2012 Subaru Outback Subaru Outback 2012

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2012 Subaru Outback repairs by problem area

Engine (21%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (8%)

Brakes and Traction Control (7%)

Suspension and Steering (9%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (28%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (20%)

Other (7%)

Chart based on 194 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the 2012 Subaru Outback.

2012 Subaru Outback repair cost distribution

$2500+ (1%)

$1000 - $2499 (5%)

$500 - $999 (8%)

$100 - $499 (27%)

< $100 (59%)

Worried about potential repair costs? An extended warranty can provide peace of mind.

Chart based on 130 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2012 Subaru Outback

Engine not specified

Subaru Outback in Michigan, United States
Oct 2016 - Dec 2016
Dec 2016

86000 mi

US $3500
Dropped a valve into the cylinder with only 86K miles and past the powertrain warranty. 

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2012 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

256-horsepower 3.6L H6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD

Subaru Outback in Arizona, United States
Oct 2014 - Jun 2018
Feb 2015

19000 mi
Bad connection for engine fan; fan was not engaging; engine would start to heat up in stop and go traffic only; part cleaned up and connection made; problem fixed. 
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Nov 2012 - Jan 2017
Apr 2013

21300 mi
There's a bump under leather on driver's seat, as if part of the heated seating element had moved. Service rep took photos and said they have to ask Subaru what to do. Update: it has now been over 1 year with no response. 
Jul 2015

58000 mi

US $130
Interior driver's seat L side plastic molding around electric controls broke. Dealer replaced broken part but said not covered by extended warranty. Called Subaru of America and they reimbursed me for cost. Subaru prior repair seat surface 
Dec 2015

61000 mi
Battery died out of the blue on Christmas Eve. Received jump and then called AAA and their battery truck came out and replaced battery. After battery died navigation system lost all information, calls to 2 local Subaru dealers resulted in (1) no idea what to do call 800 # (2) make appointment bring car in. Called 800 # and rep gave directions on how to reset, system fixed! 
Subaru Outback in Alaska, United States
May 2013 - Mar 2014
Mar 2014

50000 mi

US $50
Front bushing causing squeaks. 
Subaru Outback in North Carolina, United States
Jun 2012 - Nov 2017
May 2017

58000 mi

US $88
Front end alignment / tire replace / balance. 
Subaru Outback in Quebec, Canada
Aug 2017 - Jun 2018
Sep 2017

55180 mi

C $250
replace front rotors and pads 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
May 2017 - Jun 2017
Jun 2017

46000 mi

US $1600
Found oil leaks from timing chain cover and both side valve covers. Also determined that oil filter was damaged/leaky. 
Subaru Outback in Quebec, Canada
Mar 2012 - Apr 2016
Jul 2012

3720 mi
My Pioneer radio would skip to the next chanel without any request on my part. They had a service note to fix the problem. They installed a resistance at the back of the radio. Up to now no recurrence. 
Aug 2013

16400 mi

C $472
The problem with the radio when changing volume it changes the station I was listening to. 
Apr 2014

22820 mi
Problem with the controls on steering wheel for control of the volume returned. Previously they add a resistor in the wiring of the volume. New service note ST.15.01.12R: remove old repair and add 2 resistors. 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Apr 2012 - Aug 2015
Dec 2012

14000 mi
low oil warning light- false alarm 
Jan 2013

26700 mi
low oil light- dealership cannot reproduce the problem. 
Mar 2013

15000 mi
low oil light- third time- car towed to dealer. could not duplicate. told there is no low oil level and oil light is normal. now working with subaru of america. 
Sep 2014

41000 mi

US $200
Drive belt replacement 
Jan 2015

19700 mi
burned out headlight bulb. very involved to change- 2.5 hours for both; unable to access. 
Apr 2015

48000 mi
diagnose and repair starter squeal 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Sep 2011 - Dec 2013
Nov 2011

300 mi
Driver's side headlight had condensation on the inside, dealer replaced headlight assembly. Driver's side headlight had condensation on the inside, dealer replaced headlight assembly. 
Dec 2011

3000 mi
Was having a harsh downshift issue with the 3.6R engine. Found that there was a TSB issued for this. A new software was avaialble, went to the dealer, and they installed new software, problem fixed. 
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Sep 2011 - Dec 2016
Mar 2016

52000 mi
Rear window was not rolling down reliably. They replaced the motor I think. 
Subaru Outback in Georgia, United States
Nov 2011 - Dec 2014
Sep 2012

14000 mi
Rattle in headliner. 
Subaru Outback in Massachusetts, United States
Dec 2011 - May 2014
Sep 2013

18000 mi
Starter made squealing sound when running. Replaced under warranty. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2012 - Jul 2015
Mar 2013

17360 mi
Driver side seat outside panel falling off. One of the new parts was wrong and the panel is still not staying on. Need to go back, but dealer far away. 
Jun 2013

19840 mi
Seat trim item described above. Radio jumps stations spontaneously, still not repaired. 
Subaru Outback in Indiana, United States
Nov 2011 - Jun 2013
Jul 2012

15800 mi
Black plastic trim piece on outside of driver side rear window had become detached on one side. Piece was replaced under warranty. Trim piece caused excess wind noise. 
Subaru Outback in Arizona, United States
Sep 2012 - Jun 2018
Oct 2017

70000 mi
Oil leak. It turned out to be a leak in the head gasket near the front cover and the upper oil pan in the back. 
Jan 2018

73000 mi

US $25
Idler pulley failed taking out the alternator and power steering. Limped to the nearest town and was towed to the dealer. Idler pulley replaced. In my opinion this failure was due to damage or improper reassembly of the engine that occurred during the Oct '17 oil leak repair. 
Subaru Outback in Georgia, United States
Nov 2011 - Jul 2013
Jun 2012

6000 mi
Driver's seatbelt latch broke. 
Subaru Outback in Ohio, United States
Jan 2018 - Mar 2018
Feb 2018

63800 mi
Windshield Wiper Motor (Front): Subaru has had multiple problems with either the design, production quality (or lack thereof), &/or dependability since 2010-2015. 
Subaru Outback in Ohio, United States
May 2016 - Mar 2023
Oct 2020

77000 mi

US $700
Replaced condenser 
May 2022

94000 mi

US $500
Replaced rear wheel bearing which was making noise 
Jan 2023

105000 mi

US $750
Replaced power steering pump and idler pulley 
Subaru Outback in Maryland, United States
Sep 2015 - Sep 2018
May 2018

120000 mi

US $150
Ideal pulley 

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2012 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

170-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed shiftable CVT AWD

Subaru Outback in North Carolina, United States
Feb 2012 - Apr 2014
Nov 2012

13000 mi
Bluetooth does not work with iPhones (4,4S and 5). You have to pair your iPhone every time you want to use it. There is no fix for this at this time. 
Jan 2013

15500 mi
The Check Engine light came on along with Traction Control and Brake light. Dealer said it was a firmware glitch and updated firmware. Took 2 hours. 
Subaru Outback in Ohio, United States
Feb 2012 - Jun 2014
Jul 2012

4700 mi
Leaking seal on the gas cap tripped a check engine light. Gas cap needed replaced. 30 minute visit. 
Dec 2012

12000 mi
Had a significant windshield whistling noise at highway speeds. Dealer isolated the problem to be air flow changes created by the factory front air deflector (accessory) that was channeling the air over the top of the glass. 
Subaru Outback in Oklahoma, United States
Mar 2012 - Mar 2015
Mar 2012

2900 mi
check engine light illuminated. took to dealer and found that the fuel cap was not tightened completely. dealer reset codes in ecm. 
Apr 2012

3100 mi
sunroof would not close completely 
Jul 2012

4800 mi
tire indicator illuminated during a trip 
Jun 2013

21000 mi
Failure in xm radio antenna 
Subaru Outback in North Carolina, United States
Feb 2012 - Sep 2021
Oct 2014

12000 mi
replaced battery 
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Feb 2012 - Jun 2016
Jun 2014

65000 mi

US $56
Rotating knob for the mirror adjustment broke off. We took the car to the dealership and they wanted over $200 for parts and labor. Instead we ordered the knob online and replaced it ourselves. 
Subaru Outback in Arkansas, United States
Apr 2012 - Nov 2013
Jul 2012

8000 mi
Check engine light, brake, traction control, and cruise lights all stayed on. Dealer told me was a false emissions leak code. 
Aug 2012

9700 mi
Right front speaker grill was loose. Replaced under warranty at no charge. 
Subaru Outback in Vermont, United States
May 2018 - May 2018
May 2018

96000 mi

US $100
This was second time recharging AC. It lasted less than two weeks and AC no longer works. Needs to be brought to the dealer for an estimate. 
Subaru Outback in Florida, United States
Jun 2012 - Mar 2014
Apr 2013

11700 mi
The brake, vehicle dynamic control, and check engine lights lit up. 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Apr 2012 - Mar 2016
Oct 2015

55000 mi

US $48
driver side headlight replacement. Tire fender had to be removed to reach headlight 
Subaru Outback in Alabama, United States
Apr 2012 - Jan 2017
Aug 2013

27900 mi
Passenger seat heater does not stay on. 
Nov 2014

49900 mi

US $50
Passenger seat heater would not stay on. Replaced bad relay. 
Subaru Outback in Newfoundland / Lab., Canada
Feb 2012 - Mar 2020
Apr 2013

12380 mi
Bushings on stablized bar worn out. 
Jul 2013

14660 mi
Body rusting on tailgate and window trim piece. Tailgate repainted. Window trim ordered not yet installed. 
Aug 2013

15500 mi
Rusty trim piece replaced 
Aug 2014

26660 mi
Rust bubble on roof. Warrant Claim submitted for repainting. 
Sep 2014

27280 mi
Roof repainted 
Apr 2015

32020 mi
Suspension Bushing worn and required replacement 
Dec 2015

40300 mi

C $400
Reverse Interrupt Switch failed. Car thought it was in reverse gear all the time and would not start. 
Nov 2016

48980 mi
Transverse Link Bushing cracking 
Nov 2017

60140 mi

C $1000
rear calipers seizing. need to replace calipers, pads and rotors. 
Jan 2018

60760 mi

C $200
Repair one line in rear defroster. Plus fix lumber control in drivers seat. 
Mar 2018

62620 mi
Brake caliper cleaning and lubrication 
Jul 2018

65720 mi

C $500
Leak in air conditioning condenser. Part ordered and system recharged. 
Subaru Outback in Rhode Island, United States
Mar 2012 - Oct 2016
Dec 2013

22000 mi
Electric sunroof would not close properly. New parts installed. 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Mar 2012 - Jun 2016
Dec 2014

34000 mi
Led burnt out on 3rd brake light 
Nov 2015

42000 mi

US $100
Front control arm busines torn and needed to be replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Tennessee, United States
Feb 2012 - Jan 2022
Mar 2012

1000 mi
Moonroof leak. Drains cleaned and connected. Still leaks around rear seal. 
Subaru Outback in Idaho, United States
Oct 2017 - Oct 2017
Sep 2017

90000 mi

US $750
brakes high pitch noise (wear sensors), took in to replace pads. Shop recommended replacing rotors rather than repair. Probably a little more expensive, but agreed. Replaced pads and rotors. Also had do the spark plugs as I skipped at 60k. Already had plugs, this was a separate cost. 
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Aug 2011 - Feb 2022
May 2016

91300 mi

US $100
Guide to the Gasket head moved 100/of an inch. Gasket head had to be repaired. 
Apr 2017

108000 mi

US $245
rear wheel bearings need to be replaced 
Jul 2017

116000 mi

US $82
Rotors were warped 
Nov 2021

195000 mi

US $300
Tailgate latch worn away 
Subaru Outback in Hawaii, United States
Aug 2012 - Jul 2022
Mar 2021

64 mi
Replaced Transmission and Drivetrain due to warranty. Warranty covered entirety of repairs/replacement. Particular symptoms were grinding during normal turns and stalling after stopping traffic lights. Stalling would occur upon acceleration from a stop and between 500-1000 RPM. 
Subaru Outback in Missouri, United States
Aug 2012 - Jun 2022
Jun 2022

118000 mi

US $900
Catalytic converter P0420 code came up. The catalytic converter is very expensive part to replace. 
Subaru Outback in Rhode Island, United States
Aug 2011 - Apr 2014
Oct 2011

3000 mi
OEM Remote Start stopped working two weeks after dealer installed. Dealer resolved this problem during first recommended LubeOilFilter change at 1,300 miles (Dealer believes first service should be at one month / 1,000 miles on their dime 
Jan 2013

32000 mi
Flashing Brake & Cruise Lights, Check Engine Light on and AT temp light on. Dealer checked codes and ran diagnostics-this was charged to SofA $316. diagnosis fee and then reset the codes. Running fine all along. Software Glitch??? 
Nov 2013

55000 mi

US $285
Navigation System started acting up with error message regarding DVD not installed, unable to go to saved way points. Service removed dvd & found a sticky substance- they cleaned disk & re-installed. 
Apr 2014

63000 mi
During routine oil/filter change and snow tire switchover, Dealer found a stripped lug nut. They fixed it for free. 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Aug 2011 - Apr 2014
Mar 2014

34000 mi
Battery run out. car didn't start. Subaru roadside assistance partner showed up after 2 hrs, to verify system, visited dealer. No problems detected 
Subaru Outback in Idaho, United States
Nov 2011 - Dec 2016
Oct 2012

5500 mi
Sunroof sticking. They replaced structural components: rails, framework. But it still doesn't work correctly, and we must take it back again this Friday. Dealer could not fix sunroof. Finally, they sent it to a local body shop who did Sunroof was sticking. Removed and replaced. 
Aug 2013

14000 mi
Moon roof leaks in commercial car wash. Both dealer and Subaru of America maintain that such leakage is "normal." 
Mar 2014

22000 mi
Rearview mirror has auto dimming feature (that has never worked). Took in early March 2014, dealer agreed it did not work and ordered new mirror. Took car back in March 29 and dealer had ordered wrong mirror. Must re-order. 
Apr 2014

22200 mi
Rearview mirror's autodim function will not work. Dealer says it's because of tinted rear window. This makes no sense because the tinted rear window is standard on all such Outbacks. 
Nov 2014

25000 mi
Top of car near sunroof. Painted area size of a nickel was starting to rust. Entire roof needed to be repainted in the process of repairing rusted spot. 
Subaru Outback in Maryland, United States
Nov 2011 - Jun 2022
Jun 2012

8000 mi
Repaired and reattached torn mudflap 
Aug 2013

23000 mi
Rear driver side door weather stripping was incorrectly installed. Part adjusted. 
Jan 2014

26200 mi
door trim readjusted. deformed again after a few days. 
Jul 2014

29300 mi
door seal is misaligned. 
Sep 2014

31000 mi
Door trim replaced 
Dec 2014

33000 mi
Door trim again not sitting flush. Replacement part ordered. Moonroof would not open or close. Realignment. 
Jan 2015

27700 mi
Installed replacement door trim Moonroof would not close properly. Hitting close button resulted in 3 inches of movement and then stop. Repeated close attempts required to close the moonroof. Lubricated. Failed again. Replaced entirely assembly. 
May 2015

36000 mi
Wiper blades began operating without operator activation. Wiper switch replaced 
Jun 2015

38000 mi
Engine leaking oil. Turned out to be a cracked crush washer. Washer replaced as part of oil change. 
Aug 2016

57000 mi
Transmission intermittently feels like it is binding. Dealer was unable to replicate the issue. 
Feb 2018

69000 mi

US $70
Engine was stalling. Cleaned throttle body. Turning to wheel lock caused vehicle to jump. Steering pump replaced 
Jul 2020

96000 mi

US $70
replacement of headlights 
Aug 2020

96000 mi
Headlight was installed misaligned (was improperly reseated, bulb was not pointed straight ahead). Repair was to correct alignment, 
Dec 2021

105000 mi

US $150
Windshield washer fluid tank replaced 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Aug 2012 - Mar 2022
Aug 2018

49000 mi
Oxygen sensor replaced 
Apr 2021

73000 mi

US $700
pads and rotors 
Subaru Outback in Kentucky, United States
Feb 2012 - Jun 2022
Sep 2012

12000 mi
check engine light due to improper fit of gas cap 
Jan 2013

37500 mi
check engine light periodically would come on. Turned out the be spider web in vent line. Found after two unsuccessful trips to dealer. 
May 2018

88000 mi

US $600
replaced brake pads 
Subaru Outback in Oklahoma, United States
Nov 2011 - Jan 2014
Feb 2012

