2016 Subaru Outback
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Subaru › Outback › 2016
These records cover every 2016 Subaru Outback. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
4 recalls name the 2016 Subaru Outback. Newest first.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Outback vehicles. A replacement air bag control module may have been installed that is not compatible with the passenger air bag module, possibly affecting air bag deployment.
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a crash necessitating passenger frontal air bag deployment, the air bag may not deploy properly, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger air bag module, free of charge. The recall began February 3, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUX-09.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Legacy and Outback vehicles manufactured February 29, 2016, to May 6, 2016. The steering column on the affected vehicles may have been improperly machined, and as a result, turning the steering wheel may have no effect on the direction of the wheels.
Risk and remedy
Risk
The loss of steering ability would increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the lot number on the steering column, replacing the steering column, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 13, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783 or by visiting http://www.wtd65.service-campaign.com. Subaru's number for this recall is WTD-65. Note: Until the vehicles have been inspected, owners are advised not to drive their vehicles.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2016 Legacy vehicles manufactured October 24, 2015, to November 16, 2015, and Outback vehicles manufactured October 24, 2015, to November 17, 2015. Due to the improper tightening of the securing nuts, the drive shaft may separate from the rear differential.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the drive shaft detaches from the rear differential, it may strike the fuel tank and result in a fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will inspect the fastening nuts, and tighten or replace them, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on December 10, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Subaru's number for this recall is WQV-57.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015 and 2016 model year Subaru Legacy 4-Door and Outback vehicles manufactured July 3, 2015, to July 27, 2015. Transmission oil may leak from a deformed seal cap on the propeller shaft yoke.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the transmission oil leaks onto the exhaust pipe, there is a possible risk of fire.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the propeller shaft, free of charge. The recall began on August 28, 2015. Owners may contact 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQU-56.
Owner complaints
643 complaints22 involved a crash3 involved a fire13 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system › Instrument panel › Speedometer/odometer
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2016 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that after purchasing the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale, but the contact discovered the seller was associated with a car dealer. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 87,059. After obtaining a Carfax report, the contact became aware that the mileage was 207,000.
- Service brakes · Vehicle speed control
The car accelerates on its own at times. I am not pressing the gas or going down a hill. It is flat road, sometimes even pulling into my driveway. There is also feeling like I am being bumped from the back and moving when I am idle. I am strict about oil changes and have it fully inspected when I…
The car accelerates on its own at times. I am not pressing the gas or going down a hill. It is flat road, sometimes even pulling into my driveway. There is also feeling like I am being bumped from the back and moving when I am idle. I am strict about oil changes and have it fully inspected when I take it every 3 months as I am a single mom and cannot afford for my children and I to be hurt in an accident or be without a car.
- Vehicle speed control
UNKNOWN When pulling into a parking space at the [XXX] diner my 2016 OUTBACK suddenly accelerated while I was ready to shift from drive to park. It was as if I put the gas peddle to the floor. There was a car about 6feet in front of me which I hit. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Engine
There is a crack in the exhaust manifold and the exhaust smell is entering the cabin affecting driver and passengers' health. The problem has been confirmed by a Subaru dealer and an independent mechanic. There were no warning lights, I was made aware after routine maintenance by an independent…
There is a crack in the exhaust manifold and the exhaust smell is entering the cabin affecting driver and passengers' health. The problem has been confirmed by a Subaru dealer and an independent mechanic. There were no warning lights, I was made aware after routine maintenance by an independent mechanic. The same part has failed in multiple Subaru models: Recall WUJ-95 (SOA says my car is not covered in the recall/campaign due to my car's production date being 24 days after the "Affected Production Dates") . Additionally, Subaru of America extended the exhaust pipe warranty on the same part on other models, as late as 2018, so the part continued to be in use and problematic. Subaru of America says replacing the part is not covered by a recall for my car, however I feel strongly that it SOA should replace the part due to the proximity of my production date and the continued issues with the part across multiple models.
