Engine And Engine Cooling Problems of Subaru Outback - part 1

Subaru Outback owners have reported 463 problems related to engine and engine cooling (under the engine and engine cooling category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Subaru Outback based on all problems reported for the Outback.

1 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2022 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 06/19/2026

On may 19th 2026 around noon time, while we (me and my wife passenger) were driving my 2022 Subaru Outback touring (2. 5l, non-turbo) in active congested traffic on our way to airport, the engine shut off as expected by the auto start-stop system when I came to a stop. When I released the brake pedal to proceed, the engine failed to automatically restart. The vehicle became immobilized in a live traffic lane, creating a serious safety hazard with traffic backed up behind me and oncoming vehicles unable to predict my situation. No warning lights or alerts preceded the failure. After shifting to park and pressing the ignition button multiple times, the engine eventually restarted. There was no prior history of stalling, no check engine light, and the battery and vehicle have been maintained per Subaru's schedule. This is a critical safety defect: a vehicle that disables its own engine in traffic and fails to restart on demand puts the driver, passengers, and surrounding traffic at immediate risk of rear-end collision. The auto start-stop system should never leave a vehicle stranded in a live roadway. The vehicle is available for inspection. I have/have not yet taken the vehicle to a Subaru dealer for diagnosis.

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2 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 06/08/2026

On Monday [xxx] were driving on [xxx] going north up [xxx]. I was doing about 60-65 mph in traffic which was flowing in both directions. While ascending the pass, the car suddenly started to misfire, rapidly lost power, power steering failed and all dash lights lit up. With no shoulder to pull out this was a very scary experience. Eventually managed to limp to a spot where I could pull out off the pavement. Car was dead. Popping the hood showed significant battery corrosion. I had a toolkit with me. The voltmeter measured the battery voltage at 9. 3v. Thinking maybe cleaning the battery terminals would allow the car to be restarted, I managed to get the cables off and cleaned everything with a wire brush. But still no power. After a while a state trooper passed by and hung on while I contacted a towing service. After another 1. 5 hours, the tow truck arrived and towed the car the 60 miles or so to the dealership in denver with my wife and I in the cab of the tow truck. Dealer repair invoice indicated data control module (dcm) "causing excessive draw on electrical system. " more significantly, the battery had drained below the the operating threshold voltage required for vehicle drivability (understood to be 10-10. 5v). There was no mention of this by the dealer service adviser. Although dealer diagnostic was carried out, no computer codes were provided. Vehicle mileage at time of incident 73,456. I have owned the car since new and have all service records. Car was repaired and picked up from dealership on 06/10/26 with a replacement dcm. Battery was charged up but not replaced and left in corroded state. Battery will probably have been weakened by such a total discharge with reduced life expectancy. I have uploaded the dealer repair invoice. I have reported this incident to Subaru of America. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

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3 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2025 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 06/02/2026

I just bought my Subaru Outback brand new in October 2025. I’ve maintained my oil changes at the dealership. I bought it from in the last one was last may 26. I filled up my tank with a full tank of gas June 1. On June 2 when I was driving home from work on the I 94 highway in detroit michigan I was going about 50 mph when my check engine light went on and within seconds the engine failed. The car was still on, but the gas pedal wouldn’t work and I was in the far left-hand side lane of the highway. I was able to slowly pull over to the fire right hand shoulder, even though it was during peak traffic time. As I pulled over, I started seeing smoke come from under the hood. I then seen a big flame which made me quickly get out of the vehicle and then seconds two minutes later the entire vehicle was in golf in flames and had many explosions throughout. I had no prior indications notifying me that there was something wrong with my vehicle. I had no problems with it. There was only 12,500 miles on the vehicle. There was no obvious cause to this happening. It was only me in the car however if there were small children in car seats or less mobile elderly people in the car, I don’t think that they would have made it out safely. The fire department came and put out the fire. A police report was made with the michigan state troopers. My insurance is progressing. They are working on a claim. I also contacted Subaru of America and opened up a case with them. I notified the Subaru of troy dealership that this happened.