3000 mi
Bluetooth sync and mileage computer both malfunctioned. 
Mar 2013

15000 mi
Oil pan change bolt gasket replaced, was leaking. 
Jul 2013

20800 mi
Gas cap issue, sensor causes dash display and cruise control to malfunction if gas cap is perceived to be incorrectly tightened. 
Subaru Outback in Nebraska, United States
Nov 2011 - Jun 2022
Mar 2012

2000 mi
check engine code p0456. dealer reset code. 
Subaru Outback in Minnesota, United States
Nov 2011 - Jun 2018
Dec 2011

3000 mi
seatbelt latch was replaced 
Mar 2013

29000 mi
Both headlights burned out. Service writer was not surprised and because less than 36,000 miles covered by warranty. 
Apr 2015

63300 mi

US $75
Second time replacing low beam head lamp. Needs to be done through wheel well. Appears to be very common with these cars. 
Jun 2015

70000 mi

US $75
Passenger side headlight burned out again. Replaced headlight access from wheel well after removing fender liner. 
Mar 2016

85000 mi

US $173
check engine light cruise control light and traction light came on. They suspected gas cap but still did code check then replaced gas cap and charged me $173 
Dec 2016

100000 mi
Had 4 small bulbs burned out. Car has had a lot of bulb issues. They wanted over $150 to replace them. I refused. 
Feb 2017

105000 mi

US $1000
Replaced front pads and rotors at 105000 miles for the first time. 
Nov 2017

119000 mi

US $80
Driver side headlight burned out again 
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Jun 2012 - Jun 2022
May 2012

2380 mi
Problem: Steering was stiff, requiring excessive effort to turn the whell even a small amount. Repair: Adjust steering wheel off-center Outcome: unsuccessful 
Jun 2012

7000 mi
Steering was stiff, required excessive effort to turn the wheel even a small amount. Steering rack was replaced, wheels aligned and other adjustments. 
Jul 2012

7300 mi
Problem: Steering wheel stiff to turn. Correction: Replace steering rack. 
Dec 2012

11548 mi
Left rear door gasket around did not fully seal against body along a line just aft of the door window. Left rear door gasket did not fully seal against body along a line just aft of the door window. Door molding and gasket replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Wisconsin, United States
Oct 2011 - Mar 2015
Jan 2013

8000 mi
deformed mud flap causing noise when making a hard fast right hand turn 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Apr 2016 - Dec 2016
Jul 2016

49700 mi

US $100
Right front caliper noisy. Brakes disassembled, cleaned, regreased and reinstalled 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Jul 2016 - Aug 2016
Jul 2016

64000 mi

US $121
Oil change, rotate and road force balance tires, change head light Change wiper blades and new air and fuel filter 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Apr 2016 - Jul 2018
Apr 2016

86000 mi

US $1800
Car was jerky when starting from idle. Replaced Torque Converter and Valve Body. Subaru USA assisted with $1,500, which was less than half of repair cost. Update, July 2017: Have been notified that Subaru is extending the CVT warranty on my model and I will be able to claim my repair costs from this repair. 
Sep 2016

93000 mi

US $8
Replaced passenger side parking light 
Dec 2016

99000 mi

US $2
Oil leaking. Replaced oil drain plug. 
Feb 2017

104200 mi

US $11
Driver Side headlight went out. Replaced both headlights. 
Subaru Outback in Texas, United States
Oct 2015 - Jun 2018
Dec 2015

40000 mi
Belt making squeaking noises on cold engine start 
Feb 2016

41700 mi

US $210
Low Tire Pressure sensor failed. 
Mar 2018

63000 mi

US $200
Third break light enclosure started leaking. After any decent rain storm, rear cargo area would be awash. 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Apr 2015 - Feb 2021
Sep 2015

84000 mi

US $100
Replace cable harness positive terminal and battery. 
Subaru Outback in Colorado, United States
Jun 2015 - Jun 2018
Dec 2016

53000 mi

US $265
Various warning lights on intermittently. Dealer claimed that two oil pressure sensors were bad. I doubt both. Also did a recall on the wipers. 
Subaru Outback in Oregon, United States
Sep 2011 - Jan 2022
Jan 2018

80000 mi
wiper motor replaced - Recall campaign 
Subaru Outback in Massachusetts, United States
Sep 2011 - Sep 2021
Dec 2017

55000 mi
Front and Rear pads and rotors 
Subaru Outback in Texas, United States
Feb 2013 - May 2018
Mar 2017

70000 mi

US $900
Replaced rear struts. We live 2 mi down a bumpy gravel road that eats rear shocks or struts readily, particularly with loads. Given this maintenance, the Outback drives generally like new. 
Subaru Outback in Illinois, United States
May 2012 - Sep 2018
Sep 2013

7000 mi
Sunroof would not open, rail part jam. Front rotors changed abnormal 
Subaru Outback in Indiana, United States
Feb 2017 - Nov 2017
Sep 2017

92000 mi

US $150
Replaced Battery 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Jan 2015 - Feb 2022
Sep 2017

81000 mi

US $100
Serpentine belt replacement 
Subaru Outback in Minnesota, United States
Oct 2011 - Nov 2019
Apr 2017

105000 mi

US $350
Bad wiper switch had to be replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Minnesota, United States
Oct 2012 - Jun 2016
Mar 2012

500 mi
Front passenger window wouldn't roll all the way up and seal. Could hear wind noise. Sometimes it would "thunk" into place. They took apart door and greased power window parts, etc. 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Sep 2013 - Jun 2022
Jan 2018

67433 mi

US $100
Front lower control arm bushings 
Subaru Outback in Indiana, United States
Nov 2015 - Mar 2016
Nov 2015

87000 mi

US $60
Front sway bar bushings 
Mar 2016

94000 mi

US $100
Rear wheel bearings replaced under warranty. $100 deductible paid. 
Subaru Outback in Oklahoma, United States
Jun 2012 - Aug 2017
Jun 2016

58000 mi
Drivers side front axle leaking, slinging grease. Replaced under warranty. 
Subaru Outback in Maryland, United States
Apr 2018 - May 2018
Apr 2018

90500 mi

US $100
Head gasket failure requiring new engine. Related problems continue. Head gasket failure requiring new intake. 
May 2018

91000 mi
Oil sensor 
Subaru Outback in Texas, United States
Jun 2012 - Jul 2015
Jun 2013

27000 mi
Sun glasses holder next to map lights retaining clip broke and would not stay closed. 
Subaru Outback in Connecticut, United States
Dec 2012 - Sep 2016
Aug 2016

69100 mi
Third trip to the dealer for a "ratcheting" sensation after coming to a stop and turning left or right only. Previously, the driveline clutches and the transmission valve body was replaced. This trip, the transmission was replaced. 
Subaru Outback in New Hampshire, United States
Jun 2012 - Feb 2022
Feb 2015

27000 mi

US $100
Rear window broken while clearing snow - replaced 
Subaru Outback in Iowa, United States
Feb 2013 - Oct 2021
Apr 2016

54300 mi

US $99
Flashing BRAKE and CRUISE lights, check engine light on, stability control off 
Dec 2016

59000 mi
Wiper blade motor potential failure-covered under recall 
Mar 2018

75000 mi
brake lights - one burnt out, replaced both. more than 10 minutes due to how the bulb is accessed. 
Subaru Outback in Colorado, United States
Nov 2011 - Feb 2017
Aug 2016

55000 mi

US $100
Replaced alternator Air flow sensor needed to be replaced 
Subaru Outback in Colorado, United States
Nov 2013 - Aug 2021
Dec 2013

34000 mi
Check antenna message on for XM radio 
Dec 2017

76000 mi

US $125
Battery died. Original battery was undersized and car always struggled to start in very cold weather. Old battery was 490 amps and new one is 875. Started without trouble first morning below 0 with new battery 

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2012 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

170-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed manual AWD

Subaru Outback in Colorado, United States
Sep 2011 - Jan 2022
Aug 2014

39000 mi

US $189
The latch for the rear hatch stopped working. They replaced it but it isn't working again and it will go back to the shop on Friday 
Oct 2014

41500 mi
When the mechanic at Shortline Subaru looked at the latch for the rear hatch, he couldn't replicate the problem which now seems to be intermittent. 
Jul 2016

59500 mi

US $50
Check Engine light came on and cruise control disconnected while on a long trip. Repair shop suspected loose gas cap or leak in evaoporative control system. Codes cleared, CE lite reset. No problems on return trip of over 550 miles. 
Jan 2017

65000 mi

US $210
USB port did not work and was replaced. 
Mar 2018

72000 mi
Driver reported that engine was leaking oil. I examined it and it seemed that there was a crack in the oil filter causing the leak. I took it to Jiffy Lube where the previous oil change had been performed. They agreed the oil filter was cracked. They replaced the filter and topped up the oil and did not charge me. 
Jul 2019

82000 mi

US $1200
Clutch was slipping. Shop replaced clutch, pressure plate, and rear main seal. Check transmission oil 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Jul 2012 - Aug 2012
Aug 2012

1000 mi
Excessive noise from engine between 2800 to 4000 rpm. on manual transmission. This is an additional rattling sound that is throaty and quite annoying. 
Subaru Outback in Alberta, Canada
Oct 2015 - Aug 2021
Aug 2015

59520 mi

C $275
Replace right side spark plug tube seal, new valve cover gasket as the plug boots are wet with oil. 
Aug 2021

141360 mi
Radiator fluid overflow through the overflow reservoir resulting in low fluid and the car overheat light lit. This happened during the pro-long steep hill climb through the mountains with the engine under heavy load (not owing anything though; just 2 passengers and A/C on). Mechanic replaced thermostat, fuse for the radiator fan and one of the two radiator fans. Mechanic also did a pressure test to see if there is a leak on the head gasket. No issues with the pressure test. After the repair, the car overheated again while climbing up steep hills. Clutch make squealing sound when depressed. Burnted smell coming out from the car. This is after the trip where the car overheated the second time. 
Subaru Outback in Colorado, United States
Jan 2013 - Feb 2014
Aug 2013

17700 mi
gurgling noise from steering fluid when hot. 
Subaru Outback in Nova Scotia, Canada
Aug 2012 - Sep 2016
Sep 2014

22320 mi
Oil seal leaking. Dealer changed seal and replaced timing belt. Update: a week later oil pan still leaking a little.. 
Feb 2015

26040 mi
Engine oil seal and oil pcv valve 
Apr 2015

29220 mi
Returning Oil leak 
May 2016

48100 mi
There was an ongoing oil leak from the block somewhere. This has been ongoing for the last four years. They think its fixed and it starts leaking. This time they finally did a dye test, and found a a hairline crack in the casting of the oil filter holder. 
Jun 2016

52080 mi

C $526
Engine light fault indication. Scan code P0031, PO134. Problem faulty A/F sensor. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Apr 2021 - Jan 2022
Jul 2021

79360 mi

C $1700
Replaced clutch. Wore out after 128,000 km. Replaced 3rd brake light which was leaking when it rained. 
Subaru Outback in Alberta, Canada
Apr 2018 - Jul 2018
May 2018

62620 mi
Car overheated and check engine light came on. Towed to dealer for warranty work, they found the fuses for the cooling fans were blown but replaced the fans and regulater switch as well. Was in the shop for a while as they had to order Subaru parts 
Jul 2018

63240 mi
Car was leaking oil, took to dealer and diagnosed as forward crank seal leak. Car had recently had timing belt replaced by same dealer, they used aftermarket seal originally which was the cause. Replaced seal with Subaru part this time 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Nov 2011 - Jun 2017
Jul 2014

32300 mi
water leaking AC 
May 2016

56600 mi

US $300
Pads,rotors and left caliper 
Oct 2016

64200 mi

US $300
Failure of 6 speed transmission clutch was OK 
Subaru Outback in Illinois, United States
Dec 2011 - Jun 2022
Feb 2015

29000 mi
The sunroof stuck halfway while closing. They had to remove the entire headliner and replace the complete sunroof track and motor I found a gear tooth stuck to the magnetic drain plug in the rear diff. Subaru replaced the differential assy at 80k, still under extended warranty. 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Jan 2012 - Dec 2017
Oct 2017

65000 mi

US $1000
Clutch/flywheel/throwout bearing early failure due to 1st gear/reverse ratio too high. Warranty covered throwout bearing only. 

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2012 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

165-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed shiftable CVT AWD

Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Apr 2013 - Apr 2018
May 2013

21740 mi
The motor was incapable of closing the roof all the way. The problem stemmed from a clogged drainage port. I used a piece of fine wire to ream it out and all was good. I won't leave my sunroof open while parked under trees anymore! 

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2011 Subaru Outback

Engine not specified

Subaru Outback in California, United States
Jul 2010 - Sep 2010
Sep 2010

4000 mi
Vehicle bought back after repeated unsuccessful attempts to fix steering wheel shake, including TSBs 05-50-10 and 05-48-10. The 2nd TSB is the major one and was done twice. 
Subaru Outback in Kansas, United States
Aug 2012 - Sep 2012
Sep 2012

25000 mi
Leather seats are worn. 
Subaru Outback in Arkansas, United States
Jul 2011 - Aug 2011
Aug 2011

7000 mi
Transmision shifting problems from first day,new trans after 3 weeks of hassle,and one tow in and two times delivery by me. 
Subaru Outback in Massachusetts, United States
Jul 2010 - Dec 2010
Aug 2010 The engine cover was broken when I received the car 
Sep 2010

1000 mi
Brake fluid contaminated from factory. Oily substance mixed in. Caused the brake fluid to darken to the point where it looked to have 20-30k of usage on it. Flushed the system and replaced the master cylinder. Persistent clink in the shift-interlock every time I came to a stop. Subaru's position was "normal noise, no problem". It drove me nuts in traffic. Needed the TSB for the rear view compass/backup camera mirror - the compass would lock-up. the TSB did fix the problem. 
Oct 2010

1000 mi
Nasty vibration from torque converter going in and out of lock-up. Dealer had car several times unable to replicate. I took off from work to take service manager and tech for instrumented ride, had no problem recreating problem. Replaced valve body. 
Dec 2010

1000 mi
Infamous steering wheel vibration/resonance problem. After 3 road force balances worse than when they started. Had approval for the major TSB, but dumped the car before that due to transmission. Valve body suffered major failure a month or so after replaced (lit up dash big-time), limp-home mode. The second valve body started acting up within a day or two, needed to be replaced when I traded it. 
Subaru Outback in Massachusetts, United States
Jan 2021 - Jun 2022
Dec 2021

168000 mi

US $2500
Wheel bearings tie rod and ball joints all replaced 

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2011 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 148hp 2.0L H4 Diesel 6-speed manual AWD

Subaru Outback in Norway
Mar 2011 - Aug 2014
Jun 2012

26660 mi
Car intermittently refused to start. Finally brought in, but dealer found no fault. Replaced "starter module", will see if problem is fixed. 
Aug 2012

28480 mi
Same problem, refusing to start. To shop for the third try. Outcome: how it's designed to work. The steering lock jams when the car is parked on a slope to protect an actuator. Just need to release the brake then wiggle the wheel, and the car will start. 
May 2013

39060 mi
Slight noise when turning steering wheel. Adjusted connection from column. 
Nov 2013

45260 mi
Glow plugs shorted. Fuses blown. Dealer reset error code and changed fuse. Warning light from last repair returned the following day. Took it in again, and they looked at it further. Found that they needed to replace glow plugs and scheduled a repair at a later date. Had to leave the car at the dealer for a full day to change glow plugs. 

