subaru outback 2007 Complaints

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

dt*: the contact stated while traveling various speeds, the vehicle jerked on various road conditions. there were no warning signals prior to the incident. the vehicle was taken to the dealership, who determined that the vehicle's engine computer software was defective. the dealership could not reset the computer and could not exchange it either. also, the dealer expressed that this was the way the vehicle was designed. this was a 2007 subaru outback 2.5 i wagon. updated 12/05/06. *jb

Reported in: OUTLOOK MT || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C877

CHILD SEAT

there was no opportunity for failure. however, my husband and i purchased a 2007 subaru outback and neither of our car seats fit safely in the back seat of the vehicle. we have the peg perego infant seat and the britax marathon convertible seat. the sales manager, myself, my husband, and the manufacturer's representative could not get either seat to fit in properly. we had to return the car and purchase the more expensive tribeca. the car seat now fits securely in the back seat. *jb

Reported in: EUREKA CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY

there was no opportunity for failure. however, my husband and i purchased a 2007 subaru outback and neither of our car seats fit safely in the back seat of the vehicle. we have the peg perego infant seat and the britax marathon convertible seat. the sales manager, myself, my husband, and the manufacturer's representative could not get either seat to fit in properly. we had to return the car and purchase the more expensive tribeca. the car seat now fits securely in the back seat. *jb

Reported in: EUREKA CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING

we purchased a subaru outback on 2/3/07 and the accident was on 2/7/07, at 10:05 am. i was in cruise control at 60 mph and i was in the passing lane, all of a sudden i started to go to the left, against the guard rail, i thought i was on black ice, but the road was dry, but because i thought it was ice, i did not touch the brake, and therefore i was still going 60 mph in cruise control. i turned the wheel to the right and back to the left and then to the right again, still on cruise control, i hit the guard rail on my right...head on...then the car backed around and stopped with the rear bumper on the same guard rail that i had hit head on. *jb

Reported in: BATH ME || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4S4BP61C377

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2007 subaru outback 2.5i, 5-speed manual transmission -- when my foot is taken off the accelerator to shift the engine actually accelerates rather than decelerates. it causes the car to jump forward much quicker than the driver planned when the next gear is selected. this is a safety issue that needs to be corrected.*ak

Reported in: NASHUA NH || Crash: N || VIN #:

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

tl*the contact owns a 2007 subaru outback. the contact stated that the driver side front door would not unlock. the key fob and the inner buttons worked intermittently to lock and unlock the door. the vehicle was taken to the dealer approximately six times and they could not duplicate the failure. the current mileage was 6,000 and failure mileage was 5. updated 09/12/07

Reported in: LOXLEY AL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C177

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*the contact owns a 2007 subaru outback. while driving 60 mph with the cruise control activated, the vehicle gained speed down hill and accelerated to 80 mph. the contact disengaged the cruise control by applying the brakes. the dealer found no failures and stated that the vehicle was designed in that manner. the mechanic at the dealer inspected the vehicle and stated that the cruise control components did not appear to have failed. the current mileage was 19,751 and failure mileage was 8,841. updated 01/02/08. *lj

Reported in: BEND OR || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61CX77

EQUIPMENT

i purchased the car in february. up until late may, the air conditioning system was working flawlessly. it then started blowing cold for about ten seconds and then warm for five. this problem causes the cruise control to behave erratic, the transmission to shift erratically and the engine to surge because the compressor is engaging and disengaging. i have had the car in for service for this issue four times. the first three diagnosed the problem as overcharging of the ac system. the last one i was told this was normal operation (but why just all of a sudden start at 4000 miles?)

Reported in: PLEASANT GROVE UT || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C577

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)

the latest incident date is shown below, the first time of the incident was in feb 07. there have been four occurrences. in each event the automobile was in heavy traffic and had been decelerating for a period of time prior to an immediate need to accelerate to avoid a rapidly approaching vehicle while either making an evasive maneuver due to road obstacles or while merging in congested high speed traffic. upon depressing the accelerator, the engine speeds up to near "red line" with no accompanying acceleration or engagement of the transmission. after a period of time in excess of one full second to an estimated three seconds the transmission engages and the vehicle begins to accelerate. in each instance, there was a great deal of concern on the part of the drivers (three different ones) that a "near accident" occurred. when the service department was first notified at the dealership, an explanation of the latest "drive by wire" transmissions with "fuzzy logic", anticipating computer programming was offered. though plausible, it did not seem a very likely "normal" expectation. the manufacturer was contacted and declared that only the local service department should be trouble shooting the systems. i was assured that they had the ability to work through the manufacturing technical departments, and i had no need to contact them. the service department thoroughly tested the systems, drove it at length, and again assured me that this was a known condition and we should be careful to avoid any situation where any unanticipated rapid changes from deceleration to acceleration would be needed.