- Electrical system › Adas › Autonomous/self driving
The reporting citizen was driving legally on [XXX] going forward towards the parking lot next to the round about when an uncrewed, autonomous commercial vehicle operated by Waymo suffered a catastrophic software/hardware failure. The 6,000-pound driverless robot taxi aggressively pursued and chased…
The reporting citizen was driving legally on [XXX] going forward towards the parking lot next to the round about when an uncrewed, autonomous commercial vehicle operated by Waymo suffered a catastrophic software/hardware failure. The 6,000-pound driverless robot taxi aggressively pursued and chased the citizen’s vehicle in reverse for that full city block despite honking the horn and then holding it down the entire time as the killing 6,000 lbs robot car kept reversing towards the citizens car instead of going forward, forcing the citizen out into a perpendicular intersecting road onto [XXX] The citizen safely evaded a severe collision solely through high-speed defensive driving, reversing, and holding down the horn to warn surrounding motorists of the out-of-control vehicle. The autonomous system failed to stop, recognize the citizen's vehicle, or register the horn. Upon reviewing the internal vehicle data and footage, Waymo’s corporate office confirmed to the citizen on several calls after the [XXX] reporting that this specific vehicle "went rogue." Waymo admitted the failure was severe enough that they immediately pulled the specific vehicle out of operational service. I have several case #s from Waymo of each call admitting fault. These 6000 lbs killing car robots are NOT SAFE and should not be allowed on public roads where real humans are driving! I can’t sleep since [XXX] due to the nightmares of these killing car robots trying to kill me. I must factor in extra time to go anywhere as I cannot have these killing car robots near me and they are everywhere in my area. I visibly shake and sweat involuntarily whenever I see one of these even from very far away or even think about them—which is pretty much always now since [XXX]. Because Waymo deployed a malfunctioning 6,000-pound autonomous vehicle that aggressively chased a resident on public streets, this is an immediate Public Safety Hazard and Reckless Endangerment issue caused by Waymo. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOI
- Power train
While driving the 2016 Subaru Outback, the vehicle experienced a sudden, catastrophic failure of the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The transmission completely failed, resulting in an immediate and dangerous loss of propulsion while operating the vehicle. This created an immediate…
While driving the 2016 Subaru Outback, the vehicle experienced a sudden, catastrophic failure of the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The transmission completely failed, resulting in an immediate and dangerous loss of propulsion while operating the vehicle. This created an immediate safety hazard for myself, my toddler and other drivers on the road, as the vehicle could no longer maintain speed or accelerate safely to clear traffic. A certified repair facility diagnosed the issue as a complete internal mechanical failure of the transmission, requiring a total replacement at an estimated cost of roughly $11,000. This generation of Subaru CVTs has a well-documented history of premature, catastrophic mechanical failure, which Subaru of America has previously acknowledged via past warranty extensions. The sudden loss of power caused by this engineering defect poses a severe and ongoing safety risk to consumers. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Electrical system · Steering · Vehicle speed control
SUBJECT: Formal Safety Defect Complaint: 2016 Subaru Outback – Manufacturing Nondisclosure of Latent "Day 1" Design Flaw Causing Ignition Key Entrapment, Uncommanded Steering Column Lockout, and Severe Family Safety Risk I am writing to formally report a severe, unaddressed safety defect and a…
SUBJECT: Formal Safety Defect Complaint: 2016 Subaru Outback – Manufacturing Nondisclosure of Latent "Day 1" Design Flaw Causing Ignition Key Entrapment, Uncommanded Steering Column Lockout, and Severe Family Safety Risk I am writing to formally report a severe, unaddressed safety defect and a deceptive corporate practice by Subaru of America, Inc. affecting my 2016 Subaru Outback. This vehicle suffers from a "Day 1" latent engineering flaw that causes the physical ignition key to become permanently trapped in the ignition cylinder, triggering an uncommanded, rigid locking of the steering column assembly. Subaru has possessed documented knowledge of this failure for years, cataloging it under Technical Service Bulletin TSB 16-112-18R. Rather than fulfilling its statutory obligation to issue a comprehensive federal safety recall, Subaru deployed a voluntary, time-bound 8-year warranty extension. Subaru conveniently did not notify me of this warranty extension. By doing so, the manufacturer unconscionably ignored this defect, placing its customers at direct peril. They capitalized on asymmetric information to shift both the financial burden and the severe physical safety risks of a known factory flaw onto my family, the moment an arbitrary time threshold expired. My family and I have been at active, continuous risk in this vehicle since the day we purchased it due to an engineering error that was present when the car rolled off the assembly line. The root cause of this failure is a fundamental engineering defect within the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) shifter assembly, specifically, the premature degradation of the electrical contacts within the select lever park-range switch.