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4 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2022 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 05/17/2026

After highway driving for 50 miles, stopped for a red light. Engine died but all lights stayed on. Sat 5 minutes with dead engine and when I tried again, the car started. Drove 1 mile to next light and it happened again. Went to auto zone (it was a Sunday and dealerships were closed) and they tested the battery which was 100%. Two days later, drove car for 10 minutes then parked for errand; 15 minutes later, car wouldn't start. Let it sit for a minute and it started right up. This happened 8 months ago (engine died at stop light after having been driven 30+ miles) but Subaru dealership could find nothing wrong. Also, radio speakers randomly will blast so loud it startles and distracts everyone in the car.

5 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2025 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 05/07/2026

The contact owns a 2025 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the wheels skidded and the steering wheel seized. In addition, the contact stated that the engine seized. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle started. The contact stated that the vehicles behind the contact's vehicle had to drive around the contact's vehicle. The vehicle was driven to the contact's residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 16,000.

6 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2021 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 05/06/2026

Thermo control valve failure- contact Subaru of cherry hill, NJ for inspection 177,4xx miles p26a5 code check engine light on, disabled safety systems (eyesight system), car may have overheated if not pulled over and turned off. Part of warranty extension but did not qualify due to mileage.

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7 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2019 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 05/05/2026

I am reaching out regarding the cam carrier leak on my 2019 Subaru Outback. After researching this issue, I discovered that cam carrier leaks are extremely common among Subaru vehicles equipped with the boxer engine, especially Outbacks from this generation. Many owners have reported the same exact issue, often at relatively low mileage, with repair costs commonly ranging between $3000 - 5000 what has been most discouraging is learning that Subaru dealerships and technicians openly acknowledge how common this problem is, yet Subaru has not issued a recall or meaningful warranty extension to help loyal customers facing these expensive repairs. This does not appear to be caused by neglect or misuse, but rather by a known design issue involving the sealant used on the cam carriers.

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8 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2011 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 04/07/2026

Took my vehicle in for oil change and was notified the cam carrier is leaking. Researching this issue online it seems this is a very common problem with this vehicle and if I had known earlier wouldn’t have purchased for my daughter. With such a common problem I wonder why a recall hasn’t been made?.

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9 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2020 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 03/24/2026

Vehicle: 2020 Subaru Outback onyx/limited/touring xt (2. 4l turbo fa24) component: engine lubrication / oil pan sealant I am reporting a manufacturing defect involving the engine oil pan seal on the 2020 Subaru Outback 2. 4l turbo. Upon inspection of fluid accumulation at the transmission joint, a Subaru dealership diagnostic confirmed that the engine oil pan seal has failed. The dealership noted that engine oil is leaking and being forced rearward by airflow while the vehicle is in motion, saturating the transmission assembly. Technician admission: the service department at the Subaru dealership explicitly stated that this is a "known manufacturing issue" with the fa24 engine series. Financial concession: to acknowledge the nature of this premature failure, the dealership waived the $185 diagnostic fee, resulting in a $0 invoice (attached). Inadequate coverage: despite the dealership’s admission and a repair quote exceeding $1,100 (file is attached), Subaru has not yet issued a recall or extended warranty for this specific 2020+ turbo application, though similar issues with rtv sealant have plagued the brand’s newer engine platforms. The technician confirmed that the leak is significant enough that oil is traveling the length of the transmission. This presents a potential fire hazard if oil contacts high-temperature exhaust components (such as the turbocharger or catalytic converter) and contributes to environmental contamination. This is the turbo (xt) model. Turbochargers generate much higher heat, which makes an oil leak significantly Subaru national customer service has advised me to file this complaint with the NHTSA. I am requesting that the NHTSA investigate the frequency of oil pan seal failures on the 2020+ 2. 4l turbo (fa24) engine to determine if a mandatory recall or extended warranty (similar to past cvt or engine seal settlements) is warranted to protect consumers from the high cost of a documented manufacturing flaw.