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2011 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

256-horsepower 3.6L H6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD

Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2011 - Aug 2011
Aug 2011

8060 mi
Unfixable shaking at 100km/h 
Subaru Outback in Georgia, United States
- Nov 2011
Nov 2011

980 mi
Shaking issue. Could not reproduce at dealership.  Front tires replaced for shaking at highway speeds. Back tires road forced balanced issue still exists  Misfires on cyc 1 3 and 5. Dealer cleared codes only.  
Subaru Outback in Alberta, Canada
Jul 2010 - Sep 2015
Oct 2011

14260 mi
Sun roof was 'sticking' - when opened it would stick then 'thunk' as it pulled away -needed autobody realignment - took less than an hour 
Dec 2013

43400 mi

C $800
Bad Strut - Driver side front 
Oct 2014

52040 mi
Leaking Oil pan (slight) fixed with Silicone 
Subaru Outback in Ohio, United States
Jul 2010 - Jul 2012
Aug 2010

3000 mi
Front end shaking. In earlier repair trip rebalanced tires. This tim installed stabilizer kit and new steering wheel, which fixed the problem. Front passenger window would not close -- new track installed. Compass mirror did not work -- new mirror installed. 
May 2011

8000 mi
Oil sensor went on. Dealer said this was the third one they had to replace on other owner's cars. 
May 2012

17400 mi
Transmission is slipping into passing gear going uphill at high speeds. Also, transmission is having a hard time going from 2nd to 3rd gear going uphill. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Jun 2016 - Jun 2018
Apr 2017

64480 mi

C $1600
New pads and rotors on all 4 wheels 
Apr 2018

68820 mi

C $120
Battery wore out. I had lots of advance warning. The battery was easy to replace. 
Subaru Outback in Connecticut, United States
Jan 2011 - Dec 2014
Jul 2012

30200 mi
Seatbelt tensioner broke. Tensioner replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Australian Capital Territory, Australia
Mar 2014 - Jun 2018
Oct 2016

22320 mi
Factory recall for plastic on wiper housing. 
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Sep 2012 - Mar 2013
Oct 2012

23500 mi
Driver seat squeaking Power adjustment switch broken 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Jun 2011 - Jul 2017
Jun 2016

27280 mi
Drivers side audio speaker malfunctioning 
Subaru Outback in Missouri, United States
Aug 2015 - Jun 2017
Sep 2015

49000 mi

US $100
Two lug nuts fell off; had them replaced. 
May 2017

68000 mi
17V014000 recall to replace front passenger airbag 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Jun 2010 - Sep 2014
Sep 2010

4000 mi
Car has pulled to the right since day one. Dealer said they adjusted tire pressure and problem was fixed, but it still pulls to the right. Returned again to have alignment checked. After having the car five hours they called to say that (a) their alignment tech didn't show up and (b) they sent it out to a vendor but the vendor's alignment rack was broken. Yes, I'm upset. 
Oct 2011

24000 mi
Steering wheel shake at freeway speed. Said front wheels were out of balance; rebalanced and apparently rotated wheels. Problem is 90% better but not gone. 
Subaru Outback in Nebraska, United States
May 2010 - Apr 2014
Apr 2014

50000 mi
OEM battery was too small for the car; drains too quickly & often has trouble starting the car when car is exposed to frigid temperature. Subaru/dealer states battery is within design parameters. 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Dec 2010 - Nov 2020
Feb 2011

1000 mi
Discovered oil leaking from engine. Quantity was about 2 tablespoons per day. Dealer determined it was a faulty seal on the oil pan so they simply replaced the seal. All good now. 
Feb 2015

41000 mi
The torque converter was replaced due to severe vibration between 1500 and 2000 rpm under light loads. 
Jun 2017

67000 mi
Takata airbag recall 
Subaru Outback in Connecticut, United States
May 2012 - Jul 2012
Jun 2012

23000 mi
Check engine light on, diagnostic indicated cam sensor issue. Dealer replaced intake cam sensor, issue stopped for 24 hrs and returned. Dealer then replaced intake and exhaust cam sensors. Dealer says problem is fixed. 
Subaru Outback in Alabama, United States
May 2016 - Jun 2016
Jun 2016

32000 mi

US $400
moonroof jammed ajar. a ton of water leaked in. dealer said tree pollen passes roof seal clogged drain caused roof to jam. water passed seal the water couldn't go out drain. flooded car. they said they cleaned drain cleaned track. still lek had get interior replaced due to mildew. next shop found moonroof still leaking found drain barely clean, tracks still filthy. headliner removed moonroof removed drain cleaned. had carpeting and driver seat replaced. 3rd outback.same problem 
Subaru Outback in Massachusetts, United States
Apr 2014 - Jun 2022
May 2022

78000 mi

US $1400
Rattling AWD component replaced. Front speakers inoperative / scratchy sound. Dealer thought it was the amplifier but replacement did nothing to fix the problem. 
Subaru Outback in Georgia, United States
Oct 2011 - Jul 2022
Dec 2013

32000 mi
Both HID low beam headlights burned out within weeks of each other, and I've read that you have to pull back the fender liner to replace them. I believe their short life has to do with the Automatic headlights, which come on under bridges. 
Jun 2021

73000 mi

US $250
The fuel door release latch cable broke and needed to be replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Apr 2013 - Jun 2018
Sep 2014

27280 mi

C $100
left headlight 
Jul 2016

52280 mi

C $175
left interior light on, killed battery, now won't hold charge. got 5 good years. 
Jun 2017

59520 mi
Regular 96k maintenance 
Jan 2018

62000 mi

C $1000
Replaced brakes too soon. Backup camera intermittently failing. Dealer recommended complete replacement. Declined. Now working, mostly. I suspect a simple loose connection. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Dec 2010 - Jul 2016
Mar 2013

42160 mi

C $125
Gas tank cap had tear in seal - pressure leak - check engine light on. 
Sep 2015

84320 mi
Upper brake light seal leaking 
Subaru Outback in North Carolina, United States
Feb 2014 - Feb 2014
Feb 2014

40000 mi
Temperature gauge on 3.6 engine going off. Dealer indicated difference in one head to the other was causing problem, Known issue with Subaru per bulletin Check oil light coming on after beginning to use synthetic oil due to high mileage driving. When checking dipstick, oil level is OK but light comes on intermittently. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Apr 2012 - Jun 2022
Apr 2015

70740 mi

C $30
Replaced low beam headlight bulbs. This is the second set of replacements since new. Relatively difficult to replace (must be done from the wheel well). 
Apr 2017

104780 mi

C $700
Lock up clutch judder. Removed the torque converter and had it rebuilt with excellent results (at 25% of the price of a new one). The first repair other than consumables: pretty impressive! 
Jan 2018

122760 mi

C $95
New gas struts on the tailgate 
Apr 2018

122760 mi

C $200
Camshaft position sensors replaced. 
May 2021

164300 mi

C $50
Rebuilding the front calipers 
Jun 2022

171120 mi

C $900
Prop shaft u-joints were bad. Oil pan rusted through 
Subaru Outback in Delaware, United States
May 2011 - Nov 2014
Mar 2014

23000 mi
Battery went dead 3x. Dealer tested and replaced at n/c under warranty. Funny, our 2005 outback went 8 years before I replaced the battery not because of problems but out of caution. 
Subaru Outback in Wisconsin, United States
Aug 2012 - Jun 2014
Jun 2013

26000 mi
Noisy wheel bearing replaced by dealer. 
Subaru Outback in British Columbia, Canada
Jul 2011 - Oct 2018
Sep 2013

29760 mi
Squeaky latch on seat belt receiver on passanger side when occupied 
Mar 2014

34720 mi
Heat shields on exhaust vibrate loudly in gear until pipes expand to engine heat 
Subaru Outback in Kentucky, United States
Sep 2010 - Jun 2017
Oct 2011

6000 mi
The sunroof was jamming when trying to open. Lived with problem for 2 months before taking in along with other sunroof recall. 
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Apr 2011 - Apr 2020
Dec 2015

76000 mi

US $100
2011 Outback - 5 marker bulbs out and needed replacing. Audio/nav system grounding wire frayed and needed replacing. 
Jun 2017

99000 mi

US $50
replaced daytime running light 
Sep 2018

126000 mi

US $9600
Front brake pads replaced and rotors milled; new rotors and brake pads on rear 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
May 2016 - Jul 2020
Jan 2018

94000 mi

US $8
Driver-side low-beam bulb replaced. My first time replacing a bulb on this car, it took nearly an hour and required the removal of the driver-side front wheel. Future bulb replacements will probably take closer to a half-hour. 
Jun 2018

96000 mi

US $20
Replaced passenger side headlight. It took 30-40 minutes because access is through the wheel well and even that is tight. 
Subaru Outback in Connecticut, United States
May 2011 - Aug 2016
Jun 2016

47000 mi

US $65
Replacement of a burned out light bulb in the headlight. 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Sep 2010 - Jan 2018
Jan 2018

102000 mi

US $450
Corroded Idler Pulley and broken Drivebelt 
Subaru Outback in Massachusetts, United States
Oct 2011 - Jun 2018
Jan 2012

48200 mi
Navigation/Bluetooth/audio display screen freezes. 
Jun 2012

24000 mi
Nav and audio screen constantly freezing. They finally replaced the entire system. It was fine for a month but now periodically when the audio is turned off when the car is started the nav screen will again freeze. Unlike prior issues... 
Oct 2012

26500 mi
Check engine light and all dash lights came on while driving. Dealer reports deterioration on gas cap flange caused system to detect fuel leak. Dealer immed replaced gas cp. problem seems to have resolved. 
Dec 2012

29000 mi
Once again as back in Oct engine light oil AT temp light and a myriad of dash lights cameon while driving. Called dealer. Brought it right in. They found only 2 brke light bulbs out. No other explanation for all warning lights coming on 
Oct 2013

40300 mi

US $200
Front headlights. One was out so I had both replaced. Quite the ordeal to replace these-involved removal of wheel! Later confirmed w dealer that this is proper protocol. Lights still do not align properly. I'm told by many that this is not ? 
Apr 2015

57500 mi
Headlights-again! Don't know why so often or why these are so time consuming to replace.  Also continued problems with navigation. Screen freezes so even phone calls can't be made until the car is shifted to park then back to drive. 
Jun 2018

97000 mi

US $550
Rear sway bar and bushings. Was told there was wear and would get worse. Did not notice any signs while driving. 
Subaru Outback in Michigan, United States
Apr 2011 - Mar 2012
Feb 2012

11000 mi
Engine was consuming oil at a rate of 1 quart every 3,000 miles. 
Subaru Outback in Alberta, Canada
Jul 2015 - Jun 2022
Apr 2016

103940 mi

C $78
Replacement of serpentine/V-belt and noisy idler pulley - normal maintenance items. 
May 2016

105640 mi

C $486
Replaced all four struts and mounts due to normal wear. 
Jul 2017

122760 mi

C $100
Replaced rear door checkers since doors wouldn't stay open by themselves. 
Jan 2022

155620 mi

C $86
Extremely low outside temperatures (-30°C), engine block heater and battery warmer (new battery) plugged in all night. Drove short distance and parked. Upon engine restart, ATF temp warning light is flashing, as well as VDC and brake warning light. No trouble codes. While driving, transmission shifts into manual mode without gear lever being moved, had to move to manual position and back to drive to clear. Dealership failed to find cause. Replaced battery with good quality one, no more issues since. Turn signals stop working intermittently. Climate controls unresponsive intermittently. Dealer cannot replicate condition at time of inspection. 
Jun 2022

156860 mi

C $1064
Misfiring on cylinder #6, bad coil pack and fouled spark plugs. Coil pack and spark plugs replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2013 - Mar 2014
Jan 2014

C $1400
Valve sticking. Replaced. 

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2011 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

170-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed shiftable CVT AWD

Subaru Outback in Montana, United States
Aug 2012 - Jun 2022
Mar 2013

78000 mi

US $30
Chrck 
Jun 2013

91000 mi
Transmission oil pan had a tiny leak. It didn't warrant repair as it wasnt dripping but I had the seal replaced to avoid future issues. 
Feb 2015

182000 mi

US $1942
Transmission valve body replaced. $900 part, 8q T fluid, 5 hr labor. 
Jun 2015

200000 mi

US $480
Replaced radiator for over heating. Didn't fix the problem. Replaced thermostat. Fixed problem. Was only partially opening. I recommend changing every 100k 
Sep 2015

211000 mi

US $400
Replace stabilizer bar and bushings 
Jul 2016

249700 mi

US $440
Resolved both right bearings Bushings 
Subaru Outback in Ohio, United States
Jun 2012 - Apr 2017
Jun 2015

90000 mi
E-Brake partially engaged, determined rear O2 sensor is faulty and replaced, problem solved. 
Dec 2015

108000 mi
Replaced EGR valve. 
Mar 2017

131000 mi
Overheated, replaced thermostat. 
Apr 2017

132000 mi

US $2400
Head gasket replacement. Started leaking after the engine overheated. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Aug 2011 - May 2015
Jun 2012

10478 mi
The AM antenna was broken, so I had no AM radio reception. They sent out for parts. This is the 2nd time I have had it in. The AM antenna is broken, so I have no AM radio reception. They are sending out for parts. This is the 2nd time I have had it in. They hope to have it fixed next week. 
Apr 2013

21480 mi
The body side molding was coming off. It was replaced with new ones under warranty 
Subaru Outback in West Virginia, United States
Aug 2011 - Jun 2016
Jan 2012

7000 mi
Rear passenger window regulator malfunctioned and disabled the use of the window. The window would not seal or move up and/or down. The part was on order and this trip was to replace the broken regulator. 
Jul 2012

16700 mi

US $120
Vehicle was hesitating during startup. Throttle plate replaced due to carbon buildup. 
Aug 2014

67000 mi

US $635
Replace low beam headlights 
Mar 2015

70000 mi

US $80
Replaced low beam headlights 
Subaru Outback in Quebec, Canada
Aug 2011 - Jun 2018
Dec 2012

19840 mi
"Angry bees" syndrome (loud buzzing noise when Thule box on roof rack is installed at speeds above 60km/h) caused by loose seal on roof rack. Fixed with silicone by dealer at no cost. 
Sep 2015

48360 mi
Rear bushings and link replaced under warranty 
Subaru Outback in Ohio, United States
Jul 2011 - Dec 2016
Nov 2015

55100 mi

US $15
Replaced driver side low beam. 
Subaru Outback in Texas, United States
Jun 2011 - Sep 2011
Sep 2011 CEL kept coming on. After a good bit of investigating, the Subaru people were able to determine that it was a very rare issue with the PZEV and manual transmission and the software glitch appears to be unfixable. Replaced with another Outback. 
Subaru Outback in Wisconsin, United States
Jul 2011 - Nov 2021
Sep 2011

2000 mi
I smell coolant when running the heater. They say there is no leak. 
May 2014

36000 mi

US $464
struts replaced. They were leaking. 
Jan 2016

14700 mi

US $22
Daytime driving light out. Lights on this are a pain to replace, let the dealer do it. 
Jan 2017

61700 mi

US $124
Hatch mounted 3rd tail light was leaking water into car. Replaced. 
Jan 2018

79000 mi

US $300
Both VVL pressure switches leaking oil. Both replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Nov 2012 - Feb 2019
Jan 2013

32000 mi
Moon roof would not open or seat properly. Dealer replaced under warranty. Plastic "metal" painted door trim vibrates whenever radio on. Dealer could not replicate issue. 
Mar 2013

38000 mi
Front driver and passenger window would not close completely when car was being operated at highway speeds. Both window Gaskets/Tracks replaced under warranty. Some water would get in. 
Dec 2014

88000 mi

US $35
Two swollen lug nuts were locked on and had to be replaced. 
Aug 2015

104300 mi

US $236
During routine timing belt replacement Valve Cover Gasket was found to be leaking oil. Cost to repair was significantly lower due to engine already having been disassembled During routine timing belt replacement Valve Cover Gasket was found to be leaking oil. Cost to repair was significantly lower due to engine already having been disassembled 
Oct 2015

108650 mi

US $397
Front right wheel bearing was making a grinding noise. Noise began in December 2014 as a rubbing noise on curves. Within one week of repair grinding noises began front front right area. Entire assembly was replaced. Front right wheel bearing was making a grinding noise. Noise began in December 2014 as a rubbing noise on curves. Within one week of repair grinding noises began front front right area. Entire assembly was replaced. 
Sep 2016

132000 mi

US $18
I replaced the low beams on this vehicle. It is a pain. This is the 8th set of Low Beam headlight bulbs. Subaru has extended the warranty on 2010-11 models for free low beam headlight replacement and testing for 10 years/unlimited miles. 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Jul 2011 - Jul 2022
Dec 2016

58000 mi
Low beam out, replaced under extended warranty. 
Feb 2017

59000 mi
Low beam headlight went out again. Dealer replaced under warranty. 
Feb 2021

113000 mi

US $700
Been having intermittent issues with car failing to start and errors with warning lights. Dealer has been unable to diagnosis issue thus far. 
Subaru Outback in Rhode Island, United States
Aug 2011 - Jul 2017
Mar 2012

10000 mi
replacement of door trim rubber 
Feb 2014

38000 mi

US $100
Replacement of Windshield Wiper Switch 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Aug 2011 - Jan 2022
Dec 2015

127000 mi

US $1550
Multiple indicator lights illuminated or blinking; trouble code P0743 Torque converter solenoid circuit low. Dealer diagnosis recommended replacement of valve body assembly. 
Mar 2021