Reported in: CINCINNATI OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C867

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY

this is a 2007 outback 2.5i pzev with 5-speed manual transmission. when accelerating from a stop, the engine will bog down unless the engine is revved high prior to releasing the clutch. when it bogs down, the result is very slow acceleration. this is especially dangerous when turning left in traffic. to get the car out of this mode, the clutch need to be pushed in again and the engine revved to a higher rpm. once the clutch is released, the car lunges forward and accelerates quickly. there seems to be no way to accelerate smoothly and quickly. this problem only occurs when using gasoline with 10% ethanol and is much worse with mobil regular gas. *jb

Reported in: NASHUA NH || Crash: N || VIN #:

AIR BAGS

2007 subaru outback airbags failed to deploy. consumer states that the vehicle went through a guardrail rolled down an embankment and ended up on its tires and the driver was severely injured and airbags did not deploy. *kb the passenger was also injured.

Reported in: UNKNOWN DC || Crash: Y || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: SOFTWARE

the 2007 subaru outback (manual) pulsates and surges when driving on flat surfaces or when going downhill and while lightly pushing on the accelerator. concern exists for when driving on wet or ice/snow packed roads and the vehicle surges with the potential to throw it into a spin or otherwise out-of-control. manufacturer has indicated it is an inherent characteristic of the vehicle with no fixes available, although they have a quality monitoring report in place to hopefully improve in future years.

Reported in: WOODLAND PARK CO || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C376

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)

on 2 lane hwy, had to brake sharply ( 60 to 10) for deer. semi behind me, not close. deer crossed. floored accelerator, engine sat at redline 3 sec before transmission engaged. semi jacknifed behind us, but did not hit us. this action is repeatable. i suspect it's related to the cruise control downhill failure (un-coupling the torque converter???).

Reported in: KELSEYVILLE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C477

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

hesitation on acceleration,between 1500 and 2800 rpms .while accelerating quickly at an intersection or rolling stop.

Reported in: SYRACUSE NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61CX77

TIRES:VALVE

i experienced air loss in a tire. was unable to find any puncture. took it to a tire dealer who found a broken valve stem. this is the sensor type of valve stem. it appeared to be broken in half. the subaru dealer didn't seem surprised, and after checking said there seemed to be a run on them and it might be a couple of weeks before they could obtain one to replace the broken part. the old part is available. i asked if there had been a recall and he seemed alarmed and very defensive.

Reported in: CLEARVILLE PA || Crash: N || VIN #:

TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS

i experienced air loss in a tire. was unable to find any puncture. took it to a tire dealer who found a broken valve stem. this is the sensor type of valve stem. it appeared to be broken in half. the subaru dealer didn't seem surprised, and after checking said there seemed to be a run on them and it might be a couple of weeks before they could obtain one to replace the broken part. the old part is available. i asked if there had been a recall and he seemed alarmed and very defensive.

Reported in: CLEARVILLE PA || Crash: N || VIN #:

SUSPENSION:REAR

2007 subaru outback does not handle properly on icy roads. the awd fails or pulls, causing the driver to lose control at speeds over 35-40mph. other 2wd cars on the road pass and handle the same conditions better with no appearance of sliding. this has happened several times. we have also replaced the tires and had two alignments in the past year. the problem persists whenever we are on an ice packed road, but does not present in snow or where the road has been treated with adequate mag chloride.

Reported in: DENVER CO || Crash: N || VIN #:

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

there is moisture in the headlights of my 2007 subaru outback.

Reported in: CHICO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C577

STRUCTURE

2007 subaru outback 2.5i, 4 snow tires, 5mt. this has happened several times. when driving the vehicle straight (no turns) on slightly icy or blowing snow roads, the rear end begins to wobble approxiamtley 3inches side to side. i am giving the car little to no throttle and it will still sway. the swaying becomes much worse with more weight in the car (1 foot side to side). the swaying is so bad that i often have to drive 15-20mph slower than general traffic. i have had new tires put on (snow tires) and had the car aligned. it still occurs.

Reported in: BOULDER CO || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61CX76

SUSPENSION

2007 subaru outback 2.5i, 4 snow tires, 5mt. this has happened several times. when driving the vehicle straight (no turns) on slightly icy or blowing snow roads, the rear end begins to wobble approxiamtley 3inches side to side. i am giving the car little to no throttle and it will still sway. the swaying becomes much worse with more weight in the car (1 foot side to side). the swaying is so bad that i often have to drive 15-20mph slower than general traffic. i have had new tires put on (snow tires) and had the car aligned. it still occurs.

Reported in: BOULDER CO || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61CX76

TIRES

2007 subaru outback 2.5i, 4 snow tires, 5mt. this has happened several times. when driving the vehicle straight (no turns) on slightly icy or blowing snow roads, the rear end begins to wobble approxiamtley 3inches side to side. i am giving the car little to no throttle and it will still sway. the swaying becomes much worse with more weight in the car (1 foot side to side). the swaying is so bad that i often have to drive 15-20mph slower than general traffic. i have had new tires put on (snow tires) and had the car aligned. it still occurs.

Reported in: BOULDER CO || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61CX76

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

very intermittent vibration from the transmission or drive-train that started about six weeks ago, culminating with the car shaking violently and the drive-train suddenly locking up all four wheels without warning while driving normally. of course, vehicle control is impossible with all four wheels locked. very fortunately, there were no vehicles following or the consequences could have been fatal at highway speeds. i"m having the car towed to our local dealer on thursday morning.