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10 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2011 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 03/20/2026

Purchased my 2011 Subaru Outback 3. 6r limited from the dealership, new. Since 2013, the Subaru dealer has discovered multiple oil leaks, replaced the head gaskets 3 times, thermostat 4 times, the alternator 3 times, timing belt 4 times, radiator 3 times, starter once, and my hvac system twice. . . All due to my engine seizing multiple times while driving on freeways. No warning lights, just the engine seizing suddenly. This caused a few minor bumper accidents on the freeways because of these incidents. Nothing was reported because no one was injured. Last year the engine was replaced with a used/refurbished one by the dealership. In less than 11 months after this engine was replaced, the dealership states I'm having multiple oil leaks again, most originating from the cam carrier. Now, my engine is struggling on slight grades. The newly installed used engine only came with a six month warranty and now Subaru states I need another engine replacement. Money is tight, so for now I'm keeping a pan under my car to catch the oil and I will keep topping off the oil every week.

11 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 03/14/2026

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.

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12 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2024 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 03/11/2026

Was doing 55-60 mph in left lane of highway. Suddenly and without warning the car is decelerating, cannot accelerate any more, all warning lights suddenly flashing on dashboard. I was able to get over to the far right emergency lane, turn car off and put on hazards and started calling Subaru roadside assistance. While doing so I suddenly saw smoke coming out from under the hood. I got out of the car and continued my talk when the smoke suddenly turned to flames from under the hood and I called 911. Within 3 minutes of dialing for assistance, my car was completely engulfed in flames and it was burned to a crisp by the time the fire trucks put it out. My insurance company retrieved the car from wherever it was towed and has assigned it to someone to investigate.

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13 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2010 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 03/09/2026

This car is a very well-maintained, low-use vehicle with regular oil changes and routine maintenance performed on schedule. Early in this drive, I noticed an unusual hissing sound as I approached a stop. When I tried to brake, I realized my brakes didn't seem to be responding. I pressed the brake pedal harder and realized that with 50-100 pounds of pressure (guess), I could slow the car down. As I came to a stop, the engine died. I restarted the car, and it died again immediately. After the following restart, I realized I could manually keep the rpm up in neutral while at stops, and press with significant force to get the car to stop. Had I not been comfortable two foot driving or understood the issue, this surely would have resulted in a crash of some sort. The car indicated a check engine light, loss of traction control, a flashing brake light, and a flashing cruise control light. I took the car immediately to a local shop where they identified the problem as a vacuum leak at the brake booster. The plastic piece that the hose clamps onto had cracked off, leading to this problem. This make and model does not seem to have a check valve downstream of this component.

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14 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 03/02/2026

Total of 3 incidents when my car had approx 1/8 to 1/4 of a tank of gas. . . . As going up incline on interstate. . . . Car like stalls and slows down, will not speed up. . . . Get it over to the side to avoid being hit and it finally starts going again. . . Close call with vehicles behind us in the passing lane. Below listed the last time it happened. . . Did not use to do this. . . First time was same area listed below in November 2025.

15 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2021 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 02/26/2026

