Model-year record

2025 Subaru Outback
See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.
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Complaints filed
66
Reports to NHTSA, 2025
Safety recalls
0
NHTSA campaigns on record
NHTSA crash test
Overall NCAP rating
Combined MPG
25
EPA estimate
Known issues
Unknown Or Other issues lead owner complaints (26% of 66 reports), followed by electrical system (8%).
+ 12 more component categories with fewer reports.
Share of all 66 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11741939, ODI 11741637, ODI 11741691, ODI 11741695, ODI 11722476.
Individual complaint reports(66)
Showing the 50 most recent reportsSeat BeltsJul 2026 · ODI 11751938Details +Close −
The back passenger seatbelt does not retract. It stays loose after use and there are safety concerns. I don't feel safe having any passengers in my car.
- Reported
- Jul 2026
- Incident date
- Dec 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Seat BeltsJul 2026 · ODI 11749039Details +Close −
The seat belts in the backseat get un-aligned when you sit in the seat buckled up. when this happens the seat belt will not retract. This happens every time I sit in the backseat and I have to remember to refeed the belt into the guide.
- Reported
- Jul 2026
- Incident date
- Jul 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringJul 2026 · ODI 11748229Details +Close −
I bought a brand new 2025 subaru outback in April of 2025. At first service (oil change and tire rotation) in Jan 2026, I complained that the vehicle keeps swerving left and right and Subaru of Ann Arbor said they will diagnose the i-Sight vehicle system and correct it. But right after delivery , i realized the steering had to be held at ~5 degrees to the right (off centered) to get the car go straight. I complained and I was made to bring the car in 3 times to Subaru of Ann arbor - only to go without a fix. The car fishtailed, the traction control system malfunctioned in normal roads and highways due to the steering angle error. I was asked my Subaru of Ann Arbor to not come there anymore and take it to a different dealership. I complained to Subaru of America (Customer advocacy) and they asked me to pick a different dealer - Lafontaine Subaru. Even there the technicians argued that the car is good and just did an alignment without fixing the steering angle error issue. The steering angle sensor is tied to the vehicle safety software controls, traction control system and safety systems such as lane keep. I have to keep the steering tilted to keep the vehicle in lanes and I am struggling to keep it safely within lanes since January 2026. Subaru of America has not intervened even after the 6th repair in 3 months as the problem is not fixed. the lives of my family including a [XXX] infant for whom I got the car is being threatened on a daily basis. I keep telling the urgency and grave danger and the last response from the second subaru dealer was this is the maximum we can do. I am feeling threatened as I paid a fortune for a new car and wanted to secure my infant and my family. Our safety has been disregarded despite multiple complaints and repairs in the first year of ownership. Mileage now is 6100 miles total. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Reported
- Jul 2026
- Incident date
- Mar 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesJun 2026 · ODI 11746765Details +Close −
On 6/22/2026 we were driving on the highway that had no objects in the road and one oncoming car about 200 to 300 yards away when our brakes locked up and a crash indicator popped up on the drivers screen. My wife and I were thrown violently forward into our seat belts it felt like we had been in a crash. I feel that if someone had been following us we would have been hit from behind. We immediately took the car to the dealer to be checked out. The next day they said they found nothing wrong with the car and gave it back. The car did have an update load earlier in the day.
- Reported
- Jun 2026
- Incident date
- Jun 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Forward Collision AvoidanceJun 2026 · ODI 11743406Details +Close −
Twice in one week I was backing slowly out of my driveway. No cars were in sight and the Subaru slammed on the breaks. The first time tweaked my back as I was looking over my shoulder when it broke so aggresively. I am fine.
- Reported
- Jun 2026
- Incident date
- May 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemJun 2026 · ODI 11741875 · fireDetails +Close −
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.
- Reported
- Jun 2026
- Incident date
- Jun 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Fire
Unknown Or OtherJun 2026 · ODI 11741939Details +Close −
A message from SiriusXM pops up on the screen from which every system of the vehicle is controlled. That screen is then inoperable until that advertisement is closed by hitting a button in an unsafe location on the screen relative to the driver. This has been harshening to me every time I’ve started the car over the last 2 days.
- Reported
- Jun 2026
- Incident date
- Jun 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJun 2026 · ODI 11741637Details +Close −
There is a promotional pop up which shows from Sirius XM, it appears several minutes into driving, while moving. This pop up advertises a deal on the subscription and is not only distracting, but it disables any other functions on the head unit including navigation assistance, drive modes and climate controls. The only way to exit from the promotional window is to clock an X which is nearly out of reach for the driver to press.
