2000 SUBARU OUTBACK

2 recalls, 247 complaints - 66 TSBs

13E065000 Nov 29, 2013
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Defect Description
Airtex Products LP (Airtex) is recalling certain model E8598M, E8518M, E8600M, E8596M, and E8597M fuel pumps manufactured July 26, 2013, and July 29, 2013 and used as aftermarket replacements on Subaru Baja's, Outback's and Legacy's. The affected fuel pumps were sold or installed into the aftermark... Read more
Consequence
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Airtex will notify owners, and will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. Recall is expected to begin on January 2, 2014. Customers may contact Airtex at 1-800-880-3056. The recall is expected to begin during January 2014. This recall is being conducted by Airtex, not by Subaru.
397 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: Airtex Products, LP
03V153000 Apr 22, 2003
SUSPENSION:REAR
Defect Description
THIS RECALL APPLIES TO CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND... Read more
Consequence
IF SUCH BREAKAGE OCCURS WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING OPERATED, CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE COULD BE AFFECTED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL CLEAN AND RUST-PROOF THE REAR SUSPENSION SUBFRAME. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JULY 14, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
170,000 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

Complaint Statistics

247 total complaints 22 crashes 9 fires 11 injuries 5 deaths

Top Reported Components

ComponentComplaints
TIRES22
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION18
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL12
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE12
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING9
POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY8
SUSPENSION7
TIRES:TREAD/BELT7
POWER TRAIN6
SUSPENSION:REAR6
UNKNOWN OR OTHER Jan 10, 2018
Incident date: Nov 12, 2017
REAR SUB FRAME ROTTED OUT IN MULTIPLE PLACES AND BROKE LOOSE WHILE I WAS DRIVING. THERE WAS A RECALL IN 2003. THE CAR WAS NEVER REPAIRED BEFORE I PURCHASED IT A FEW YEARS AGO. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO DOYLE SUBARU IN WEBSTER NY. THEY OFFERED TO COVER THE EXPENSE OF THE PART BUT I WOULD HAVE TO PAY THE... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Jan 6, 2018
Incident date: Mar 9, 2017
THE 2000 SUBARU OUTBACK HAS A NOXIOUS SMELL FROM FUEL IN THE CABIN ONLY IN COLD WEATHER,THAT YOU MUST RIDE WITH THE WINDOWS OPEN UNTIL THIS DISSIPATES. I CALLED MY LOCAL DEALER TO ASK IF THEY WOULD HAVE AN IDEA OF WHAT IS THE PROBLEM AND WHAT WOULD BE AN ESTIMATE FOR REPAIR? I, JUST ABOUT GOT THE Q... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING Aug 3, 2016
Incident date: Jul 28, 2016
UNKNOWN COMPONENT PART/SYSTEM. DRIVERS SIDE HEADLIGHT WENT OUT. CHECKED FUSE AND BULB WHICH WAS STILL GOOD; REPLACED BULB ANYWAY AND IT STILL DIDN'T WORK. NEXT DAY THE OTHER HEADLIGHT ALSO WENT OUT. CHECKED THE SAME THINGS. HIGH BEAMS, FOG AND PARKING LIGHTS STILL WORKED. MY SON JIGGLED THE BU... Read more
POWER TRAIN Jun 2, 2016
Incident date: Apr 20, 2015
I WAS ADVISED BY A MECHANIC ON 4/20/15 THAT THE REAR CRADLE IS VERY RUSTY, ENOUGH THAT I SHOULD AVOID CARRYING HEAVY LOADS. I JUST NOTICED ON THIS WEBSITE THAT THERE WAS A RECALL IN 2003 FOR INADEQUATE RUSTPROOFING OF THAT PART; HOWEVER, WE NEVER RECEIVED NOTICE OF A RECALL. CAN THIS BE REPAIRED O... Read more
SUSPENSION Jun 2, 2016
Incident date: Apr 20, 2015
I WAS ADVISED BY A MECHANIC ON 4/20/15 THAT THE REAR CRADLE IS VERY RUSTY, ENOUGH THAT I SHOULD AVOID CARRYING HEAVY LOADS. I JUST NOTICED ON THIS WEBSITE THAT THERE WAS A RECALL IN 2003 FOR INADEQUATE RUSTPROOFING OF THAT PART; HOWEVER, WE NEVER RECEIVED NOTICE OF A RECALL. CAN THIS BE REPAIRED O... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER May 4, 2016
Incident date: Nov 27, 2015
WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEED ON A TOWN STREET THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, FOLLOWED BY THE ODOR OF GAS FUMES. SUBSEQUENT INSPECTION BY EXPERIENCED SUBARU MECHANICS REVEALED A SIMULTANEOUS FAILURE OF THE A/C COMPRESSOR, CATALYTIC CONVERTER, A HEADLIGHT BULB AND FINALLY, A DAMAGED FUEL LINE THAT WAS ... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM May 4, 2016
Incident date: Nov 27, 2015
WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEED ON A TOWN STREET THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, FOLLOWED BY THE ODOR OF GAS FUMES. SUBSEQUENT INSPECTION BY EXPERIENCED SUBARU MECHANICS REVEALED A SIMULTANEOUS FAILURE OF THE A/C COMPRESSOR, CATALYTIC CONVERTER, A HEADLIGHT BULB AND FINALLY, A DAMAGED FUEL LINE THAT WAS ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM May 4, 2016
Incident date: Nov 27, 2015
WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEED ON A TOWN STREET THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, FOLLOWED BY THE ODOR OF GAS FUMES. SUBSEQUENT INSPECTION BY EXPERIENCED SUBARU MECHANICS REVEALED A SIMULTANEOUS FAILURE OF THE A/C COMPRESSOR, CATALYTIC CONVERTER, A HEADLIGHT BULB AND FINALLY, A DAMAGED FUEL LINE THAT WAS ... Read more
SUSPENSION Feb 20, 2016
Incident date: Feb 1, 2016
THE REAR SUB-FRAME IS ROTTED AND ABOUT TO BREAK. WHILE DRIVING THE SUB-FRAME IS SHIFTING CAUSING LOUD BANGING. WHEN STARTING, STOPPING AND DRIVING THE LOUD BANGING IS HEARD FROM THE SHIFTING OF THE ROTTED SUB-FRAME.
STRUCTURE:BODY Oct 23, 2015
Incident date: Apr 22, 2013
DUE TO HEAVY CORROSION, WE HAD TO REPLACE THE REAR SUBFRAME ON THIS VEHICLE. OBVIOUSLY THE 2003 RECALL ON THIS PART WAS INADEQUATE. I WOULD LIKE THE REAR SUBFRAME TO BE RECALLED AS IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN IN THE FIRST PLACE, RATHER THAN JUST UNDERCOATING THE PART AND HAVING IT ROT AWAY ANYWAY.
ENGINE Jan 22, 2015
Incident date: Nov 25, 2013
IN COLD WEATHER (USUALLY 25 F AND BELOW) THERE IS A STRONG FUEL SMELL. WORSE THE COLDER IT GETS. I AM WORRIED FOR MY BABY'S HEALTH AND ALSO WORRIED I WAS INHALING THIS LEAKING FUEL THROUGHOUT MY PREGNANCY. IT IS OBVIOUSLY NOT SOMETHING THAT SHOULD BE HAPPENING AND IS UNHEALTHY. I REPORTED THIS TO A ... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Jan 22, 2015
Incident date: Nov 25, 2013
IN COLD WEATHER (USUALLY 25 F AND BELOW) THERE IS A STRONG FUEL SMELL. WORSE THE COLDER IT GETS. I AM WORRIED FOR MY BABY'S HEALTH AND ALSO WORRIED I WAS INHALING THIS LEAKING FUEL THROUGHOUT MY PREGNANCY. IT IS OBVIOUSLY NOT SOMETHING THAT SHOULD BE HAPPENING AND IS UNHEALTHY. I REPORTED THIS TO A ... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Dec 16, 2014
Incident date: Jan 7, 2014
DURING COLD WEATHER WHEN THE CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM IS SET TO FRESH AIR, A GASOLINE ODOR ENTERS THE CABIN. THERE IS APPARENT FUEL LINE LEAK THAT ONLY OCCURS DURING COLD WEATHER. *TR
ENGINE Oct 4, 2014
Incident date: Mar 5, 2012
CYLINDER HEAD GASKETS REPLACED AT 81,098 MILES. DUE TO THE LOW MILEAGE, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT UNDER WARRANTY BECAUSE 8 YEARS HAD PASSED (8 YEARS OR 100,000), WHICHEVER COMES FIRST. AUGUST 2014 VEHICLE WOULD TAKE SEVERAL SECONDS TO ENGAGE INTO DRIVE FROM REVERSE. EVENTUALLY, THE PROBLEM BECAME WORSE... Read more
POWER TRAIN Jul 17, 2014
Incident date: Jul 15, 2014
STOPPED FOR A RED LIGHT. WHEN THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN CAR WOULD NOT GO FORWARD BECAUSE THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WOULD NOT ENGAGE FORWARD GEARS. EVIDENTLY THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH A KNOWN DEFECT AND EXPENSIVE REPAIR. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Mar 31, 2014
Incident date: Sep 6, 2013
I SMELLED GAS IN CAR IN SEPY 2013. A FUEL PUMP WAS GASKET WAS REPLACE.10/2013 FUEL PUMP REPLACED.11/2013 ABOVE FUEL PUMP REMOVED & REPLACED. GAS SMELL STILL PRESENT,NOT AS STRONG.I WANT TO KNOW IF THIS IS AN ISSUE WITH SUBARU'S.IF SO OR IF NOT,WHAT WILL CORRECT THE GAS SMELL? *TR
SUSPENSION Mar 18, 2014
Incident date: Mar 6, 2014
THERE WAS A BURNED RUBBER SMELL AND NOISE COMING FROM THE LEFT REAR WHEEL AREA OF THE CAR. THE SUSPENSION SUBFRAME SNAPPED AND CAUSED THE LEFT REAR TIRE TO BE SHAVED FROM CONTACT WITH THE WHEEL WELL. WE WERE TOLD BY OUR MECHANIC THAT WE HAD NO RECOURSE ON THIS RECALL AND HE OFFERED US $500 FOR THE... Read more