209000 mi

US $1100
Camshaft seals were leaking - to repair, the timing belt needed to be removed. Replaced the following items: Camshaft seals Timing belt Water pump and tensioner Passenger headlamp 
Subaru Outback in Montana, United States
Dec 2011 - Apr 2012
Jan 2012

15000 mi
Rear hatch rattles. 
Subaru Outback in North Carolina, United States
Mar 2012 - Apr 2012
Apr 2012

29000 mi
two weeks before the wheel bearings, I made two separate trips to this dealer. first time they did a Road Force balance and alignment. This temporarily fixed the vibration, then it came back. They did a second RFB Vibration in steering wheel/tire. Dealer replaced two front wheel bearings 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Jun 2011 - Jun 2018
Jan 2014

17800 mi

US $46
low beam light bulb replacement 
Subaru Outback in Nova Scotia, Canada
Jul 2011 - Jun 2014
Oct 2011

2360 mi
passenger side window rubber gasket not sealing, esp at highway speed, replaced by dealer on second visit after part ordered in 
Subaru Outback in North Carolina, United States
Sep 2011 - May 2018
Sep 2016

76000 mi
Recall: replaced left low beam headlight 
May 2018

93000 mi
Blew head gaskets and warped head beyond repair; required head replacement. Fortunately, still barely within the extended 7 yr/100k warranty period and Subaru honored the warranty without any fuss. 
Subaru Outback in Indiana, United States
Jun 2011 - Jun 2022
Oct 2015

66800 mi

US $100
Replaced 1 low beam headlight, passenger side. 
Dec 2015

71000 mi

US $100
Replaced 1 low beam headlight, driver side. 
Subaru Outback in British Columbia, Canada
Apr 2011 - Mar 2016
Aug 2015

27560 mi
Rear view camera distorted 
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Nov 2019 - Nov 2022
Jun 2019

90000 mi

US $260
Replace LF Brake Caliper and Hose 
Mar 2020

100000 mi

US $320
Replace LR Axle Nut in Wheel Bearing 
Jan 2021

110000 mi

US $565
Replace RR wheel bearing and RF inner tie rod end 
Mar 2021

110000 mi

US $100
Hard line on power steering rack was loose, leaking p/s fluid. 
Jun 2021

116000 mi

US $380
LF Caliper sticking, replace hose and caliper 
Nov 2022

135000 mi

US $250
Valve Body was replaced, $1,300 covered by service contract. 
Subaru Outback in Texas, United States
Apr 2017 - Apr 2018
Aug 2017

105081 mi

US $205
Driver side Window Motor/Assembly stopped working. I purchased the part from Subaru and installed it myself. The motor in the Window Assembly was worn out. 
Oct 2017

106550 mi

US $201
Front Wheel Bearing was making noise. Replaced by myself with Subaru OEM Wheel Bearing. 
Apr 2018

115753 mi

US $102
Rear Wheel Bearing was making noise. Replaced with BCA TNT bearing who manufactures Subaru bearings so it is the same as OEM. I did the replacement by myself. 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Jun 2014 - Jun 2018
May 2018

201500 mi

US $400
Replaced leaky valve cover gaskets and seals. 
Jun 2018

204645 mi
CVT valve body was replaced under a special extended warranty from Subaru of America. 
Subaru Outback in Alaska, United States
Jul 2017 - Nov 2022
Mar 2018

43000 mi

US $576
CV boot. Replace left front outer. 1. Recall WTK71. [wiper motor] cover assembly bottom. 2. 30,000 Mile Service 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Dec 2016 - Mar 2018
Oct 2017

83000 mi

US $250
Both Oxygen sensors. Took 10 minutes, that includes locating them. Front one was hard to get out, otherwise it would have taken less. 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Oct 2017 - Dec 2022
Feb 2018

78000 mi
Right headlight replaced free under warranty. 
Jan 2021

125000 mi

US $1880
Torque Converter replaced due to occasional stalling when braking. 
Aug 2022

127000 mi

US $100
Tail light replaced. Bulbs tend to go out often. 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Sep 2013 - Sep 2017
Aug 2017

146000 mi

US $800
Suspension (control arm?) bushings replaced 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Jan 2017 - Mar 2018
Mar 2018

85000 mi

US $4500
cylinder #4 zero compression. Replaced engine, all gaskets including head gasket, timing belt, water pump,etc. 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Jan 2018 - Jun 2018
Feb 2018

93000 mi
Replaced both rear wheel bearings 
Jun 2018

98000 mi

US $600
Compressor 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Apr 2015 - Apr 2021
May 2018

146000 mi
CVT transmission pan was leaking VERY slowly. I brought it in to the dealer for an inspection, and they did not recommend any repair work due to how minor the leak was. Because my vehicle is covered by Subaru's extended CVT warranty that expires 08/2018, I insisted that the source of the leak be identified and addressed, because leaks do not tend to get better with time. They pulled off the pan and found minor corrosion to the transmission fluid pan seal, so they replaced the seal. Pan has not leaked since the repair. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Apr 2018 - Jun 2022
Jul 2018

77500 mi
Water entering tailgate during storms. Rear upper brake light on tailgate was loose. Tightened bolts from inside. Radio and cd player stopped working for no obvious reason. Removed and confirmed fuse for radio (in engine bay) was good. Reinserted fuse and radio now works. What caused the problem remains a mystery. 
Jan 2019

84320 mi
Heat shield rattle caused by heat shield making contact with exhaust. Problem seems to have been caused by accumulation of snow underneath car while highway driving during severe winter storm. 
Nov 2019

99200 mi

C $600
rear driver side wheel bearing replaced 
Jun 2020

102300 mi

C $76
rear sway bar bushings replaced cracked serpentine belt 
Jul 2020

102300 mi

C $560
replaced passenger side rear wheel bearing 
Aug 2020

102300 mi

C $669
this repair was for right and left rear upper control arms. Suspension repairs over previous 9 months total C$ 2000 
Jun 2021

11160 mi

C $500
Drive shaft 
Apr 2022

117800 mi

C $500
Muffler and rear pipe 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Nov 2010 - Jun 2021
Oct 2019

70000 mi

US $1000
Control arms replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Colorado, United States
Jun 2011 - Jun 2022
Dec 2021

79000 mi

US $50
Right headlight inoperative had it replaced 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Jun 2020 - Jun 2022
Nov 2021

151000 mi

US $1000
Leaking cap Wheel bearing 
Subaru Outback in Vermont, United States
Jul 2011 - Oct 2014
Sep 2012

20000 mi
shifts hard out of park when on any incline. Dealer stated this was "normal." Nothing was done... 
Subaru Outback in Tennessee, United States
Jan 2011 - Jan 2022
Jul 2018

114000 mi

US $900
Dealer replace both rear wheel bearings 
Aug 2018

114000 mi

US $2100
Transmission failure, car hauled to Dealer. Dealer replaced transmission valve assembly 
Subaru Outback in Illinois, United States
Mar 2011 - Jun 2018
Apr 2018

125000 mi

US $3400
head gasket replacement,  radiator repair 
Subaru Outback in Georgia, United States
Apr 2012 - Apr 2022
Jun 2018

90000 mi

US $300
This was the second time had to replace driver's seat panel. Plastic has broken twice now! 
Apr 2022

136000 mi

US $900
replaced wheel bearings at front 
Subaru Outback in South Dakota, United States
Feb 2018 - Jun 2018
Jun 2018

66000 mi

US $500
rear and front brakes worn out and rotors 
Subaru Outback in Florida, United States
Sep 2016 - Mar 2018
Jan 2018

87000 mi

US $250
Check engine light on. Subaru mechanic said nothing could be found that was critical. Outbacks have chronic CEL issues, sometimes a catalytic converter, sometimes faulty gas cap, these both checked fine. He said lots of time a ghost like problem with Outbacks. He is a Subaru only mechanic. 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Aug 2014 - Jun 2022
Jan 2017

78000 mi

US $50
headlight replaced 
Mar 2022

122000 mi

US $600
exhaust flanges and bolts replaced 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Aug 2014 - Oct 2019
Jul 2015

70680 mi
Leaking oil, replaced gasket 
Jan 2017

68600 mi

C $200
Mud guard noise 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Jun 2015 - Apr 2016
Aug 2015

50400 mi

US $400
Windshield wiper system switch had a defect that was known to Subaru. They "covered" it under warranty but the warranty was already expired when they announced it. So, in a word, it was NOT covered. 
Sep 2015

52000 mi

US $520
Coolant leak. I paid for diagnostics NOT REPAIR. This is a potentially catastrophic failure and I will never buy another Subaru because of it and how the company and its dealers handle situations like these. 
Dec 2015

54000 mi

US $1370
Cooling leak in the block. They are trying to deny it is a warranty issue. Coolant levels are going down again. 
Subaru Outback in Indiana, United States
Jul 2015 - May 2019
Sep 2015

75000 mi

US $81
Left headlight went out. Repair included removing left front tire and lining of wheel well. Addendum, April 2017 -- Subaru had a factory recall to replace the headlight lamps free; reimbursed me in full for my repair! 
Mar 2017

96000 mi

US $11
On vacation, suddenly 3 lights came on: Check Engine, Vehicle Dynamics Control, and BRAKE. Called nearest Subaru, no opening for 3 days, drove to AdvanceAuto for free code reading. Solution: Only needed to replace the gas cap! 
Sep 2018

107800 mi

US $82
Right headlight (need for frequent headlight replacement is a known major problem in 2011 Outback) 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Jan 2014 - Jul 2018
Feb 2014

54700 mi
a bearing in the rights back wheel had to be changed 
Mar 2016

85000 mi

US $50
low beam was out. The car seem to have beams and bulbs go out too often 
Oct 2016

89300 mi

US $450
small muffler removed because it had a hole. Alternative was to install a whole new exhaust pipe 
Subaru Outback in Colorado, United States
Jan 2014 - Jun 2016
Feb 2014

56800 mi
Head gasket leaking internally. Dealer pulled engine, removed heads, sent to machine shop for resurfacing, replaced head gasket, replaced leaking TB tensioner, thermostat. 
Aug 2014

72000 mi
Instrument panel started looking like a Christmas tree. Cruise and auto emerg. brake release not working. Error code indic. bad CVT valve and/or harness, but code cleared okay. 
Subaru Outback in Missouri, United States
Feb 2013 - Sep 2016
Jan 2015

30000 mi

US $140
Headlight out 
Subaru Outback in Massachusetts, United States
Nov 2013 - Jun 2018
Oct 2015

48500 mi

US $20
Replaced rusted bolt on exhaust heat shield to stop annoying rattle 
Sep 2016

58000 mi

US $100
Leaking at a bushing on compressor/condenser Front right wheel bearing replaced. 
Jun 2017

67000 mi

US $25
Loose rattling heat shield 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Dec 2013 - Sep 2018
Mar 2014

39000 mi
Car randomly shudders front to back after coming to a full stop, like waiting at a light. Also riding very rough at times, like it is off-roading. Poor acceleration when need it most. No error codes, computer updated, still a problem. 
May 2016

59400 mi
rough handling and shifting. It was checked during the maintenance of the car. it was riding rough, parts were replaced in the transfer case 
Jul 2018

84000 mi
can't believe for a headlight replacement that one has to pull the front end/wheel well apart!? Who over-engineered this car? I was told it was the CVT going that many Subarus have. there is a roar coming from the unit, I have complained many times. Service managers just shrug their shoulders. the entire unit has to be replaced as "the box containing the CVT can't be opened for repair". Update: it turns out it was the serpentine belt(s) on the engine that were slipping and cracked at 84K and I am careful driving so it was a shock. Helps when you get a service person who actually knows something. 
Subaru Outback in Tennessee, United States
Jul 2015 - Jun 2018
Dec 2016

67000 mi
Low beam bulbs replaced per recall after both failed. It was an interesting week before we could get over to the dealer... 
Sep 2017

76000 mi

US $15
Tail light replacement, probably took 15 minutes. 
Dec 2017

78000 mi
Passenger side airbag replaced via recall 
Jun 2018

80000 mi

US $200
Aux input not working, replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Dec 2015 - Jul 2022
Jan 2016

69640 mi

C $460
rear upper control arm 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Mar 2016 - Jun 2018
Apr 2017

122000 mi

US $135
AC system was recharged and filled with due to look for a leak. 
May 2017

125000 mi

US $130
Tried to diagnose problem with A/C 
Jul 2017

126000 mi

US $135
Faulty gas cap. Cap was replaced Tried to diagnose ac problem. Recharged system. 
May 2018

1000000000 mi

US $200
Still trying to fix the ac problem 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Mar 2016 - Oct 2021
Apr 2017

118000 mi

US $125
Determining location of a leak in the system 
Jul 2018

127000 mi

US $1400
Tie rod ends and front struts 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Nov 2010 - Jun 2017
Jun 2017

62000 mi

US $145
Front and rear brake pads replaced. Rear rotors replaced. Front rotors looked good, no replacement necessary. Dealer quoted $660. I did repair for $145 (after discount) using CarQuest premium parts. 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Mar 2011 - Dec 2017
Mar 2017

80000 mi

US $80
Replaced both from stabilizer bar end links with moog replacements. Replaced malfunctioning/broken backup camera with new oem replacement 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
- Sep 2010
Sep 2010

500 mi
Dealer botched reflashing of the software on the compass mirror, had to come back to install a working one. 
Subaru Outback in Newfoundland / Lab., Canada
Aug 2016 - Nov 2017
Aug 2016

70060 mi

C $700
heat shields underneath came loose Had the front left axle replaced as it had a rip in the CV boot Had to have the axle that was replaced...replaced again due to it being defective. Had to have this axle replaced a third time due to a problem with the replacement for the replacement... 
Nov 2017

86800 mi

C $1300
The propeller shaft had started to seize up causing the car to shake at high speeds and under hard excelleration 
Subaru Outback in Iowa, United States
May 2010 - Mar 2013
Oct 2010

2000 mi
Was getting spray/mist through the sun roof at car wash. They adjusted the sun roof, still sprays in at some car washes. Not sure problem is 100% fixed. 
May 2011

11000 mi
Front differential fluid is BLACK. They do not know what is causing it, drained & replaced fluid now tracking at next oil change if it is turning black again. 
Subaru Outback in Nova Scotia, Canada
Dec 2012 - Dec 2017
Apr 2014

47120 mi

C $115
Drivers side door - loose trim - fixed no charge 
Oct 2014

55180 mi
Backup camera image became foggy 
Mar 2015

62000 mi
Rear hatch was leaking 
Jul 2015

79840 mi

C $900
Electric Parking brake / hill holder started making grinding noise when applied. Was told I have to get a new parking brake motor ($900 + labour). Update: was replaced. 
Jan 2017

66920 mi

C $140
Replace battery 
Apr 2017

104160 mi

C $650
Oil return valve was sticking. Replacement of it and associated sensor required. 
Aug 2017

108500 mi

C $3200
Leaking oil pressure valve Both rear wheel bearings replaced 
Dec 2017

117180 mi

C $230
Stabilizer bar bushings replaced 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Jun 2011 - Sep 2018
Nov 2012

31600 mi
Reprogram transmission computer because car would shudder and nearly stall when climbing very steep hills at low speed (parking garage ramps) Passenger seatbelt latch makes squeaking noise occasionally. Drivers power window occasionally loud and forceful at upper stop, as if the window intends to keep going through the top of the door. 
Sep 2014

72000 mi

US $5
Both front corner marker lights burnt out. Dealer wanted $100 because repair involves going in through fender liners/wheelwell. I did them myself and it was miserable, tedious work. I had bulbs, but to buy them would have been about $5. 
Subaru Outback in Quebec, Canada
Dec 2010 - Feb 2022
Aug 2012

20440 mi
Steering wheel-mounted audio controls started to sporadically not work. Seemed to be worse when it got very hot outside and the car had been sitting out for long. They changed the whole part (all audio controls), it had bad contacts. 
Jun 2015

55800 mi

C $300
The oil pressure sensor failed in some sort of explosive way, and oil spilled all over the engine. They had to give it a shampoo (their expression), change the sensor and the oil. 
Apr 2017

73780 mi

C $200
One of the brakes got stuck. They pried the pieces apart and cleaned it up. 
May 2017

74400 mi

C $150
Had this repeating problem when winter turns to spring turns to summer where something in the suspension starts vibrating. They said it was a loose plate, just had to fix it in place. 
Jul 2017

75640 mi

C $100
Water starting leaking from the hatch's middle brake light (they call it the cyclops). Had to bring it twice, and additional insulation still hasn't done the trick, I need to replace the whole light. 
Feb 2022

