2003 Subaru Outback
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2003 Subaru Outback. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
15 recalls name the 2003 Subaru Outback. Newest first.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators with alternate inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-20.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-20.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-20.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2009-2011 Legacy, Outback, Forester, 2006-2011 Impreza, Tribeca, 2003-2006 Baja, and 2006 Saab 9-2x vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 26, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Saab owners may contact GM at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-16.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2006-2008 Impreza, Tribeca, 2006 Saab 9-2x, and 2003-2006 Baja vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 24, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-16. Note: This notice is only for vehicles that were not covered by 16V-358 for Zone A.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, and Baja vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 24, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-16. Note: This recall covers vehicles that were not previously covered in 16V-358 for Zone A or 16V-359 for Zone B.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Subaru Baja vehicles manufactured January 22, 2003, to July 21, 2004, 2004-2005 Impreza vehicles manufactured January 28, 2003, to May 31, 2005, 2003-2008 Subaru Legacy vehicles manufactured January 22, 2003, to May 2, 2008, 2003-2008 Subaru Outback vehicles manufactured February 18…
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners and General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The Subaru recall began on June 17, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. The Saab recall began on July 27, 2015. Owners of Saab vehicles may call 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is WQR-53. Note: The recall completely supersedes recall 14V-399 (WQL-48) and partially supersedes recall 14V-763 (WQP-51) in that model year 2004 through 2005 Subaru Impreza and model year 2005 Saab 9-2x vehicles are now only part of this campaign. Note: On December 18, 2015 Subaru informed NHTSA of an expansion of this recall to include certain model year 2003-2004 Subaru Baja, 2003-2008 Subaru Legacy and 2003-2008 Subaru Outback vehicles.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy and Outback vehicles, and 2003-2005 Baja vehicles sold, or ever registered, in geographic locations associated with high absolute humidity. Specifically, vehicles sold, or ever registered, in Puerto Rico, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, Saipan, American Samoa, Florida…
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passengers frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on January 15, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQP-51. Note: This recall supersedes recall 14V-471. This recall has been partially superseded by 15V-323. All 2005 model year Subaru Legacy and Outback vehicles will now be repaired under recall 15V-323.
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.
On some passenger and sport utility 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 district…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the transverse link were to break due to rusting, control of the vehicle could be affected without prior warning, possibly resulting in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will apply anti-rust material to the left front transverse link. owner notification began august 1, 2003. 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 sport utility and passenger vehicles equipped with 4-cylinder engines, the water pump pulley center hole was improperly machined.
Risk and remedy
Risk
In some instances, the interference fit between the inner wall of the pulley center hole and the water pump drive shaft was not as tight as specified in the drawing specification. this could result in the water pump pulley dislodging from the water pump shaft, which can cause severe engine damage/seizure during vehicle usage.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the water pump. owner notification began september 12, 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 equipped with 6-cylinder engines, the aluminum wheels may have an off-center diameter.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This can result in the eventual loosening of the wheel hub-nuts during vehicle usage, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace all 4 aluminum wheels. owner notification began september 12, 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
93 complaints7 involved a crash1 involved a fire3 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Exterior lighting
My complaint IS my headlights' they're cloudy. on nov. 29, 2018 the institute of highway safety released a report that said that 'most base model cars have poor-quality headlights. my complaint IS the car manufacturers created this problem when they decided decades ago that plastic was a better…
My complaint IS my headlights' they're cloudy. on nov. 29, 2018 the institute of highway safety released a report that said that 'most base model cars have poor-quality headlights. my complaint IS the car manufacturers created this problem when they decided decades ago that plastic was a better shield over the headlights than glass. my suggestion IS to make the car manufacturers go back to installing glass over their headlights or u.s. Drivers are always going to have cloudy headlights. even when we buff them out and make them shine again, it only last 6 or 7 years. this IS ridiculous and the national highway traffic safety administration should change this flaw in auto manufacturing by making it a law to use glass when they build their headlights in the future.
- Air bags
2003 subaru outback. Consumer writes in regards to defective front passenger side airbag. *Ld the consumer refused to have the recall repair completed due to being afraid of entering an intersection leading to the dealer's repair shop. *Js
- Air bags
Takata recall. The closest subaru dealership IS 125 miles away. when I called subaru we were told that the car must be repaired at a subaru dealership. This constitutes a hardship for us to have a manufacturer defect repaired for a number of reasons. 1) I am handicapped and have trouble sitting in a car for that long. 2) there IS 3 feet of snow on the ground 3) this IS our only mode of transport.