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS Mar 18, 2014
Incident date: Mar 6, 2014
THERE WAS A BURNED RUBBER SMELL AND NOISE COMING FROM THE LEFT REAR WHEEL AREA OF THE CAR. THE SUSPENSION SUBFRAME SNAPPED AND CAUSED THE LEFT REAR TIRE TO BE SHAVED FROM CONTACT WITH THE WHEEL WELL. WE WERE TOLD BY OUR MECHANIC THAT WE HAD NO RECOURSE ON THIS RECALL AND HE OFFERED US $500 FOR THE... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Oct 1, 2013
Incident date: Oct 1, 2013
SUDDEN ACCELERATION. WAS DRIVING AT A SLOW SPEED DUE TO LIGHT TRAFFIC AT A RED LIGHT. CAR STARTED TO FEEL NOT NORMAL AND I KNEW SOMETHING WAS WRONG. I PRESSED ON THE BRAKE BUT THE CAR KEPT JUMPING FORWARD, NOT WANTING TO STOP. I WAS AFRAID I WOULD HIT THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. LUCKILY I WAS GOING VERY... Read more
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS Jul 24, 2013
Incident date: Jul 24, 2013
AFTER LOOKING AT SOME OF THE COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE SUB FRAME RECALL.MY MECHANIC LOOKED AT THE SUB FRAME ON A LIFT AND EXPLAINED THAT IT WAS RUSTED THRU AND UNFIXABLE.IF THIS CAR WAS PROPERLY UNDERCOATED UNDER THE RECALL IT WOULD NOT BE IN THIS CONDITION.I CALLED SUBARU AND THEY SAID THE WORK WAS DONE... Read more
SUSPENSION Jul 24, 2013
Incident date: Jul 24, 2013
AFTER LOOKING AT SOME OF THE COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE SUB FRAME RECALL.MY MECHANIC LOOKED AT THE SUB FRAME ON A LIFT AND EXPLAINED THAT IT WAS RUSTED THRU AND UNFIXABLE.IF THIS CAR WAS PROPERLY UNDERCOATED UNDER THE RECALL IT WOULD NOT BE IN THIS CONDITION.I CALLED SUBARU AND THEY SAID THE WORK WAS DONE... Read more
ENGINE May 7, 2013
Incident date: May 4, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, HE HEARD AN ABNORMALLY LOUD NOISE FROM THE ENGINE AS THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE. THE VEHICLE WAS MOVED TO THE SHOULDER AND UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, THE CONTACT DISCOVERED A FIRE UNDER THE HOOD. THE FLAMES... Read more
Fire
SUSPENSION May 5, 2013
Incident date: Mar 13, 2012
I WAS DRIVING ALONG, AROUND 50 MPH. I HIT A BUMP IN THE ROAD, AND THERE WAS A LOUD BANG. THE VEHICLE JERKED AND SWERVED, AS IT WAS SNOWING... I ALMOST LOST CONTROL. THE REAR SUB-FRAME WAS RUSTED OUT AND HAD BROKEN, ALLOWING THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL TO BREAK FREE AND SMASH UP INTO THE FUEL TANK AND CAUS... Read more
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS May 5, 2013
Incident date: Mar 13, 2012
I WAS DRIVING ALONG, AROUND 50 MPH. I HIT A BUMP IN THE ROAD, AND THERE WAS A LOUD BANG. THE VEHICLE JERKED AND SWERVED, AS IT WAS SNOWING... I ALMOST LOST CONTROL. THE REAR SUB-FRAME WAS RUSTED OUT AND HAD BROKEN, ALLOWING THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL TO BREAK FREE AND SMASH UP INTO THE FUEL TANK AND CAUS... Read more
POWER TRAIN May 5, 2013
Incident date: Mar 13, 2012
I WAS DRIVING ALONG, AROUND 50 MPH. I HIT A BUMP IN THE ROAD, AND THERE WAS A LOUD BANG. THE VEHICLE JERKED AND SWERVED, AS IT WAS SNOWING... I ALMOST LOST CONTROL. THE REAR SUB-FRAME WAS RUSTED OUT AND HAD BROKEN, ALLOWING THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL TO BREAK FREE AND SMASH UP INTO THE FUEL TANK AND CAUS... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING Dec 7, 2012
Incident date: Dec 7, 2012
DRIVING ALONG THE FREE WAY AT NORMAL SPEEDS WITH TRAFFIC AND MT CAR RANDOMLY SHUT OFF AND TURNED BACK ON, HAPPENED 3 OR 4 TIMES BEFORE I COULD GET OFF TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. IT SEEMS TO BE A COMMON ISSUE IF GOOGLED. JUST THE ELECTRICAL TURNED OFF AND ON THE ENGINE STAYED RUNNING. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Dec 7, 2012
Incident date: Dec 7, 2012
DRIVING ALONG THE FREE WAY AT NORMAL SPEEDS WITH TRAFFIC AND MT CAR RANDOMLY SHUT OFF AND TURNED BACK ON, HAPPENED 3 OR 4 TIMES BEFORE I COULD GET OFF TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. IT SEEMS TO BE A COMMON ISSUE IF GOOGLED. JUST THE ELECTRICAL TURNED OFF AND ON THE ENGINE STAYED RUNNING. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING Feb 10, 2012