111600 mi
Replacement of the universal joint in the drive shaft to the rear wheels. 
Subaru Outback in Texas, United States
Nov 2010 - Mar 2016
Feb 2013

23800 mi
Rear passenger side seat would not fold forward. 
Jan 2016

30000 mi

US $2300
Malfunction solenoid in transmission valve body. Needed new valve body and transmission fluid flush 
Subaru Outback in Nebraska, United States
Aug 2010 - Jun 2011
Dec 2010

3000 mi
window seal causing air leak 
Subaru Outback in Texas, United States
Dec 2010 - Jun 2022
Jun 2013

35000 mi
Repaired bad weld in exhaust after catalytic converter. 
Aug 2017

106000 mi
Had water inside rear center brake light assembly. Dealer wanted to replace entire brake light assembly. I removed the trim and tightened two nuts, no water leaks for the last two months, 
Mar 2018

112000 mi
Torque converter was slow to release. Replaced under warranty. 
Jan 2021

135000 mi

US $250
Replaced lower control arms and sway bar links. Worn out bushings causing noises going over bumps in the road. 
Apr 2022

177000 mi

US $200
Replaced thermostat 
Subaru Outback in Maryland, United States
Jun 2010 - Aug 2014
Nov 2010

7500 mi
Satellite radio connection malfunctioned. Head unit replaced. 
Aug 2012

42200 mi

US $113
Sunroof drains clogged, leaking into interior. Drains cleaned, no leaks since. 
Nov 2013

62000 mi

US $399
Numerous dash lights, car was shifting harshly when engaging reverse or drive. Diagnosed as a faulty valve body which was replaced. Problem continued, transmission controller replaced, problem solved. 
Subaru Outback in Kentucky, United States
Dec 2010 - Jun 2022
May 2012

17300 mi
Replaced AM antennae amplifier. This was covered by warranty. 
Subaru Outback in Texas, United States
Jun 2010 - Jun 2011
Jul 2010

1000 mi

US $1
Slight steering wheel vibration at highway speed 
Subaru Outback in New Hampshire, United States
Dec 2010 - Mar 2011
Jan 2011

10000 mi
VIBRATION AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS 
Feb 2011

10500 mi
vibration at highway speeds. replaced steering column and front control arms 
Subaru Outback in Illinois, United States
Nov 2010 - Feb 2022
Jan 2014

14300 mi
Front passenger wheel bearing was making a noise. Dealer replaced under warranty. 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Nov 2010 - Jun 2018
Oct 2011

12000 mi

US $23
Releasing brake pedal makes "popping" noise; told "they all do that." 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Sep 2010 - Jun 2013
Jul 2011

19840 mi
sunroof would not operate. Traced to poor electrical connection. 
Dec 2012

53940 mi

C $50
headlight replacement took 45 minutes! 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Aug 2010 - Sep 2012
Sep 2010

1000 mi
Noted smoke after extended drive and oil leak in driveway day after taking ownership. Damaged seal between engine block and - ? oil regulator? - caused severe leak. Towed to dealer and repaired. 
Subaru Outback in Saskatchewan, Canada
Aug 2010 - Feb 2017
Jul 2012

14140 mi
Started oil consumption test. Dealer states within normal parameters 
Sep 2013

24180 mi
Replaced leaking strut. work done under warranty. 
Sep 2014

31620 mi
Stayed oil consumption test. Dealer states within normal parameters. 
Feb 2015

33340 mi

C $120
Replaced power steering hose. Replaced leaking oil sending unit 
Oct 2015

37400 mi
The lumbar support gave out. Had to replace an s-clip to remedy. 
Subaru Outback in Tennessee, United States
Aug 2010 - Apr 2012
Oct 2010

2000 mi
Have a metal clanking sound that appears to be coming from the transmission when slowing to a stop...dealer hasn't been able to fix it as they have not been able to replicate the sound. 
Mar 2011

7000 mi
On going problem of metal rattling under transmission when slowing to a stop. Level of noise ranges from loud to soft and is intermittent. Dealer heard it once but then could not replicate the problem. 
Mar 2012

21000 mi
Chrome accent piece came off of the driver side vent and was replaced under warranty. 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Oct 2010 - Jun 2017
Oct 2012

13000 mi
Clicking/rattle sound at idle. Nothing broken, but distracting. 
Subaru Outback in North Carolina, United States
Nov 2010 - Mar 2012
Feb 2011

6600 mi
Slight vibration in steering wheel and driver seat at speeds above 68 MPH. Wheel and Tires road force balaced and problem was temporarily resolved. 
Apr 2011

11000 mi
Latest TSB performed for excessive steering wheel vibration. Problem is 95 percent fixed. Still some symptoms occassionally. 
Mar 2012

37000 mi
Rattle from under the hood when driving over certain bumps. Dealer adjusted rubber bumper pad on the hood and all is well. 
Subaru Outback in Texas, United States
Jul 2010 - Oct 2013
Aug 2012

22500 mi
issue with outside temperature sensor, replaced by dealer 
Subaru Outback in Wisconsin, United States
Nov 2010 - Jul 2022
Jan 2013

19800 mi
Fuel tank cover replaced. 
Jun 2016

74000 mi

US $350
Driver side electric window operator failure. Regulator replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Oregon, United States
Jan 2011 - Feb 2012
Apr 2011

2000 mi
Problem when delivered new: Passenger airbag activation unpredictable, off more than on when occupied by an adult. Passenger seat replaced - sensor and computer included. 
Jul 2011

4400 mi
Front passenger airbags -This is a DESIGN DEFECT, the weight sensors do not work properly [several NTSA reports]. They fail to go 'ON' and default to 'OFF', suggested fix to Subaru, default to 'ON', simple SW fix, declined - The passenger airbag problem persists. Back from the dealer with the same problem. Notified Subaru of America that proplem is not fixed. Registered problem with NTSA. Told them how to fix MY problem, [default to alway ON]. waiting  
Sep 2011

6000 mi
Dealer and Subaru won't fix. Multiple NHTSA reports of same problem on same model, no fix forthcoming A serious safety problem, needs to be recalled. 
Feb 2012

9000 mi
Passenger air bag problem still unresolved 
Subaru Outback in Vermont, United States
Jan 2011 - Jan 2012
Jan 2012

12000 mi
the brake pedal made a funny noise,.. kind of a sticking noise 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
May 2011 - Jan 2018
May 2012

14300 mi
If the front passenger window was rolled down at highway speeds it would not close completely unless the vehicle was brought to a stop or much slower speed. The window would appear to be closed but a whistling noise could be heard. 
Jul 2013

34700 mi
Air leak in front passenger window. Seal replaced for a second time. Front passenger airbag sensor and seat belt buckle sensor malfunctioned sporadically. Resulted in chime when no passenger or weight in the front passenger seat. 
Dec 2017

90000 mi

US $50
Fuel door spring wouldn't release door. 
Subaru Outback in Vermont, United States
Apr 2011 - Apr 2012
Jul 2011

8000 mi
ticking noise at 1200-1400rpm. compared with other 2011 Outbacks - normal noise. 
Subaru Outback in North Carolina, United States
Apr 2011 - Sep 2011
May 2011

5000 mi
Car lurches and idle ramps up and down. Almost hit another car while pulling into a parking space when idle increased and car lurched forward. When stopped at light, engine idle decreased so much that the engine stalled. 
Jun 2011

5500 mi
new software was installed Dealer reprogrammed the computer with new software from Subaru 
Sep 2011

5500 mi
Subaru bought the car back and gave me a new 2011 Outback with a minor cash difference. Subaru stepped up to the plate! 
Subaru Outback in Louisiana, United States
May 2011 - Feb 2019
May 2012

26700 mi
Got Error code P050A. Look up came back as "Raw Selected Monitor Diag Code P050A, Cold Idle Air Control" - Reflashed ECM. 
Oct 2015

66800 mi
Engine RPM would dip down to 400-500 from the normal idle around 700 rpm. The engine would shudder when this happened. Dealer updated the ECM and the issue is mitigated. RPM still goes down a bit but not as low as 400-500. Reflashed ECM and issue mostly went away. 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
May 2011 - Jan 2022
Dec 2012

33000 mi
rear hatch would not stay closed and locked.My local mechanic died and I was in sacramento and went to Maita Subaru, and they replaced the locking mechanism. 
Feb 2015

73000 mi

US $81
replaced battery and cleaned off corrosion off of holddown bracket, and painted bracket 
Jan 2018

106000 mi

US $9800
The car would slow down to almost stopping, and then would resume speed. The dealer determined that the CVT trans. was at fault. the CVT was back ordered and I had a free loaner car for about 32 days. 
Subaru Outback in Iowa, United States
Dec 2011 - Sep 2015
Sep 2015

65000 mi
Control arm bushing loose, replaced under warrantee 
Subaru Outback in Maine, United States
May 2011 - Mar 2018
Oct 2012

20700 mi
Bad headlight relay 
Nov 2017

91000 mi

US $127
Third center brake light on hatchback had a leaking weather seal. 
Subaru Outback in Oregon, United States
Mar 2011 - Jun 2015
Jan 2012

12200 mi
Right drive door window seal had air leak. Rattle from right front speaker area in dashboard. Update: rattle not fixed at the time, later went away on its own. 
Nov 2013

19000 mi
Air flow would default to defrost mode. A solenoid that controls this was changed. 
Subaru Outback in Louisiana, United States
Jul 2010 - Jul 2018
Dec 2010

6000 mi
Moon roof would not consistently open and occasionally stuck or squeeked with use. The system was re-aligned. 
Dec 2014

48000 mi

US $135
original battery died. 
Dec 2016

67000 mi
Front driver side headlight was out. Covered by extended warranty 
Dec 2017

78311 mi
Projector headlamp burned out. Part of extended warranty program due to difficulty to replace. 
Subaru Outback in Texas, United States
Mar 2011 - Mar 2014
Mar 2013

15000 mi
Window trim was pulling away from sill. Dealer replaced under warranty. 
Subaru Outback in Iowa, United States
Jan 2011 - Jun 2014
Sep 2012

33000 mi
The battery had a bad cel and was not capable of starting/running the car. 
Subaru Outback in Texas, United States
Jan 2011 - Oct 2014
Jan 2013

17800 mi
The brake light on the dash flashes when the engine is warm and restarted. The dealer didn't find anything wrong; the brake light continues to flash. 
Jul 2014

65000 mi

US $298
Both low beam bulbs had to be replaced and the battery. This was the battery that came with the car. 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Mar 2011 - Apr 2016
Nov 2013

27400 mi
Airbag light was steadily on after a long period of coming on intermittently for some time. The dealer stated the cause was using a inferior cell phone charger. I agreed to not use any of the 12 plugs. Returned to dealer after warning light came back on without using 12v plugs. The dealer replaced the passenger weight sensor. 
Sep 2014

45000 mi

US $12
Right Headlight not working 
Mar 2015

50000 mi

US $8
Drivers side headlight replaced 
Sep 2015

62000 mi

US $90
Windshield wiper switch failed electrically. It was replaced. 
Mar 2016

67000 mi

US $15
Yet another headlight bulb out. I replaced it. The Outback requires you to go in from the bottom by removing/loosening the wheel well liner. Maybe 15-20 minutes. 
Subaru Outback in Connecticut, United States
Feb 2011 - Jan 2018
Feb 2016

88800 mi

US $350
Replace rear axle bearing 
Subaru Outback in Massachusetts, United States
Mar 2011 - Apr 2020
Sep 2011

5000 mi
Very subtle vibration at highway speeds. They balanced the tires, but unfortunately it didn't fix the problem. I'll try again on the next oil change. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2011 - Jun 2013
Jun 2011

3100 mi
A rear door was squeaking.  
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
May 2010 - Mar 2016
Dec 2012

51000 mi
Engine would stall when coming from high speed to a stop. They replaced the entire transmission. 

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2011 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

170-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed manual AWD

Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Oct 2016 - Apr 2022
Jun 2018

50000 mi
wipers were falling off because their recall repair didn't properly tighten them down air bag light came on in the dash after the airbag recall work was done because the dealer left a cable unplugged 
Subaru Outback in Ohio, United States
Jun 2011 - Jul 2017
Feb 2014

76000 mi

US $2000
New clutch. Throw out bearing .flywheel resurfaced and pilot bearing. Check engine light came on. Obdurate said that misfire on cylinder 3. Replaced coil pack and all of the spark plugs Rear driver side seat wouldn't release when tab was pulled. Found cable dislodged and now works.dealer had to take apart rest seat. 
Dec 2016

145000 mi

US $100
Intake was cleaned due to session light plus engine was misfiring 
Feb 2017

149000 mi

US $2300
Valve job..#3 cylinder valve was burnt 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Aug 2021 - Jul 2022
Jul 2022

250000 mi

US $350
old age noise from front [replaced wheel bearing] 
Subaru Outback in Utah, United States
Jul 2013 - Aug 2014
May 2014

36100 mi
A flap in the HVAC system was malfunctioning causing a strange sound in driver compartment. 
Jun 2014

37000 mi
Serpentine belt replacement that was causing a chirping sound in the engine bay upon start up of engine. 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Feb 2011 - Jan 2012
Dec 2011

12000 mi
Both front struts were leaking. Both were replaced under warranty and a 4-wheel alignment was performed. 
Subaru Outback in Georgia, United States
Nov 2010 - Jan 2022
Dec 2015

62000 mi

US $200
Timing Belt worn, replaced 
Jun 2016

68000 mi

US $70
Replace Headlight 
May 2017

77000 mi

US $80
Replaced headlight under warranty 
Jul 2017

78000 mi

US $1300
Replaced clutch throw-out bearing; while inside transmission, also replaced clutch pack and machined flywheel. 
Feb 2018

93000 mi

US $1000
Wheel bearings replace for both rear wheels 
Jul 2020

125000 mi

US $1000
Knocking sound while turning when car driven more than 20 minutes. Replaced steering control arms; did not fix sound. 
Jan 2021

136000 mi

US $800
Knocking when turning after driving 20+ minutes; replaced passenger front axle half. After picking up the vehicle, I drove it for 20 minutes, discovered the knocking, and returned to dealer. After another day of diagnosis, dealer stated transmission needed replacement and quoted $8000. 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Jan 2011 - Jul 2018
Oct 2011

21500 mi
driver side low beam was out and needed replaced. 
Jan 2012

29000 mi
burnt out passenger low beam headlight replaced 
Oct 2012

51200 mi

US $30
LH low beam head light out for the 2nd time on same side 
Jan 2013

58200 mi

US $81
12 lightbulbs, 2.5 hrs of work to replace all of them. 
Sep 2013

79000 mi

US $7
clutch pedal cover worn out along top and was moving around and buckling up under my foot while trying to drive. 
Nov 2013

83000 mi

US $32
Headlight low lh side 
Dec 2013

87000 mi
Headlight burnt out . Low beam RH 
Mar 2014

93000 mi
unknown cause, water sloshing sound coming from dashboard for ~ a week so i made an early oil change appt so they could check sound out as well. they did not hear it & sent me on way. made another appt for this week. (april) in shop now. 
Apr 2014

94200 mi

US $63
left cooling fan failed, engine supposedly overheated but no lights ever indicated so and does not have a temp guage to know if ever ran hot. warped cylinder heads redone, fan replaced, head gaskets and all other gaskets replaced. warrenty 
Dec 2014

116000 mi

US $23
driver low beem and 1 marker light replacement 
Sep 2015

135000 mi

US $1300
replaced clutch. pedal stuck down at a stop light on way to work but was stilll in gear, allowed me to start out and switch between 1 and 2 on last mile to work.. could lift the pedal to up position but if touched, it went back to floor no tension. 
Dec 2015

146000 mi

US $70
passenger low beam replacement. 
Feb 2016

151000 mi

US $196
Worn right front inner tie rod end. Replaced, did not have to remove engine block as originally expected. 
Mar 2016

156000 mi
back up camera no longer working check engine and cooresponding cruise, slippery when wet and flashing brake lights on. code read p0420 catalytic converter, but tech indicated car running rough and ck age of spark plugs. changed spark plugs and the catalytic converter code has been gone for over 2000 miles and has not returned. read in a forum the p0420 catalytic code is sometimes thrown when spark plugs are getting worn. 
Jun 2016

164000 mi

US $300
car throwing catalytic converter code again after 6000 miles, but rear oxygen sensor reading erratic, so opted to try to fix that first. code lights out for 600 miles, on a day and back out for 1200, 
Jul 2016

165000 mi

US $327
clutch fork failure just under 1 year after main clutch pressure plate and other pieces replacement. entire trans and stuff had to be removed again, was not happy about the labor recharge, garage negotiated a discount $18 part $600 labor. 
Sep 2016

170000 mi
pulsing brakes, brakes checked - not replaced transaxle leaks not repaired tire tread low - not replaced 
Feb 2017

183210 mi

US $953
Cracking drive belt replaced Rear stabilizer bushings replaced Catalytic converter code. Converter replaced. Backordered so a couple weeks after the other repairs. 
Feb 2018

207100 mi

US $52
low driver beam out, passenger marker bulb out 
Jul 2018

217000 mi

US $20
Passenger low beam replaced 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Oct 2012 - Dec 2012
Nov 2012

67800 mi

US $50
Starter was making a grinding noise at 69,000 miles and only below freezing. Replaced with new one. It turns over a lot quicker. 
Subaru Outback in Kansas, United States
Nov 2010 - Mar 2015
May 2011

7000 mi
Squeaking/rattling in several spots in the dash and doors. 

