle's stopping distance was severely increased, forcing me to perform an emergency swerve into the leftmost lane to avoid rear-ending a truck. The maneuver was extremely hazardous, as it occurred in a construction zone with concrete barriers and no shoulder, leaving no safe escape path and endangering myself and others. I confirmed the cause was a catastrophic failure of the four-way brake line union block due to severe corrosion. There were no warning lamps or symptoms prior to the incident; the failure was sudden and total. I found that this defect is difficult to spot during inspections because the part is hidden by a plastic panel. The failed union block and corroded lines were removed and are available for inspection upon request. My research shows this is a widespread issue and the exact failure mode covered by Subaru Recall WQK-47R for 2005-2009 models. This known safety defect persists in the 2010-2014 generation, which is not covered by the recall. Prohibitive dealer repair costs are forcing unsafe workarounds. This defect presents an unreasonable risk to public safety, and I urge the NHTSA to investigate.
NHTSA complaint #11688669 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wilder, ID
POWER TRAIN
It is a known issue with subarus of this year that the engine will stall at random intervals when stopping, weather at a stop sign or stop light, warm or cold, fast stops or regular stopping. There is no consistency to it, completely random. There are no warning lights that appear, I have not taken this car to the dealer because after purchasing it I cannot afford to take it to the dealer. I purchased this car used for my elderly parents and this is a disturbing problem that could get them hurt or killed. Why has this KNOWN issue not been recalled? there are multiple service bulletins reported to NHTSA addressing this issue but no recall?
NHTSA complaint #11667008 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Berwyn, PA
SERVICE BRAKES
Brake pedal went to the floor while applying the brake. Pulled car back up driveway and parked and noted almost zero ability to brake the car, pedal goes to floor when applying pressure to the pedal, almost zero ability to come to stop. Checked fluid - was still in reservoir but not at max. level (b/n max and min.). Checked under hood at and no signs of any leaks in engine compartment or on any lines in engine compartment (all good). Looked under car and no signs of leaking. Opened reservoir to top off to max. and by time I went into garage and came back with brake fluid the reservoir was empty, reexamined and found brake fluid leaking from a plastic cover on passenger side rear of car. Placed cover to soak up all fluid dripping/ streaming down to the ground. Called my local mechanic, and he indicated car may need to be towed to be serviced. In looking online, I have found many accounts of this issue with 2010 Subaru outback owners in northern areas where corrosion at the 4-way connector of the brakes lines causes immediate loss of braking and loss of all fluid. Not sure of cost, but I am thinking once it is examined the 4-way connector and all 4 brake lines may need to be replaced. This appears to be a widely known issue and for some reason this was never included or changed from 2005-2009 Subaru recalls to change for 2010 models, so I would like to know why this and the cost for repairs are not covered by Subaru as a RECALL. This could have caused a major accident and severe injury or death if traveling at speed on highway or in area needing hard braking to come to immediate stop. This is now the third major issue I have had in less than 12-months and 2nd from corrosion on my 2010 Subaru. Last summer my front frame had corrosion damage and required replacement. This brake issue with corrosion at the lines to the 4-way connector had recalls in earlier models, but why not in 2010 Subaru Outbacks? Very Unsafe and No Warning Light prior to brake loss !
NHTSA complaint #11664459 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,000 milesPort Washington, NY
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
The contact owns a 2010 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while driving at 5 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed and failed to respond. The brake warning light was illuminated. The contact attempted to contact the manufacturer and was informed that the vehicle would not be covered under a recall. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with catastrophic brake line failure due to corrosion. The vehicle was repaired. The dealer was not made aware of the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
NHTSA complaint #11653417 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sharon, MA
SERVICE BRAKES
I noticed my brake pedal suddenly sink to the floor, and I have to press the pedal all the way to the bottom to get a little bit of brake. Was able to make it back home. Upon inspection, I noticed brake fluid dripping from rear passenger side brake pipe, I took off a plastic cover that covers the brake line, and noticed heavy rust on a "Manifold" where two brake lines coming from front of the car and two lines going to two side of rear brakes. The brake line is leaking right from there. I feel sudden failure of this part can lead to fatal accident, luckily I was very close to home and on a local road when I experience this. And Subaru should 1. make it more easy for inspection. 2. notify the public. 3. get more rust proof measures, 4. get it fixed for the current owners. Thanks.
NHTSA complaint #11640199 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Eatontown,Nj, NJ
SERVICE BRAKES
Complete brake failure due to leakage at 4 way b8rake line junction located above the gas tank on right side rear of vehicle. Known and reported issue due to rust and corrosion of brake lines in this UNPROTECTED area of vehicle. It has been a known problem on these 4th generation vehicles...no recall instituted. Wife and I lucky to be alive. Ridiculous that Subaru America has not been SUMMONED to conform to a NTHSA recall and make repairs on those vehicles affected. Absolutely NO indication failure was about to occur resulting in complete brake failure. Amazingly, this happened in such an area where I was able to roll to a stop and take action to transport the vehicle to my home where it is officially grounded in my garage. Condition was confirmed by a Subaru Master Technician.
NHTSA complaint #11640122 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Milton, OH
SUSPENSION
Engine subframe catastrophic failure (left side) due to severe corrosion. Lower control arm detached resulting in erratic handling and pulling. Car unsafe to drive and expensive to repair at ~$2200. Did research and found to be a very common complaint for 2010-2014. Recall needs to be issued to replace corroded subframes.