- Reported
- Jun 2026
- Incident date
- Jun 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJun 2026 · ODI 11741691Details +Close −
I was driving and an ad for SiriusXM popped up. This has happened before. This disables thr head unit until you press the C button. This is dangerous. Please address with Subaru.
- Reported
- Jun 2026
- Incident date
- Jun 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJun 2026 · ODI 11741695Details +Close −
I am repeatedly getting a pop-up ad from Sirius XM radio on my touch screen info Center on the dashboard. I cannot use any of the other on-screen commands until I cancel it, and the x to cancel. It is in a place that's kind of far away from the driver side and difficult to reach. And it's very distracting. There's evidently a way to opt out of it, but you have to have a Sirius XM radio account in order to do that. And I don't think it's reasonable to expect somebody to provide personal information to opt out of a service. This is a dangerous and distracting item that needs to end.
- Reported
- Jun 2026
- Incident date
- Jun 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringMay 2026 · ODI 11736330Details +Close −
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.
- Reported
- May 2026
- Incident date
- May 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringApr 2026 · ODI 11732342Details +Close −
April 3, 2026: my 2025 Subaru Outback Premium (VIN [XXX] , 2,052 miles) suffered simultaneous failure of multiple safety-critical systems due to corrosion on a CAN bus pin in the driver door wiring harness (Subaru part #XXX) at its dash harness connection, caused by water intrusion into the cabin. Trip start: EyeSight, collision avoidance, blind spot, and lane assist all offline; BRAKE indicator illuminated with no brake engagement. Minutes later, airbag warning activated. Dealer service advisor described the dash as "lit up like a Christmas tree." While reversing through a 3-point turn on a commercial drive used by heavy trucks, I LOST STEERING at single-digit speed. 60 seconds further would have placed me on an inclined high-traffic road near a freeway interchange. Vehicle was towed by Subaru from the failure location. Confirmed by authorized dealer Driveway Subaru of Moon Township (Invoice #680646, warranty claim). Subaru SSM4 scan recorded 17 unique DTCs across 10 control systems, including C1460 Brake Booster Abnormality; U1131 Lost Comm Power Steering Control Module; U0151 Restraints Control Module; U0122/U1122 VDC; U0126 Steering Angle Sensor; plus multiple EyeSight faults. Dealer documented moisture on both A-pillars, driver kick panel, standing water in cupholders and center console. Prior intermittent symptom: passenger seatbelt alarm on empty seat, two occasions in prior months, consistent with past-status U0151 on scan. Dealer cleaned the corroded pin but did NOT identify or seal the original water ingress point. Vehicle remains in dealer possession. Subaru of America Customer Advocacy Case #XXX-XXXhas declined repurchase/replacement, stating vehicle is "operating safely as designed." I dispute this conclusion: the ingress source is unremediated and recurrence risk has not been addressed. Repair invoice, full DTC scan, SOA correspondence, and owner statement available on request. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Reported
- Apr 2026
- Incident date
- Apr 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Forward Collision AvoidanceMar 2026 · ODI 11728209Details +Close −
Traveling southbound onXXX in Virginia between the hours of 7-9am. Weather was clear with bright sunshine. While traveling at highway speed with the cruise control activated the emergency braking system activated on 3 separate occasions. Traffic was heavy but moving at a steady speed. I suspect the angle of the sun and the sunlight intensity caused the inadvertent activation.
- Reported
- Mar 2026
- Incident date
- Mar 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Lane DepartureMar 2026 · ODI 11725271Details +Close −
Crash avoidance Collision system randomly goes off with no cars in front or behind it. This is extremely dangerous as it will make the car stop on its own. Lane departure does not activate until completely over center line. Another big safety issue. This is a loaner car from Carter Subaru in Shoreline WA. My car is in their shop for exact same reasons and more issues. Obviously this is a systemic problem with the new Subaru’s.
