These problems appeared in the records we reviewed. This is not a list of what happens most often, and it does not predict the condition of one car.
What to look for
Electrical System owner reports
Moderate severity
Evidence: Limited confidence
Owner reports are bound to model year 2020.
Symptom
3 reviewed owner reports for this model year mention electrical system.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
Mileage in the reports
In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 41,876 to 51,292 miles.
Based on 2 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.
What to inspect
Ask the inspector to test the named system and note any warning lights, noises, leaks, or stored codes.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Use the inspection and service records to check whether this car shows the reported problem.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving 65 MPH on the highway, the contact was alerted by the message “Eyesight Technology Failure”, before the battery shut down, causing the steering wheel to seize, forcing the contact to come to a complete stop in the middle of the highway. The check engine, air bags, and oil warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that several other unknown warning lights and alerts were displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was jump-started, and the contact was escorted by a tow truck operator to the nearest dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 37,168. The VIN was invalid.”
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“The contact's husband owns a 2020 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that the vehicle was difficult to start intermittently, but was able to be jump-started. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to Advance Auto, where the contact was informed that the battery and the alternator were in good condition. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 56,000.”
3 reviewed owner reports for this model year mention engine.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
Mileage in the reports
In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 44,000 to 44,000 miles.
Based on 1 report that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.
What to inspect
Ask the inspector to test the named system and note any warning lights, noises, leaks, or stored codes.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Use the inspection and service records to check whether this car shows the reported problem.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“On 12/6/2023, as I slowly turned right into a parking space, my car suddenly surged forward and accelerated without my input to the gas pedal. The brakes did not work, and there was no resistance from the brake pedal when I repeated to push it. The car continued to accelerate for about 80 ft as I focused on steering to avoid hitting other cars parked in the lot. The car ran over a curb, up a grassy area, and crashed into a row of trees. The airbag did not deploy. I sustained neck muscle strain/whiplash, and bruises to my chest and right knee. My safety was at risk, as well as anyone or anything that was in the car's path since I had no control over the acceleration or the brakes. The car is a 2020 Subaru Outback with about 44000 miles. It is in a body shop and they have not yet determined if it is safe to work on. So far, they have observed the engine race when the car was turned on. There were no warning signs prior to the acceleration. When I called the Subaru dealer service department, I was told that they never heard of this before and it had to have been my fault. They said I could bring it in after the body damage is repaired, and that I can pay for a diagnotic report. However, they expect that the report will not show anything.”
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? - Car fire, originating under the hood. Unknown if vehicle is available for inspection. Last reported by Insurance company to be at IAA; [XXX]; PH#: [XXX]. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? - Car fire began while in the car after moving through an intersection with a stop light. Four of us in the car, ages raging from [XXX] old. Fire quickly spread; however, we were able to exit the car without injury. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? - NO, car was totaled and Subaru, NA Consumer Advocacy agent assigned claims that the vehicle is no longer available for inspection. Both insurance company (Travelers Auto) and Subaru, N.A. consumer advocacy group made aware of our concern as to why the vehicle caught fire. One or both demonstrated nonchalance of this concern. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? - YES - Just prior to the start of the fire, the vehicle stalled and cut-off with CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. Also, we smelled an unusual exhaust at the time prior to, and at the time of the cut-off. This occurred at the intersection of where the car caught fire. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)”
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“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.”
5 reviewed owner reports for this model year mention power train.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
Mileage in the reports
In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 65,031 to 81,692 miles.
Based on 2 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.
What to inspect
Ask the inspector to test the named system and note any warning lights, noises, leaks, or stored codes.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Use the inspection and service records to check whether this car shows the reported problem.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“My transmission has started to fail. The check engine light came on the error code read p0867, transmission fluid pressure. Other lights came on as well because it tripped the rest of the sensors because of the CVT failure. This seems to be a common problem in Subarus”
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“I was reversing out of a residential driveway onto a county highway when the I had a complete loss of movement. Shortly after the total loss of power, the CEL illuminated. If I had been on the highway, the driveway is near a blind curve, I would've been sitting in the road with no way to move putting me in a dangerous situation. The transmission failed at right at the end of the driveway so I was able to put it in neutral and move the vehicle by hand. There were no symptoms or warning lights prior to the failure. I had it towed to the nearest dealership where they diagnosed a complete transmission failure and recommend a complete transmission replacement.”
