2002 Subaru Outback
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Subaru › Outback › 2002
These records cover every 2002 Subaru Outback. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
5 recalls name the 2002 Subaru Outback. Newest first.
Airtex Products LP (Airtex) is recalling certain model E8598M, E8518M, E8600M, E8596M, and E8597M fuel pumps manufactured July 26, 2013, and July 29, 2013 and used as aftermarket replacements on Subaru Baja's, Outback's and Legacy's. The affected fuel pumps were sold or installed into the aftermarket applications on or after July 26, 2013, and may may leak…
Risk and remedy
Risk
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Airtex will notify owners, and will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. Recall is expected to begin on January 2, 2014. Customers may contact Airtex at 1-800-880-3056. The recall is expected to begin during January 2014. This recall is being conducted by Airtex, not by Subaru.
On certain passenger sedans, wagons, and sport utility vehicles, the cruise control cable could come out of its track on the cruise control lever and lodge on the control lever tab when the accelerator pedal IS released. if this condition occurs, the throttle will not return to the idle position and will remain in an open position.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If this occurs during vehicle operation, the driver could lose control of the vehicle, which could result in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will install a cruise control cable retaining clip to the cruise control lever tab on the throttle shaft in order to prevent the cruise control cable from coming out of its track. owner notification began on april 12, 2004. owners should contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
This recall applies to certain passenger vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the states of connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, kentucky, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, virginia, west virginia, wisconsin, and the…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If such breakage occurs while the vehicle IS being operated, control of the vehicle could be affected, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will clean and rust-proof the rear suspension subframe. owner notification began july 14, 2003. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
Certain sport utility and passenger vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions were produced with an improperly manufactured transmission parking rod. when the transmission selector lever IS placed in the "p" (park) position, the transmission park mechanism, that IS intended to hold your vehicle, may not engage.
Risk and remedy
Risk
The vehicle could then move/roll without prior warning, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the automatic transmission parking rod assembly. owner notification january 8, 2003. an interim owner notification will be sent during november 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
On certain passenger vehicles, the brake master cylinders may not function properly in ambient temperatures below freezing 32 degrees fahrenheit and lower).
Risk and remedy
Risk
At these temperatures, the brakes may not release after being applied, even when the driver's foot IS no longer on the brake pedal. this can occur withour prior warning, possibly resulting in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the master cylinders. owner notification began march 21, 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
Owner complaints
143 complaints9 involved a crash11 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Unknown or other
The air conditioner begins to blow hot moist air after several minutes of working properly. Multiple mechanics including a specialty shop can't diagnose, and the only option IS to replace the entire a/c compressor because the clutch isn't sold separately. I've read many accounts of the same…
The air conditioner begins to blow hot moist air after several minutes of working properly. Multiple mechanics including a specialty shop can't diagnose, and the only option IS to replace the entire a/c compressor because the clutch isn't sold separately. I've read many accounts of the same "intermittent" a/c that only works once the engine IS turned off and back on, then stops working seconds or minutes later for no apparent reason. The vehicle can be stationary or in motion and the a/c just quits.
- Engine
I am the original owner of this vehicle and I have had four separate incidents that my head gasket has had to be replaced. this IS a costly repair and given my car has 190,000 miles on it I believe four issues dealing with this same situation needs to be properly addressed. not only does this…
I am the original owner of this vehicle and I have had four separate incidents that my head gasket has had to be replaced. this IS a costly repair and given my car has 190,000 miles on it I believe four issues dealing with this same situation needs to be properly addressed. not only does this issue result in a huge outlay of money but it gets oil all over the engine, parts, and driveway that needs to be cleaned. I would appreciate any assistance in this matter.
- Fuel/propulsion system
When the temperature outside gets below 35 degrees, my car smells very strongly of gas inside. I have to roll the windows down for ventilation. When the temperature warms up, the smell goes away. It IS worse when I first started my car in the morning. Mechanics haven't been able to figure out the problem but I just read many complaints online about this issue. I will take their suggested fixes to my mechanic.
