Transfer Case Problems of Subaru Outback

When driving our Subaru 2006 2. 5i Outback wagon (4-speed auto w/sport shift) in winter road conditions, we have had multiple instances where the rear of the car begins to float or do Mini-fishtails. It feels like the rear wheels are alternately pushing the car back and forth or like there are wind gusts hitting the car. The floating has a rhythmic feel and may continue for many miles until the road conditions change. When the car is floating, you sense that any change (steering, gas or braking) will cause you to lose control of the vehicle. And while we have not had an accident yet, it is a truly scary driving sensation and only a matter of time before this causes a serious accident. The only solution I have found is to ease up on gas until you find a speed (usually under 40 mph) where the floating is less pronounced. This is our 9th Subaru and we have 18 years experience driving Subaru awd vehicles on minnesota winter roads. None of our former cars, up through the 2004 Outback, ever behaved in the manner. Please note, not all winter road conditions seem to trigger the problem. I have most frequently experienced the floating when on asphalt road surfaces that are icy or covered in compacted snow or slush. I have had it occur on completely straight roads under steady throttle while traveling under 45 mph. When it occurs, I have always been driving at safe speeds and have noted that other vehicles were passing by at much higher speeds and seemed comfortable and confident with the road conditions. The most serious incident occurred after we had new michelin tires put on and the dealer had completed an alignment. No other parts have been replaced. Please note, this is a Subaru. Your database of vins comes up with the keystone RV manufacturer. This is not correct.

See all problems of the 2006 Subaru Outback 🔎.

The contact owns a 2002 Subaru Outback. While driving 65 mph, the contact heard a grinding sound coming from outside the vehicle. A local mechanic stated that the bearings in the transfer case failed. The vehicle was diagnosed by the mechanic; however, the failure recurred three months later. The vehicle has not been diagnosed by the dealer. The VIN was unknown. The current mileage was 60,000 and failure mileage was 55,000.

See all problems of the 2002 Subaru Outback 🔎.

All wheel drive binding tires. 2 sets of 4 tires each (new michelin agility) worn to steel b/c of "binding" -- 2 years in a row. Subaru currently having awd repaired.

See all problems of the 1998 Subaru Outback 🔎.