Skip to main content

2010 SUBARU Outback

18 recalls Risk Grade: A+ Most severe issue: Critical

All recalls are free to repair at your local dealership. Contact your dealer to schedule service.

Known Safety Recalls

Critical #18V626000 Plain English
Component

PARKING BRAKE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The electronic parking brake (EPB) in your vehicle is a system that helps hold your car in place when you park. In some 2010-2014 Subaru Legacy and Outback models with a manual transmission, the EPB might not work correctly, allowing the vehicle to roll away.
Risk if Unfixed
If the parking brake doesn't engage properly, your vehicle could roll away when you park, which could cause a crash.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the faulty electronic parking brake actuator assembly at no cost to you. They'll contact you with a notification, and you should schedule the repair as soon as possible.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Subaru Legacy and Outback vehicles equipped with a manual transmission. The electronic parking brake (EPB) may not engage as intended, allowing the vehicle to rollaway if the transmission is not in the proper gear when parked.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
A vehicle rollaway can increase the risk of a crash.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the EPB actuator assembly, free of charge. The recall began July 19, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WTV-81.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Critical #10V326000 Plain English
Component

POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION

Manufacturer
SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
What Happened
The transmission in your Outback or Legacy is the part that helps your car shift gears without grinding or breaking. In some 2010-2011 models, a small hole that helps keep it lubricated was accidentally left out.
Risk if Unfixed
If this hole is missing, your transmission gears will start to wear out and make a grinding sound. If you ignore the sound and don't get it fixed, the gears will eventually break, causing your vehicle to lose power and possibly leading to a crash.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will drill a hole to add lubrication and replace any damaged parts – all free of charge. You'll get a notification letter, and you should schedule the repair as soon as you receive it.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 AND 2011 OUTBACK AND LEGACY PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 28 THROUGH JUNE 23, 2010. DUE TO A PROGRAMMING ERROR, A LUBRICATION HOLE WITHIN THE 6-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION WAS OMITTED.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
IF THE TRANSMISSION GEARS ARE NOT PROPERLY LUBRICATED, A GROANING SOUND MAY BEGIN TO DEVELOP ALERTING THE DRIVER OF A PROBLEM. IF THE SOUND IS IGNORED AND NO ACTION IS TAKEN, THE GEARS WILL EVENTUALLY BREAK AND THIS CONDITION WILL LEAD TO VEHICLE POWER LOSS, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.
Original — Remedy
SUBARU WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES BY DRILLING AN OIL LUBRICATION HOLE AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE INTERNAL PARTS WITH NEW ONES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Critical #10V283000 Plain English
Component

STEERING:COLUMN

Manufacturer
SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
What Happened
The electrical connector behind your steering wheel is the part that helps control various functions like your airbag, cruise control, and radio. In some 2010 Outback and Legacy models, this connector can crack and break over time.
Risk if Unfixed
If the connector fails, your airbag may not deploy, your cruise control and horn may not work, and your radio may shut off while driving. This could increase the risk of a crash, especially in a sudden emergency.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will check the connector's lot number to see if it's been affected. If it has, they'll replace it with a new one for free. You should schedule the repair as soon as possible to ensure your safety on the road.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 OUTBACK AND LEGACY PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 16, 2009 THROUGH APRIL 12, 2010. THE WIRING IN THE STEERING COLUMN ELECTRICAL ROLL CONNECTOR LOCATED BEHIND THE VEHICLE'S STEERING WHEEL MAY DEVELOP STRESS CRACKS AND EVENTUALLY BREAK. IF THIS WERE TO HAPPEN CERTAIN ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS MAY NOT OPERATE AS INTENDED.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
POSSIBLE CIRCUITS AFFECTED ARE THE DRIVER'S FRONTAL AIRBAG, PADDLE SHIFTER FUNCTION, CRUISE CONTROL, HORN CONTROL AND RADIO FUNCTIONS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL CHECK LOT NUMBER OF THE STEERING ROLL CONNECTOR. THE ROLL CONNECTOR WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW ONE IF THE LOT NUMBER SHOWED ANY AFFECTED RANGE OF THE FAILURE OCCURRENCE. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 7, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Critical #10V196000 Plain English
Component