Incident date: Jan 16, 2012
SMELLED COOLANT AND BURNT OIL UPON RETURNING TO GARAGE AFTER NORMAL OPERATION. DIAGNOSIS: FAILED HEAD GASKET & LEAKING REAR OIL SEAL. REPAIR INCLUDED BOTH HEAD GASKETS, COMPLETE VALVE JOB, AND NEW SEAL. ALSO REPLACED TIMING BELT AFTER ONLY 11,000 MILES OF SERVICE, AND CLUTCH AS PREVENTATIVE MAINTENA... Read more
SUSPENSION Dec 20, 2011
Incident date: Nov 1, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN THE RECALL UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 03V153000 (SUSPENSION:REAR) AND WAS REPAIRED. AFTER THE REPAIR, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR UNRELATED ISSUES WHEN THE MECHANIC ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE REAR... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR Jun 21, 2011
Incident date: Jun 13, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR CROSS BAR WAS RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 03V153000 (SUSPENSION:REAR) FOR THE SAME FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED WHO ADVISED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRE... Read more
POWER TRAIN Apr 10, 2011
Incident date: Mar 5, 2011
THE TPS HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE, ALL LEADS FROM THE WIRING HARNESS HAVE BEEN GROUND AND LUBRICATED, BUT THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT SHOCK REMAINS. THE MANUFACTURER'S TECHNICAL DEPARTMENT, HAVING MADE THE FORMER GUESSES ON THE TPS REPLACEMENT AND LEADS, SUGGESTS REPLACING THE ECM AND TCM TO SEE IF THAT CO... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Apr 10, 2011
Incident date: Mar 5, 2011
THE TPS HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE, ALL LEADS FROM THE WIRING HARNESS HAVE BEEN GROUND AND LUBRICATED, BUT THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT SHOCK REMAINS. THE MANUFACTURER'S TECHNICAL DEPARTMENT, HAVING MADE THE FORMER GUESSES ON THE TPS REPLACEMENT AND LEADS, SUGGESTS REPLACING THE ECM AND TCM TO SEE IF THAT CO... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING Sep 4, 2010
Incident date: Sep 3, 2010
I HAD RECURRENT LEAKS IN MY 2000 SUBARU OUTBACK AND TOOK IT IN TO DEALERSHIP STARTING IN 2007. 4/01/08 HAD ALL ANTIFREEZE CAME OUT OF CAR DEALERSHIP COULD NOT FIND PROBLEM. HAD TO HAVE TRANSMISSION REPLACED IN 2007. HAD TO REPLACE WATER PUMP,OIL PUMP AND HEAD GASKET IN 2008. THEN BECAUSE OF CO... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Apr 14, 2010
Incident date: Apr 14, 2010
UNINTENDED ACCELERATION IN SUBARU OUTBACK (2000) CAUSED SERIOUS ACCIDENT. *TR
Crash
WHEELS Mar 24, 2010
Incident date: Sep 20, 2009
MY SUBARU OUTBACK 2000 WAS BROUGHT TO A SUBARU DEALER IN SIOUX FALLS, AFTER BATTERY DIED, AND THEY CHANGED ALTERNATOR AND BATTERY, AND THEN THEY ALSO STATED THAT BRAKE PAD NEEDED TO BE CHANGED, SO I AGREED AND THEY DID. IT WAS IN MID AUGUST 2009. SINCE THEN I DROVE THAT CAR BETWEEN SIOUX FALLS AND ... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Mar 15, 2010
Incident date: Jan 20, 2010
FUEL LEAK SOMEWHERE IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT; GASOLINE ODOR WENT INTO PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. WORSE IN VERY COLD OR VERY HOT WEATHER. IT'S BEEN LIKE THIS FOR 3 OR 4 YEARS. MY MECHANIC SAID IT WOULD COST $200 TO TRY TO FIND THE LEAKS -- MAYBE SOME HOSE CLAMPS NEAR THE FUEL INJECTORS ARE THE CULPRIT, B... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Feb 14, 2010
Incident date: Feb 11, 2010
A VERY BAD FUEL SMELL INSIDE CABIN WHEN IT'S COLD OUTSIDE AND THE VEHICLE IS WARMING UP AND THE VENT IS RUNNING. FUEL LEAK UP BY FUEL FILTER AREA. CHECKED ALL HOSES AND CLAMPS NO LEAKS. DEALER CHECKED IT OUT AND COULDN'T FIND A LEAK OR PROBLEM. AFRAID THIS MAY START A ENGINE FIRE SOMETIME. *TR
POWER TRAIN Mar 16, 2009
Incident date: Mar 16, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 SUBARU OUTBACK. WHILE SHIFTING FROM PARK INTO DRIVE, THE VEHICLE TAKES 15-20 SECONDS FOR THE GEARS TO SHIFT. THE MANUFACTURER IS AWARE OF THE FAILURE, BUT HAS NOT ISSUED A SAFETY RECALL. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 170,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Mar 15, 2009