- Unknown or other
Vehicle: 2016 Subaru Outback Recall Number: WUJ95 – Front Exhaust Pipe Bellows Crack I incurred repair expenses to address a condition that was later covered by Subaru Recall WUJ95. At the time of the repair, I was unaware that the vehicle was subject to this recall because I never received any…
Vehicle: 2016 Subaru Outback Recall Number: WUJ95 – Front Exhaust Pipe Bellows Crack I incurred repair expenses to address a condition that was later covered by Subaru Recall WUJ95. At the time of the repair, I was unaware that the vehicle was subject to this recall because I never received any recall notification from Subaru. The affected component was the front exhaust pipe bellows assembly covered by Recall WUJ95. The repair was completed by an independent repair facility. The condition involved a cracked exhaust bellows assembly. The failure of this component allowed exhaust gases to escape from the exhaust system into the cabin and is the condition identified by Subaru in Recall WUJ95. The issue was diagnosed and repaired by an independent repair facility. The repair addressed the same component and condition that was subsequently identified by Subaru as part of Recall WUJ95. After learning of the recall, I contacted Subaru of America seeking reimbursement because the repair was completed after the recall had been issued. Subaru denied reimbursement and stated that repairs performed at third-party facilities are not eligible. During the reimbursement review process, I requested documentation showing when and how recall notification was sent to me, including the address used, mailing date, and method of notification. Subaru declined to provide this information. Subaru also declined to provide the specific guidelines relied upon in denying reimbursement. My concern is that I never received recall notification before obtaining the repair, which prevented me from having the recall performed through an authorized Subaru retailer. I am requesting that NHTSA review whether recall notification requirements were properly satisfied in this case and whether vehicle owners are being provided sufficient information to verify recall notification when reimbursement requests are denied.
- Service brakes
On 05/08/2026 the brakes failed while in a queue at a drive-up restaurant. The car was steered away to a flat part of the parking lot. After a restart the brakes returned to operation and the car was taken to the dealership where the brake line were flushed and the brake fluid replaced. On…
On 05/08/2026 the brakes failed while in a queue at a drive-up restaurant. The car was steered away to a flat part of the parking lot. After a restart the brakes returned to operation and the car was taken to the dealership where the brake line were flushed and the brake fluid replaced. On 05/25/2026 the brakes failed after backing out of an inclined parking space in a parking garage. The car came to a stop when it backed into a concrete wall. The car was towed to the dealer. The dealer inspected inspected the car and reported that the brakes were working as they should.
- Electrical system
Parasitic battery drain due to a faulty DCM module. I've purchase 3 batteries in the past 16 months. I now have to keep a trickle charger on my car at night to ensure my battery is not dead in the morning. Unable to park overnight without charger due to fear of another dead battery.
- Electrical system
The DCM (Data Communication Module), also referred to as the Starlink telematics module, has failed. This failure is causing a continuous parasitic battery drain, which rapidly depletes the vehicle’s battery even after charging or replacement. The component remains installed in the vehicle and is…
The DCM (Data Communication Module), also referred to as the Starlink telematics module, has failed. This failure is causing a continuous parasitic battery drain, which rapidly depletes the vehicle’s battery even after charging or replacement. The component remains installed in the vehicle and is available for inspection upon request. The failure has resulted in repeated battery drain and loss of vehicle operability. I have experienced a dead battery approximately 4–6 times between September 2025 and present, and the condition has worsened to the point where the vehicle cannot remain running or operable without the battery dying within approximately 5 minutes. This creates a safety risk because the vehicle can become inoperable without warning, increasing the likelihood of being stranded in unsafe conditions or unable to use the vehicle in an emergency. Yes, the issue has been diagnosed and confirmed by a Subaru dealership, which identified the DCM module as failed and requiring replacement. The failure is consistent with a parasitic battery drain caused by the DCM. The vehicle has been inspected by an authorized Subaru dealership.I have also contacted Subaru of America and opened a case requesting assistance with the repair. The primary symptom was repeated battery drain and failure to start beginning around September 2025. The issue progressed over time, with multiple instances of a dead battery, and has now worsened to the point where the battery drains within minutes, preventing normal vehicle operation. There were no consistent warning lights directly identifying the DCM as the cause prior to diagnosis.