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:HOSES/LINES/PIPING/FITTINGS

Manufacturer
SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
What Happened
The CVT cooler hose is a part that helps keep your engine's transmission running smoothly. In some 2010 Outback and Legacy models made between July and December 2009, this hose can crack or break, causing a fluid leak.
Risk if Unfixed
If the fluid leaks completely while driving, your vehicle will suddenly stop. This could lead to a crash, which could put you and others at risk.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the faulty cooler hose with a new one, at no cost to you. You should schedule the repair as soon as possible after receiving the recall notice.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 OUTBACK AND LEGACY PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 31 THROUGH DECEMBER 1, 2009. A CRACK OR SPLIT CAN OCCUR IN THE CVT COOLER HOSE RESULTING IN A FLUID LEAK.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
IF THE FLUID IS COMPLETELY LEAKED DURING DRIVING, THE VEHICLE WILL COME TO A STOP, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.
Original — Remedy
SUBARU WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE ANY AFFECTED COOLER HOSES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 8, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-SUBARU3 (1-800-782-2783).
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #20V001000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
Your vehicle has a critical safety component: the passenger-side airbag inflator. This part is responsible for deploying the airbag in the event of a collision to protect you, the passenger.
Risk if Unfixed
If this inflator fails, it could explode and send sharp metal fragments hurtling towards you and other occupants, causing serious injury or even death.
Free Fix
Your dealer will replace the faulty airbag inflator with a new, safer one – at no cost to you. This repair is crucial, and you should schedule it as soon as you receive the recall notice.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators with alternate inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-20.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #20V003000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
Your passenger air bag's inflator is the part that helps it deploy quickly and safely in a crash. Unfortunately, some of these inflators in your vehicle (if it's a certain model and was made between 2003 and 2014) could be prone to exploding due to age and exposure to humid environments.
Risk if Unfixed
If the inflator explodes, it could send sharp metal fragments flying towards you or other passengers, causing serious injury or even death.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the faulty air bag inflator with a safer one, completely free of charge. When you get the recall notice, schedule the repair as soon as possible to ensure your safety on the road.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-20.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #20V002000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The passenger side airbag in your vehicle is the part that protects you from injury in a frontal crash. It's been fixed already, but the replacement inflator could still fail after many years.
Risk if Unfixed
If the inflator explodes, it could send sharp metal fragments flying towards you or other passengers, causing serious injury or even death.
Free Fix
Your dealer will replace the potentially faulty airbag inflator with a safer one, completely free of charge. You'll be notified when it's time to schedule the repair.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-20.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #19V007000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The passenger air bag in your vehicle is a safety device that deploys to protect you in the event of a crash. The inflator is the part that makes the air bag deploy, and in certain models, it can fail and explode.
Risk if Unfixed
If the inflator explodes, it could send sharp metal fragments flying towards you, the driver, or other passengers, which could cause serious injury or even death.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the faulty inflator with a new one at no cost to you. This is a free repair, and you should schedule it as soon as possible to ensure your safety.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Forester, 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, Legacy, and 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-19.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #19V009000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The passenger airbag in your vehicle is a safety device that deploys in a crash to protect the passenger. In some 2010-2014 Subaru models, the airbag inflator can degrade over time, potentially failing in a crash.
Risk if Unfixed
If the inflator explodes, it could send sharp metal fragments flying into the passenger seat and potentially cause serious injury or even death to the passenger, driver, or others in the vehicle.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the faulty airbag inflator with a new one, free of charge. This repair is crucial, and you should schedule it as soon as possible to ensure your safety on the road.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-19.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #19V008000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The passenger air bag in your vehicle is a safety device that deploys in the event of a crash to cushion your front seat passenger. In certain models, the air bag's inflator could fail and rupture, potentially causing serious injury or death.
Risk if Unfixed
If the air bag inflator explodes, it could send sharp metal fragments flying towards the front seat passenger, driver, or other occupants, inflicting severe injuries or even fatal wounds.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the faulty air bag inflator with a safer one, free of charge. This repair is crucial, and you should schedule it as soon as possible to ensure your safety on the road.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, and Legacy vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-19.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #18V013000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The passenger side air bag in your vehicle is a safety feature that deploys in a crash to protect you. In some 2009-2010 models, the air bag's inflator could burst, causing sharp metal fragments to fly around the cabin.
Risk if Unfixed
If this happens, you or your passengers could be seriously hurt or even killed by the flying metal fragments. This is a serious situation that requires immediate attention.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the faulty air bag inflator with a safer one, at no cost to you. This repair is free, and you should schedule it as soon as you get the recall notice.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2010 Tribeca, Impreza, Forester, WRX, Legacy, and Outback vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-18.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #18V012000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The passenger side air bag in your Subaru is a safety feature that deploys in case of a crash to protect you. The air bag inflator is a small component that makes the bag inflate quickly. In some older models, this inflator can fail and explode in a crash.
Risk if Unfixed
If the inflator explodes, sharp metal fragments could fly towards you, the driver, or other passengers, causing serious injury or even death.
Free Fix
Subaru will replace the faulty air bag inflator with a new one at no cost to you. You should schedule this repair as soon as you receive the recall notice to ensure your safety.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Legacy, Forester, Tribeca, WRX and Outback vehicles, and 2009-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-18.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #17V014000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The passenger air bag in your vehicle is a safety device that inflates in a crash to protect you. Some of these air bags in certain Subaru models are made with a part that can break apart and send sharp metal fragments towards you.
Risk if Unfixed
If the air bag inflator ruptures in a crash, it could send sharp metal pieces flying towards you, causing serious injury or even death.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the faulty air bag inflator with a new, safer one at no cost to you. This repair is free, and you should schedule it as soon as you get the recall notice.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Subaru Baja, 2006-2011 Impreza (including WRX and STI models), 2006-2012 Tribeca, 2009-2012 Forester, Legacy, Outback, and 2012 WRX vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2017. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-17.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #16V358000 Plain English
Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The airbag in your passenger seat is a safety device that inflates in a crash to protect you. In some Subaru and Saab models, the airbag inflator could fail and rupture, causing sharp metal pieces to hit you.
Risk if Unfixed
If the airbag inflator ruptures, you could be seriously hurt or even killed by the sharp metal fragments, especially if you're sitting in the passenger seat when it happens.
Free Fix
Your Subaru or Saab dealer will replace the faulty airbag inflator with a new one, at no cost to you. This repair is free, and you should schedule it as soon as you get the recall notice.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2009-2011 Legacy, Outback, Forester, 2006-2011 Impreza, Tribeca, 2003-2006 Baja, and 2006 Saab 9-2x vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." These vehicles may be equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 26, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Saab owners may contact GM at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-16.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Moderate #19V297000 Plain English
Component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The ignition switch in your vehicle is what turns the engine on and off. In certain Subaru models, a small metal spring inside the switch could break over time, weakening it. This could cause the engine to shut off unexpectedly when you're on the road, especially if you're carrying heavy keys or driving on bumpy roads.
Risk if Unfixed
If the engine suddenly turns off while you're driving, you could lose control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. If a crash happens, the airbag might not deploy, which could lead to serious injury.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will inspect the ignition switch and replace it if needed, free of charge. You'll receive a notification letter with instructions on how to schedule the repair, and you should act promptly to ensure your safety on the road.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch installed as a replacement part. The ball spring inside the switch may break, reducing the strength of the ignition switch. If this occurs, the weight on the key ring and certain road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. If a crash occurs under this condition, the air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ignition switch, replacing the ignition switch, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 10, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUF-91.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Moderate #16V694000 Plain English
Component