Incident date: Dec 1, 2008
MY 2000 SUBARU OUTBACK WAGON, WITH 120,000 MILES HAS AN OCCASIONAL STRONG GASOLINE SMELL THAT ENTERS INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT, WHEN DRIVING AND WHEN STOPPING AND TURNING OFF THE IGNITION AFTER A TRIP. IT OCCURS MOST OFTEN ON COLD WINTER DAYS. IT HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR THE PAST 2 WINTERS. ... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION Mar 2, 2009
Incident date: Jun 2, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 SUBARU OUTBACK. WHEN THE CONTACT STARTS THE VEHICLE AND ATTEMPTS TO CHANGE GEARS, THE VEHICLE JERKS VERY STRONGLY. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION WAS THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE TRANSMISSION FLUID WAS CHANGED, BUT THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE DEALER RECOMMENDE... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM Jan 14, 2009
Incident date: Jan 10, 2009
I ALSO HAVE NOTICED THE SMELL OF GASOLINE COMING OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD OF MY 2000 SUBARU OUTBACK WAGON IN THE WINTER HERE IN BOSTON, WHEN I GET OUT OF THE CAR ON A COLD DAY. SOUNDS LIKE A DESIGN DEFECT TO ME IN SOME GAS LINE HOSE. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Jan 1, 2009
Incident date: Dec 30, 2008
THERE IS A FUEL LEAK IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT OF MY SUBARU OUTBACK WAGON ON COLD DAYS AND IS A POTENTIAL FIRE HAZARD. I HAVE TALKED TO SEVERAL OTHER PEOPLE AND THEY HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. I WOULD THINK THERE WOULD BE A RECALL SINCE IT IS FUEL RELATED AND A SERIOUS RISK. THE FUEL LEAKS FROM A RUBBER... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER Dec 20, 2008
Incident date: Dec 19, 2008
DURING WEATHER UNDER 20 DEGREES THE FUEL LINE LEAKS. IT HAS BEEN TIGHTENED SEVERAL TIMES HOWEVER CONTINUES TO RETURN. THIS HAPPENS EVERY WINTER. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Dec 16, 2008
Incident date: Dec 16, 2008
STRONG SMELL OF GAS IN THE CABIN OF THE VEHICLE DURING COLD WEATHER - DEFINITELY SMELLS OF LEAKING GAS - DEALER ADVISED AND LOOKED AT CAR A NUMBER OF TIMES - COULD NOT RESOLVE. I GAVE THIS CAR TO MY DAUGHTER AND I FEAR AN ENGINE FIRE. *TR
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION Apr 28, 2008
Incident date: Mar 1, 2007
2000 SUBARU OUTBACK, TRANSMISSION SLIPS UNTIL WARMED UP. STARTED AT 60,000 MILES AND GETTING WORSE. WEB RESEARCH INDICATES A COMMON FAILURE OF PISTON SEALS AND A KNOWN PROBLEM AS SUBARU HAS REDESIGNED. WHAT ABOUT US PAST CUSTOMERS? *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM Apr 22, 2008
Incident date: Apr 2, 2008
2000 SUBARU OUTBACK 2.5L (91,235MI)- AFTER OWNING THE VEHICLE 1YR AND DRIVING ONLY 11K MI, IN WHICH DURING THE YEAR MAINTENANCE INCLUDED OIL CHANGES AND BRAKES, SYMPTOMS BEGAN TO OCCUR SUCH AS: CONSTANT SMELL OF COOLANT DRIFTING INTO THE CAR, OCCASIONAL TEMPERATURE SPIKES (EVEN WITH COOLANT IN THE ... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR Mar 3, 2008
Incident date: Feb 12, 2002
THE HEAD GASKETS AND CATALYTIC CONVERTER WENT OUT ON MY 2000 SUBARU IN FEBRUARY AND APRIL 2004 RESPECTIVELY. SUBARU PAID FOR THE HEAD GASKETS UNDER WARRANTY; HOWEVER, IT WAS NOT UNDER A RECALL AND REFUSED TO PAY FOR THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. HAD IT HAPPENED 3 MONTHS LATER, IT WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN C... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Mar 3, 2008
Incident date: Feb 12, 2002
THE HEAD GASKETS AND CATALYTIC CONVERTER WENT OUT ON MY 2000 SUBARU IN FEBRUARY AND APRIL 2004 RESPECTIVELY. SUBARU PAID FOR THE HEAD GASKETS UNDER WARRANTY; HOWEVER, IT WAS NOT UNDER A RECALL AND REFUSED TO PAY FOR THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. HAD IT HAPPENED 3 MONTHS LATER, IT WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN C... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Feb 24, 2008