- Power train · Structure › Body · Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 2002 subaru outback. While the vehicle was being serviced, the independent mechanic observed that the entire frame was severely corroded and holes were forming. The vehicle needed a new cross member. The vehicle was not repaired. Also, when the vehicle was shifted into the…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 subaru outback. While the vehicle was being serviced, the independent mechanic observed that the entire frame was severely corroded and holes were forming. The vehicle needed a new cross member. The vehicle was not repaired. Also, when the vehicle was shifted into the park position while on an incline, it began to roll away without warning. The failure recurred two times. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or diagnosed. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vin was not included in nhtsa campaign numbers: 03v153000 (suspension) and 02v282000 (power train). The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
- Fuel/propulsion system
Terrible gas smell. Fuel IS leaking because it IS cold outside.
- Fuel/propulsion system
When temp. Outside go below 32 degrees, the inside of my car fills with raw gas smell, this happens every winter. I live in wi. When it IS above freezing it IS fine and all summer it IS fine. I am so affraid to have my grand kids in the car. Not sure if the fumes will explode.when I am driving I do…
When temp. Outside go below 32 degrees, the inside of my car fills with raw gas smell, this happens every winter. I live in wi. When it IS above freezing it IS fine and all summer it IS fine. I am so affraid to have my grand kids in the car. Not sure if the fumes will explode.when I am driving I do not smell gas. But if I stop at a stop sign or light it fills up the car. I have to roll down my windows to get fresh air
- Engine · Service brakes · Unknown or other
I bought car oct 6; first inspection appointment at my usual garage mon oct 12- failed due to rusty suspect brake connection. seller had me take to his dealer- mastria subaru in raynham. They put a paint/coating over rusty area. I was pretty skeptical but brought car to my garage in vt monday oct…
I bought car oct 6; first inspection appointment at my usual garage mon oct 12- failed due to rusty suspect brake connection. seller had me take to his dealer- mastria subaru in raynham. They put a paint/coating over rusty area. I was pretty skeptical but brought car to my garage in vt monday oct 19 and the leaky brake fluid much more clearly visible- due to smoother (though bumpy from oxidation below) paint surface. I also saw leaking coolant, leaks in oil pan, and a crack in muffler pipe just engine side of muffler (it had been getting noisier and noisier) my mechanic pointed out the timing belt gasket was missing and one bolt 'missing' ; it was sticking out of another 'hole' that was for a fully threaded bolt. The seller has sent long-winded insulting e-mails and states I must return car to him to have the same dealer service it. I am taking it to a&m, 400 mystic ave, somerville this morning near me! for estimate today. There's a reject sticker from reading petroleum on it- I didn't know ma & vt had reciprocal status- but I think the vt inspection IS more stringent, safer and comprehensive
- Structure › Body · Suspension › Rear
TL* the contact owns a 2002 subaru outback. While the vehicle was being serviced for routine maintenance, the independent mechanic discovered that the rear suspension subframe had fractured due to severe rusting. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 subaru outback. While the vehicle was being serviced for routine maintenance, the independent mechanic discovered that the rear suspension subframe had fractured due to severe rusting. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 200,000. update 01/13/16 ma; updated 4/17/18*jb the consumer stated traded vehicle due to the fact not knowing what to do about fixing it. *Tr
- Structure › Frame and members › Underbody shields
When getting the car inspected we found out the frame of the car was rusted so badly it was cracked. It was in such a key spot that it wasn't fixable and the car could have easily lost a wheel on the road with little to no warning (a small bump could have been enough to trigger an accident). The…
When getting the car inspected we found out the frame of the car was rusted so badly it was cracked. It was in such a key spot that it wasn't fixable and the car could have easily lost a wheel on the road with little to no warning (a small bump could have been enough to trigger an accident). The car has been taken care of well and when inspected just a year ago at the subaru dealership there was no mention or sign that this could potentially be a problem. The fast deterioration of the frame underneath the car IS the complaint and we had no choice but to part out the otherwise wonderful car due to safety and unable to get it fixed. *tr