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
The wiper motor in your Subaru Legacy or Outback is the part that powers your windshield wipers. In some 2010-2014 models, a buildup of snow or ice can cause parts inside the motor to get stuck, leading to overheating.
Risk if Unfixed
If the motor overheats, your wipers could stop working while driving, reducing your visibility and increasing the risk of a crash. In the worst-case scenario, the motor could melt, causing a fire.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the wiper motor bottom cover with a new one, completely free of charge. You should schedule this repair as soon as you get the recall notice.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Legacy vehicles manufactured November 26, 2008, to June 7, 2013, and 2010-2014 Outback vehicles manufactured January 9, 2009 to June 7, 2013. Due to contamination, components within the windshield wiper motor bottom cover may interfere with each other. If an obstruction, such as a buildup of snow or ice prevents the wiper arms from being able to stop in the parked position, the wiper motor may overheat and the bottom cover may melt.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
If the windshield wiper motor overheats, the wipers may fail, reducing driver visibility and increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, the wiper motor cover may melt, increasing the risk of a fire.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the windshield wiper motor bottom cover assembly, free of charge. The recall began October 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTK-71. Note: This recall supersedes recall 11V-469. All vehicles that were remedied under that campaign are affected by this campaign, and need to have their wiper motor bottom cover replaced again.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Moderate #13V061000 Plain English
Component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
What Happened
Your vehicle has a special key fob that lets you start the engine remotely. If the fob gets damaged, it could start sending random engine start commands, even if you don't press the button.
Risk if Unfixed
If the fob malfunctions, your engine could start and run for up to 15 minutes without you knowing, even if you're not in the car. This can lead to a buildup of carbon monoxide inside a closed space, which can cause serious health issues, including headaches, dizziness, and even loss of consciousness.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will replace the faulty key fob with a new one, at no cost to you. You should schedule the repair as soon as you get the recall notice to ensure your safety.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Legacy and Outback vehicles equipped with an automatic or CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory, certain model year 2012-2013 Impreza vehicles equipped with a CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory, and certain model year 2013 XV Crosstrek vehicles equipped with a CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory. Additionally included are certain model year 2013 Legacy and Outback vehicles that may have received replacement RES fobs. If the RES fob is dropped, the fob may malfunction and randomly transmit an engine start request without pressing the button.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
The engine may inadvertently start and run for up to fifteen minutes. The engine may continue to start and stop until the fob battery is depleted, or until the vehicle runs out of fuel. If the vehicle is parked in an enclosed area, there is a risk of carbon monoxide build-up which may cause headaches, dizziness or, in extreme cases, unconsciousness and/or asphyxiation.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the RES key fobs, free of charge. The recall began on April 22, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Moderate #12V602000 Plain English
Component

