Seven problems related to headlights have been reported for the 2008 Subaru Outback. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2008 Subaru Outback based on all problems reported for the 2008 Outback.
Recently replaced headlights did not illuminate on a return trip home. They turned off without warning while driving. According to the dealer, the wiring harness failed.
Vehicle started showing signs of electrical problems 2 months ago when the rear view mirror homelink would only have power intermittently. Problem progressed to the reverse lights and now affects the headlights. The headlights went out at night as I was leaving a parking lot, a definite hazard. Have researched the problem on Subaru online forums and discovered that the problem is that individual wires in the wiring harness have a tendency to crack and break at the joint between the body and the liftgate. This vehicle has 2 completely broken wires and most others with breaks in the insulation. Other owners describe similar problems.
The contact owns 2008 Subaru Outback. While driving approximately 25 mph on a rural road after the sunset with the low beam headlights engaged, they failed to fully illuminate the road. The dealer stated that the vehicle does comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standards; which was a manufacturer design with no modifications. The contact is aware of the safety risk involved. The failure mileage was unavailable and the current mileage was 103,000. The VIN was rejected from the system and will be updated upon receipt of the safety complaint.
I purchased a 2008 Subaru Outback and the low beam headlights are dangerous when traveling on hilly roads. The headlights do not illuminate the road properly and have a horizontal line to the beam. Nothing can be seen under this line. No problems encountered with high beams.
When driving our new 2008 Subaru Outback in darkness there are times when the headlights do not project the beam far enough ahead to adequately see. This condition is very noticeable in hilly terrain where as the vehicle is moving in a forward down motion with a upward hill approaching. There is a definite horizontal plane of light and darkness. At times this situation has caused us to brake quickly due to the possibly of coming in contact with something in the road that we would otherwise be able to avoid with adequate lighting.
The headlights in the 2008 Subaru Outback are deadly and an accident waiting to happen. I can not believe these headlights were approved and that they are lawful.
We purchased a 2008 Subaru Outback in oct. 07 and discovered a problem with the headlights after daylight saving time went into effect. The headlights are totally ineffective on back roads with hilly terrain. Visibility can be limited to as little as 20 feet at times. After speaking to the dealer and a Subaru regional rep. We were told to "deal with it" as the vehicle meets manufacturer specifications. Our concern is the danger not only to humans but the wildlife that live in this area. We have tried to pursue the lemon law but continue to hit roadblocks and have not been successful. We will probably trade the vehicle and cut our losses before we cause injury to ourselves or others.