Incident date: Feb 22, 2008
THE HEAD GASKET OF MY 2000 SUBARU OUTBACK FAILED AND WAS UNDER WARRANTY AT 48,000 MILES, BUT AT 101,000 MILES THE REPLACEMENT HEAD GASKET HAS FAILED AGAIN. WITH SO MANY OF THE HEAD GASKETS IN THIS ENGINE MODEL FAILING, SUBARU'S FIX OF A COOLANT CONDITIONER OR HEAD GASKET REPLACEMENT IS NOT SUFFICIEN... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION Jan 8, 2008
Incident date: Jan 10, 2007
TRANSMISSION WILL INTERMITTENTLY FAIL TO GO INTO DRIVE FROM PARK OR REVERSE. HAPPENS AT RANDOM. ENGINE CAN BE COLD OR WARM AND IT STILL HESITATES. SOMETIMES TAKES OVER A MINUTE TO GET THE TRANSMISSION TO ENGAGE. ONLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE WE GET STRANDED. TOOK CAR TO DEALER AND THEY TOPPED OF... Read more

Showing 50 of 247 complaints.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2000 SUBARU OUTBACK

66 manufacturer communications from 36 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

ComponentBulletins
350000 EQUIPMENT21
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM6
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY4
100000 POWER TRAIN3
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL3
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING3
116340 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:KEY/SENDER3
105400 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:CENTER SUPPORT BEARING2
01-168-09R Aug 1, 2023
350000 EQUIPMENT
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
01-168-09R Aug 1, 2023
170000 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
01-168-09R Aug 1, 2023
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
12-249-23R Jul 11, 2023
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin announces the recommended cleaning procedures to followed when encountering vehicles with long time exposure to pollen on painted surfaces on vehicles imported from Japan. This bulletin does not apply to SIA built vehicles.
01-167-08R Aug 23, 2022
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
15-302-22 Aug 23, 2022
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
15-302-22 Aug 23, 2022
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
15-192-22R Mar 18, 2022
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This bulletin has been developed to outline the steps for gathering basic essential information during diagnosis and repair of the Infotainment concerns. (Applicable to all models with Harman or Denso CP1 Infotainment).
01-167-08R Jun 17, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models
01-167-08R Jun 17, 2021
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models
09-51-08R Jun 7, 2021
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
This bulletin is to advise of SOAa??s revised catalytic converter recycling program shipping procedure.
09-51-08R Jun 7, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin is to advise of SOAa??s revised catalytic converter recycling program shipping procedure.
14-22-16R Feb 1, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
To help reduce confusion and increase technician efficiency, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) has developed the following cross reference list to help locate the appropriate Special Service Tool.
03-82-18R Jan 12, 2021
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
This bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing.
03-82-18R Jan 12, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing.
03-82-18R Jan 12, 2021
101000 POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
This bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing.
03-82-18R Jan 12, 2021
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
This bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing.
01-168-09R Jan 4, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information.
01-168-09R Jan 4, 2021
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information.
03-82-18R Aug 26, 2020
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
This service information bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing used on the models listed.