- Engine
Drivers side head gasket leaked. Only that side was replaced. On 1/14 both head gaskets started leaking at 59000 miles. With subarus help the dealer charged $ 855.00. The problem IS subaru has a design defect in this engine so those of us who own these cars are going to have to pay for gasket…
Drivers side head gasket leaked. Only that side was replaced. On 1/14 both head gaskets started leaking at 59000 miles. With subarus help the dealer charged $ 855.00. The problem IS subaru has a design defect in this engine so those of us who own these cars are going to have to pay for gasket replacements for as long as we own them. By the way the coolant system conditioner IS holts radweld stopleak something subaru will not tell you. *tr
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system
In 10 degree weather, my 2002 subaru outback wagon developed a fuel leak while being driven by my 17-year-old child. This IS my second subaru wagon and the second to have cold weather fuel leaks. I tightened the clamp on the offending fuel line and I hope that IS an adequate fix. But it IS simply…
In 10 degree weather, my 2002 subaru outback wagon developed a fuel leak while being driven by my 17-year-old child. This IS my second subaru wagon and the second to have cold weather fuel leaks. I tightened the clamp on the offending fuel line and I hope that IS an adequate fix. But it IS simply unacceptable that such a dangerous problem has not had a recall, and that it has been happening for 20 years. (My first subaru with this problem was a 1991 legacy wagon.) how many car fires have resulted from this problem? How many injuries or even fatalities? Please make subaru take responsibility for a poorly designed fuel line. *tr
- Fuel/propulsion system
Rubber fuel linkages contract in low (below 30F) temperatures, allowing fuel to leak into the engine compartment. The leaking fuel creates a very strong, at times intolerable, fuel vapor smell in the cabin. Some leaks drip onto the exhaust manifold and engine block so engine fire IS a possibility. *tr
- Air bags
Although my car IS not listed on the airbag recall, I am concerned my car might have the airbags from takata. the year the takata airbag recall started IS 2000. my car IS a 2002 subaru outback. the 2003 subaru outback IS on the takata airbag recall list. how can I make sure my car's airbags were not manufactured by takata? *tr
- Service brakes
TL* the contact owns a 2002 subaru outback. The contact stated that the brakes would not release after being applied, even when the contact's foot was no longer on the brake pedal. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000. The current mileage was 135,000.
- Service brakes
Dates are approximate, problem IS ongoing. upon initial start-up, in cool/cold weather the brake pedal will be very hard and brakes are very weak requiring tremendous foot pressure with still reduced braking effectiveness. after a period of time and multiple stops brake assist seems to increase…
Dates are approximate, problem IS ongoing. upon initial start-up, in cool/cold weather the brake pedal will be very hard and brakes are very weak requiring tremendous foot pressure with still reduced braking effectiveness. after a period of time and multiple stops brake assist seems to increase and the brakes get stronger or normal. I have researched that this IS not an uncommon problem with subaru cars at higher mileage. it IS said to be water in the brake booster hose one way valve. changing the hose, I am told, will not solve this problem as more water will enter the system and freeze or gum pu the works. very dangerous especially for drivers who do not have the strength to press so hard on the pedal. *tr
- Fuel system, gasoline · Vehicle speed control
Upper front fuel line and connection to throttle body? IS leaking raw gas and fuel IS pooling on top of engine just outward of upper exhaust manifold area. *tr
- Fuel system, gasoline
Over last few winters, when temperatures drop to freezing there has been a bad fuel smell in cabin. especially with heater blowing, though it still smells inside and outside the car even with the heat off. once the weather warms up there IS no noticeable smell. I have tried tightening 5 clamps…
Over last few winters, when temperatures drop to freezing there has been a bad fuel smell in cabin. especially with heater blowing, though it still smells inside and outside the car even with the heat off. once the weather warms up there IS no noticeable smell. I have tried tightening 5 clamps as suggested in an online help page. Not sure if this helped or problem just went away with the cold weather. Local shop couldn't see leak on cursory check while the odor as at it's worse. maybe only visible if it's freezing and up on a lift. Subaru dealer suggested fuel lines need to replaced as normal process as car ages. Subaru should find solution to this dangerous problem that's obviously common to these vehicles and put out clear instruction on diagnosing and fixing this issue. *tr