Reported in: HIGHLANDS RANCH CO || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP63C274

POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE

my subaru legacy outback bucks, surges when going on any small or big incline. it occurs all the time.it tends to make me slide more cause of the surges especially when icy or wet. i took it in 3 times to a dealership to fix the problem before the warranty ran out. they told me that they were aware of the 07,08's having this problem. it was in the computer/electronics. they did nothing to fix it. i see that toyota is having problems and ignored this problem. so is subaru. it is a computer defect that subaru said they would eventually fix. it was the computer hooked to the driver's pedal and gas. i sent letters to the main subaru office, talked to the dealership. i didn't know where to go after this.

Reported in: COALDALE CO || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C176

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

my subaru legacy outback bucks, surges when going on any small or big incline. it occurs all the time.it tends to make me slide more cause of the surges especially when icy or wet. i took it in 3 times to a dealership to fix the problem before the warranty ran out. they told me that they were aware of the 07,08's having this problem. it was in the computer/electronics. they did nothing to fix it. i see that toyota is having problems and ignored this problem. so is subaru. it is a computer defect that subaru said they would eventually fix. it was the computer hooked to the driver's pedal and gas. i sent letters to the main subaru office, talked to the dealership. i didn't know where to go after this.

Reported in: COALDALE CO || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C176

SUSPENSION

2007 subaru outback 2.5i with snow tires (snow flake symbol). i first noticed the occurrence last year when driving slightly snowy roads in colorado,. the back end of my car would wobble side to side at a high rate -- probably 5 inches to each side. it felt as if the car was sending power to each wheel independently. the faster i would go, the more violently it would wobble side to side. i was suddenly having to drive 20mph on interstate 70, i was being passed by large semi- trucks and little miatas. since then, i have felt the wobble on grooved concrete surfaces, but mostly roads that have a little snow on them, but i can still see the road surface. one time, the car wobbled so violently that it swung into another lane. i've contacted subaru america, but they have been very little help and do not seem to take it seriously. i know several other 2005-08 subaru outback drivers that this has happened to. our best theory is that the suspension is too soft and when it gets weighted down (with two or more people in the car) it changes the geometry of the suspension and the alignment with some how plays with the rear differential.

Reported in: BOULDER CO || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61CX76

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6). 2007 subaru outback wagon [xxx] purchased car new. had what i called engine 'revving' or increased acceleration from first week of driving car. reported problem to dealer and they went through a series of repairs with no change in performance. they sent a 'corporate' mechanic to test the car. he experienced the increased rpm's without stepping on the gas pedal but stated the car was normal. he then told me two things, they had found the same problem in another car and they had a fix for the problem for the 2008 but not 2007. 1) when foot is off gas, the car accelerates. 2) commonly occurs almost every time i press clutch and turn. has only happened 2 times while in gear and driving. application of the brake did slow the car 3) corrections include: gas/air ratio sensor replaced, suggested i run 3 tanks of premium gas, replaced power steering pump, replaced throttle body and accelerator pedal, disconnected idle switch from power steering pump and suggested i leave this detached which i did not feel comfortable with, i have tried for a resolution through the dealer, the better business bureau and subaru corporate with no results.

Reported in: FLAGSTAFF AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C676

SUSPENSION:REAR

i own a 2007 subaru outback 2.5i with a manual transmission. this vehicle is an early warning indicator for black ice on the road surface. the outback vehicle has a stability control problem in certain conditions. while driving at constant speed (constant and low throttle position) on a flat road, the back end of the vehicle tends to oscillate from side to side in icy conditions. the vehicle feels like it is going to spin out, although that hasn’t happened to me yet. other vehicles on the road at the same time seem to have adequate traction (2wd, awd, 4wd). the problem is not traction while: 1) cornering under slippery conditions, 2) hard acceleration on ice, or 3) braking on ice. road conditions that i have experienced the oscillation on are very thin ice (black ice). i suspect there is something wrong with the rear suspension design on my 05-09 outbacks. the problem is more prevalent and pronounced when the vehicle has occupants in the rear seats. the stability of this vehicle seems to be marginal and it only takes certain conditions (road and vehicle parameters) to be on the edge of disaster. subaru released technical service bulletin 05-36-07 which eliminated the positive side of the original toe tolerance for rear tire alignment. i think the vehicle experiences large rear tire toe in when weight is added. i suspect this large rear tire toe in when weight is added contributes to the stability problem in icy conditions i have brand new (jan 2010) hankook ipike w409 studless winter tires. it’s not the tires. those who have not experienced this situation naturally respond by saying it is ice, what are your expecting, just slow down. i have lived in colorado since 1981 and consider myself a competent driver in all weather conditions. without a doubt, i would actually feel safer and more in control driving my 2wd minivan (or any other car i have owned) in these conditions. i implore you to recall this vehicle. it is unsafe.