- Reported
- Mar 2026
- Incident date
- Mar 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainMar 2026 · ODI 11724698Details +Close −
This concerns my 2025 Subaru Outback Touring XT- with a turbo charges engine and standardd CVT transmission. When I get to street speed and brake to slow down, as the car slows and the tach decreases to 1000 rpm /- a bit, the car shows an obvious power surge that can be felt through the accelerator and brake pedal and can be clearly seen on the tach as a jump to about 1100 rpm . I had the first oil change done at 2500 miles or so at the dealership and asked them to see what it was. The electronic system diagnostic monitor they plugged the car into showed NO issues. But, the technician doing the work could feel the same thing. The dealership had just received a new car with same features as mine, so they got in it, and the same thing happened. I was simply told that was the way the care was. I really doubt it. I will be having another oil change soon, perhaps this Saturday, and will ask them to put it on the diagnostic monitor again and see, but this can be a little unnerving. This is a continual and ongoing issue. There is NO one specific date as requested below. So, I am just showing 1-1-26 to fill the blank. Thank You [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Reported
- Mar 2026
- Incident date
- Jan 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherMar 2026 · ODI 11722476Details +Close −
Driving on highway and moon roof exploded. Have nonindication of a projectile hitting glass. Did not see any cracks
- Reported
- Mar 2026
- Incident date
- Mar 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainMar 2026 · ODI 11721684 · crashDetails +Close −
2025 Subaru Outback onyx edition purchased 3/2025. Approximate mileage at time of incident 7000. On 2/10/25 around 6am car is remotely started with Subaru app from iPhone on flat gravel surface. Car was in park. Go out car not there moved almost a car length down a hill left turn then over an embankment into a ditch where it finally rested still running in park when found it. Why or how is this possible when done this before no issues. Took to dealership checked visible damage snapped bumper back in get hood and grill shutters checked by body shop. Stating no malfunction and said safe to drive until we did that. One week later the car is started and all sorts of lights appear on dash took back to dealer additional problems found in front end and underneath. Told us we could still continue to drive it with lower core support damaged. Why did lights come on week later no airbags deployed when hit ditch. No notification or contact on app when crash happened and how was the steering affected when vehicle was in park. So many questions no definite answers yet? Definitely a major safety concern. Left with new vehicle damage at this mileage and we feel we are not at fault
- Reported
- Mar 2026
- Incident date
- Feb 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash
Unknown Or OtherFeb 2026 · ODI 11720587Details +Close −
Vehicle Has a chip in the front windshield, its only 4 month old. Subaru made front windshields that cracked very easy, I have a crack an dit sgoingt ocause serious safety concerns if they dont fix it.
- Reported
- Feb 2026
- Incident date
- Jan 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SuspensionFeb 2026 · ODI 11719318Details +Close −
The vehicle experiences a recurring rhythmic clunking or rattling noise from the lower front suspension area when turning right over uneven road surfaces. This condition is consistently reproducible and appears to involve the front suspension system, potentially including control arms, bushings, sway bar links, or strut-related components. No warning lamps or dashboard messages have illuminated. The noise raises concerns regarding suspension integrity, steering stability, and vehicle handling during turns, which may pose a safety risk if the condition worsens or results in component failure. The vehicle has been inspected by an authorized dealer, who acknowledged the presence of similar suspension noise during evaluation; however, no corrective repair has been performed. The vehicle and all components remain available for inspection upon request.
- Reported
- Feb 2026
- Incident date
- Feb 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Lane DepartureFeb 2026 · ODI 11719139Details +Close −
1.) Lane departure is not operating until way over the line on right side of vehicle. 2.) Collision Warning is going off regularly with no cars in front or behind. Randomly goes off. This makes it impossible to use the Automatic Emergency Braking feature if it went off in the middle of the freeway which would cause a wreck. 3.) Blind Spot warning goes off on driver side when there is no car there. 4.) Eyesight constantly turns off randomly meaning absolutely none of this "safe" driving stuff is working anyways. All of these items make this car very unsafe to drive and makes me wonder why I paid for them. It creates incredible stress and sometimes panic especially when the Collision Warning goes off for no reason. Yet my dealership denies any issue I've brought to them in the past but they magically get fixed and I'm referring to previous issues not the ones mentioned above. Yet after going through many of the service bulletins on your Website, my dealership has not notified me of any of these except the CCU update.