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Manufacturer
SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
What Happened
The puddle lights on your vehicle are small lights under the doors that brighten up the ground when you approach. They're optional accessories, but some of these lights might be installed on your Subaru.
Risk if Unfixed
If the puddle light gets water inside it, especially from road salt, it could cause a short circuit. This might start a fire, which could damage the surrounding area or burn your hand if you try to touch it.
Free Fix
Your Subaru dealer will install a protective circuit to prevent the short circuit, and it will be done at no cost to you. You'll receive a notification letter with instructions on how to schedule the repair.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010 and 2011 Legacy and Outback vehicles, certain model year 2006 through 2012 Tribeca vehicles sold before January 2012, and certain model year 2009 through 2012 Forester vehicles sold before January 2012. Up to 78,650 of these vehicles may have been equipped with accessory puddle lights that, when illuminated, brighten the area under the doors of the vehicle. A short circuit can develop when either the puddle light or connector are exposed to an electrolytic moisture source (such as road spray that has road salt in it) and it penetrates the circuit board of the puddle light or the pins of the puddle light connector(s).
Original — Risk if Unfixed
Over time, migration of the moisture into the circuit board and/or into the connector cavity, may result in a short circuit of the puddle light system. This may generate heat which may melt the plastic resulting in smoke or fire.
Original — Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional fused-harness, free of charge. The recall began February 19, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →

Browse by Component

AIR BAGS
10 recalls
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 recalls
PARKING BRAKE
1 recall
POWER TRAIN
1 recall
STEERING
1 recall
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 recall
VISIBILITY
1 recall
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 recall

Other SUBARU Outback Years

2019
3 recalls
2018
3 recalls
2017
4 recalls
2016
4 recalls
2015
5 recalls
2014
10 recalls
2013
12 recalls
2012
16 recalls
2011
16 recalls
2009
13 recalls
2008
8 recalls
2007
8 recalls
2006
7 recalls
2005
9 recalls
2004
11 recalls
2003
15 recalls
2002
5 recalls
2001
4 recalls
2000
2 recalls

Related Pages

2010 Toyota RAV4 Recalls 2010 Honda CR-V Recalls 2009 SUBARU Outback Recalls 2011 SUBARU Outback Recalls All SUBARU Recalls SUBARU Outback Recall History