- Engine
leak in cam carrier gasket caused large ammounts of smoke to fill engine bay and enter cabin air system. Struggled to breath and vision to an extent was obstructed. when car was parked, smoke continued to fill the engine bay. problem was confirmed by an independent technitian, with the vehicle…
leak in cam carrier gasket caused large ammounts of smoke to fill engine bay and enter cabin air system. Struggled to breath and vision to an extent was obstructed. when car was parked, smoke continued to fill the engine bay. problem was confirmed by an independent technitian, with the vehicle undergoing a complete inspection about a year ago from the dealership of purchase. no warning lamps turned on until enough oil had seeped from the leak in the liquid silicon gasket, at which point the low oil warning light had turned on.
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system · Power train
My 2016 Subaru Outback CVT transmission has exhibited an intermittent jerking and grabbing sensation when accelerating from a stop, worse when cold, since at least February 2023. This is a known defect covered under Subaru warranty extension bulletin 16-115-18. February 2023 — An authorized Subaru…
My 2016 Subaru Outback CVT transmission has exhibited an intermittent jerking and grabbing sensation when accelerating from a stop, worse when cold, since at least February 2023. This is a known defect covered under Subaru warranty extension bulletin 16-115-18. February 2023 — An authorized Subaru dealer documented the complaint in writing. The technician stated the vehicle never warmed up during the test drive and dismissed the concern. The CVT issue was never repaired. I was never informed of Subaru's CVT warranty extension program. February 17 2026 — seven days before my warranty expiration — the same authorized Subaru dealer physically identified and documented a CVT oil pump cover leak. The same jerking complaint was again documented in writing. No repairs were made and the warranty expired one week later. The CVT defect has been physically confirmed by an authorized Subaru dealer within the warranty period and Subaru of America has denied my warranty claim in writing. This issue presents a safety concern. The unpredictable jerking and hesitation when accelerating from a stop creates dangerous situations in traffic, particularly at intersections and when merging. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. Subaru chose to handle this known widespread defect as a quiet warranty extension rather than a mandatory recall despite hundreds of owners reporting identical symptoms.
- Engine
My 2016 Outback 2.5L model experienced an exhaust noise and/or odor coming from cracks at the bellows section of the front exhaust pipe which includes the catalytic converter. It was diagnosed as leak occurring at the front exhaust pipe. Quoted repair for replacement part only is $2700 plus $1000…
My 2016 Outback 2.5L model experienced an exhaust noise and/or odor coming from cracks at the bellows section of the front exhaust pipe which includes the catalytic converter. It was diagnosed as leak occurring at the front exhaust pipe. Quoted repair for replacement part only is $2700 plus $1000 labor to repair. Upon investigation, it was discovered that Subaru Recall WUJ-95 with subject Exhaust Pipe Front (EPF) Bellows Cracking was issued in 2020. My specific VIN was excluded from this recall but I have experienced the exact issue described in the recall. As a result of this situation and exhaust inhalation the car is not able to be driven, this cause breathing issues for me, my wife and our 9 month old baby.
- Steering
Brake light comes on while driving and power steering also locks up..