- Reported
- Feb 2026
- Incident date
- Jan 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Visibility/WiperFeb 2026 · ODI 11719168Details +Close −
1.) Eyesight constantly turns off on a whim. No reason or rhyme to it but just turns off. Meaning none of my "safety" systems (lane departure, crash avoidance, emergency braking, lane keeping assistance, collision warnings, collision braking) are functioning. Then it turns on when it decides it wants to turns back on after awhile but will happen in the middle of a 30+mile drive. When has this happened? Intermittently since I've purchased the car 11/23/2024. It's happened at least a dozen or more times. Dealership says nothing is wrong with car and they cannot replicate issue. This is just one of many issues with the new Subaru. Others are auto start stop does not function as it should per the User Manual. 12/4/2024 Passenger outside mirror does not defrost as stated it should in User Manual. 12/4/2024 Mileage for the Wilderness edition rarely hits minimum estimated MPG. constant
- Reported
- Feb 2026
- Incident date
- Jan 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherFeb 2026 · ODI 11718064Details +Close −
My front windshield started to crack. Nothing hit it, It looks like a smal; stress crack. When I bought th ecar Subaru assured me they fixed the windshield cracking lawsuit issue. Well, it started cracking. The dealer denied even they had lawsuit for the front windshield. And the ywill not fix this windshield.
- Reported
- Feb 2026
- Incident date
- Feb 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Forward Collision AvoidanceFeb 2026 · ODI 11717987Details +Close −
We are having issues with the RAB, lane departure, collision assistance and other warning lights just randomly coming on. We put it to the dealer and they said it was a problem with a dead fob. They returned it to us and the first day back on the road it did it again. When it left the dealer after being "fixed" before it had 14625 miles on it. I also have a picture of when we were going 71 miles per hour when it cur out.
- Reported
- Feb 2026
- Incident date
- Feb 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EquipmentJan 2026 · ODI 11709965Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2025 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while using the original wireless charger and the cellular device would overheat. The contact was concerned that the wireless charger overheating could potentially cause a fire. The contact researched on Google and retrieved information about the dangers of using a wireless charger. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to have the wireless charger, and the contact was informed that the charger was working as intended. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the wireless charger was working as designed. The approximate failure mileage was 2,000.
- Reported
- Jan 2026
- Incident date
- Nov 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemJan 2026 · ODI 11708187Details +Close −
While driving, the head unit, which gives you access to many of the safety features like auto braking etc, blanks out and goes completely dark. It happens without notice and is random in nature. On this particular vehicle it has happened at least four times. It does come back on but it is not immediate and the amount of time that it is out is variable. This can happen regardless of where you are driving and is very concerning because when the head unit is dark and not working you lose control over a lot of the important functions in the vehicle and it makes you doubt whether those systems are working properly.
- Reported
- Jan 2026
- Incident date
- Dec 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherDec 2025 · ODI 11707363Details +Close −
The Driver Monitoring System option is not available on the screen. It appears that map responds to my mental questions only when I’m driving, which leads to distracted driving. I can not document this phenomenon. The Drive Monitoring System would prevent this distraction. The photo of manual documents the feature exists. The screen photo does not list the feature. I have reported that electronic devices have been hacked to the FBI. There are several other undocumentable changes in the display. I have scheduled an appointment with my doctor to discuss my mental health. The Subaru sales rep has been notified.
- Reported
- Dec 2025
- Incident date
- Dec 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherDec 2025 · ODI 11704197Details +Close −
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The infotainment system, which includes control of driving features, displayed pop-up ads for SiriusXM satellite radio while in motion, obscuring other information How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Unwanted and distracting information obscured control of vehicle functions while in motion Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes, dealers are widely aware this is happening Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No
- Reported
- Dec 2025
- Incident date
- Dec 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemDec 2025 · ODI 11703902Details +Close −
I am submitting a safety complaint regarding my Subaru vehicle’s infotainment system. The system displays unsolicited, full-screen SiriusXM promotional pop-ups while the vehicle is in motion. These ads override the current display without warning. Most recently, a SiriusXM trial offer appeared and took over my entire screen while I was driving over 60 mph on the highway at night. The sudden change in brightness and the complete obstruction of the display were extremely distracting. It required my attention to dismiss, creating a dangerous situation at high speed. This is not a one-time occurrence. These ads have appeared multiple times, and I have no option to permanently disable them. I did not consent to advertising in my vehicle, much less advertising that interrupts the display while driving. A vehicle’s infotainment system should never display promotional content that interferes with safe operation, especially while in motion. This behavior poses a clear distraction risk and compromises driver safety. I am requesting that the NHTSA investigate this issue, as manufacturers should not be pushing advertisements that override critical vehicle interfaces during active driving. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
- Reported
- Dec 2025
- Incident date
- Dec 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemDec 2025 · ODI 11703118Details +Close −
unprompted intermittently while operating the vehicle pop up advertisements will appear on the infotainment system advertising sirius xm radio. this is very distracting as it requires focus to be taken off of the road to bypass the ad to return to normal radio screen functions
- Reported
- Dec 2025
- Incident date
- Dec 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherDec 2025 · ODI 11702541Details +Close −
While driving, the vehicle's infotainment system becomes unusable due to a pop-up ad for Sirius XM satellite radio. All vehicle settings, including safety settings, automatic braking, and other driving assistance settings, are all controlled by the vehicle's infotainment display. Additionally, the infotainment unit displays maps and navigation tools that assist the driver. I believe it is a safety defect to have these pop-up messages display while operating the vehicle because it prevents the driver from accessing the controls through the infotainment display without first interacting with the advertisement.