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“I'm writing to request assistance with my recall. This recall was first reported to the local dealership over one year ago. They have had me take the car back 4 times for inspection. Since that time as the problem has proceeded to get worse, which will now cost even more to repair, and increase the likelihood of the transmission damaging other parts of the drivetrain. Now I just received notification that they will not perform the recall as my vehicle doesn’t qualify. It has the problem of transmission slipping which is what the recall is for. I saw the pictures they took that looked exactly like the problem specified. I do not have $7000 dollars plus to fix the transmission. I can’t sell the car because the VIN will show the recall (which I’m sure they will try to just remove). All they have done is waste my time for the last year to do what? Gather enough evidence to try and get out of the recall?”
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“On December 28, 2025, my 2020 Subaru Outback lost the ability to engage any gear (Drive, Reverse, or otherwise) while maneuvering at low speed to make a U-turn. The vehicle became inoperable immediately and was towed to the dealer. The dealer confirmed via text and written estimate that there was no external damage, the failure was internal to the CVT transmission, and the transmission requires replacement. This vehicle has approximately 90,023 miles. The failure occurred under the mileage and age range covered by Subaru CVT warranty extensions for similar vehicles. Subaru of America reviewed the case and denied coverage, citing VIN exclusion and prior service gaps that predated my ownership. The vehicle is currently inoperable and presents a safety risk due to loss of propulsion. I am reporting this to NHTSA because it may indicate a systemic defect in CVT transmissions on this model year Outback.”
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while attempting to make a turn, the transmission was slipping while attempting to shift gears. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 56,700. The VIN was not available.”
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
Mileage in the reports
In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 32,240 to 67,012 miles.
Based on 3 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.
What to inspect
Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.
Fix listed in the records: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake pedal mounting bracket hardware and replace the hardware or brake pedal assembly, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 1, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUL-97.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: High confidence
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020 Outback and Legacy vehicles. The brake pedal mounting bracket may have a missing or insufficiently tightened bolt.
A missing or loose bolt may cause the brake pedal mounting area to deform over time, which can reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake pedal mounting bracket hardware and replace the hardware or brake pedal assembly, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 1, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUL-97.”
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
Mileage in the reports
In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 9,775 to 24,652 miles.
Based on 4 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.
What to inspect
Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.
Fix listed in the records: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the software and, if necessary, replace the Cockpit Control Module, free of charge. The recall began January 22, 2021. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRH-20.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: High confidence
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020 Legacy and Outback vehicles equipped with "high" grade and "mid" grade multimedia navigation. The August 2020 over-the-air software update may have timed out without completing the installation, corrupting the data, and causing the rearview display to shutoff intermittently. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
The intermittent loss of the rearview image reduces the driver's visibility and increases the risk of crash.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the software and, if necessary, replace the Cockpit Control Module, free of charge. The recall began January 22, 2021. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRH-20.”
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
What to inspect
Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.
Fix listed in the records: Dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2021. Subaru and Toyota owners may call customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRG-21.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: High confidence
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2021. Subaru and Toyota owners may call customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRG-21.”
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
Mileage in the reports
In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 38,120 to 65,031 miles.
Based on 4 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.
What to inspect
Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.
Fix listed in the records: Dealers will reprogram the TCU, inspect TCU data for chain slip, and visually inspect the chain guide. If evidence of chain slippage or damage is found, the transmission will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 19, 2022. This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under 19V-855. Vehicles previously recalled under 19V-855 will need to have the new remedy performed for this recall once available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRK-21.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: High confidence
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2020 Legacy and Outback vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.
An improperly secured drive chain may slip and break, causing a loss of drive power and increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will reprogram the TCU, inspect TCU data for chain slip, and visually inspect the chain guide. If evidence of chain slippage or damage is found, the transmission will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 19, 2022. This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under 19V-855. Vehicles previously recalled under 19V-855 will need to have the new remedy performed for this recall once available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRK-21.”
Official record covers model years 2020 through 2021.
Symptom
Subaru of America, Inc.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
Mileage in the reports
In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 34,100 to 54,525 miles.
Based on 6 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.
What to inspect
Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.
Fix listed in the records: Dealers will reprogram the TCU, inspect TCU data for chain slip, and visually inspect the chain guide. If evidence of chain slippage or damage is found, the transmission will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 24, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRK-22. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 21V-955.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: High confidence
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.