14-22-16R Aug 4, 2020
350000 EQUIPMENT
Special Service Tools Cross Reference List.
01-181-20 Apr 30, 2020
350000 EQUIPMENT
All Models (Vehicle Cleaning- COVID-19Best Practices)
06-68-19R Jul 11, 2019
030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
This Service Information bulletin announces instruction for application of additional lubrication between the brake caliper support and pad clips. This will prevent the pad from dragging due to corrosion buildup which may result in uneven o
Subaru Tech Tips May 21, 2019
350000 EQUIPMENT
Subaru Service and Technical Support Line Newletter.
14-22-16R May 6, 2019
350000 EQUIPMENT
To help reduce confusion and increase technician efficiency, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) has developed the following cross reference list to help locate the appropriate Special Service Tool.
03-82-18 Oct 26, 2018
100000 POWER TRAIN
This Service Information bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing used on the models as listed above. During assembly of the bearing, a different type of grease is used which has a higher resistance to heat. In cases
03-82-18 Oct 26, 2018
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
This Service Information bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing used on the models as listed above. During assembly of the bearing, a different type of grease is used which has a higher resistance to heat. In cases
03-82-18 Oct 26, 2018
100000 POWER TRAIN
This Service Information bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing used on the models as listed above. During assembly of the bearing, a different type of grease is used which has a higher resistance to heat. In cases
03-82-18 Oct 26, 2018
350000 EQUIPMENT
This Service Information bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing used on the models as listed above. During assembly of the bearing, a different type of grease is used which has a higher resistance to heat. In cases
03-82-18 Oct 26, 2018
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
This Service Information bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing used on the models as listed above. During assembly of the bearing, a different type of grease is used which has a higher resistance to heat. In cases
01-168-09R Nov 16, 2016
350000 EQUIPMENT
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
01-168-09R Sep 30, 2016
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
01-168-09R Apr 12, 2016
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Revised TSB. The Subaru Lock Information Site (SLIS) is located at http://lockinfo.subaru.com, and provides information on how to obtain immobilizer codes and key cut codes for Subaru vehicles from the 2000MY to present. This bulletin iden
01-168-09R Apr 12, 2016
350000 EQUIPMENT
Revised TSB. The Subaru Lock Information Site (SLIS) is located at http://lockinfo.subaru.com, and provides information on how to obtain immobilizer codes and key cut codes for Subaru vehicles from the 2000MY to present. This bulletin iden
01-168-09R Apr 12, 2016
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
Revised TSB. The Subaru Lock Information Site (SLIS) is located at http://lockinfo.subaru.com, and provides information on how to obtain immobilizer codes and key cut codes for Subaru vehicles from the 2000MY to present. This bulletin iden
0116809R Aug 7, 2014
116340 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:KEY/SENDER
Replacement Key and Immobilizer info
0116809R Jul 17, 2014
116340 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:KEY/SENDER
Replacement Key and Immobilizer Info
037012R-1 Jan 15, 2014
095400 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:KINETIC:HOUSING/CASE
Repair Procedure for High-Pitched Sound from Extension Housing Area Using Latest Generation Production Parts
03-70-12R Jan 15, 2014
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
REPAIR PROCEDURE FOR HIGH-PITCHED SOUND FROM EXTENSION HOUSING AREA USING LATEST GENERATION PRODUCTION PARTS - THIS BULLETIN PROVIDES PRODUCTION CHANGE, REPAIR PROCEDURE AND PARTS INFORMATION TO ADDRESS A CUSTOMER CONCERN OF A HIGH-PITCHED
03-70-12R May 22, 2013
100000 POWER TRAIN
This Bulletin provides production change, repair procedure and parts information to address a customer concern of a high-pitched sound coming from the transmission extension housing area. In cold temperatures, thermal contraction causes shr
03-70-12R May 22, 2013
350000 EQUIPMENT
This Bulletin provides production change, repair procedure and parts information to address a customer concern of a high-pitched sound coming from the transmission extension housing area. In cold temperatures, thermal contraction causes shr
01-168-09R Apr 25, 2013
350000 EQUIPMENT
SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
0116809R Apr 25, 2013
116340 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:KEY/SENDER
Replacement Key and Immobilizer info
0116809R Apr 25, 2013
350000 EQUIPMENT
Replacement Key and Immobilizer
03-70-12R Jan 3, 2013
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
THIS BULLETIN PROVIDES PRODUCTION CHANGE, REPAIR PROCEDURE AND PARTS INFORMATION TO ADDRESS A CUSTOMER CONCERN OF A HIGH-PITCHED SOUND COMING FROM THE TRANSMISSION EXTENSION HOUSING AREA. IN COLD TEMPERATURES, THERMAL CONTRACTION CAUSES SHR
037012R Jan 3, 2013
060000 ENGINE (PWS)
Repair Procedure for High-Pitched Sound
03-70-12 Dec 13, 2012
350000 EQUIPMENT
REPAIR PROCEDURE FOR HIGH-PITCHED SOUND FROM EXTENSION HOUSING AREA USING LATEST GENERATION PRODUCTION PARTS
037012 Dec 13, 2012
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Repair Procedure for High-Pitched Sound from Extension Housing Area Using Latest Generation Production Parts
03-68-12R Dec 11, 2012
105400 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:CENTER SUPPORT BEARING
THIS BULLETIN REVIEWS A CHANGE TO THE PART NUMBERS USED FOR THE TRANSFER DRIVEN GEAR BEARINGS. THESE REVISED BEARINGS ARE TO BE USED TO ENHANCE DURABILITY.