Reported in: GOLDEN CO || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C776

WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS

tl* the contact owns a 2007 subaru outback. the contact stated that the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for routine maintenance when he was informed that the rear driver side lug studs exhibited stress fractures. the manufacturer advised the contact to have the dealer perform a diagnostic to determine the failure. the contact stated the vehicle had already been diagnosed by the previous authorized dealer. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 69,000.

Reported in: OJAI CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C577

AIR BAGS

air bag light remained on. when analyzed, the steering roll connector failed test. parts had to be replaced. air bag will not deploy without replacement parts according to service dept. this is fairly expensive $387 and i suspect some people with same problem will not fix.

Reported in: LAKE JACKSON TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP86C374

SEAT BELTS

driver side impact to 07 subaru outback damaged frame, insurance totaled vehicle, seatbelt did not hold driver in seat and none of the airbags deployed resulting in permanent injuries to neck and lower back as well as head hitting on driver side from being rag dolled. i believe if front airbag deployed or seatbelt locked, the injuries would have been less severe.

Reported in: NEWMAN LAKE WA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4S4BP61C777

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

driver side impact to 07 subaru outback damaged frame, insurance totaled vehicle, seatbelt did not hold driver in seat and none of the airbags deployed resulting in permanent injuries to neck and lower back as well as head hitting on driver side from being rag dolled. i believe if front airbag deployed or seatbelt locked, the injuries would have been less severe.

Reported in: NEWMAN LAKE WA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4S4BP61C777

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

driver side impact to 07 subaru outback damaged frame, insurance totaled vehicle, seatbelt did not hold driver in seat and none of the airbags deployed resulting in permanent injuries to neck and lower back as well as head hitting on driver side from being rag dolled. i believe if front airbag deployed or seatbelt locked, the injuries would have been less severe.

Reported in: NEWMAN LAKE WA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4S4BP61C777

VISIBILITY

audio/hvac controls flash or cut out altogether. problem started intermittently in jan. 2010 at about 15,000 miles but has now become consistent as of october 2010 at about 22,000 miles. when controls are acting up, not only does the panel not display properly, but also fails to respond to any adjustments. not being able to adjust the audio or climate control is an inconvenience. however, not being able to defrost front or rear windows when needed is a safety hazard. problem has been reported on subaru forums (for example, http://legacygt.com/forums/showthread.php/loss-off-power-radio-and-climate-control-3459.html?p=2220291&postcount=114 [see #114 and #137, in particular] and http://www.subaruoutback.org/forums/80-electrical-electronics/23909-08-o-b-radio-hvac-control-lighting-prob.html). problem seems to stem from a poorly manufactured circuit board. honda has a similar issue with poorly made circuit boards, but has issued a tsb that now covers these units for 7 year/100,000 miles. it would be nice if something similar would be issued for subarus as owners experiences with dealerships have ranged from then never hearing of this problem before and not being able to correctly diagnose it to having it be a known issue that they work with soa to promptly address at no expense to the owner.

Reported in: FALLS CHURCH VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP86C674

AIR BAGS

tl*the contact owned a 2007 subaru outback. while driving approximately 35 mph the vehicle was involved in a crash in which the air bags did not deploy. a police report was not filed but the driver was injured. the vehicle was not moved from the location of the crash and was not examined for the cause of failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileages were 39,000.

Reported in: SAN RAFAEL CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4S4BP61CX76

SUSPENSION

our 2007 subaru outback fishtails all over the place on icy roads that all other vehicles safely travel on at twice the speed as we are able to do in our outback. this isn't the driver or the tires. this is the car. i have never experienced this issue with any other car i have ever owned (honda crv, saturn sw2, 2wd gmc s-15, chevy corsica) and i have driven in similar conditions many times. it is miserable and feels very dangerous when you don't feel in control of your vehicle at 30 mph on icy roads that everyone else is traveling 50-60 mph on. i've only experienced the problem when the car is fully loaded. the car feels extremely stable on snowpack and dry/wet pavement. but as soon as roads have some ice on them, this car becomes garbage (just when you need a car to be at it's best). i have witnessed this event twice now in less than 2 years of ownership. once in central illinois, and once in northern colorado. these are also the only two icy road conditions that this car has been on. i would expect this vehicle to behave this same miserable way every time as it has exhibited this characteristic 100% of the time on icy highway roads.

Reported in: FORT COLLINS CO || Crash: N || VIN #:

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

our 2007 subaru outback fishtails all over the place on icy roads that all other vehicles safely travel on at twice the speed as we are able to do in our outback. this isn't the driver or the tires. this is the car. i have never experienced this issue with any other car i have ever owned (honda crv, saturn sw2, 2wd gmc s-15, chevy corsica) and i have driven in similar conditions many times. it is miserable and feels very dangerous when you don't feel in control of your vehicle at 30 mph on icy roads that everyone else is traveling 50-60 mph on. i've only experienced the problem when the car is fully loaded. the car feels extremely stable on snowpack and dry/wet pavement. but as soon as roads have some ice on them, this car becomes garbage (just when you need a car to be at it's best). i have witnessed this event twice now in less than 2 years of ownership. once in central illinois, and once in northern colorado. these are also the only two icy road conditions that this car has been on. i would expect this vehicle to behave this same miserable way every time as it has exhibited this characteristic 100% of the time on icy highway roads.