- Tires
Primewell tires developed wave and intense road noise even at 50% tread.. Have been balanced/aligned regularly
- Air bags
On or about oct 23, 2017, received 3RD notice of airbag recall. Appt with subaru missoula, mt for recall. At 9:45 on fri nov 3, 2017 informed that the manager "just a few minutes ago" received, recall of recall" and no parts there. My 2003 "may not need a replacement." said would do a check to…
On or about oct 23, 2017, received 3RD notice of airbag recall. Appt with subaru missoula, mt for recall. At 9:45 on fri nov 3, 2017 informed that the manager "just a few minutes ago" received, recall of recall" and no parts there. My 2003 "may not need a replacement." said would do a check to see. Under protest I signed, after 1 and half hours, requested another signature which also under protest I signed. "It won't cost you anything." 85 year old single woman. 50 miles nearest subaru dealer. nothing said about result of test. keys returned to me.
- Air bags · Engine
My 2003 subaru outback had a bad airbag inflator and has also blown the head gasket several times, requiring it to be rebuilt three times. While I love my outback, I wonder if I will want to buy another one. Being stranded by my car and having to take the bus in the winter time was very difficult as was hauling groceries on the bus in a rolling suitcase while awaiting repairs.
- Electrical system · Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes
I recently had my outback towed because my car wouldn't shift out of park. 1ST I check the neutral safety switch, good to go no problem. Then move on to my fuses, okay great. Investigate some more to find out the wiring on the outback has some defaults, I look more into it and it seems it's not…
I recently had my outback towed because my car wouldn't shift out of park. 1ST I check the neutral safety switch, good to go no problem. Then move on to my fuses, okay great. Investigate some more to find out the wiring on the outback has some defaults, I look more into it and it seems it's not just me with the problem. My car IS old and carries a lot of miles, keep in mind this car IS made for that, but people seem to have the same problem as me with lower miles. The cars liftgate wire harness IS a huge weakness on this car. I really hope you guys will look more into this and recall it. I love my suby and have grew up in it and now have the honor of owning it. We still have many more years of driving together so please look into this so I can keep her as long as possible. Temp fix it to remove brake #4 harness and unplug to keep from blowing and smoking. Keep in mind only leaves me with 3 brake lights. (The one unplugged IS the one on the hatchback right side) this IS very unsafe to not had stable wiring in the brake lights, my car was smoking. I currently do have a 30 fuse in that seems to be able to hold better.
- Air bags
We received a postcard about the takata problem from cochran subaru of butler county pa. Per instructions, we called. They told us parts were not available and we would be contacted when parts became available. We have not heard from the dealer or from subaru USA. where does that leave us?
- Air bags
Air bag recall.
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2003 subaru outback. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v359000 (air bags); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The…
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2003 subaru outback. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v359000 (air bags); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The vin was unknown. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Structure › Frame and members · Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 2003 subaru outback. The contact stated that the rear suspension subframe was rusted and needed to be replaced. The contact stated that there was a recall regarding the rear suspension subframe corrosion, but the vin was not included. The manufacturer was not notified. The recall details and failure mileage were unknown.
- Air bags
Takata recall. Have been waiting nearly 1 year for airbag replacement.
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2003 subaru outback. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v359000 (air bags); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The…
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2003 subaru outback. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v359000 (air bags); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect. updated 03/16/17*lj the consumer stated the recall repair was completed. Updated 09/07/2017*js
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2003 subaru outback. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v359000 (air bags); however, the part for the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Air bags
Takata recall
- Air bags
Takata recall: the passenger side air bag needs to be replaced. subaru have told me that they do not have the parts needed for this recall. my wife and I are over seventy and I need to use this vehicle with her in the passenger seat. if replacement IS currently impossible, subaru needs to provide me with a loaner.
- Air bags
Takata recall: subaru has sent me a letter informing me of the recall. they further state that I should not drive with a passenger, and that they don't have parts to effect repairs. this IS unacceptable. what car should I drive when my family needs to go somewhere?
