Subaru Outback Complaints (2019)

1,036 consumer complaints on file.

#11613471September 9, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER, BACK OVER PREVENTION: REARVIEW SYSTEM BRAKING
The infotainment system on my 2019 Subaru Outback has failed. The problem arose suddenly. The system is randomly cycling through radio stations, the touch screen has stopped responding to being touched, the gps apps stopped working properly and across the board the unit no longer works. The touchscreen also appears to have bubbling under the surface of the screen, which may be contributing to the problem. This failure has deprived me of access to important apps -- gps, vehicle maintenance records, bluetooth phone calls. The constant beeping and cycling is an unwanted distraction. For now, the rear back up camera still seems to be working, but if I'm forced to turn off the touch screen, it obviously won't be of any help. I am bringing the car to the dealership tomorrow.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11613104September 6, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
We had dealt with a parasitic battery drain issue related to the DCM, which was improperly addressed by Johnson Subaru of Cary. The dealership bypassed the problem, which was not what we requested or expected. While they have stated they will replace the DCM once parts become available, this is unacceptable, given that we paid for this part with the initial purchase. If they follow through with the replacement, that would resolve one issue, but their initial response seemed like an attempt to avoid responsibility. After the DCM was replaced, a new issue arose: the radio head unit became inoperable, experiencing severe malfunctions. The seems like it could also be related to the replacement of the DCM bypass. The head unit changes radio stations and screens on its own, making it inoperable to control or even shut off. This is clearly a safety concern, particularly since the delamination and malfunctioning unit registers random touches, which could cause changes to any of the settings. The head unit serves as the primary control interface, and this unpredictability is highly distracting—especially with a [XXX] using the vehicle. Subaru of America has offered $1,000 towards the replacement, but this is insufficient, considering the widespread nature of this issue across many models. The quote from the dealer is 1415.00 and the 1000.00 will not cover the cost. This problem should be addressed through a recall, as safety is a major concern. Additionally, we incurred unrecovered battery costs from the DCM issue and had to purchase a jump-start kit after being stranded multiple times. Subaru's delay in addressing these issues with a recall is troubling, and their offer of $1,000 suggests they acknowledge responsibility, but this issue requires a formal recall rather than piecemeal compensation. The head unit failure has been diagnosed as the specific issue with my 2019 Subaru Outback and must be added to the recall list. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11611077August 27, 2024
SERVICE BRAKES, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
While turning into a parking spot my wife had foot on the brake and vehicle accelerated over parking bumpers and into a fence and ultimately was stopped by a combination of a tree and the fence car drove through. This collision prevented her from crossing pedestrian sidewalk and continuing into Southbound traffic lane of state hwy. This incident put not only my wife at risk but also potentially any pedestrians or southbound vehicles. There were no system failures or warnings prior to my wife's arrival to her appointment. As mentioned this occurred within an approximate 5 second time frame. It is unknown as to what if any warnings occurred prior to/during the crash as my wife was pushing the brake to park when the sudden acceleration occurred. The braking system seems to have failed along with the sudden acceleration. The Automatic Braking System didn't engage, nor did the parking collision system. All our other Subaru's (including this vehicle have the collision warning and automatic braking systems) The dealership did not try to replicate the incident but all warning systems appear to be functioning correctly at this time. Following the accident I first reported the incident to my dealership where I purchased the vehicle. The initial damage estimate is forthcoming but Subaru tech indicated it will be may thousands of dollars to repair. I will follow-up next with Subaru's National Customer Care (per conversation with dealer) At the dealership (Southern Oregon Subaru) I had a safety/drive-ability inspection performed. Vehicle was given a clearance to drive, but obviously my wife refuses to drive it. Subsequent to the accident, we learned there are over 200 similar reports to NHTSA for this exact issue. We will also submit claim to insurance provider USAA.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11611035August 26, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Battery drains where car will not start. Apparently connected with Subaru Starlink system and Apparently has been a continual problem with Subaru without recall action. People could be stranded without any assistance available. Real safety issue to families. Experience a non-Start situation 4 times within the past month.