- Air bags
Almost after I took ownership of my vehicle in August 2024 from Lexus of Pembroke Pines, I noticed a light on the dashboard that would light intermittently. I purchased an extended warranty for almost four thousand dollars at the time of sale, thank God, as this car has needed a lot of work that I…
Almost after I took ownership of my vehicle in August 2024 from Lexus of Pembroke Pines, I noticed a light on the dashboard that would light intermittently. I purchased an extended warranty for almost four thousand dollars at the time of sale, thank God, as this car has needed a lot of work that I was never told about nor was anything in the CARFAX indicating so many issues. Subaru of Pembroke Pines service department took vehicle in to work on the air bag sensor as that is what seemed to be the issue. In the sixteen months that I have been paying off a loan, the car has been in service for at least a combined ten months plus. They have changed the sensor twice and have changed the harness twice to no avail and that has been covered by the warranty. Now Subaru wants to take apart the car to trace wires to try to find out why the light still won't go out. The warranty company is refusing to take responsibility for the payment for the work and I cannot and will not pay out of my pocket. Subaru wants me to take my car back and drive it. I DO NOT WANT TO DIE FROM A FAULTY AIRBAG. There is something grossly wrong with the vehicle, the service department and especially the warranty company. Please help me get my vehicle fixed without having to be further raped financially. Subaru is trying to get me to purchase yet another vehicle AND I was told by the service lane manager that I should never have been sold that car. IT IS DANGEROUS. My files you are requesting are in my car which is at the dealership.
- Electrical system
I purchased a replacement battery in 2023. In August of 2025, the battery died, requiring a jump start. A local auto parts store checked the battery and it tested within acceptable limits, showing around 513 amps. A private shop confirmed this, and cleaned the battery terminals and cables. The…
I purchased a replacement battery in 2023. In August of 2025, the battery died, requiring a jump start. A local auto parts store checked the battery and it tested within acceptable limits, showing around 513 amps. A private shop confirmed this, and cleaned the battery terminals and cables. The battery functioned well until around November 2025, when it again died requiring a jump start. The battery again died in December 2025, about one month later, requiring a jump start.
- Visibility/wiper
1.Windshield crack in the deicing area. Driving on a highway heard a loud boom as if a very big rock hit the car. 30-40 second later there was another boom of normal loudness. At this moment windshield crack has been noticed. The windshield will not be available, replacing it on 12/22/2025 2.…
1.Windshield crack in the deicing area. Driving on a highway heard a loud boom as if a very big rock hit the car. 30-40 second later there was another boom of normal loudness. At this moment windshield crack has been noticed. The windshield will not be available, replacing it on 12/22/2025 2. Visibility has been affected 3. No, problem was not reproduced. Dealer representative said that the problem is not covered by Subaru. 4. Windshield was visually inspected by the dealership representative. I will try to collect more data at the windshield replacement shop. 5. There were no symptoms of the problem. N.B - the crack outside is flat, as if no rock hit happened. - I have camera's MP4, where sounds can be heard, 1GB
- Electrical system › Horn
The contact owns a 2016 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that the horn was inoperable. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer for a routine recall repair, and it was diagnosed and determined that the steering roll connector/clock spring had short-circuited. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.
- Engine · Forward collision avoidance › Adaptive cruise control · Unknown or other
Steering wheel controls frequently fail to work properly on the cruise control system specially the speed control. Also the exhaust system bellow has cracked. The moonroof leaks into the cabin and floor area of the passenger side. Also leaking into the A pillar on the passenger side. I only have a…
Steering wheel controls frequently fail to work properly on the cruise control system specially the speed control. Also the exhaust system bellow has cracked. The moonroof leaks into the cabin and floor area of the passenger side. Also leaking into the A pillar on the passenger side. I only have a picture of the engine valve cover that is leaking and had to be replaced. I have video of the exhaust leak coming from the crack in the bellow pipe. Do not have video of the cruise control speed issues as I can’t take a video while driving.
- Visibility/wiper
I had a rock thrown at my vehicle's windshield and required a replacement. I went to a Subaru dealership, Zeigler Subaru of Kenosha, local to me for a replacement. A day after I received my car, the windshield developed a hairline crack emanating from the bottom. I brought it back to the dealer and…
I had a rock thrown at my vehicle's windshield and required a replacement. I went to a Subaru dealership, Zeigler Subaru of Kenosha, local to me for a replacement. A day after I received my car, the windshield developed a hairline crack emanating from the bottom. I brought it back to the dealer and they replaced it again. After that time, it was a whole week and a half when I noticed a hairline crack, this time from the top working its way down. I brought it once again to the dealer for a replacement and a better explanation as to what is going on. 1.5 months later, I took my car again and was good for a little over a month, when I noticed the same hairline crack, this time from the bottom. I am up to having three windshields being installed and have no confidence in the safety and longevity of the vehicle I have. Subaru has had engineers come out to evaluate my vehicle and determined that its structural construction is not compromised and have tried to diagnose another probable cause coming from the windshield wiper heater and unplugged it. I have heard crack noises when driving at random intervals and have it noted to the dealership. no further update has been told to me as of the writing of this concern.