- Air bags
Takata recall--this IS my only mode of transportation. I've read of the deaths from explosion of the takata air bags which could hit anyone in the car. I feel it very unsafe for me and my passengers to ride in this car which makes my car unusable. subaru has no date in site as to when they can…
Takata recall--this IS my only mode of transportation. I've read of the deaths from explosion of the takata air bags which could hit anyone in the car. I feel it very unsafe for me and my passengers to ride in this car which makes my car unusable. subaru has no date in site as to when they can replace this defective air bag. I was about to sell my car, but now it has no value nor would anyone want to buy it or ride in it. I find that having no remedy unsatisfactory as well as having no safe transportation. What am I to do?
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2003 subaru outback. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v3410000 (air bags); however, the parts to do the repair were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. Vin tool confirms parts not available.
- Engine · Power train
After previous repairs to transmission fluid leak and head gasket repair, the car's transmission failed and had to be rebuilt. The transmission failed as I was driving. I could not shift from first to second. I was able to get the car to the dealer by driving in first and living with a sharp clunk…
After previous repairs to transmission fluid leak and head gasket repair, the car's transmission failed and had to be rebuilt. The transmission failed as I was driving. I could not shift from first to second. I was able to get the car to the dealer by driving in first and living with a sharp clunk into second. I was close to the dealer or else this would have been a tow. If this had happened on the freeway it could have been catastrophic.
- Air bags
Takata recall, I want to make sure my vehicle IS not affected. if so, then I want the faulty air bags replaced at no charge to me.
- Fuel/propulsion system
When driving the car down the road a strong odor of raw gasoline was smelt in the cabin of the car, I pulled over and popped the hood open and found gas spraying out of the rubber fuel line on the passenger side of the engine coming from in between the rubber hose and the metal line feeding the…
When driving the car down the road a strong odor of raw gasoline was smelt in the cabin of the car, I pulled over and popped the hood open and found gas spraying out of the rubber fuel line on the passenger side of the engine coming from in between the rubber hose and the metal line feeding the fuel injectors as if the hose clamp was lose. It was -5 f outside when this occurred, the car was parked till it warmed up to work on it, 30 f here in minnesota and the fuel leak had disappeared. I checked the tightness of the hose clamp and in was tight. The rubber hose and metal tube also showed no sign of deterioration. The passenger side of the engine compartment was soaked in gasoline when the leak occurred. The has 80,000 mile on it.
- Air bags
Takata recall this may pertain to the takata air bag recall. My wife and I were in a "t-bone" type collision at ~45 mph and the driver and passenger airbags failed to deploy in our 2003 outback. When I check the vin I did not see any open recalls nor did I ever receive any recall notifications for the car.
- Air bags
This car IS on the list for recall, but when I put in the vin it says that there IS no open recalls. what gives? I have contacted subaru of america and they confirm that my car has a takata airbag inflator on the passenger side. why am I not getting a recall notice?
- Power train
Tl*the contact owns a 2003 subaru outback. The contact stated that the while parked, the vehicle rolled away. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed that the parking mechanism within the transmission failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 194,000.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and…
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field failures was found in vehicles produced by these five additional manufacturers.Nonetheless, at ODI's insistence, all 10 vehicle manufacturers initiated a regional recall within approximately two weeks of the opening of the investigation.The regions recalled initially included Florida, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, areas with high absolute humidity and climatic conditions believed to be a significant factor in the inflator ruptures.As part of the recall actions, inflators removed from remedied vehicles are to be returned to Takata for testing.Takata's initial test results on passenger inflators from remedied vehicles indicated a much higher than anticipated rupture frequency for inflators returned from Florida.Accordingly ODI requested all 10 manufacturers expand the regional recalls for passenger inflators to include other geographic areas where high absolute humidity conditions exist, including the Gulf States and other coastal areas.Takata's testing of the passenger inflators to date continues to indicate this geographic area as having the highest risk, with no ruptures occurring from inflators returned from outside the expanded recall regions.During PE14-016 four additional passenger inflator field events occurred, all in vehicles from the same expanded geographic region.Also during PE14-016 four additional driver inflator field events occurred including two in vehicles from regions not known for high absolute humidity, specifically California and North Carolina.Accordingly, ODI requested all five of the affected vehicle manufacturers currently using the subject Takata driver inflators expand to nationwide recalls.Significantly, neither of the affected vehicle manufacturers or Takata provided any explanation to account for these two driver air bag inflator ruptures outside the area of high absolute humidity.Takata testing of returned driver inflators indicates a lower rupture frequency as compared to passenger inflator testing.All test ruptures reported by Takata to date have occurred on inflators returned from high absolute humidity areas.The investigation now includes all manufacturers and vehicles known to be affected at this time.ODI's investigation will focus on, among other things, root cause analysis, other potential defect consequences, identification of affected vehicles scope, and adequacy of the remedy.The five ODI reports cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification numbers: 10537899, 10568848, 10585224, 10605877, 10651492
- Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and…
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field failures was found in vehicles produced by these five additional manufacturers.Nonetheless, at ODI's insistence, all 10 vehicle manufacturers initiated a regional recall within approximately two weeks of the opening of the investigation.The regions recalled initially included Florida, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, areas with consistently high absolute humidity and climatic conditions believed to be a significant factor in the inflator ruptures.As part of the recall actions, inflators removed from remedied vehicles are to be returned to Takata for testing.Takata's initial test results on passenger inflators from remedied vehicles indicated a much higher than anticipated rupture frequency for inflators returned from Florida.Accordingly, ODI requested all 10 manufacturers expand the regional recalls for passenger inflators to include other geographic areas where high absolute humidity conditions exist, including the Gulf States and other coastal areas.Takata's testing of the passenger inflators to date continues to indicate this geographic area as having the highest risk, with no ruptures occurring from inflators returned from outside the expanded recall regions.During PE14-016, four additional passenger inflator field events occurred, all in vehicles from the same expanded geographic region.Also during PE14-016, four additional driver inflator field events occurred including two in vehicles from regions not known for high absolute humidity, specifically California and North Carolina.Accordingly, ODI requested all five of the affected vehicle manufacturers currently using the subject Takata driver inflators expand to nationwide recalls.Significantly, neither of the affected vehicle manufacturers or Takata provided any explanation to account for these two driver air bag inflator ruptures outside the area of high absolute humidity.Takata testing of returned driver inflators indicates a lower rupture frequency as compared to passenger inflator testing.All test ruptures reported by Takata to date have occurred on inflators returned from high absolute humidity areas.The PE is now closed/upgraded to an Engineering Evaluation (EA15-001) to include all manufacturersand vehicles known to be affected at this time.ODI's EA investigation will focus on, among other things, root cause analysis, other potential defect consequences, identification of affected vehicles scope, and adequacy of the remedy.The recalls related to this PE are: 14V343, 14V344, 14V348, 14V351, 14V353, 14V655, 14V700, 14V701, 14V752, 14V763, 14V770, 14V773, 14V787, 14V802 and 14V817.The number of vehicles affected are an estimate since some vehicles may have both the driver and passenger side inflators recalled. The five ODI reports cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification numbers: 10537899, 10568848, 10585224, 10605877, 10651492
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.
- 10248223SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. has determined that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in certain 2003-2014 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2003-2006 model year Baja vehicles, 2009-2013 model year Forester vehicles, 2004-2011 model year Impreza vehicles, and 2004- 2014 WRX (including STI) vehicles equipped with a non-desiccated Takata-sourced passenger-side frontal air bag containing the propellant Phase Stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (PSAN).
- 10244915SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. has determined that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in certain 2003-2014 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2003-2006 model year Baja vehicles, 2009-2013 model year Forester vehicles, 2004-2011 model year Impreza vehicles, and 2004- 2014 WRX (including STI) vehicles equipped with a non-desiccated Takata-sourced passenger-side frontal air bag containing the propellant Phase Stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (PSAN).
- 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.
- 10237234Takata Front Passenger Airbag Module / Inflator Like for Like Recall
- 10235890WQM?49 Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Recall (NHTSA ID 14V?471)
- 10235830Repair Procedure for High-Pitched Sound
- 10235277Takata Front Passenger Airbag Module / Inflator Like for Like Recall
- 10234957Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Replacement
- 10234956Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Replacement
- 10234900Regional Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Replacement
- 10234899Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Replacement
- 10234898Update: WQL?48 Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Recall (NHTSA ID 14V?399)
- 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
Every Subaru Outback model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.