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11610615August 24, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The infotainment / touch screen system in my vehicle is malfunctioning and causing a safety issue. Due to bubbles on the screen I can not effectively use the back up camera. Additionally, the system will randomly make noises, make phone calls and change settings without warning. When this happens it creates a substantial distraction the the driver and causes me to have to pick up my phone to disconnect and address the concerns. I also need to turn the system on and off repeatedly. In the current state, I’m unable to use any navigation features as well.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11608831August 15, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The StarLink touchscreen (which controls radio, etc. and includes vehicle systems monitoring) delaminates and then the system goes crazy If iPhone is plugged in, system starts randomly calling people, all the icons flash on and off as if being pushed, it pulls up random maps, and brings up vehicle maintenance information. All the weird flashing is very distracting and dangerous. I know Subaru was sued on this issue for 2015-2018 models but the 2019s still have the same problem and Subaru won't recall or fix.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11608026August 12, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Issue with bubbles forming on information/tech screen which then causes it to flick to different screens, and radio stations.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11607847August 11, 2024
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
While driving in the fast lane on Interstate 5 at a speed of approximately 70MPH, with cruise control on, during clear dry conditions, my automatic emergency brake system engaged and made my vehicle come to an abrupt and complete stop in the fast lane. I lost complete control of my vehicle. I was unable to steer or accelerate. Once I stopped, I was able to use my accelerator, but very quickly my vehicle abruptly stopped again and I could not steer it. After I stopped for the second time, I was then able to then accelerate slowly and pull off the freeway into the wide left shoulder. When I turned the car off and then back on again to get out of danger, I disengaged the cruise control, and I was able to get back on the freeway and out of the fast lane. It was a clear day, no clouds, no shadows, no birds, no vehicles right in front of me or next to me. There was NO warning lamp or alarms prior to the braking. There was no debris or excessive dirt on my windshield. My husband and I were certainly in danger of being rear ended at a high speed, but miraculously, the vehicles behind us were able to stop and/or pull into the left shoulder to avoid a collision. Not only were we at risk of serious injury or death, but there very easily could have been a multi-car pile up on the freeway with many people at risk of injury. My car is currently at my local Subaru dealership and they are investigating the problem. They have not been able to reproduce the issue yet, but are bringing in another specialist tomorrow. I felt this issue absolutely needed to be reported as it is a very serious safety issue. I do not trust my vehicle any more.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11604028July 23, 2024
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The head unit developed what appear to be bubbles under the screen. Now, it's barely usable. It randomly responds to touch. It turns itself on and off randomly. None of this sounds like a safety issue until you're driving down the freeway at speed and the radio randomly comes on blaring loud music. It's incredibly jarring and could easily cause an accident. We reached out to the dealer who inspected it and was very aware of the problem as it seems to affect a very large number of people. Following that, they reached out to Subaru of America who admitted there was a problem and offered to pay for slightly more than half of the repair.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11603927July 22, 2024
VISIBILITY/WIPER, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Another for the list of many, many windshield cracking complaints. My 2019 Outback 2.5i Limited has had 3 replacements since I purchased it new in late 2018. The cost to replace each has certainly increased each time and is very expensive as it has to include the eyesight calibration. I'm told this is not covered in my extended warranty I purchased when the vehicle was new. Subaru needs to take ownership of the quality issue and compensate the countless owners who have had this same issue, multiple times! I've read the glass is too thin, may be intentional because of the eyesight feature. Mileage and date below are from the most recent crack I had to repair. Please let me know if you'd like more details on the first two occurances as well.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11603292July 18, 2024