NHTSA complaint #11634248 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Townshend, VT
SERVICE BRAKES
The brake system failed when the brake lines burst at the four way connector on the right, rear side of the vehicle. There were no indicator lights lit on the dash until after losing all braking. Luckily I was traveling slowly and was able to roll to a stop safely. This is due to corrosion on the brake lines in the area of the four way connector. There is a small inspection door on the cover for this connector, so the issue is easily seen. This has been an issue for Subarus in the past with many recalls for this issue on similar models. Unfortunately the recalls end in 2009 for Outbacks while mine is a 2010. Obviously this issue has not been corrected by the manufacturer.
NHTSA complaint #11615546 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Springfield, OR
ENGINE
I see many many complaints about the head gasket material Subaru used was not compatible with the very fluid that is needed for the cars engine to not blow up.....coolant. Subaru knows the head gasket material is ruined by the coolant it needs but has left us consumers to deal with a very costly, devastating issue such as what I just want through and am still in the middle of a fight with dealer who sold me a car for 10995 and I had it 2 weeks....coolant blew everywhere had to fight with dealership to get them to tow it. I was yelled at, hung up on, calls not returned all while I have no car no way to work and as a [XXX] and a child to raise, I do not have options and live by a thread and paycheck to paycheck.....It should not be allowed that Subaru doesn't fix that since it is a manufacturing defect that they made it incompatible with the coolant it needs. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11613524 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hermosa Beach, CA
AIR BAGS
The contact's father owned a 2010 Subaru Outback. The contact's father received recall notifications of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V001000 (Air Bags) and would like to be removed from the recall distribution list because he no longer owns the vehicle, and the vehicle was exported to Canada. The dealer and the manufacturer were not contacted.
NHTSA complaint #11600151 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hampstead, MD
SERVICE BRAKES
Brake failure - after inspecting vehicle 6/20/2024 noted brake fluid leaking from underneath the vehicles right hand side. Removed splash guard and noticed the brake lines had extensive corrosion in a small section with no protective coating. Brake fluid noted leaking from the unprotected area. The rest of the brake lines were fully intact.
NHTSA complaint #11595552 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Barre, VT
POWER TRAIN
Vehicle has an automatic transmission and it stalls when stopping. There is no warning light on the dash. This happens more frequently when the vehicle is warm, in early operation it may only hesitate or run rough while stopping. A warm a stop is more likely to stall the vehicle than a slow stop. Hard braking at operating temperature will stall the vehicle without fail. This has been happening since I bought it and it occurs with each drive every day.
NHTSA complaint #11569637 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Barre, VT
ENGINE
Vehicle has an automatic transmission and it stalls when stopping. There is no warning light on the dash. This happens more frequently when the vehicle is warm, in early operation it may only hesitate or run rough while stopping. A warm a stop is more likely to stall the vehicle than a slow stop. Hard braking at operating temperature will stall the vehicle without fail. This has been happening since I bought it and it occurs with each drive every day.
NHTSA complaint #11569637 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 196,000 milesSomerset Center, MI
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2010 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that on numerous occasions while driving at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle hesitated. No warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that while shifted in reverse, the vehicle inadvertently shifted into drive independently. The contact turned off and restart the vehicle. The contact then stated that he was able navigate the vehicle back onto the road. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the failure could not be duplicated. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the warranty had expired but no further assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 196,000.
NHTSA complaint #11543204 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Milton, OH
SUSPENSION
2010 Outback Subframe or cradle Subaru OEM # 50527AJ01A is a vital safety component and as designed and installed completely supports the weight of the engine and transmission - I have excessive rust and Corrosion of sub frame. This should be a recall. A google search shows this is a common issue for this model. Please review my complaint
NHTSA complaint #11540894 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Newark, NJ
SERVICE BRAKES
Brake line corrosion, I noticed it about 10 months after buying the car. they finally broke five days ago I called Subaru. They told me it’s just regular wear and tear and there is no recall for the corroded brake lines and the junction box.
NHTSA complaint #11537594 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 177,000 milesRoselle, IL
SERVICE BRAKES
The brakes completely gave out while the vehicle was being driven, without warning. The BRAKE light did not turn on until after the car had been stopped and restarted and the brakes had already gone out. Fortunately, the vehicle was being driven on a side street, and it was able to coast into a parking lot. Had the brakes given out before then, when it was on the highway, the outcome could have been far worse. The vehicle was towed to a mechanic. The mechanic stated that once they removed the cover over the rear junction box near the fuel tank, they found the junction box to be corroded away. The vehicle has been to several mechanics over the past several years, and none of them have ever identified any issues with the brakes or brake lines. Subaru had issued a recall for the same issue but for model years 05 to 09.
NHTSA complaint #11527618 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Midlothian, VA
ENGINE
All instrument and waning lights illuminated and the engine shut down while driving. Took to the Subaru dealer repair shop and the vehicle was diagnosed with a head gasket leak that caused oil to mix with the coolant. This is a low mileage vehicle, 67,597 miles, that has been maintained by Subaru certified mechanics.
NHTSA complaint #11523706 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Marysville, WA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
ACTUATOR THAT ADJUSTS THE AIR FLOW BROKEN AND DOESN'T NOW ALLOW THE AIRFLOW TO BE DIRECTED TO THE WINDSHIELD. THIS IS AN EXTREME SAFETY HAZARD AS THE WINDOWS FOG UP AS THE CAR WARMS AND YOU CANNOT SEE OUT OF THE WINDOW.
NHTSA complaint #11512518 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.