- Unknown or other
Catalytic converter is cracked. This is confirmed by an independent service center. Apparently there is a recall for this issue for 2015 and 2016 Subaru Outbacks manufactured up until September 2015. My 2016 Subaru Outback has the same issue and was manufactured in April 2016. The recall should include all 2016 Subaru Outbacks, not just those manufactured in 2015.
- Engine
Accelerated on its own doing 25mph and accelerated quickly and took pumping brakes to get it to stop
- Unknown or other
I reached under the steering well to the foot well because it seemed that my AC was not putting out any air. I touched something and received a burn on my hand. I reached out to the SOA but was told to take it to the dealer. Then they asked me to call back and discuss further. When I called back I…
I reached under the steering well to the foot well because it seemed that my AC was not putting out any air. I touched something and received a burn on my hand. I reached out to the SOA but was told to take it to the dealer. Then they asked me to call back and discuss further. When I called back I was told to take it to the dealer. I'm not sure I want to take it to the dealer to be charged a diagnosis fee. It seems the "kick panel" should cover this hot part to not allow access.
- Unknown or other
Horn quit working
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant…
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.
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.
- 11010922This bulletin announces repair procedures to be used when diagnosing dark current draw (parasitic draw) on vehicles equipped with Gen 1 Data Control Modules.
- 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.
- 11008262This bulletin announces the procedures required to reprogram the DCM (Data Communication Module) in Gen1 Subaru vehicles in response to the 3G network sunsetting.
- 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.
- 11000817This bulletin announces a design change to the CVT select lever (shifter) mechanism in response to isolated customer concerns of not being able to remove the key from the ignition switch when the vehicle is in Park.
- 10253987T16 Warranty Extension (15-317-24R) Frequently Asked Questions.
- 10253971In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is extending the Data Communication Module (DCM) Warranty from 3 years (36 months) of 36,000 miles to 8 years (96 months) or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.
- 10252554This bulletin announces repair procedures to be used when diagnosing dark current draw (parasitic draw) on vehicles equipped with Gen 1 Data Control Modules.
- 10252551This bulletin provides a repair procedure when diagnosing dark current draw on vehicles with GEN 1 Data Control Modules.
- 10252448Subaru has extended the Data Communication Module (DCM) warranty from 3 years 36,000mi to 8 years or 100,000mi. In rare cases, customers may experience a dead battery as a result of the DCM continually trying to access the 3G network.
- 10251116This letter provides information regarding the warranty extension for the Telematics Data Communications Module (DCM).
- 10251114This announcement provides information in regard to the extension of the basic new car limited warranty for the Telematics Data Communication Module (DCM). This coverage will apply to the vehicles listed for vehicles sold or leased in the United States.
- 10251111Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is extending the Data Communication Module (DCM) warranty from three years (36 months or 36K miles) to eight years (96 months or 100K miles), whichever comes first. This extension is in light of the rare cases of dead batteries experienced by customers.
- 10251108This bulletin provides procedures required for reprogramming the Data Communication Module (DCM) in Gen 1 Subaru vehicles due to sunsetting of the 3G network.
- 10246143In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. is extending the New Car Basic Warranty coverage for the 12 Volt batteries used in the above listed models and model years beyond the original three (3) years or thirty six thousand miles (36,000), whichever comes first.
- 10243372This Bulletin announces additional information regarding error codes 1403- 1407 encountered when attempting an adjustment/calibration of the EyeSight system after body repair procedures have been performed.
- 10241822This bulletin announces a design change to the CVT select lever (shifter) mechanism in response to isolated customer concerns of not being able to remove the key from the ignition switch when the vehicle is in Park.
Every Subaru Outback model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.