An improperly secured drive chain may slip and break, causing a loss of drive power and increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will reprogram the TCU, inspect TCU data for chain slip, and visually inspect the chain guide. If evidence of chain slippage or damage is found, the transmission will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 24, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRK-22. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 21V-955.”
Official record covers model years 2020 through 2022.
Symptom
Subaru of America, Inc.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
Mileage in the reports
In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 16,740 to 34,240 miles.
Based on 3 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.
What to inspect
Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.
Fix listed in the records: Dealers will replace the ODS sensors on the front passenger seat, free of charge. Owner notifications were mailed February 3, 2025. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-24.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: High confidence
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
An air bag that does not deploy during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
Dealers will replace the ODS sensors on the front passenger seat, free of charge. Owner notifications were mailed February 3, 2025. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-24.”
Official record covers model years 2020 through 2022.
Symptom
This bulletin announces the extended warranty coverage for the Thermo Control valve (TCV) used the the models listed.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
Mileage in the reports
In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 28,850 to 54,050 miles.
Based on 16 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.
What to inspect
Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: High confidence
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“This bulletin announces the extended warranty coverage for the Thermo Control valve (TCV) used the the models listed. The coverage will be extended to (15) fifteen years / 150,000 miles. ”
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“This bulletin announces the extended warranty coverage for the Thermo Control valve (TCV) used the the models listed. The coverage will be extended to (15) fifteen years / 150,000 miles. ”
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“This bulletin announces the extended warranty coverage for the Thermo Control valve (TCV) used the the models listed. The coverage will be extended to (15) fifteen years / 150,000 miles. ”
Official record covers model years 2020 through 2022.
Symptom
This announcement is in regard to settlement in a class action lawsuit for vehicles that will receive a limited warranty extension for original equipment Subaru windshields experiencing a qualifying crack.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
Mileage in the reports
In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 28,850 to 54,050 miles.
Based on 16 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.
What to inspect
Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: High confidence
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“This announcement is in regard to settlement in a class action lawsuit for vehicles that will receive a limited warranty extension for original equipment Subaru windshields experiencing a qualifying crack. ”
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“This announcement is in regard to settlement in a class action lawsuit for vehicles that will receive a limited warranty extension for original equipment Subaru windshields experiencing a qualifying crack. ”
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“This announcement is in regard to settlement in a class action lawsuit for vehicles that will receive a limited warranty extension for original equipment Subaru windshields experiencing a qualifying crack. ”
Official record covers model years 2020 through 2022.
Symptom
As part of Subaru's dedication to customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
Mileage in the reports
In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 28,850 to 54,050 miles.
Based on 16 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.
What to inspect
Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: High confidence
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“As part of Subaru's dedication to customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is announcing a Warranty Extension of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage for the CP1 & Gen 3.1 Infotainment head units for the models listed. ”
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“As part of Subaru's dedication to customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is announcing a Warranty Extension of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage for the CP1 & Gen 3.1 Infotainment head units for the models listed. ”
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“As part of Subaru's dedication to customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is announcing a Warranty Extension of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage for the CP1 & Gen 3.1 Infotainment head units for the models listed. ”
Official record covers model years 2020 through 2022.
Symptom
In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
Mileage in the reports
In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 28,850 to 54,050 miles.
Based on 16 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.
What to inspect
Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: High confidence
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is extending the New Car Limited Warranty coverage for the Front Windshield used in the above listed models and model years from three (3) years / 36,000 miles to eight (8) years / 100,000 miles (whichever comes first). If a customer experiences windshield damage, inspect the damage as per the guidelines supplied in this bulletin to confirm if the damage is covered under the Warranty Extension. ”
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is extending the New Car Limited Warranty coverage for the Front Windshield used in the above listed models and model years from three (3) years / 36,000 miles to eight (8) years / 100,000 miles (whichever comes first). If a customer experiences windshield damage, inspect the damage as per the guidelines supplied in this bulletin to confirm if the damage is covered under the Warranty Extension. ”
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is extending the New Car Limited Warranty coverage for the Front Windshield used in the above listed models and model years from three (3) years / 36,000 miles to eight (8) years / 100,000 miles (whichever comes first). If a customer experiences windshield damage, inspect the damage as per the guidelines supplied in this bulletin to confirm if the damage is covered under the Warranty Extension. ”