- Fuel/propulsion system · Fuel system, gasoline
Since the recent temperature drop where we live (maryland, dc metro region), we've noticed a strong gasoline smell inside the car's cabin. The smell IS strong enough that we are uncomfortable driving long distances, for our own health and that of our children. the smell only appears when the car…
Since the recent temperature drop where we live (maryland, dc metro region), we've noticed a strong gasoline smell inside the car's cabin. The smell IS strong enough that we are uncomfortable driving long distances, for our own health and that of our children. the smell only appears when the car IS running (though it doesn't seem to depend on speed). We've owned the car since march 2010, and this IS the first time we've noticed the issue; it's also the coldest weather we've encountered since purchase. apparently there's a fuel-line-related recall for imprezas of this vintage, but not yet for outbacks. *tr
- Fuel system, gasoline
The smell of raw gas permeates the passenger cabin when the car IS started in temperatures under 10 degrees fahrenheit. *tr
- Fuel/propulsion system
My wife drove her car, a 2002 subaru outback, about 5 miles home from work, and told me in the evening her car reeked of gasoline when she arrived at home. when I checked her car the gas odor had dissipated, but when I started it and backed it out of the garage the gas odor was very strong. I…
My wife drove her car, a 2002 subaru outback, about 5 miles home from work, and told me in the evening her car reeked of gasoline when she arrived at home. when I checked her car the gas odor had dissipated, but when I started it and backed it out of the garage the gas odor was very strong. I moved it back into the garage and shut it off. I discovered online that the odor was likely due to a fuel hose leak associated with a cold weather start. The temperatures here are cold for missouri, with highs in the low 20'S. it still IS cold, albeit as a minnesota boy it still seems like spring. at any rate, I found a website with useful diagrams and I located the hose under a bracket (of course), and managed to uncover the hose and tighten the clamps, which were very loose. after re-assembly I drove the car to burn off the gas remaining on the engine and I tested the repair with another cold weather start later. I have ordered a replacement hose from the subaru dealership for 12 bucks. I understand that recalls and service advisories have occurred and are in place for other subaru models including the closely related 2001 legacy. I would like to add the 2002 outback and every other subaru that uses the hose part # 807707130. the discussions online about this issue reveal some people are driving with their windows open or with cabin air set to recirculate, or waiting until the engine warms up enough for thermal expansion to seal the leak. as an industry chemist I find this ignorance about the hazards of gasoline fires appalling. however I think subaru's piece-meal approach to addressing their defective engineering IS frightening. don't they care about the safety of their customers? my wife teaches chemistry, a typical customer, according to subaru ads. she loves her subaru. subaru does not love her. *tr
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system
The car always has a strong gas smell inside during winter. the smell IS so bad that I get headaches. *tr
- Latches/locks/linkages · Structure › Body
We were driving on highway I-95 going between 55 and 60 miles an hour and the hood latch failed. the hood came up blocking our vision and broke the windshield. extensive damage to car. we were traveling in the far right lane and were lucky that we could pull the car off the highway into the breakdown lane. we were very lucky no one was behind us. *tr
- Structure › Frame and members · Suspension › Rear
TL* the contact owns a 2002 subaru outback sport. While having the vehicle examined, the contact was informed that the sub frame had begun to rust and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not serviced. The current and failure mileages were 152,000. updated 05/09/12 *bf
- Fuel system, gasoline
TL* the contact owns a 2002 subaru outback. The contact stated that whenever the heat was activated, the contact would notice a gasoline odor coming through the vents. The vehicle was taken to the dealer on four occasions where the head gaskets were replaced each time. However, one year after the…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 subaru outback. The contact stated that whenever the heat was activated, the contact would notice a gasoline odor coming through the vents. The vehicle was taken to the dealer on four occasions where the head gaskets were replaced each time. However, one year after the repair the contact noticed that the failure recurred. The vehicle had not been recently diagnosed. The current and failure mileages were 84,000.
- Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 2002 subaru outback. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to a private mechanic where it was confirmed that corrosion was on the rear sub frame. The mechanic advised the contact of a recall related to the failure under nhtsa campaign ID…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 subaru outback. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to a private mechanic where it was confirmed that corrosion was on the rear sub frame. The mechanic advised the contact of a recall related to the failure under nhtsa campaign ID number:03v153000(suspension:rear). The failure was also confirmed by an authorized dealer. The manufacturer was contacted but it was not confirmed if the vehicle was included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and the current mileage was 148,731.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11010925This annocement is to inform dealers to the Gen 3.1 Head Unit OTA will be available via Wi-Fi. The update will take place in multiple batches with the first beginneing November 15th and the last being Decemeber 3rd. This update is for approximatelt 714,000 VINs.
- 11009701This bulletin details an important regulation issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which impacts the way some vehicles with accessories are sold. This regulation applies to any automobile retailer installing accessories on a vehicle prior to its first sale.
- 11009685This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11008283This Service Information Bulletin announces the preferred practices to be used when handling vehicles equipped with Gen2 Telematics which are enrolled in the Subaru STARLINK Security Plus Service featuring Stolen Vehicle Recovery Plus with Immobilizer.
- 11008282This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11008281This Service Information Bulletin announces the diagnostic procedures to be followed when diagnosing engine oil leakage on FA and FB type engines.
- 11008280This Service Information bulletin is being released as guidance for proper testing and charging of vehicle batteries.
- 11008279This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
- 11008276The CP1.5 RCs OTA is available for all mid and high grade CP1.5 head units.
- 11008267This bulletin announces availability of the NEW genuine Subaru engine oil filter.
- 11008259This bulletin outlines the judgment criteria to be used when inspecting front transverse link bushings to reduce unnecessary bushing replacement.
- 11006935This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure for 2025MY vehicles.
- 11006934The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
- 11006932This Service Information Bulletin announces important diagnostic information to utilize when the Data Communication Module (DCM) is being tested as a dark current/standby current source.
- 11006931This Bulletin provides additional diagnostics to follow when addressing a Telematics-related DTC B2A16.
- 11005624This annoucement provides parts personnel information about remanufactured transmissions that will no longer be available.
- 11005615This announcement provides information for retailers to install the latest infotainment system software for Denso CP 1.5.
- 11005614This bulletin announces important diagnostic information to utilize when testing the Data Communication Module (DCM) as a dark current/standby current source. All models equipped with Telematics except Solterra.
- 11005609This announcement provides information on Takata Recall Escalated Towing Program.
- 11005608This thermo control valve video contains information on the replacement of thermo control valve.
- 11005599This Bulletin provides SOA paint codes to help eliminate possible confusion for 2025 MY vehicles.
- 11005595This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11005593This Bulletin provides guidance for diagnosing a leaking front or rear suspension strut.
- 11002730This information announces reprograming file availability for Gen 4.5 Denso CP1.5 Audio and Navigation systems. Inprovement for CarPlay concerns with hands-free calls when the receiving party is not able to hear the caller.
- 11002725This bulletin provides diagnosis and procedure information to be applied when diagnosing potential fluid leaks on front and rear brake calipers. This information has been developed to reduce unnecessary brake caliper replacement.
- 10241801The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
- 10240110This bulletin announces the recommended cleaning procedures to followed when encountering vehicles with long time exposure to pollen on painted surfaces on vehicles imported from Japan. This bulletin does not apply to SIA built vehicles.
- 10235830Repair Procedure for High-Pitched Sound
- 10234829Repair Procedure for High-Pitched Sound from Extension Housing Area Using Latest Generation Production Parts
- 10234260Repair Procedure for High-Pitched Sound from Extension Housing Area Using Latest Generation Production Parts
- 102342585MT Transfer Driven Gear Bearings
- 10232879Replacement Key and Immobilizer info
- 10232535Replacement Key and Immobilizer Info
- 10219492This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 10219491This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
- 10209915This bulletin has been developed to outline the steps for gathering basic essential information during diagnosis and repair of the Infotainment concerns. (Applicable to all models with Harman or Denso CP1 Infotainment).
- 10198758This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models
- 10198749This bulletin is to advise of SOAs revised catalytic converter recycling program shipping procedure.
- 10187315To help reduce confusion and increase technician efficiency, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) has developed the following cross reference list to help locate the appropriate Special Service Tool.
- 10186364This bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing.
Every Subaru Outback model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.