The failure involves the engine (powertrain), which was under warranty. The vehicle has experienced four catastrophic engine failures resulting in sudden loss of power, including at highway speeds (65–75 mph). The most recent failure also involved an oil-saturated catalytic converter. These failures occurred between 06/25/2024 and 03/16/2026. During this ~629-day period, the vehicle was only in my possession for about 184 days, as it remained at the dealership for diagnosis, repairs, and repeated engine replacements. The issue remains unresolved. The vehicle is currently in my possession, available for inspection, and is not being driven due to safety concerns. All failures occurred during normal driving and caused sudden loss of power with no prior warning, leaving the vehicle inoperable and stranded. This created a significant safety risk due to inability to maintain speed or safely merge, increasing the likelihood of rear-end collisions. The failures have been confirmed by an authorized Subaru dealership, with multiple engine replacements performed under warranty and most recently as a goodwill repair. Both the dealership and Subaru of America have acknowledged they cannot determine the root cause. The dealership’s operations director stated the vehicle is not safe and he would not allow his family to drive it. The vehicle has been inspected multiple times by the dealership and Subaru of America. However, no inspection reports, diagnostic data, or detailed findings have been provided despite repeated requests. Additional issues (including a broken axle and oil-saturated catalytic converter) were only identified during a third inspection after being missed previously. Requests for explanation were not answered, and further details were withheld as “internal. ” there were no warning indicators prior to the first three failures. During the fourth, a temperature warning appeared only seconds before failure.

16 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 02/17/2026

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.

17 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 02/11/2026

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.

18 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2024 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 02/05/2026

My 2024 Subaru Outback has twice become inoperable while stopped at a traffic signal. In both incidents, the engine was off while stopped, but the vehicle remained powered on and would not restart. The vehicle also would not properly power down. The car could not be safely driven or moved and required towing both times. This created a serious safety hazard because the vehicle became disabled in active traffic and could not be restarted or properly shut down. After the first incident (on [xxx]), the Subaru dealership replaced the battery. Approximately 4 weeks ([xxx]) later, the exact same failure occurred again. The dealership has now had the vehicle for approximately three weeks and states they cannot replicate the issue. No cause has been identified and no repair has been made. During one of these incidents, my [xxx] child was in the vehicle while we were stranded in traffic. This appears to be a repeat electrical / ignition / operability failure affecting the vehicle’s ability to restart or properly shut down after stopping in traffic. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

19 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2019 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 02/02/2026

Front exhaust pipe bellows cracked, allowing exhaust gases including carbon monoxide to enter the passenger cabin. This is the same defect Subaru acknowledged in service program wuj-95r (2015-2016 models) and warranty extension wi22-013 (2017-2018 foresters). The failure pattern extends to 2019 model year vehicles and should be investigated for a recall expansion. This is a design flaw, consistent problem across multiple years, and a dangerous problem that needs to be addressed. My local Subaru dealer diagnosed and acknowledges the issue but won't cover it. Subaru of America won't cover the full cost--only 25%. Thank you for your help.

20 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2008 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 02/01/2026

Unknown why car sparked & ignited. Car was driven to grocery store 5min away then sat for approx. 2hrs before catching fire.

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21 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2019 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 01/13/2026

The tumble generator valve (tgv) assembly within the intake manifold failed on my 2019 Subaru Outback at only 48,000 miles causing catastrophic engine failure. This is a critical engine component that is expected to last significantly longer than the vehicle's current low mileage. The premature failure of this part triggers engine warning lights and disables key driver-assist safety features (such as eyesight), creating a distraction and potential hazard while driving. This indicates a material defect in the tgv components used in this model year, causing catastrophic failure well before reasonable service life expectations.

22 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2022 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 12/26/2025

- engine failure. Yes. - at a stop light the auto-restart function failed, following this event the vehicle began making a knocking noise, we towed it to the dealership for evaluation and their diagnosis was that it needed a new engine. - dealership stated they too heard the knocking noise in the vehicle and it is engine damage due to low oil. However, the dipstick read fine when we took it into the dealership and we did not have a low oil warning. - inspection completed by dealership - received no warning lights nor messages regarding symptoms of the problem prior to failure. Initial event happened on 12/26 when at a stop light following the auto-off during braking function the car did not restart automatically. Car was turned off, and restarted. Following that event the vehicle had a knocking noise that increased in volume with driving. Did not drive the car after arriving to our destination. Towed the car to the dealership where we were told it needed a new engine.