Reported in: FORT COLLINS CO || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2007 subaru outback. the contact stated that when refueling the vehicle, the fuel would spill back out. the vehicle was inspected by an independent mechanic and they advised her that the vent valves in the duel fuel canister system needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileages were approximately 49,000. updated 07/21/11 *bf mechanic stated the evap was frozen so gas could not go in and fumes could not pass through. updated 08/05/11

Reported in: VINYARD HAVEN MA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C577

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

tl* the contact owns a 2007 subaru outback. the contact stated that when refueling the vehicle, the fuel would spill back out. the vehicle was inspected by an independent mechanic and they advised her that the vent valves in the duel fuel canister system needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileages were approximately 49,000. updated 07/21/11 *bf mechanic stated the evap was frozen so gas could not go in and fumes could not pass through. updated 08/05/11

Reported in: VINYARD HAVEN MA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C577

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

tl* the contact owns a 2007 subaru outback. the contact stated that the housing for the rear parking lights was burned. the vehicle was repaired but the contact stated that the lights would become extremely hot and were melting the light fixtures and reflectors. the manufacturer was contacted and advised that they were unable to assist unless the vehicle were to catch on fire. the contact was concerned with the safety risk involved and the potential of a fire. the failure mileage was 55,000 and the current mileage was 72,841.

Reported in: ALBEQUERGUE NM || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP62C177

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

'07 subaru outback 2.5i w/ automatic transmission. when transmission was cool code p0720 was set for vehicle speed sensor failure. after driving for a while error would reset as sensor presumably warmed and began working normally. i identified and confirmed the front vehicle speed sensor was the problem. a week after the initial failure, and prior to my being able to replace the sensor, the behavior of the failure changed: at highway speed (60-65mph) the car would automatically shift into first gear and feel like the brakes were slammed on. this being an obviously dangerous and scary situation, my short term solution was to cut the wire going to the sensor until i could replace it. (the sensor is hard-wired into a 3-sensor wire harness that requires access inside the transmission to be replaced). just prior to the car automatically shifting into first gear i also heard the safety solenoid in the shifter assembly (the one that prevents the operator from putting the shifter into park while the car is moving) quickly cycling on and off, so my assumption was that a partial signal was being seen by the onboard computer and interpreted as if the vehicle was traveling at a slower speed than it really was. after cutting the speed sensor out of the circuit this aspect of the failure has not repeated itself.

Reported in: HACKETTSTOWN NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C077

POWER TRAIN

i have had two wheel bearings replaced. front passenger at 65,000 and rear passenger at 73,000. this vehicle has not been in any accidents or treated badly. subaru's in the past have had recalls on this part. i think there is an ongoing issue with this that should be investigated.

Reported in: WILLIAMSVILLE NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C177

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

the brakes failed completely when i was driving down the road about to enter the highway. the pedal went all the way to the floor. no braking action whatsoever. i was able to swerve to avoid the car in front of me and eventually stop by using the emergency brake. the car had just been serviced (60k interval) by the dealer including flushing the brake lines and installing new rear brake pads. subsequent investigation by a different dealer revealed that the caliper and brake pad had fallen off the car, causing total brake failure and putting occupants (including a 4 year old) at extreme bodily risk.

Reported in: WASHINGTON DC || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C677

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

while driving our 2007 subaru outback sw on a 6 lane divided highway at 65 mph, the car suddenly decelerated and lost all gas pedal response. my wife was able to move the car to the side of the road although she almost caused an accident due to surrounding traffic. the car started flashing the cruise control, traction control, and check engine dash lights. after allowing the car to sit for a few minutes, my wife was able to start the car again and get home. i checked the error codes and got a p02138. i did some research and found numerous other people experiencing the same issue on the subaru blogs. all of the other reports pointed to the same source(s) the gas pedal position sensor or throttle position sensor. most reported subaru service departments claiming no knowledge of the issue ever happening before. both my wife and i have had the same thing happen several times since in both local and highway traffic. i have cleaned the terminals on both sensors and this seems to help, but the problem always returns. i read where several other drivers had the gas pedal assembly changed and the issue seemed to be resolved. this seems to be a severe safety issue. having a car suddenly become dead on the road in the middle of traffic is dangerous to anyone around. *js

Reported in: ODESSA FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP86C574

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

while driving our 2007 subaru outback sw on a 6 lane divided highway at 65 mph, the car suddenly decelerated and lost all gas pedal response. my wife was able to move the car to the side of the road although she almost caused an accident due to surrounding traffic. the car started flashing the cruise control, traction control, and check engine dash lights. after allowing the car to sit for a few minutes, my wife was able to start the car again and get home. i checked the error codes and got a p02138. i did some research and found numerous other people experiencing the same issue on the subaru blogs. all of the other reports pointed to the same source(s) the gas pedal position sensor or throttle position sensor. most reported subaru service departments claiming no knowledge of the issue ever happening before. both my wife and i have had the same thing happen several times since in both local and highway traffic. i have cleaned the terminals on both sensors and this seems to help, but the problem always returns. i read where several other drivers had the gas pedal assembly changed and the issue seemed to be resolved. this seems to be a severe safety issue. having a car suddenly become dead on the road in the middle of traffic is dangerous to anyone around. *js