036812R Dec 11, 2012
105400 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:CENTER SUPPORT BEARING
5MT Transfer Driven Gear Bearings
SB-05-50-10R Feb 3, 2011
190000 TIRES
SUBARU: THERE IS A STEERING WHEEL VIBRATION AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS DUE TO AN IMPORPER WHEEL BALANCE. *RM
07 Jul 1, 2007
121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
HEADLIGHT BULB SOCKET REPAIRS. *KB
129406 Oct 3, 2006
135200 VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR
LOOSE DOOR MIRROR SCREWS. *KB
029605 Sep 9, 2005
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
2.5L REMANUFACTURED SOHC SHORT BLOCK RELEASE. *TT
128505 Feb 25, 2005
162500 STRUCTURE:BODY:TAILGATE
THIS BULLETIN PROVIDES INFORMATION TO PROPERLY DIAGNOSIS THE REAR GATE STAYS AND ALSO AVOIDS UNNECESSARY REPLACEMENT OF NON-FAILED STAYS. *TT
063103 Dec 8, 2004
036100 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
REPLACEMENT OF THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT (ECU) FOR ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) REPAIR. *TT UPDATE. *TT
170804 Nov 12, 2004
150000 SEAT BELTS
SLOW RETRACTION OF SEATBELTS. *TT
99 Feb 1, 2004
062000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM CONDITIONER.*MR
041104 Jan 15, 2004
015200 STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
POWER STEERING HOSE - NEW STYLE. *TT
127903 Apr 15, 2003
162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
LOWER FRONT DOOR WEATHER STRIP DETACHED OR HANGING LOOSE. *TT
WWF89 Apr 1, 2002
116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
SUBJECT REGARDING ENGINE CONTROL MODULE REPROGRAMMING. *SLC
1510501 Jan 4, 2002
350000 EQUIPMENT
SUBJECT REGARDING AUTO DIMMING ELECTROCHROMIC COMPASS MIRROR TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE. *SLC
1510401 Nov 1, 2001
162000 STRUCTURE:BODY
INFORMATION REGARDING ROOF RACK/CROSSBAR WIND NOISE. *YH
186901 Jul 1, 2001
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
SUBJECT REGARDING SERVICE MANUAL CORRECTIONS. *JB
WXW80 Jan 1, 2001
063100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE FRONT OXYGEN AIR / FUEL (A/F) SENSOR ELEMENT CRACKING. *TT
010700 Jul 1, 2000
162800 STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD
INSTALLING THE HOOD DEFLECTOR W CLIPS. *TT

SUBARU OUTBACK - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the SUBARU OUTBACK across all model years (1995, 2023).

199 Total Recalls
12,297 Total Complaints
0 Investigations
635 Reported Crashes
144 Reported Fires
9 Reported Deaths

SUBARU OUTBACK - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year Recalls Complaints
2026 0 11 View
2025 0 108 View
2024 0 131 View
2023 2 122 View
2022 4 543 View
2021 4 408 View
2020 6 1,128 View
2019 3 1,284 View
2018 3 986 View
2017 4 1,106 View
2016 4 770 View
2015 5 642 View
2014 10 276 View
2013 12 406 View
2012 16 367 View
2011 16 855 View
2010 18 466 View
2009 13 142 View
2008 8 281 View
2007 8 182 View
2006 7 404 View
2005 9 354 View
2004 11 108 View
2003 15 116 View
2002 5 172 View
2001 4 207 View
2000 (current) 2 247
1999 1 150 View
1998 2 165 View
1997 4 94 View
1996 2 57 View
1995 1 3 View

Other SUBARU Models

Model Recalls Complaints
IMPREZA 321 3,425 View
LEGACY 307 4,132 View
SOLTERRA 259 109 View
WRX 190 1,208 View
FORESTER 134 8,512 View
ASCENT 112 1,248 View
TRIBECA 70 51 View
CROSSTREK 42 1,453 View