23 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2009 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 11/02/2025

The contact owned a 2009 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving at 50 mph, the vehicle had failed to accelerate above 60 mph without warning. The contact soon began to notice heavy white smoke in her rear-view mirror as the smoke quickly spread to the front end of the vehicle. The contact immediately pulled over, grabbed vital items, and exited the vehicle. The contact called 911 as flames quickly engulfed the vehicle, and a deputy who witnessed the fire pulled over to assist the contact. The fire department arrived at the scene and extinguished the fire. The contact sustained emotional distress as a result of the accident but did not seek medical attention. The contact was not given a police or fire report. The vehicle was initially towed to an independent tow yard before the contact's insurance had the vehicle towed to another location. The insurance company later deemed the vehicle a total loss. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.

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24 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2020 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 11/01/2025

A fire started under the hood of my car while I was driving. There were no warning lights on in my car and the temperature gauge was in the middle where it usually is. Earlier in the day, I smelled gas, but I thought it was a different car as the smell of gas went away after a car that had a lot of exhaust coming out was no longer in sight.

25 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 10/24/2025

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.

26 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2025 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 10/23/2025

Critical electrical failure - highway safety hazard 10/23/2025: while driving 2025 Outback (11k miles) at highway speed on I-485 charlotte, complete electrical system failure occurred without warning. All dashboard lights illuminated, complete loss of power steering (steering extremely heavy/difficult to control), all safety systems failed (abs, brake sensors, traction control). Safety danger: sudden power steering loss at 65mph made vehicle nearly uncontrollable. Required extreme force to steer to shoulder. Could have caused fatal crash during emergency maneuver or in traffic. Improper warranty denial: dealer claimed "cut wire" was "outside influence" but provided no evidence how wire became accessible on properly designed vehicle. No photos, forensics, or proof. Vehicle never modified/damaged, only normal highway use. Pattern defect - Subaru Outback electrical failures: - 2020 Outback: 873 NHTSA complaints, electrical failures, battery drain, module failures - 2017 Outback: 893 complaints, "do not drive" warning, steering control loss - NHTSA 23v-551: 35,357 Subarus recalled for wiring harness "insufficient clearance" causing wire damage, short circuits, power loss - 2019-22 ascent: 271,694 recalled for electrical overheating from improper wiring common defect: improper wire routing, inadequate protection, vulnerable placement - design/manufacturing defects not owner damage. Concern: if critical wire accessible to damage after only 11k miles normal driving, this is design deficiency. Properly engineered vehicles protect wiring from road debris, vibration, weather. Request: investigate 2025 Outback electrical/wiring design. Review for pattern failures. Determine if recall warranted. Complete power steering loss on highway is life-threatening defect. Vehicle: new 2025, maintained per schedule, no modifications/accidents. Subaru denying valid warranty claims by falsely claiming "outside influence" without proof.

27 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2022 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 10/11/2025

Driving on the highway, engine started making a rattling noise, then began to labor and eventually stopped being able to accelerate at all. Oil pressure warning light came on around the time the acceleration gave out altogether. We pulled over to the side of the highway and got out of the car, seeing steam/white smoke coming out of the front of the car. The smoke increased and after several minutes, the front of the car caught on fire.

28 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2011 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 09/27/2025

When I came to a stop at a light, the car stalled and the engine turned off. It was just as if I was driving a manual transmission and didn't put the clutch down while in gear. I spoke with my husband about the issue and he told me it has been happening for several months now. I have researched it a but snd found that Subaru is aware of the issue and has not offered any recall for the issue but offered an extended warranty. This is not helpful when you are the 2nd owner of a vehicle. Being stuck with a car that turns off upon stopping is a dangeous situation. Subaru should be made to recall these cars and fix the issue. According to this article, it is a problem with the lock type torque converter. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

29 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2015 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 09/15/2025