Reported in: ODESSA FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP86C574

ENGINE

while driving our 2007 subaru outback sw on a 6 lane divided highway at 65 mph, the car suddenly decelerated and lost all gas pedal response. my wife was able to move the car to the side of the road although she almost caused an accident due to surrounding traffic. the car started flashing the cruise control, traction control, and check engine dash lights. after allowing the car to sit for a few minutes, my wife was able to start the car again and get home. i checked the error codes and got a p02138. i did some research and found numerous other people experiencing the same issue on the subaru blogs. all of the other reports pointed to the same source(s) the gas pedal position sensor or throttle position sensor. most reported subaru service departments claiming no knowledge of the issue ever happening before. both my wife and i have had the same thing happen several times since in both local and highway traffic. i have cleaned the terminals on both sensors and this seems to help, but the problem always returns. i read where several other drivers had the gas pedal assembly changed and the issue seemed to be resolved. this seems to be a severe safety issue. having a car suddenly become dead on the road in the middle of traffic is dangerous to anyone around. *js

Reported in: ODESSA FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP86C574

SUSPENSION

my 2007 outback with less than 85,000 miles on it has required 2 wheel bearings previously. today the dealership told me that it needed two more, replacing one that had less than 6 months on it. subaru extended their warranty coverage for the 2006 models because of the same issue. from reviewing the forums it seems this part is prone to early failure. i think it should be recalled at warrantied to at least 100,000 miles as they did with the 2006 model year.

Reported in: WILLIAMSVILLE NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C177

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

2007 subaru outback. consumer writes in regards to no response from gas pedal. *smd the consumer stated he stopped for a red light and began to turn right after the light turned green. the vehicle then accelerated to around 20 mph and would not go any faster. he was able to pull into a parking lot and stop, as there was a scratching sound coming from the vehicle. he noticed the engine was turning about 2,000 rpm and was responding to the air condition cycling. with the transmission in neutral, the idle speed went up to around 2,400 rpm. also, a flag was set for the check engine light the entire time, which he was informed it would cause the cruise control light to blink at a very slow rate.

Reported in: LAKELAND FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4VP86C874

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

vehicle stopped at a red light during rush hour. tried to accelerate for right turn, however there was no acceleration when the gas pedal was depressed. checked the displace for indicator lights and check engine light and traction control lights were on steadily while cruise control was blinking. immediately turned off heater, seat heater, and radio, and proceeded to coast down a hill at idle. gas pedal was unresponsive, but i was able to safely pull off the road after 0.3 miles. restarted the car twice and the warning lights were still on and gas pedal still did not work. a third attempt to restart resulted in the engine turning over but no ignition. after several more restarts the gas pedal was responsive but indicators lights were still present. drove to auto repair shop with normal speed control where the indicator lights promptly turned off. sensor history indicated p2138 code for throttle position sensor.

Reported in: CEDAR PARK TX || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

vehicle stopped at a red light during rush hour. tried to accelerate for right turn, however there was no acceleration when the gas pedal was depressed. checked the displace for indicator lights and check engine light and traction control lights were on steadily while cruise control was blinking. immediately turned off heater, seat heater, and radio, and proceeded to coast down a hill at idle. gas pedal was unresponsive, but i was able to safely pull off the road after 0.3 miles. restarted the car twice and the warning lights were still on and gas pedal still did not work. a third attempt to restart resulted in the engine turning over but no ignition. after several more restarts the gas pedal was responsive but indicators lights were still present. drove to auto repair shop with normal speed control where the indicator lights promptly turned off. sensor history indicated p2138 code for throttle position sensor.

Reported in: CEDAR PARK TX || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:PADS

2007 subaru outback. consumer writes in regards to after market front disc brake pads on vehicle. *smd the consumer stated the pads he purchased were a full half-inch shorter in length than the original pads that came on the vehicle. the establishment insisted it would not affect the braking force. the consumer returned the pads and went to another establishment, who provided him with their front pads which were the same length as the original equipment.

Reported in: WILMINGTON DE || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE

the head gasket is leaking coolant into the oil. advised not to drive the car until head gasket replaced. subaru used in 2007 a paper gasket which has been found not to hold up. new had gasket much stronger. trying to get subaru to warranty this serious safety problem. the car has only 43,800 miles on it.

Reported in: QUINCY MA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C177

ENGINE

leaking headgasket on a 6 year old subaru outback 2.5 with 79,000 miles. repair job cost of $2,000. head gasket issues are a major complaint/defect on subaru 2.5 4cyl engines. subaru should either offer to subsidize or cover major repair cost.