- Reported
- Dec 2025
- Incident date
- Dec 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherNov 2025 · ODI 11701541Details +Close −
I am writing to report a serious safety issue with the satellite radio service in my vehicle. Recently, advertisements have been automatically taking over my infotainment screen while I'm driving, overriding whatever I am doing and forcing me to interact with the system to dismiss the ad. This behavior is dangerous and distracting. Any unexpected visual takeover of the screen draws my attention away from the road, even if only for a moment. Having to locate and press a "close" or "cancel" button while the vehicle is in motion increases the risk of an accident. An infotainment system should never interrupt normal driving functions or demand driver interaction for ads. I am requesting that this forced advertising behavior be disabled immediately, or that an option be provided to permanently opt out. Ads should never override or block vehicle controls, navigation, or audio functions while the car is in motion.
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Nov 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringNov 2025 · ODI 11700418Details +Close −
See attached document for complaint.
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Oct 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Visibility/WiperNov 2025 · ODI 11699326Details +Close −
Windshield made a very loud bang noise as if something hit it but nothing was observed to hit. After arriving home, I inspected the windshield and discovered a 4 inch straight hairline horizontal crack with no sign of debris impact (no chip, scratch, etc). Safelite inspected it and says it is a stress crack, not caused by debris impact. After doing some research, apparently Subaru has a long history (10+ years) of poor glass quality to include a settled class-action lawsuit, and has not fixed the glass-quality problem. This is a safety issue because sudden glass cracking while driving can be a huge distraction to the driver, reduces structural integrity of the windshield, can impair forward visibility, and in severe cases could lead to shattering with glass fragmenting into vehicle. Loss of vehicle control could result with this issue.
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Nov 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingNov 2025 · ODI 11697625Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2025 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed at night, the low beam headlights failed to illuminate the road ahead while going uphill or downhill. The contact had to activate the high beam headlights. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 71.
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Sep 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineOct 2025 · ODI 11696638Details +Close −
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.
- Reported
- Oct 2025
- Incident date
- Oct 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingOct 2025 · ODI 11695778Details +Close −
The headlights ... and: and; yes it is available for inspection at any time, preferably at night!!! If you look at the photos attached you can see when headlights are on there is little or no visibility and what you see is what appears to be like a black line. We live in a very rural area and can not see at night with these headlights. So I would say we and the other vehicles on the road are at great risk. We did take vehicle right back to dealer the following day, they informed me that this has been a known problem on these cars and that I should just drive with my high beams. Not a solution!! I do not want to blind other cars coming at me. Not inspected by anyone except dealership. There were no warnings about this problem, and; I was very much shocked and disappointed that the dealership was aware of this issue. They appeared the first time I drove at night and needed head lights on!
- Reported
- Oct 2025
- Incident date
- Aug 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Vehicle Speed ControlOct 2025 · ODI 11694726 · crashDetails +Close −
The contact owned a 2025 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that after coming from a stop sign, she depressed the accelerator pedal to make a right turn, and the vehicle inadvertently stopped and then experienced unintended acceleration with no warning light illuminated. The contact regained control of the vehicle; however, the failure recurred while her husband was driving. The contact stated that while her husband was driving under 5 MPH and exiting a parking space, the vehicle experienced unintended acceleration and crashed into two other vehicles. The contact and her husband did not sustain any injuries, and no medical attention was received. The air bags did not deploy. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed from the crash site and deemed totaled by the insurance company. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 500.