I was within the town limits so I was driving slowly. When I approached the first stop light in town I saw that it was red. There were of three or four vehicles stopped at that light. At that point I was probably only going 5mph. I took my foot off of the gas pedal and put my foot on the brake to make a slow stop. Instead, the car accelerated rather quickly. I continued to brake but the car seemed to speed up. I was able to avoid hitting the truck in front of me by going around it. No vehicles were coming towards me but there were some stopped at the other side of the light. I drove up on the sidewalk to avoid hitting anyone. At that point the front passenger side of the car hit & snapped a pole. The car did not stop immediately upon impact. It stopped acclerating and came to a stop about 10 feet past the pole. I am not sure how fast the car was moving when it hit the pole but I was only going about 5 mph when I put my foot on the break. I would estimate the distance my car traveled from the moment I put my foot on the break until the car stopped was approximately 100-120 feet. It felt like the car went into the cruise resume mode and was trying to accelerate to a predetermined speed. I had not been using the cruise control that day but that is exactly what it felt like. There was one other time this year that the car lunged forward without using the gas pedal. It stopped quickly for me and I just assumed that I had hit the cruise resume button, although I also hadn't been using the cruise that day. The insurance company took the car to an impound lot two hours away. I am sure there has been no inspection and my insurance has not informed me of the status of having my car totaled or repaired. Because of the age of the car, and damage, they think it will be totaled. Yes, my safety and the safety of anyone near me was at risk. The car malfunctioned and the fact no one was hurt was miraculous. There were no warning messages before this accident.

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30 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 09/12/2025

Accelerated on its own doing 25mph and accelerated quickly and took pumping brakes to get it to stop.

31 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 08/25/2025

The contact owns a 2016 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the low oil warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine seal had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.

32 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 08/16/2025

I been hearing a loud humming sound like a sports car and smell of fumes inside the cabin.

33 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2021 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 08/04/2025

While slowly backing out of a parking space, the vehicle suddenly accelerated on it's own - I do not recall pressing on the accelerator but the engine surged and the vehicle rapidly reversed and struck 4 other parked cars. It felt as if the accelerator became stuck and would not respond to braking. No warning light or dashboard alerts appeared. Subaru eyesight and adaptive cruise control were not engaged at the time. There was no known obstruction under the petals. This felt like a serious malfunction and could have caused serious injury. I am reporting this in case it is part of a wider issue affecting this model and because I see that there are multiple complaints to you about sudden unintended acceleration, especially during low speed maneuvers like backing out a parking space.

34 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2018 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 07/13/2025

Arriving at my childhood home, I followed the driveway to the left to park in front of the garage door. With my foot on the brake and slowly rolling to a stop, the car suddenly accelerated and jolted forward making contact with the garage door and the frame of the garage. This caused damage to the house, garage door and the front of the car. Thankfully there was no other car in the way or a pedestrian! only the house and car were damaged. This was sudden and there was no warning or prior occurrence to make me aware of the problem. We spoke to the dealer service manager and at first he said he never heard of anything like that. After further conversation he admitted that another car had a similar issue. They kept the car for two weeks and couldn't repeat the issue. We then went on line and found there are several class action lawsuits against Subaru for the same thing - unexpected and sudden forward acceleration! but when contacting Subaru corporate for assistance in resolving this, they claimed they never heard of any class action lawsuits or problems such as this. We need help dealing with Subaru. They are playing with us.

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35 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2021 Subaru Outback

Failure Date: 07/11/2025

The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 mph, the vehicle stalled. During the failure the "eyesight" message was displayed, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was later towed to the local dealer who diagnosed that the thermal control valve had failed and needed to be replaced. The thermal control valve was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure informed of the extended warranty coverage related to the failure. The failure mileage was 18,640.


Other Common Engine And Engine Cooling related problems of Subaru Outback


Outback Service Bulletins
Outback Safety Recalls
Outback Defect Investigations