Reported in: SOUTH SALEM NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C277

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

this is the 5th subaru i have owned in my life and have not had any problems with any of them with stability in snow and ice. i am a professional driver and have driven in all weather conditions in 2 wheel drive vehicles and 4. i purchase this car in june of 2012 and always felt that it was not stable on the road. when the snow fell, i was testing the road conditions on very dry crunchy snow, when i turned the vehicle to go around a left corner. (this is something my other 2001 subaru outback has no problems with.) the vehicle started to turn and the rear end came undone and the car slid into a 4 wheel skid. it felt as though the whole rear end had lost any traction. it took acceleration to get it to engage again. both of my subaru's have all season radials that are in great shape. later in december my husband (who is also a professional driver) and i were traveling down the freeway at 55 mph, the outside temperature was 38 degrees and the road surface was wet. we had just a few groceries in the back of the car and it was not heavily loaded. we hit a slight bump in the road and the car started swaying and wobbling like on icy roads. he was able to bring the car under control, but both of us were shocked at how unstable it was. we again checked the road surface and it was not icy. i have also encountered instability in snow and slush, that is not normal to the subaru outback. my other car has no problems like this. these cars should be recalled.

Reported in: FARMINGTON WA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C277

WHEELS

while driving on snow covered roads with three people and ski equipment in the vehicle, i experienced dangerous, abnormal handling. this phenomenon has been reported by many other 2005-2009 subaru outback owners, and is believed to be caused by a design flaw in the vehicles suspension system. specifically, the outbacks appear to have a chassis tuning issue where the rear suspension oscillates in such a way to cause rear-steer. when this occurs road feel and handling confidence are completely lost. please investigate this dangerous design flaw and see that it is properly addressed by the vehicle manufacturer.

Reported in: DENVER CO || Crash: N || VIN #:

SUSPENSION

while driving on snow covered roads with three people and ski equipment in the vehicle, i experienced dangerous, abnormal handling. this phenomenon has been reported by many other 2005-2009 subaru outback owners, and is believed to be caused by a design flaw in the vehicles suspension system. specifically, the outbacks appear to have a chassis tuning issue where the rear suspension oscillates in such a way to cause rear-steer. when this occurs road feel and handling confidence are completely lost. please investigate this dangerous design flaw and see that it is properly addressed by the vehicle manufacturer.

Reported in: DENVER CO || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING

while driving on snow covered roads with three people and ski equipment in the vehicle, i experienced dangerous, abnormal handling. this phenomenon has been reported by many other 2005-2009 subaru outback owners, and is believed to be caused by a design flaw in the vehicles suspension system. specifically, the outbacks appear to have a chassis tuning issue where the rear suspension oscillates in such a way to cause rear-steer. when this occurs road feel and handling confidence are completely lost. please investigate this dangerous design flaw and see that it is properly addressed by the vehicle manufacturer.

Reported in: DENVER CO || Crash: N || VIN #:

SUSPENSION

tl* the contact owns a 2007 subaru outback. the contact stated that the rear end swerved when driving at any speed. a local auto specialist performed an alignment and the tires were replaced however the failure was not corrected. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the failure and current mileage was 92,000. ..updated 08/11/14 *bf

Reported in: HAMMOND IN || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C477

STEERING

tl* the contact owns a 2007 subaru outback. the contact stated that the rear end swerved when driving at any speed. a local auto specialist performed an alignment and the tires were replaced however the failure was not corrected. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the failure and current mileage was 92,000. ..updated 08/11/14 *bf

Reported in: HAMMOND IN || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C477

WHEELS

tl* the contact owns a 2007 subaru outback. the contact stated that the rear end swerved when driving at any speed. a local auto specialist performed an alignment and the tires were replaced however the failure was not corrected. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the failure and current mileage was 92,000. ..updated 08/11/14 *bf

Reported in: HAMMOND IN || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C477

STEERING

refer to nhtsa complaint 10558038 vehicle was driven a couple of times on good dry roads after december complaint about rear end stability and traction problems. on jan 29th, mid morning driver was driving with 1 passenger on a slightly snow covered gravel road. vehicle in front of him turned off and when he accelerated to approximately 35 mph with slight throttle pressure, he stated "the car started driving itself and became totally uncontrollable." he said "it spun around one way then the other" before going through a ditch, running through a fence and into a railroad tie post. he said that he had tried every thing possible to avoid the crash and could not figure out what had happened. this is the same driver in previous complaint that is a ex-race car driver, has had numerous spin outs at high speeds on the track and is also a professional truck driver. he drove an old 2 wheel drive pickup truck later that day under worse road and weather conditions and did not have any problems. the car was drivable to get it home. on the way to the body shop, 40 mph it again started swaying back and forth erratically when he drove over a patch of ice on the road. the car is at the body shop with over $3000 damage. *air bags did not deploy.