- Reported
- Oct 2025
- Incident date
- Oct 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash
TiresOct 2025 · ODI 11693866Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2025 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the "Door and Window Open" message was displayed. The information screen indicated that the driver monitoring system and EyeSight were disabled. While driving, the low tire message was displayed. The contact attempted to inflate the tire. A good Samaritan attempted to assist with the tire. The contact was able to continue driving to the destination. The contact stated that the App failed to provide the notifications. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure. There were no fault codes retrieved. The dealer disabled the system. The dealer then informed the contact that the tire needed to be replaced; however, it was determined that the tire was okay as-is. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case. The failure mileage was approximately 1,999.
- Reported
- Oct 2025
- Incident date
- Dec 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesOct 2025 · ODI 11692655Details +Close −
Since October 2023, my 2019 Toyota Prius has developed severe and unpredictable driving behavior after a regular brake service, which may have triggered or coincided with a software or ECU update. The car, which had been driving smoothly since I bought it in 2021, suddenly began showing false braking, steering interference, and lane instability — as if the car were trying to “correct” problems that didn’t exist. These interventions often happen on highways or during turns, creating serious safety risks for both driver and passengers. I’ve spent months and thousands of dollars replacing parts, performing alignments, and recalibrating sensors, including at Toyota dealerships. The problem persists because it is software-based, not mechanical. I discovered that in mid–2023, the NHTSA announced upcoming rules requiring Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection by 2029. Around that same time, reports from multiple drivers (Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, Ford, Subaru) began to appear describing the exact same issues. It seems manufacturers began silently updating vehicles to meet anticipated compliance standards. However, this introduced overly sensitive and malfunctioning driver-assist systems. The most alarming part is that the driver cannot fully disable these features — the “off” button only reduces their intervention. This means when the system malfunctions, the driver is forced to operate an unsafe vehicle. As a professional rideshare driver, this problem destroyed my ability to work. Passengers reported me for unsafe driving because of the car’s erratic behavior. I eventually lost my vehicle and income. I believe this is a systemic safety defect linked to premature or unregulated implementation of AEB software. Drivers deserve the right to fully disable malfunctioning systems that endanger lives. This is not just a car issue — it’s a public safety crisis that must be urgently investigated.
- Reported
- Oct 2025
- Incident date
- Aug 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherSep 2025 · ODI 11690413Details +Close −
Windshield crack suddenly appeared without any known outside trauma (i.e., rock hitting windshield). The crack goes from the base of the windshield next to the wiper blade motor and stretches >10 inches across the bottom. This crack at base wiper bade motor area on left side of front windshield appears to be the same place as the class action settlement that Subaru was forced to pay out. My 2025 Subaru outback has just over 4K miles on it. the repairs by Subaru are $1678. I am the nearly exclusive driver of the car an there has been no accidents or trauma that I think could have possibly caused this defect. I submit this is a defect in the Subaru outback window design or manufacture.
- Reported
- Sep 2025
- Incident date
- Aug 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemSep 2025 · ODI 11689091Details +Close −
I purchased my car on [XXX]. Since then I have now had two incidents where I was driving on the expressway and the computer completely shuts down. Engine is still active but the dashboard goes black, air conditioning turns off, turn signals don’t work etc. I brought it back to Gerald Subaru of Naperville and they told me the first time that they had not done the factory reset when they first got the vehicle. They explained to me they fixed the issue and it would never happen to me again. It happened again to me yesterday on the expressway. I was put in a very scary, very unsafe situation that I never thought I would be in because I bought a Subaru, the “safest” car on the market. Come to find out my service paper work states that Gerald Subaru did not do a “factory reset” when I brought it in the first time. They claimed I said the engine light turned on and then the dashboard turned off, which is not accurate and I have an email and photo to prove that. I would like answers as to why my brand new 2025 Subaru Outback is failing. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Reported
- Sep 2025
- Incident date
- Sep 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherSep 2025 · ODI 11687897Details +Close −
Both wired and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is abysmal at best. It gets disconnected and starts to reconnect for no reason whatsoever, even when connected through USB C. Tried with both USB ports, same thing. On top of the problem, the android auto randomly starts to play music on its own. The screen is useless and unresponsive at these times. Therefore, I cannot even switch to built-in navigation. What a mess!
- Reported
- Sep 2025
- Incident date
- Aug 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Forward Collision AvoidanceSep 2025 · ODI 11687671 · crashDetails +Close −
1. Pre-collision warning system malfunctioned. On my vehicle it has activated 4 different times when there was no obstacle in the roadway -- one of which happened in front of a semi truck and the semi truck almost rear ended me. On the loaner vehicle while mine was being looked it, the pre-collision warning didn't activate at all when there was a significant obstruction in the roadway and I wrecked the vehicle. 2. My safety has been put at risk by having a pre-collision warning system activate randomly and then brake hard due to this. It was also put at risk by the pre-collision warning system not activated at all and causing an accident. My safety has further been put at risk by Subaru asking me to continue to drive my vehicle to help them figure out what is happening. I am not a crash test dummy. 3. The problem has not been able to be reproduced but I do have some pictures of the malfunctions. 4. The vehicle has been inspected by the dealership. 5. My vehicle has been plagued with multiple electrical issues prior to the pre-collision warning activating for no apparent reason. The warning signs were came on and off too fast for me to see what they were other than the vehicle was braking hard for no reason.
- Reported
- Sep 2025
- Incident date
- Sep 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash
StructureAug 2025 · ODI 11684097Details +Close −
2025 Subaru Outback was parked in the garage. The high temperature for the day was in the upper 80's. The temperature on the thermometer in the garage was 85. The car had been parked in the garage after the drive home from work for over 3 hours. I heard a noise in the garage and the sunroof had exploded outward. I had not been hit by any debris and it was not damaged. The glass was still crackling as I walked up and took a video. It looked like a miniature volcano with the upward, circular ridge of glass. It was towed to the dealership and their initial response was they did not think the factory warranty or extended warranty will cover it. I have 35,000 miles on the vehicle. Began to investigate known issues with the Subaru and discovered this has been happening to other Subaru's and manufacturer's.
- Reported
- Aug 2025
- Incident date
- Aug 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Lane DepartureAug 2025 · ODI 11680849 · crashDetails +Close −
Unforced acceleration occurred in a parking lot. I had my foot off the gas pedal, and had the car easing to a stop, when the car sped up rapidly and scraped the side of a large van. The car eventually came to a stop as i was applying the brake as much as i could. The passenger side of subaru was damaged extensively. I reported this to our insurance agent and lithia.
- Reported
- Aug 2025
- Incident date
- Aug 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash
Unknown Or OtherAug 2025 · ODI 11681007Details +Close −
The wireless CarPlay continuously disconnects and reconnects on its own. It is possible to inspect it upon request. This issue has been persistent since I purchased the car however it’s random in the times it disconnects, and sometimes it doesn’t reconnect at all. The dealership has informed me that this is an issue with Subaru cars with wireless CarPlay. It has been recalled and supposedly the issue was resolved when I had it repaired at the dealership, however it has continued to have the same issue. It is a safety concern to me because I no longer am able to connect and see my map on the screen while driving, which in turn will force me to have to use the maps on my phone. I have to hold my phone and continuously look down to follow the navigation information which is dangerous to myself and other cars driving around me.
- Reported
- Aug 2025
- Incident date
- Aug 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Lane DepartureAug 2025 · ODI 11680299Details +Close −
The EyeSight Assist appears to be working intermittently since the car was purchased. It stops working without any apparent reason, regardless of whether it is a sunny day, cloudy, or rainy. The assist stops working without any proper reason. The lane departure warning also appears to be either not working or malfunctioning at times. Even if I am within the lane, it still makes warning sounds at times and shows yellow lines on the screen.
- Reported
- Aug 2025
- Incident date
- Aug 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesJul 2025 · ODI 11675831Details +Close −
Several incidents: 1) I was on a 3 lane road and gained some speed to get around a car, when I got into the other lane the car collision warning came on and slowed the car down significantly b/c it detected a car that was at least 300 feet in front of me. That is too far for a car accident. I was told by the dealership that the alogorithum between speed and object detection is what made the car react that way. Essentially it calculated that at the speed I was at I would have overtaken the car in front of me despite the fact that it was hundreds of feet away. This is dangerous and in no way would I have kept that speed and overran that car, besides I was getting back in the other lane to get on the interstate ramp in less than 100 feet. 2) I have small kids, in the morning I unlock the car and load them up into the car while I go back and forth to the house to get the rest of my things. I then started the car heading to my destination. While on the interstate my car kept trying to drag me back into a lane despite me wanting to change lanes. Turns out while I was loading my kids in the car they were searching for their "Kids Bop" radio station and hit all sorts of buttons, changing my button selection. I did not know how to change it back without reading the book. I had to pull over to the side of the interstate to google how to change the features. I was late to work and completely stressed out. The buttons shouldn't be that easy to change. And frankly shouldn't exist, they are dangerous. 3) Today I pull into my parking space at work and the bush in front of me is overgrown, the collision detection system detects the leggy limbs of the bush and slams on breaks flashing the collision notice. My head jerked forward and all of my belongings in the front seat of the car fly forward. This car has a mind of its own. I'm not driving the car, its driving me. These features are dangerous and I want them removed. This car is going to kill me!!!!!!!!!!!
- Reported
- Jul 2025
- Incident date
- Jul 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJul 2025 · ODI 11675866Details +Close −
Front passenger airbag does not turn on and/stay on when my adult wife is seated (5'7" 100lbs). Moving the seat up/down and/or back/forth sometimes allows the system to activate but it then turns off later on while driving. The Subaru owner's manual instructs the owner that when this occurs the passenger should sit in the back and Subaru Service should be obtained. Subaru Service has inspected the car and indicated the system is functioning properly, and there is nothing to repair. Afterwards, calling the Subaru Customer Advocate they indicated that they expect the system to turn on for my wife, and that there is no weight minimum for the air bag. They said that I should return to the service center with her so that they could witness the issue. A return appointment was made and completed today. Subaru Service center staff witnessed the passenger air back system ignoring my wife in the seat. Their response was comprised of confusion as to why we were there followed by the judgement that the system was working as designed (based on the previous visit) so there is no problem to be fixed. It appears that the Subaru air bag system does not protect all adult passengers. Also, the owner's manual instructing the driver to tell the passenger to sit in the back when this occurs, seems to indicate that this is not a normal situation and needs to be repaired.
- Reported
- Jul 2025
- Incident date
- Jul 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJul 2025 · ODI 11674725Details +Close −
Driving on the freeway at 65 mph, my sunroof spontaneously exploded. The car is less than one month old and no debris whatsoever hit the car prior to the sunroof exploding. It was a sunny day, about 85 degrees and the freeway traffic was light. There were no cars or trucks directly in front of me at the time. There was a loud boom and then glass rained down on the roof of the car. Glass also flew off the top of the car and into the road behind me, endangering other drivers. I had to hold the fabric sunroof cover closed with one hand while driving with the other hand. As I was driving on the freeway, I had to drive a few miles to get to a safe spot, while trying to keep the sunroof cover closed so that the rest of the glass did not hit my child and I. When we pulled over, the remaining glass appeared to be pushed upward as if the force came from inside the car. I am absolutely certain that nothing hit the car at any point prior to the glass exploding. This seems to have happend out of the blue and there were no warning sounds or signals at all. I have never opened the sunroof, as this is a brand new car. I called Subaru America and they told me this would be covered under warranty and the local dealership has ordered a new sunroof. Thank you.
- Reported
- Jul 2025
- Incident date
- Jul 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.
Recalls
No recalls are listed for this model year as of Jul 2026. Recall records can change when NHTSA publishes new information.
A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.
Investigations
0 NHTSA investigations on record
No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.
Crash-test ratings
2025 Subaru Outback SW AWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
Fuel economy by trim
| Trim | Engine | Drivetrain | Transmission | City | Hwy | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outback AWD | 2.5L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AV-S8) | 26 | 32 | 28 |
| Outback AWD | 2.4L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AV-S8) | 22 | 29 | 25 |
| Outback Wilderness AWD | 2.4L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AV-S8) | 21 | 26 | 23 |
EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.
Before you buy
Useful next checks
Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.
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Compare the year-by-year record
Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.
2025 Subaru Outback: frequently asked
What does the complaint record show for the 2025 Subaru Outback?
Owners filed 66 NHTSA complaints about the 2025 Subaru Outback. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.
What are the most common problems on the 2025 Subaru Outback?
The most-reported problem areas are Unknown Or Other (26% of complaints) and electrical system (8%).
How many recalls does the 2025 Subaru Outback have?
No safety recalls are on record for the 2025 Subaru Outback as of Jul 2026.
What gas mileage does the 2025 Subaru Outback get?
The EPA rates the 2025 Subaru Outback between 23 and 28 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.