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2011 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

165-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed shiftable CVT AWD

Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Jun 2014 - Mar 2015
Sep 2014

50220 mi

C $200
Loose heat shields all the time. My dealership won't cut them off so they keep re-clamping them. Did it for free first couple of times, but charged me $100 last time. Will bring to local shop next time to get cut off. Electrical hum when iPhone attached to USB hub. The hum would become higher pitched as the engine revved higher. Ended up being a pinched cable in the wire harness, from a tie-wrap too tight. Took two trips to shop to recognize and fix. 
Subaru Outback in Nova Scotia, Canada
Oct 2020 - Jul 2022
Nov 2020

137024 mi

C $24
Note: Not maintenance. Asked for quote on repair costs for - steering wheel radio volume button not working. -when rear defrost turned on then get no radio reception, just get static. *Quotes> replace lower half of steering wheel so have new radio volume button> cost: $322.88 >replace rear windshield, as antennae embedded in windshield is now damaged and thus affected by rear defroster. >cost: $1,459.33 Needless to say I had neither of these completed. 
Dec 2020

137112 mi

C $356
-New muffler installed. -Exhaust gasket replaced. 
Jun 2021

132343 mi

C $901
Both control arms w/ ball joint of the lower front suspension were replaced. Front sway bar link also replaced. -Rear brake pads replaced with ceramic pads. -Rear Brake rotors replaced. -Front Brake rotors replaced. 
Jul 2021

139169 mi

C $268
Parking brake shoes were replaced. 
Aug 2021

139581 mi

C $37
Replaced passenger side brake light bulb. 
Dec 2021

140120 mi

C $36
tire wall had separated from rim 
Jul 2022

141980 mi

C $900
Both control arms replaced at rear. 
Subaru Outback in New South Wales, Australia
Feb 2015 - Jun 2018
Jun 2018

93620 mi

A $3500
Tranny fault P2762 TQ clutch pressure control solenoid circuit range/performance, cant purchase solenoid separately, valve pack $3300 aust 800US. rang three tranny specialists none would repair a CVT tranny. Subaru advised replace tranny at cost of $7500. Replaced tranny with a secondhand tranny from wreckers(65000kms). This is poor service from Subaru Australia, there is an obvious fault with this tranny when Subaru USA increased the tranny warranty from five years to TEN years 100000 miles. In Aust THREE years warranty.This is a very expensive failure on a non serviceable component that Subaru Australia should acknowledge and fix, Beware all Australians owners of Subarus with CVT transmissions. 

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2010 Subaru Outback

Engine not specified

Subaru Outback in Connecticut, United States
Feb 2010 - Jun 2011
Apr 2010

3000 mi
steering wheel vibrates, car wanders and doesn't track well 

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2010 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 148hp 2.0L H4 Diesel 6-speed manual AWD

Subaru Outback in Victoria, Australia
Mar 2010 - Jun 2021
Sep 2011

16740 mi
LH rear wheel stud broken and other wheel nuts loose (possibly a result of faulty stud) reulting in thread damage to other 4 studs. Had all 5 studs replaced on LH rear wheel, and cheked all other studs and wheel nuts. 
Oct 2012

38440 mi
Steering wheel had mild shakes at 90-115km/hr, getting progressively worse. "PAC file" was performed 
Sep 2013

46500 mi

A $100
Sun roof leaking/pouring water into cabin - sun roof drains were blocked 
Mar 2017

105400 mi

A $4100
Diesel particulate filter failed spectacularly following an air leak in the turbo air lines (difficult to say if the air leak became worse following the DPF failure, or caused it). DPF was replaced with a new unit. Leaking turbo air lines/seals were replaced. 
Oct 2017

111600 mi

A $2500
Replaced binding centre differential Sunroof drains cleared again (large amount of water leaking into passenger side cabin) 
Apr 2018

114700 mi
Takata airbag recall work, general service and water leak 
Subaru Outback in Victoria, Australia
May 2010 - Jan 2012
Aug 2010

3040 mi
Carbon catchment filled and would not empty dy driving as described in the manual. Had to be taken to shop for manual emptying 
Feb 2011

11780 mi
Key failed. Problem is circuit board disengages from buttons. Dealer reports at least 10 vehicles with same problem. 
Jan 2012

25420 mi
ERC unit & DPF (Diesel Motor) replaced for second time. 

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2010 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

256-horsepower 3.6L H6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD

Subaru Outback in Oklahoma, United States
Nov 2009 - Apr 2013
Nov 2012

35500 mi
Steering wheel was shaking at highway speed. There's a TSB to address issue. Before replacing any suspension parts the dealer said I must replace all four tires with new. I declined since tires still had plenty of tread. 
Apr 2013

38000 mi
Never fixed intermittent vibration in steering wheel. 
Subaru Outback in Maine, United States
Dec 2009 - Jun 2012
Apr 2010

900 mi
Sunroof leaked and was repaired by dealer under warranty. 
Jun 2010

3000 mi
Leaking sunroof. 
Sep 2010

4000 mi
The dealer had an after-market nav-audio system installed at time of purchase. The steering wheel volume control ceased to function and a private automobile company repaired it at the dealer's expense. 
Dec 2010

7000 mi
Oil light on despite normal oil level. Turned off by mechanic. Problem has not recurred in the ensuing week. 
Subaru Outback in Maryland, United States
Oct 2009 - Nov 2020
Feb 2015

77700 mi
Parking brake went on by itself while parking; mechanic tested and said it was releasing very slowing due to poor design and cold weather; suggested I not use parking brake during cold & let him know if problem continued in warm weather. 
Jul 2018

121000 mi

US $1075
Not exactly sure... wheel bearings were replaced in both rear wheels. 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Oct 2009 - Jun 2022
Dec 2009

2000 mi
Hesitation on acceleration from slow speeds, then sudden power surge. Corrected original hesitation problem with reflash. 
Apr 2011

15000 mi
Cigarette lighter will not work. They repaired it, but it stopped working as soon as I drove off the lot. 
Aug 2011

17600 mi
lighter repaired again. Have not used it since, so I don't know if it is still working. 
Jul 2015

45000 mi

US $1
A/C stopped working 
Dec 2016

51000 mi

US $90
Remote keys stopped working. Still not resolved. 
Subaru Outback in Florida, United States
Jan 2010 - Apr 2017
Mar 2016

65000 mi
Puddle lights went out and the entire unit was replaced at no charge. 
Dec 2016

70000 mi

US $3
Power steering failed 
Subaru Outback in New Hampshire, United States
Dec 2014 - Jun 2018
May 2016

87300 mi

US $85
AC Blowing warm air. Low on refrigerant. No leak was detected. Added dye and refilled. 
Jun 2016

89000 mi

US $497
Slow Leak in condenser, located with dye. Replaced condenser, cleaned lines, recharged A/C. 
Sep 2016

94000 mi

US $140
Worn front lower control arm ball joint. Replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Nov 2009 - Mar 2019
Mar 2011

31000 mi
CE lamp AND BRAKE warning light illuminated. Shut itself off on the way to dealer. I pulled codes for all 6 cyl misfires. Dealer could not fathom the problem. Second time it's happened. I elevated complaint to SOA. 
Jan 2012

92700 mi

US $80
One headlight out. because of difficulty, decided to have dealer replace both bulbs. 
Aug 2012

64200 mi

US $275
Volume switch and radio mode switch on steering wheel failed. Required replacing BOTH sets of switches (an assembly with a single part number) and $275. 
Dec 2016

115000 mi

US $230
Serpentine belt idler bearing failed, belt popped 
Mar 2019

132000 mi

US $48
Headlights replaced 
Subaru Outback in Arkansas, United States
Jan 2010 - Jun 2014
Jul 2013

41800 mi

US $130
Passenger window stopped working - just after warranty! The dealership gave me 50% off parts and free labor to replace the window regulator. 
Subaru Outback in New Hampshire, United States
Oct 2011 - Nov 2011
Nov 2011

32000 mi

US $450
Manual transmission failed to stay in "reverse" when needed. Transmission rebuilt with replacement gears and plastic fork, along with addition of shim material. Passenger seatbelt "buckle receptacle," when not used, made very noticeable vibration noise at both low and high road speeds. 
Subaru Outback in Oregon, United States
Sep 2012 - Apr 2015
Apr 2013

22300 mi
The trim on the driver seat needed to be replaced. Piece that was ordered prior was installed 
Subaru Outback in Nevada, United States
Jul 2011 - Sep 2012
Aug 2011

8000 mi
Car stalled at stop lights. No TSB or recall available. Reflashed transmission computer and released car. Problem not fixed. 
Jun 2012

17000 mi
Transmission software TSB TSB, RPMs drop at low speed with A/C on 
Subaru Outback in Quebec, Canada
Jan 2010 - Jun 2018
Aug 2010

5580 mi
Leaky timing chain cover gasket 
Aug 2011

14260 mi
Indentation on the armrest where I usually put my forearm while driving. Had it checked by dealer and part was ordered under warranty 
Feb 2012

18600 mi
leak from the timing chain cover gasket. 2nd time in for this problem. repaired under warranty 
Dec 2013

43400 mi

C $85
Timing belt replacement 
Jul 2015

59500 mi

C $300
Changed the right front tie-rod end 
May 2016

70060 mi
Replaced two wheel bearings 
Nov 2016

76340 mi

C $150
Changed the battery 
Apr 2017

80600 mi

C $800
changed bushings at front wheels rear brake piston 
Dec 2017

90520 mi

C $1700
Cooling hose replaced Replace rear brakes Changed the oil pan 
Subaru Outback in Vermont, United States
Feb 2010 - Sep 2016
Nov 2015

72900 mi

US $110
New head light bulb 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Oct 2009 - May 2013
Mar 2011

24000 mi
Steering wheel buttons would not work or would work intermittently. 
Subaru Outback in Arizona, United States
Oct 2009 - Jan 2014
Apr 2010

6000 mi
Oil light intermittently came on, a sensor was "loose" as per technician 
Sep 2010

9000 mi
Low oil light came on, car more than 2 qts low, but no leaking, refilled oil, but could not find/fix problem. Dealer states other dealer that did last oil change "underfilled" oil 
Oct 2010

9500 mi
oil light turned on, car was almost 2 qts low with no sign of leakage. dealer stated possibly other dealer underfilled car at last oil change. 
Mar 2011

13000 mi
Car had low oil warning again, 1 qt oil added. Low oil sensor replaced, oil change completed 
Jan 2014

11000 mi
Water leaking into passenger side windshield No sound from speakers Sunroof quit operating 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Sep 2009 - Jul 2017
Nov 2009

1000 mi
The sunroof was incorrectly installed. One of the drainage holes was filled with white goo and caused rainwater to leak into the passenger section and it caused a bunch of damage. Subaru fixed it all and gave me some add'l warranty and Subaru bucks. 
Apr 2010

4000 mi
plastic strip along exterior of driver's side of car running from front to back was missing a connecting pin, and so was falling off. Dealer replaced the missing clip and the problem was solved. 
Jun 2010

5000 mi
The air conditioner had crinked tube and water flowed into the passenger section of the car. Lots of water, soaking with about an inch of water on floor of car. 
Oct 2010

5300 mi
Once again this car had water flooding in the interior of the car. Subaru dealership said it was caused again by "spiders and webs" in the air conditioning hose. I don't believe it. They replaced the hose. This is getting to be a pain. 
Oct 2011

11000 mi
Dealer called in manufacturer's field office. The explanation given to me, once again: "spiders" and spider webs in a/c lines causing blockage and water flooding. This is total BS. 
Apr 2016

36200 mi
Was driving car and then it became difficult to use power steering (it died) and stalled out. Needed to be flatbedded out. The tensioner belt had snapped and rendered the power steering and alternator to be useless. 
Oct 2016

37300 mi
Key not working 
Subaru Outback in Georgia, United States
Mar 2010 - Jun 2012
Apr 2012

20000 mi
Faulty gas cap caused service engine light, cruise, traction control and brake lights to illuminate. 
Subaru Outback in Ohio, United States
Sep 2009 - Sep 2011
May 2011

24000 mi
During oil change coolant was observed leaking from weep hole on water pump. Subaru dealer agreed and ordered new pump. Waited a week for the part. Replacement took almost 2 days. 
Subaru Outback in Massachusetts, United States
- Apr 2010
Apr 2010

1444 mi
1 day - Diagnosis steering wheel shake  2 days - RFB per SOA to eliminate wheels and tires as source of shake 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Mar 2010 - Jul 2022
Mar 2011

8000 mi
Weather strip on door replaced Replaced ill-fitting tweeter on dash near driver 
Apr 2012

15000 mi
Driver's seat bottom was stained and frayed. it was replaced under warranty. 
Jul 2022

65700 mi

US $350
Exhaust system was leaking at gaskets. 
Subaru Outback in British Columbia, Canada
Apr 2010 - Mar 2015
Jun 2010

1860 mi
Satellite radio will only tune a few stations 
Jul 2010

3100 mi
Replaced front module for Audio, CD, DVD Sat radio system 
Mar 2011

8060 mi
Car surges forward when the steering wheel is turned. Especially when engine is in warm up cycle. 
Subaru Outback in Texas, United States
Sep 2009 - Aug 2015
Jan 2010

3200 mi
Passenger door creaks in cold weather. Reflashed ECU to correct hesitation problem. 
Jun 2010

7000 mi
Navigation system lockup 
Mar 2011

17000 mi
Wheel shake 
Sep 2012

26000 mi
Navigation system locks up. 
Subaru Outback in Alberta, Canada
Apr 2010 - Jul 2022
Dec 2012

37200 mi
Leaking strut replaced under warranty. 
Sep 2021

129580 mi

C $500
Ignition coil replaced 
Jun 2022

130200 mi

C $400
CV joint boot split. Whole passenger side axel replaced as a precaution. 