Reported in: FARMINGTON WA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4S4BP61C277

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

refer to nhtsa complaint 10558038 vehicle was driven a couple of times on good dry roads after december complaint about rear end stability and traction problems. on jan 29th, mid morning driver was driving with 1 passenger on a slightly snow covered gravel road. vehicle in front of him turned off and when he accelerated to approximately 35 mph with slight throttle pressure, he stated "the car started driving itself and became totally uncontrollable." he said "it spun around one way then the other" before going through a ditch, running through a fence and into a railroad tie post. he said that he had tried every thing possible to avoid the crash and could not figure out what had happened. this is the same driver in previous complaint that is a ex-race car driver, has had numerous spin outs at high speeds on the track and is also a professional truck driver. he drove an old 2 wheel drive pickup truck later that day under worse road and weather conditions and did not have any problems. the car was drivable to get it home. on the way to the body shop, 40 mph it again started swaying back and forth erratically when he drove over a patch of ice on the road. the car is at the body shop with over $3000 damage. *air bags did not deploy.

Reported in: FARMINGTON WA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4S4BP61C277

AIR BAGS

refer to nhtsa complaint 10558038 vehicle was driven a couple of times on good dry roads after december complaint about rear end stability and traction problems. on jan 29th, mid morning driver was driving with 1 passenger on a slightly snow covered gravel road. vehicle in front of him turned off and when he accelerated to approximately 35 mph with slight throttle pressure, he stated "the car started driving itself and became totally uncontrollable." he said "it spun around one way then the other" before going through a ditch, running through a fence and into a railroad tie post. he said that he had tried every thing possible to avoid the crash and could not figure out what had happened. this is the same driver in previous complaint that is a ex-race car driver, has had numerous spin outs at high speeds on the track and is also a professional truck driver. he drove an old 2 wheel drive pickup truck later that day under worse road and weather conditions and did not have any problems. the car was drivable to get it home. on the way to the body shop, 40 mph it again started swaying back and forth erratically when he drove over a patch of ice on the road. the car is at the body shop with over $3000 damage. *air bags did not deploy.

Reported in: FARMINGTON WA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4S4BP61C277

SUSPENSION

refer to nhtsa complaint 10558038 vehicle was driven a couple of times on good dry roads after december complaint about rear end stability and traction problems. on jan 29th, mid morning driver was driving with 1 passenger on a slightly snow covered gravel road. vehicle in front of him turned off and when he accelerated to approximately 35 mph with slight throttle pressure, he stated "the car started driving itself and became totally uncontrollable." he said "it spun around one way then the other" before going through a ditch, running through a fence and into a railroad tie post. he said that he had tried every thing possible to avoid the crash and could not figure out what had happened. this is the same driver in previous complaint that is a ex-race car driver, has had numerous spin outs at high speeds on the track and is also a professional truck driver. he drove an old 2 wheel drive pickup truck later that day under worse road and weather conditions and did not have any problems. the car was drivable to get it home. on the way to the body shop, 40 mph it again started swaying back and forth erratically when he drove over a patch of ice on the road. the car is at the body shop with over $3000 damage. *air bags did not deploy.

Reported in: FARMINGTON WA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4S4BP61C277

ENGINE

oil leaking from passenger side head gasket onto exhaust manifold. read web and see this is a very common failure item for subaru engines 2000 thru 2009. my concern is potential fire. repair costs $1800-3000. widespread issue and fire hazard thus i hope subaru will address this design issue more proactively.

Reported in: HOLLY SPRINGS NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP62C877

SUSPENSION

in june of 2013 i took my car to the subaru dealer for service after noticing a burning smell. i was told my front right axle was broken. seven months later (january 2014) i returned to the dealer with the same complaint. this time the left axle and left wheel bearing were broken. two months later (march 2014) i was back at the dealer and my right axle and right axle seal were broken again. that is three axles in nine months! the assistant service manager at subaru told me this was not abnormal; that the car has a "design flaw" where the axle boot sits very close to the catalytic converter so it heats up, which causes the axle to crack and break.

Reported in: SOQUEL CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C876

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

hatch won't lock, and backup lights don't work. found 2 broken wires on right side wire harness, i have read lots of other postings about the same problem.

Reported in: SUGAR GROVE NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61CX77

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

hatch won't lock, and backup lights don't work. found 2 broken wires on right side wire harness, i have read lots of other postings about the same problem.

Reported in: SUGAR GROVE NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61CX77

AIR BAGS

the driver side airbag system sometimes is not active upon starting vehicle. this is indicated by the airbag warning light which is illuminated. the light continues to stay illuminated when the vehicle is driven. the dealer tells me that in this situation (airbag warning light illuminated) the airbag will not deploy in an accident. numerous posts on the internet confirm this. i consider this a very dangerous and common situation that should be remedied by subaru through a recall.

Reported in: ARRINGTON VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4S4BP61C376

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

problem p2138 throttle ceases to control car engine speed. in neutral it settles at ?4000 rpm. stopping and restarting the car stops the problem, but the check engine light remains on and cruise control light flashes for 1-2 days. cruise control is not functional while in this state. this can happen at any speed, but typically at 55-60. happens intermittently, now 3 times in the past month. had the throttle sensor replaced one year ago, and we had no problem for 11 months until the past month.

Reported in: ST PAUL MN || Crash: N || VIN #: