general problems of the 2008 Subaru Outback

The rear gate harness wires that are in the grommet wear and break from the rear gate going up and down. This issue has many issues. Rear lighting and break light, rear wiper, also rear locking mechanism and other unknown issues.

Subaru has an extremely common faulty wiring issue with an led printed circuit board that is part of the airbag warning light system that resides in the maplight assembly above the rear view mirror. This problem has been reported by countless vehicle owners across a number of models (including Outback and forester) across a number of model years. A simple google search using the keywords: "Subaru code 26 airbag" reveals a treasure trove of information pertaining to this issue. It is clear that this problem is frequent, persistent and widespread. This issue has spanned a number of models and model years. The company and its dealers cannot help but be aware of the issue. There appears to be a problem with inadequate soldering of the electronics on the printed circuit board (pcb) related to the airbag warning light display. It is unclear whether this defect impairs the ability of an airbag to deploy in the event of an accident. Subaru refuses to warranty this defect. In addition, Subaru refuses to honor the takata recall if this faulty wiring system is not first remedied. The problem is intermittent and can present itself when the vehicle is moving or stationary. Many web-based accounts of the problem have reported that changes in vehicle temperature due to weather (particularly on cold days) may be related to the soldering joint to malfunction.

2008 Subaru Outback. The dash instrument panel airbag warning light would intermittently come on and stay on for extended periods of time. The red airbag light would occasionally turn off but for the most part it was on continuously. Dealership advised that when the red airbag warning light is illuminated the airbag system is inoperative. The vehicle was taken to our local dealership on 3/30/2015 and the service report indicates a scan noted airbag code 26 -passenger side indicator failure. The dealership recommended correction was the replacement of the map light assembly (part #92151ag13aor) for a cost in material of $163. 95 and labor of $34. 52, plus the diagnostic labor of $35. 00. Cost to correct the problem was not covered. The service manager was very familiar with this type of airbag system failure in Subarus of this specific model year and also vehicles manufactured within the same time period. Research indicates that the airbag warning light problem is located within the overhead map light module and the failure of soldering at the led lights within this assembly. A new map light console was ordered and has been replaced which has, at this time, corrected the problem. This specific issue is well documented with the n. H. T. S. A. On line complaint data (54 complaints along similar console light panel failure). Air bag systems have been mandatory on vehicles for both front seat occupants since September 1998. Airbag systems are not optional equipment, and with the combination of seat belts, represent the critical components of a passenger safety system. This specific type of failure indicates a problem that has not been voluntarily recalled or addressed by the manufacturer. Because this defect involves a vital safety system, and in order to protect the consumer, an investigation and recall should be commenced.

Having airbag light coming on intermittently along with passenger airbag light. Mechanic said airbags probably are not functioning properly. Cost for repair would be between $350-$400. From reading other complaints, this is an easy and cheap fix but dangerous if it's not repaired. This should be a recall!.