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2010 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

170-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed shiftable CVT AWD

Subaru Outback in Colorado, United States
Mar 2010 - Nov 2014
Mar 2013

44000 mi
both front shocks leaking. covered under warranty. initially took car in for puddle light recall. 
Subaru Outback in North Carolina, United States
Feb 2012 - Jul 2022
Mar 2021

119000 mi

US $500
Radiator replacement 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Jan 2010 - Jun 2014
Aug 2010

9200 mi
Computer system update required. Paid in full by Subaru of America. Done while in for 7,500 mile maintenance (tire rotation, oil change, etc) 
Jan 2014

US $400
Exterior door trim piece came loose. Retaining clips needed to be ordered and installed. 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Mar 2010 - Sep 2013
Sep 2013

79000 mi

US $300
fan motor broke / fuse blown / car overheated 
Subaru Outback in Maryland, United States
Feb 2010 - Jun 2013
May 2013

85000 mi

US $50
Check engine light reporting Cat Converter failure. Did not have work done, just diagnosed. 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Feb 2010 - Sep 2013
Feb 2013

40900 mi
Changed oil clogged oil nozzle under warranty. 
Subaru Outback in Indiana, United States
Feb 2010 - Dec 2011
Oct 2010

17000 mi
Took car in for maintenence service along with several issues including squeaking noise in passenger seat and scuff marks on steering wheel from previous dealer oil change. Dealer replaced passenger seat belt mechanism and steering wheel. 
Mar 2011

28000 mi
Noise coming from passenger front seat (squeaks). First time replaced seat belt receptacle and it solved problem for a few weeks. Noise returned and this time replaced seat belt and receptacle. So far it has solved the noise issue. 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Mar 2010 - Mar 2021
Mar 2012

36000 mi
I have an unusual amount of paint chips in my hood. I understand this is normal w/hghwy travel, but it's just too much. Chips down to gray undercoat and several are rust spots 
Jun 2015

97000 mi

US $100
CVT converter needed to be replaced. Extended warranty covered 
May 2018

150000 mi

US $500
ABS assembly was diagnosed as bad by the dealer. Purchased part from another dealer (cheaper), and installed by myself 
Subaru Outback in Kentucky, United States
Mar 2010 - May 2016
May 2010

3200 mi
gas cap lid or body panel cover would not open, so couldn't get gas. tentative diagnosis: the rubber cord that holds the gas cap to the car body inside the lid got pinched in the lid, wedging it closed. dealer's gonna replace the cord-fastener. 
Jun 2011

13000 mi
intermittent GPS/audio system problems: screen "auto" dimming doesn't work so sometimes bright at night, too dim during day; also bluetooth works erratically 
Sep 2011

15000 mi
bluetooth controls not effective at answering or ending phone calls. dealer replaced steering wheel controls. Took three trips: first reported problem; second time reported problem and they ordered part; third trip was for install of part Tire loses 4-7 psi every 2-3 weeks. To tire dealer 3x, can't find leak, replaced valve stem, re-mounted tire to seal bead. Said cld be crack in wheel, see dealer. Dealer couldn't find leak in wheel or tire. Said see tire mfgr. I'm stuck. 
Jul 2012

23500 mi
Car wouldn't start or come out of park. Couldn't lock doors. Dealer says bad elec key code sensor. Had to be flatbed-towed to dealer. Subaru roadside assist covered tow, but I had to wait 25 mins on hold just for them to answer my call). July visit described above turned out to be bad battery. Battery replaced under warranty. 
Apr 2015

43200 mi
Bluetooth connectivity problems, steering wheel phone control problems. Wonky system. Solution tends to be non-intuitive commands. 
Mar 2016

44000 mi

US $50
Pulsing in steering wheel when turned. They flushed the steering fluid. Problem persists and will be returned. Update: turned out to be a bad tire. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Feb 2010 - May 2011
Jun 2010

3720 mi
Steering wheel vibration at high speeds (>100 km/h). Replacement of steering system bushings, new tires 
Aug 2010

6520 mi
The steering wheel was replaced with the modified one (as per TSB). The new steering wheel incorporates a dynamic vibration damper. 
Feb 2011

14880 mi
Replaced lower steering arms, replaced steering column, replaced steering wheel, replaced various bushing including front stabilizer bar bushings  
May 2011

17980 mi
Tires, one rim and drive axles replaced. Unsuccessful repair, sold car. 
Subaru Outback in Georgia, United States
Mar 2010 - Jan 2011
Dec 2010

12000 mi
Moonroof would operate intermittently, then stopped working in open position. Dealer adjusted and lubricated tracks 
Subaru Outback in Massachusetts, United States
Feb 2010 - Dec 2014
Aug 2010

9000 mi
Diagnosed with an engine block that was porous. A new short block was put into the car under warranty. 
Jan 2011

15000 mi
Coolant was down to reservoir, so they topped it off. I was concerned about where it is going. They said to just watch it until oil change in several hundred miles. 
Apr 2013

39300 mi

US $100
Dash lights were out and electronic door opener were not working consistently 
Subaru Outback in Quebec, Canada
Feb 2010 - Dec 2016
Mar 2010

496 mi
between 20 and 30 degrees farenheit I had problems starting the car reprogram computer to solve start problem when cold 
Aug 2014

64480 mi

C $150
remove metal plates around catalyzer 
Jun 2015

76260 mi

C $500
Rear bearing change 
Apr 2016

86260 mi

C $250
Replace fuel system oxygen sensor Replace front wheel bearing + hub 
Dec 2016

96100 mi

C $350
after noisy start, replace starter 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Nov 2009 - Jun 2017
Nov 2010

14000 mi
Water leaking into interior. TSB#12-117-10R Map light area water leak repair. 
Aug 2016

77000 mi

US $400
Car would not start. Replaced crank sensor. 
Subaru Outback in Maryland, United States
Sep 2009 - May 2016
Dec 2010

22000 mi
Headlight bulb - replaced by Dealer under warranty 
Apr 2011

28500 mi
Rear tag lights - bulb replacement and/or connection repair. Rear Tag lights - bulb replacement and/or connection repair 
Nov 2011

41200 mi

US $50
Condensor-to-Evaporator line leaking - replaced line 
Dec 2014

92000 mi

US $50
Power Lock actuator failed - replaced. Seat lumbar support mechanism failed - fixed. 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Sep 2009 - Mar 2010
Oct 2009 Subtle steering wheel shimmy/shaking at low speeds but greater shimmy/shaking at highway speeds 
Nov 2009

1000 mi
Steering shake, vibration, shimmy at midrange speeds and severe at highway speeds.  
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Oct 2009 - Jul 2018
Nov 2015

88000 mi
lumbar support failed 
Jul 2018

118000 mi

US $1000
both rear wheel hubs went bad 
Subaru Outback in Connecticut, United States
Sep 2009 - May 2011
Oct 2009

1000 mi
engine hesitation going up steep driveway. Common problem but no fix yet. 
Mar 2010

4000 mi
CVT transmission sometimes locks in 2nd, 3rd, or 4th. Will not automatically return to drive. Also, periodic low groan from right rear when making a left turn from a stop. 
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Sep 2009 - Jun 2018
Oct 2009

1000 mi
When vehicle was purchased there was a slight popping noise coming from the rear speakers even with the radio off. The dealership tried new head unit and chasing wires. Still waiting to get fixed. 
Aug 2010

7500 mi
Tire pressure monitoring light came on and would not go off even after checking tire pressure. Took to dealer who checked tire pressure again and turned off light with computer. Will wait and see if the problem recurrs or not.  
Dec 2012

31000 mi
Took vehicle in for random drops in idle when coming to a stop. This also happens during slow speed maneuvering in parking lots. Due to the random nature of the problem, Dealer was unable to duplicate or pull any codes from the vehicle. 
Dec 2014

47000 mi
Passenger airbag fails to detect weight of person less than 120 lbs or less. Was not an issue for first 4 years of ownership yet dealership and SOA says that the airbag sensor is working as designed and fail to repair under extended warrant 
Mar 2018

77000 mi
Air bag replaced as part of major recall 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Sep 2009 - Mar 2010
Dec 2009

6200 mi
Vibration and shaking 
Jan 2010

6300 mi
Replacement of the steering rack spring  
Mar 2010

6820 mi
Vibration The car was replaced for the brand new one by manufacturer  
Subaru Outback in Minnesota, United States
Jul 2009 - Jun 2022
Mar 2010

14000 mi
Cold weather start bug 
May 2010

16900 mi
updated firmware to address cold weather start issue, and cvt updated to use lower ratio in reverse 
Mar 2017

117000 mi

US $1400
some sensors, oil flush/change axle cv boot 
Jun 2018

137000 mi

US $550
Wheel bearing 
Mar 2019

147000 mi
torque converter replaced under warranty. lot of stalling, etc starting from a stop 
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Jul 2009 - Feb 2011
Dec 2009

7000 mi
Heat shield bent of exhaust pipe bent into the drive shaft from snow buildup. Heat shield was pushed back to shape. Shop foreman said he would report a bad design issue to Subaru. 
Feb 2011

24000 mi
Steering wheel vibration, 2011 TSB performed 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Aug 2009 - Feb 2016
Sep 2009

620 mi
Sunroof failed to open. Repaired works fine now. 
Aug 2011

17100 mi
Heater / AC fan bearing going. New one ordered, to be installed August 8. 
Jul 2014

55580 mi

C $700
Idler pully bearing failed on serpentine belt. Left front wheel bearing replaced 
Dec 2015

77500 mi

C $1500
Hanger bearing failed, needed new drive shaft. Brake line failed and leaked brake fluid. Also wheel bearing failed and was replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Mississippi, United States
Sep 2009 - Oct 2019
Oct 2009

2000 mi
Brake warning light started flashing after releasing the emergency brake. Initially duplicated at dealer, but then went away after restarting. 
Oct 2010

13500 mi
dealer scratched steering wheel during repair of recall 
Mar 2016

54000 mi
Dealer replaced headlights 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Sep 2009 - Dec 2013
Aug 2010

10000 mi
Bad Drivers outside mirror was replaced, would not adjust from inside car. 
Subaru Outback in Texas, United States
Oct 2009 - Mar 2012
Oct 2010

15000 mi
Steering column support bracket was loose. Repaired by retightening bolts. 
Nov 2010

16500 mi
1. Something broke the engine cover underneath the car during a trip. This is the plastic shroud that runs from the bottom of the bumper to the front axle. 2. A trim piece on the rear door glass is loose. Parts ordered. 
Feb 2011

21500 mi
Installed black plastic window trim on edge of rear door. Would have been replaced last month, but the part that came in was broken.  Installed black plastic window trim on edge of rear door. Would have been replaced last month, but the part that came in was broken.  
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Mar 2010 - Jul 2017
Nov 2011

25000 mi
Vibration in front end. Not tire issue as thought. Right Front Axle needed replacement. Part Ordered. Right Front Axle replaced. Vibration issue fixed. 
Nov 2015

64000 mi

US $100
Replace Low Beam Headlight.  Replace Brake Light on back door, water leak. 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Jan 2010 - Oct 2013
Mar 2010

6000 mi

US $180
Have a harmon Kardon system, no Navigation. Noticed front driver side door speaker sounded blown (i.e. intermittent sound, lots of static, no bass), possibly from loose connection. Dealer replaced speaker under warranty. 
Oct 2013

93000 mi

US $90
The exhaust piping between the muffler and the mid-pipe flange rotted through right at the flange. A muffler shop welded a splice between broken pipe and the flange. Experiencing another exhaust leak/rattle before the Cat, location unknw. 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Jan 2010 - Apr 2012
Apr 2012

23000 mi
Air bag light stayed on. Reset module and hasn't been on since. 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Jan 2010 - Jun 2012
Mar 2011

26000 mi
Power sunroof stopped working. Warranty repair included replacing parts. 
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Nov 2009 - Jun 2018
Dec 2012

32000 mi

US $45
Low bulb 
Jul 2017

98000 mi

US $800
Head gasket replacement 
Apr 2018

109000 mi

US $500
Oxygen sensor 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Nov 2009 - Apr 2016
Aug 2013

29500 mi

US $150
Steering wheel shook at highway speed. Car did not feel stable. One strut found to be leaking; replaced both cost $150 per strut total bill estimated at $632 to fix. Update: Subaru later covered all but $150. 
Subaru Outback in Ohio, United States
Oct 2009 - Sep 2012
Sep 2011

39000 mi

US $15
In the past month, the low beam, brake light and tail light all burned out at different times. I am hoping that this is not going to be an ongoing issue, but wanted others to be aware. To replace head light, the inner fender must be removed 
Mar 2012

50000 mi

US $34
Headlights again burned out. Was told to use less wattage bulbs. Lasted about 5000 miles. Had center section of dash lights and fans all go out until I started the car again and has been fine since. Steering wheel volume not always working. 
Subaru Outback in North Dakota, United States
Nov 2009 - Sep 2011
Dec 2010

20000 mi
The "low" setting on the driver's seat warmer did not always work. Looses wiring harness was corrected at no cost to us. 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Nov 2009 - Oct 2014
Nov 2013

41000 mi

US $99
Water was leaking into car thru overhead console. Two of the drain holes were plugged. Also had brakes checked, stil have 70% of pads left at 41K. Also had partial drain & fill of CVT, took 6 qrts, cost $275. Very satisfied w car & service. 
Aug 2014

48000 mi

US $100
Sticky sunroof, needed adjustment & lube. Rather disappointing since it went into the dealer less than 6 months earlier to repair sunroof leak. At the same time the auto up feature of drivers window stopped working, possible detailing relatd 
Subaru Outback in Texas, United States
Mar 2010 - Sep 2014
Feb 2014

89300 mi

US $200
200 dollars to replace the headlight bulbs, Ouch. 
Subaru Outback in Tennessee, United States
Feb 2010 - Oct 2012
May 2010

3000 mi
Steering wheel vibration, fixed after three trips. Finally replaced the steering rack spring then the bushings in the drivetrain. The real issue, in my opinion, was the new bushings. Subaru had you run a gauntlet to get the bushings. 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Nov 2016 - Sep 2023
Nov 2016

89000 mi
Passenger seat airbag sensor 
Dec 2016

90000 mi
Passenger seat airbag sensor 
Mar 2022

131000 mi

US $150
Transmission slips in highest gear 
Subaru Outback in Kentucky, United States
Mar 2017 - Apr 2018
Feb 2018

104000 mi

US $505
right rear wheel bearing wore out required replacement. 
Subaru Outback in Alaska, United States
Dec 2015 - Apr 2017
Mar 2016

93000 mi

US $300
Crossover pipe leaking coolant 
Apr 2016

94000 mi
Wheel bearing, brakes, and rotors replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Missouri, United States
Jun 2013 - Jul 2013
Jul 2013

54000 mi
Passenger seat motor 
Subaru Outback in Florida, United States
Jun 2017 - Jun 2018
May 2018

125000 mi

US $500
Lower control arm bushings worn/cracked 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Jan 2017 - Mar 2017
Jan 2017

156000 mi

US $600
both rear wheel bearings were bad slipping trans and not properly shifting. Would have to use paddles to down shift or upshift many times. Engine would lug along because of trans being in high gear. can't make it up steep inclines at low speeds, engines go to stall "no fix" 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Dec 2012 - Nov 2014
Nov 2014

55000 mi
rear power window straining and int failure, motor replaced under extended warranty 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Jun 2009 - Jul 2022
Dec 2012

36580 mi

C $33
Fog light bulb replacement. $33 labor. 
Jul 2013

40580 mi

C $50
Headlight bulb replacement. Didn't realize we were supposed to report these. This is probably the 4th time I've had to get a lightbulb replaced in my headlight. 
Dec 2013

46500 mi
Headlamp adjustment. Asked my local shop to fix a couple of times. Thought they'd forgotten (no better). This last time they remarked how low they were when we pointed it out. They fixed. No better. Broken? Dangerous. Will go back. 
Dec 2014

55800 mi

C $120
Replaced headlight bulb. Had a problem with the alignment of the lights (pointing too low). Mechanic billed $115 labour to adjust them. $5 for the bulb. We've had the "headlights pointing too low" problem before. Unclear what the prob is. 
Jun 2015

60140 mi

C $420
Faulty oil pressure switch 
Oct 2015

64160 mi

C $285
oil light came on. Had been leaking oil. Replaced a rusty leaking oil pan. 
Feb 2017

74400 mi
The heat shields were making a horrible rattling noise. It was repaired with a $10 clamp. 
Aug 2017

79360 mi

C $40
Another heat shield began to rattle. The mechanic removed it rather than clamp it. 
Nov 2017

81840 mi
drivers headlight bulb needed replacing 
May 2018

84246 mi

C $262
Passenger headlight brake light Exhaust was corroded on joint. A sleeve was welded over it to keep it from breaking apart A loud crunch sound could be heard in colder weather whenever I went over a bump. Mechanic could not duplicate sound. Hasn't appeared in warmer weather 
Apr 2022

120900 mi

C $500
Car stopped being able to accelerate under pressure (passing). Turned out to be the oil pressure sensor. 
Jul 2022

124000 mi

C $10000
Entire exhaust system from catalytic converter to muffler needs to be replaced. Quoted just under $10,000 parts and labour. Opted not to get the work done. 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Dec 2013 - Jun 2015
Mar 2015

60000 mi

US $1500
Replace leaking front struts. Replaced leaking radiator assembly. 
Subaru Outback in Maryland, United States
Dec 2013 - Mar 2016
Oct 2014

219800 mi

US $373
Slight noise from left rear was bad rear wheel bearing which was failing. Replaced at independent shop for a lot less than dealer with twice the guarantee ( 2yrs./ 24000 miles. First failure of any kind on this car since new 
Oct 2015

255200 mi

US $600
At time of front rotor replacement, grease was noticed on inside of wheel. Further inspection showed small cut in outer CV boot. Part is too new to be supplied by aftermarket , so an OEM replacement was installed. No mechanical failure. 
Subaru Outback in Colorado, United States
Jun 2013 - Jun 2022
Jun 2014

82000 mi

US $852
Leaking front struts and bouncy all around. 
Sep 2015

97000 mi

US $107
2010 original equipment battery wore out. 
Jul 2017

109000 mi
Wiper motor bottom cap recall. 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Oct 2013 - Jun 2018
Dec 2014

43000 mi

US $100
Passenger window would not seat properly when lowered and raised again. Window Motor actuator assy was replaced. 
Oct 2015

55200 mi

US $100
Noticed a hum coming from the front of the vehicle. Had scheduled service at deales and explained problem had them check it out. They concluded that the right front wheel bearing was bad. Replaced under Subaru extended warranty 
Subaru Outback in North Carolina, United States
Jun 2016 - Jun 2022
May 2018

136600 mi

US $2400
Water pump and belt replacement. Water pump had been replaced at 99k. Car had overheating issues days before pump replacement. Item began overheating 2 weeks after the water pump was replaced. This time it was the head gaskets. HG were replaced, cleaned up. New thermo, gaskets, front and rear seals, belts, etc. Also did placed some generic parts (for cost only) such a couple of bulbs. 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Mar 2015 - Jan 2022
Mar 2016

50000 mi

US $600
Front struts 
May 2017

63000 mi

US $250
Pads and rotors 
Subaru Outback in Quebec, Canada
Feb 2014 - Sep 2016
Apr 2014

61780 mi
Right rear door would not open from interior. Door mechanism changed on warranty. 
Jun 2015

96720 mi

C $2000
Head gasket leak and 2 pistons damaged. 
Aug 2015

99760 mi

C $500
AC not cold. Pump cyclying on off. Left rear wheel bearing failure. Wheel loose. 
Mar 2016

115320 mi

C $100
Clunking noise when driving over bumps. Sway bar bushings front and rear need to be replaced. The mechanic simply added shims for now saying it should do the trick for some time. 
Jun 2016

122760 mi

C $50
A/C sealant and recharge 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Jul 2014 - Jan 2022
Jun 2018

85900 mi

US $1300
Timing belt water pump thermostat and change coolant... tensioner bearings... 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Nov 2015 - Dec 2015
Dec 2015

85000 mi

US $3000
Headgaskets blown 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Aug 2015 - Mar 2016
Sep 2015

60000 mi

US $1000
Had to replace both Alternator and Battery. Had to replace the lumbar support clip 
Feb 2016

64900 mi

US $1000
battery drained, checked battery condition was perfect. Dealer said the output from the alternator is not consistent and recommended changing battery and alternator. Which I did. 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Dec 2014 - Jun 2022
Jun 2015

67000 mi

US $50
Valve cover and spark plug tube gaskets 
Oct 2017

98000 mi

US $500
Replace all 4 shocks / struts 
Jan 2018

99000 mi
Reprogramming of TCU to fix 1-2 flare / harsh shift. 
Jun 2022

112000 mi
Sunroof drains regularly clog and result in significant water entry 
Subaru Outback in Illinois, United States
Feb 2012 - Sep 2012
Mar 2012

65000 mi
shudder at 1200-1500 rpm, at 20-30-40 mph, is when problem can be experienced always mechanic and shop can feel shuddering but will not acknowledge----they do not know what is causing shuddering,therefore they feel problem is normal--problem can not be reproduced in same vehicle with same engine,trans,and year 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Dec 2015 - Jul 2018
Apr 2018

130000 mi

US $600
Window motor dead 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Jun 2010 - Jun 2012
Sep 2010

1860 mi
The car still has steering wheel vibration at highway speed. The dealer ordered a kit per TSB 
Oct 2010

2480 mi
TSB performed. Installed bushings, new wheel etc. Problem still exist. Now the vibrations can be felt through the body of the car. Going next week for another service. 
Nov 2010

3720 mi
Car was test driven by the service manager. He observed steering wheel vibration at highway speed. Contacted Subaru Canada and they are sending a rep to test drive the car. The test drive is scheduled for Dec 10th.  
Dec 2010

4340 mi
The car was test driven by Subaru rep. Observed the vibration at highway speed. He thinks this is a road feel or normal performance of the CVT transmition. Very frustrating experience. Will not recommend this model to any potential buyers. 
Apr 2011

6700 mi
Steering wheel vibration problem.  
Subaru Outback in Wisconsin, United States
Jun 2010 - Jan 2022
May 2013

56200 mi
Engine light started blinking and car stalled in traffic. Able to restart after 10 minutes (light stayed on) Garage found error message about camshaft timing. Mechanic reset computer and have not had a problem since. 
Jan 2014

65000 mi

US $40
Oil filter seal failed - all oil spilled into driveway. Apparently the problem is the seal broke in sub-zero weather. Mechanic said numerous Subarus had same problem during cold snap. 
Dec 2015

88000 mi

US $700
Manifold gasket and oil sensors. 
May 2016

93000 mi

US $350
High pressure power steering hose needed replacement.  Also right front headlight. 
Sep 2016

96000 mi

US $144
Needed to reattach heat shield because of rattle. 
Mar 2017

100000 mi

US $1500
tighten the heat shield to stop rattling, replaced rusting oil pan 
Oct 2017

109000 mi

US $1100
Warped rotors 
Jan 2018

111000 mi

US $1000
Sudden drop in mileage (from 26 to 18 mpg) cleaned injectors replaced plugs. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Jun 2011 - Jun 2022
Aug 2013

41580 mi

C $50
Headlight replacement 
Jun 2018

102920 mi

C $900
Noise [from wheel bearing] 
Jun 2021

137640 mi

C $500
Fuel line rust and leaking fuel 
Subaru Outback in Illinois, United States
Jul 2017 - Jun 2018
Mar 2018

141000 mi
Recall repair for passenger airbag 
Subaru Outback in Michigan, United States
Jun 2017 - Nov 2020
Oct 2017

130000 mi

US $2100
Timing belt 
Subaru Outback in Nova Scotia, Canada
Apr 2010 - Jun 2018
May 2012

32000 mi
Puddle light shorted out. Part of a string of 14 electrical components wired to a single fuse. The dealer removed the faulty light and ordered a replacement. Unfortunately, the replacement was the wrong bulb, and we are still awaiting the correct one.  
Sep 2017

117180 mi
power passenger seat works intermittently power passenger seat control worked intermittently cruise control switch on steering wheel worked intermittently 
Jun 2018

128340 mi

C $1300
cracked subframe 
Subaru Outback in Alberta, Canada
Feb 2013 - Aug 2018
Mar 2018

117800 mi

C $20
Passenger side headlight bulb replacement 
Aug 2018

124620 mi

C $1440
replace front and rear brake rotors, pads Replace rear sway bar bushings 
Subaru Outback in Colorado, United States
May 2010 - Jun 2011
Jun 2010

1960 mi
Car has vibration. Wheels balanced 3 times from dealer & 3 times by independent tire store, not fixed. Factory amits problems exists, no solution to fix. Was told POSSIBLE solution coming in mid July. Not happy with new car. Tried for the 2nd time to balence wheels to address vibration in saet and stearing wheel at 60+ MPH. Could not fix. Tech called Subaru "Help Line" and was told they are awere of problem and do not have fix.  
Jul 2010

2660 mi
Subaru finally found "fix" to vibration and fix my Outback. No issues since and I'm now happy with my car. 
Subaru Outback in Idaho, United States
Nov 2011 - Dec 2011
Dec 2011

26000 mi

US $30
Clear plastic film in front of rear fenders was scaling and had to be replaced on both sides. 
Subaru Outback in Maryland, United States
Jul 2010 - Oct 2013
Sep 2010

10000 mi
Noise when accelerating. Was coming from heat shield. Dealer adjusted it twice before, but would come back after one month. Replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Colorado, United States
May 2011 - Jun 2015
Jul 2011

14000 mi
Car would sometimes report that rear hatch wasn't closed all of the way. The dealer adjusted the rubber bumpers. ECU was also reprogrammed for long-start condition at high-altitudes in cold conditions. 
Subaru Outback in Maryland, United States
Jun 2010 - Jul 2015
Jun 2014

105000 mi

US $1800
Stereo logic not working with ipod 
Subaru Outback in South Carolina, United States
Nov 2009 - Jun 2011
Jan 2010

166 mi
On day of purchase check engine light was on; reported to me that the oil sensor was not plugged in correctly and once that fitting was tightened all was OK - Car drives like a dream. 
Subaru Outback in Colorado, United States
Mar 2011 - Jun 2017
Dec 2015

142000 mi

US $1000
Head gasket 
Subaru Outback in South Carolina, United States
- Nov 2009
Nov 2009

848 mi
had brakes checked. pedal makes a click on release-told wnl 
Subaru Outback in Wyoming, United States
Oct 2010 - Jun 2018
May 2015

47900 mi

US $200
remote starter quit working. Nav quit working. Audio quit working. DIC quit working. Puddle lights quit working. 
Oct 2015

50800 mi

US $1200
the nav audio headlights dome lights and puddle lights went out. Now the key receptacle ring flashes red. Claimed the computer went out. 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Nov 2010 - Jun 2022
Oct 2015

21200 mi

US $30
Left side hood strut failed 
Subaru Outback in Montana, United States
Nov 2010 - Apr 2015
Apr 2015

51000 mi

US $250
Wheel speed sensor on right, front wheel replaced. 

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2010 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

170-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed manual AWD

Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Mar 2016 - Jun 2016
Jun 2016

63000 mi

US $250
Front Caliper froze and needed to be replaced. 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Jul 2015 - Sep 2015
Aug 2015

75000 mi

US $171
Steering wheel controls stopped working. They had to order a special under-dash module to correct the issue, $170 for the part and two hours of labor. Thankfully I still had the CPO extended warranty. Also needed an alignment. 
Subaru Outback in Minnesota, United States
Nov 2009 - Mar 2010
Jan 2010 Misaligned door - they were able to fix it so the door shut properly, but is still not perfectly aligned. It appears the door itself may not be shaped correctly. I'm not thrilled, but I didn't buy a Lexus so I may be expecting too much. 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Dec 2012 - May 2015
Nov 2014

89700 mi

US $2100
Clutch and throw out bearing replacement. This is a 6 spd manual transmission 
Mar 2015

99000 mi

US $675
Head Gasket replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Jun 2021 - Jul 2022
May 2022

141980 mi

C $1200
Front subframe rusted severely, replaced, as a result control arm is broken too 
Subaru Outback in Yukon Territory, Canada
Feb 2010 - Jun 2018
Mar 2014

29760 mi

C $650
loud whining engine noise because of leak in steering fluid hose; dealer did not have part, so replaced fluid for free three times over the course of a week to avoid pump damage left headlight blew at about 46,000 km, was replaced during maintenance hose replaced a week later; problem fixed right headlight died in the week after routine maintenance, fixed the day the steering fluid hose was replaced. 
May 2014

30380 mi

C $85
Associated with the PZEV feature? An oxygen sensor somewhere triggers the check engine light, parking brake and traction lights. No apparent effect on performance, but means no cruise control or auto-disengage on parking brake. 
Apr 2015

38020 mi

C $200
Headlights both burned out 
Feb 2016

49640 mi
Manual transmission was sticking and resisting going into reverse. Car was just out of warranty, but dealer advocated and transmission was basically rebuilt (four synchros replaced) at manufacturer expense. 
Jun 2018

71300 mi

C $180
Both main headlights were blown (even though they were long-life, and replaced in 2015), so we just replaced with regular this time, and resigned ourselves to this car being mysteriously tough on light bulbs. 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Mar 2010 - Oct 2015
Aug 2012

33000 mi
E-Brake Motor failed, replaced under warranty. 
Aug 2014

55700 mi

US $50
Headlights out 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Feb 2010 - Dec 2015
Mar 2010

3900 mi

US $35
Vehicle sent in for stalling at idle, dealer reprogrammed ECM. Also first oil change. 
Apr 2011

16000 mi
Clip broken for driver's seat lumbar support. Brake light burned out and replaced. Trim ring on shift knob delaminated and clips failing letting ring fall down repeatedly. 
Mar 2013

51000 mi
Car vibrated and shook upon low speed turns such as parking. Replaced front center differential. 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Oct 2009 - Jun 2011
Aug 2010

10000 mi
Engine stalls when A/C is turned on. Electrical connector in steering column replaced. ABS cover cracked. Upgraded rubber floor mats worn out. Rattle under car. 
Subaru Outback in Ohio, United States
Nov 2013 - Dec 2013
Dec 2013

51000 mi

US $67
center electronic board shorted out in the snow. AC and Radio and clock not working. 
Subaru Outback in Florida, United States
Apr 2014 - Jan 2022
Apr 2014

40000 mi
Small vibration in the front end when cruising on the expressway. After time it got worse and would hear a clicking in the front from a acceleration from a stop. It was a front impeller shaft. Returned 2-3 weeks later. 
Sep 2015

51000 mi
Had a whining noise. Ended up getting a new transmission. 
Jan 2022

191000 mi

US $400
Front wheel bearings 
Subaru Outback in North Carolina, United States
Apr 2010 - Apr 2011
Jul 2010

3000 mi
A/C not as cool as it should be. R-134 added. Car dies sometimes when the clutch is engaged. Mechanic stated Subaru aware and ecu reflash is needed, but his computer has not been updated. 
Aug 2010

4000 mi
Dealership got the download to update the ecm. The ecm was reflashed the third week of August, and the car no longer dies when the clutch is engaged. The car drives much better. 
Subaru Outback in Connecticut, United States
Nov 2009 - Jun 2012
Apr 2010

7000 mi
Steering wheel shake at highway speeds. Dealer performed alignment and tire balance, but problem persists. 
Nov 2010

16700 mi

US $150
Slight steering wheel shimmy at highway speeds persists. Dealer just keeps giving the car wheel balance and alignments. Wind noise through driver's side window. Mechanic apparently could not hear it on initial drive, Everyone else who drives in the car can hear it, but I have to re-schedule a "drive-along" with the dealer's mechanic next appointment.  Car intermittently stalled at idle when clutch was depressed. Dealer flashed ECU update. Appears to be OK. 
Mar 2011

25000 mi
Excessive wind noise coming through driver's side window at highway speeds. 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Oct 2009 - Apr 2010
Apr 2010

7000 mi
The Outback has a vibration/shake in the steering wheel. Dealer tried numerous fixes, including numerous road force balances of the tires. Installed a heavier spring in the steering column. Did not solve the issue, SOA bought back the Outback. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Dec 2013 - Jun 2018
Feb 2015

69440 mi

C $100
Had to change drivers side headlight bulb. Labourious process. 
Jun 2016

76880 mi

C $500
Leak in AC pipe repaired + recharge/refill Oil pressure switch failed causing slow oil leak. Replaced OPS. 
Mar 2018

94240 mi

C $500
Left front wheel bearing worn out, had to be replaced 
Subaru Outback in Oklahoma, United States
Jun 2010 - Jun 2011
May 2010

16000 mi
Replaced sub-frame for drivers seat due to excessive squeaking; took 2 days, one to analyze, then a separate trip back after the ordered part came in; covered by warranty. replaced something else in the drivers seat to fix excessive squeaking; again it took 2 days, one to analyze, then a separate trip back after the ordered part came in; warranty covered. 
Jun 2010

17000 mi
replaced entire seat assembly due to excessive squeaking; warranty covered; 1 1/2 days lost; 
Jul 2010

17500 mi
Missing bolt in drivers seat frame and damaged plastic part was replaced; replaced a missing bolt in the driver seat frame assembly that permitted the seat to collapse under acceleration pressure; had a loaner for 3 days while parts were awaited; warranty covered. 
Oct 2010

29000 mi
squeaky seat had a redesigned frame installed to repair driver seat squeak. 

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2010 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

165-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed shiftable CVT AWD

Subaru Outback in British Columbia, Canada
Aug 2013 - Sep 2017
Mar 2016

79360 mi

C $1400
Replaced seized bearings on both sides in the rear axle 

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2010 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Sep 2016 - Sep 2017
Sep 2017

131000 mi
CVT replaced 

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2010 Subaru Outback 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder diesel manual AWD

Subaru Outback in New South Wales, Australia
Jan 2015 - Jul 2015
Jan 2015

74400 mi

A $380
Diesel particulate filter blocked, required manual regeneration 
Mar 2015

77500 mi

A $470
Split coolant hose causing DPF error. Coolant hose replace, manual DPF regen performed 

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See TrueDelta's information for all Sedans and Wagons.
See TrueDelta's information for all Subaru models.

2012 Subaru Outback Repair Histories

See our lemon odds and nada odds page to see vehicles with no repairs or vehicles with more than three repairs. To see how frequently 2012 Subaru Outback problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.