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Severe windshield cracking requiring replacement. 2 in 6 month period. 1st was November 2023. Extremely cold temperatures. Cracked directly above heater vents on both sides same time. I watched it go from outer lower edges and move all the way to the center, entire length of the shield. I did not see anything hit the windshield, but they were iced and snow covered. I felt the temperature difference outside compared to in the cabin may have caused the crack. 2nd occurred July 12 2024. Extreme heat ( 100 plus) air-conditioning blasting cold air. Low traffic, at least 4 car lengths between mine and the car ahead. I did not see any debris. I did hear a noise, and then watched the windshield crack from the same location (lower outside edge) this time only the passenger side. The crack started approximately 6 inches. The following morning that crack had moved past midway of the windshield. This is not normal for any other vehicle I have driven. I have been driving 45 years. I have had a rock hit the windshield, some large rocks. In only one case I suffered a chip that was fixed with resin. There is a problem (safety) with this windshield. Installation, glass, design flaw?? I don't know the cause, but It is hazardous. The dealer's mechanic that replaced the 1st one told me "it is a KNOWN issue for my model" someone needs to address and correct an issue that is known which could be catastrophic. I was driving 35 mph in November incident, and 70 mph in July. I can provide documentation re: 1st replacement. I did not take pictures of that one. I can provide photos of 2nd one. I have not done 2nd replacement. I may just trade it out. That is how concerning this issue is to me.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11603044July 17, 2024
EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT:VIDEO (TOUCH)SCREEN/MONITOR/UNIT
The screen does not acknowledge touch and glitches while driving. Puts calls on hold every 10 seconds if connected by blue tooth or apple CarPlay. Screen will have a seizure and change screens while driving without any prompt. Will select navigation without any prompt.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11600186July 8, 2024
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I have replaced my windshield three times now and am just now reading about lawsuits against Subaru for faulty windshields on certain lines (2019 being one of them). My windshield still makes sounds as if it will crack and I think there’s something majorly defective with the vehicle. How was this never a recall? What can I do to inquire about this safety issue? It sounds like a common occurrence. Thank you.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11598387July 2, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The radio/navigation screen is beginning to delaminate. I noticed the bubbles a day or so prior. While driving the whole system begins to change stations/apps and will not allow you to even turn off the system with the button. Caused extreme distraction. System is now stuck in this mode.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11596098June 24, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Horn beeps 2 to 4 times randomly when the car is being started or driven. This has been identified by the manufacturer as a defect and a service bulletin has been issued. It should be a recall as a safety issue as it happens randomly, many times, and in any conditions.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11595846June 22, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Infotainment system is not working correctly. Delamination causes the system to malfunction causing a distraction. I took it to a Subaru dealer and was told what the problem was but if I wanted to have it assessed it would cost more than $100 and a replacement would be over $1300. I was also informed that if Subaru was to replace it, it would be with the same system. I was told by the technician there is a class action suit lodged against Subaru for other years for this issue, but not for 2019. There were no warning messages.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11594721June 17, 2024
VISIBILITY/WIPER, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
Windshield cracked spontaneously while parked, March 29, 2024. Temperature was approx 28°F. This was the second time in 11 months this has happened. Safelite technician said it was caused by faulty windshield heater. The first one I paid for the replacement, the second one was under warranty from Safelite. But was told if it happened again they would not be responsible.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11593806June 12, 2024
STRUCTURE:BODY
Windshield just cracked on its own. My vehicle was just sitting in my backyard nothing around my vehicle. A day latter i went outside i noticed the windshield was cracked nothing touched the windshield it just cracked on its own.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11593703June 11, 2024
UNKNOWN OR OTHER, VISIBILITY/WIPER
I now have a second windshield that suddenly cracked. I was told that Subaru OEM windshield was installed and their is a Subaru icon on the glass. The first time was when a defrost was turned on. I heard a pop and crack quickly appeared. Crack started on the outside edge about half way up on the passenger side. Within seconds the crack was half way across to the other side. The most recent it was after a hot day on the previous day the next morning open the garage and immediately saw multiple cracks starting from the drivers side this time, about half way up then running almost half across the other side. Both times I had only had the windshield a few months. I took it back to the windshield installer and they are going to replace it because it isn't due to damage to the windshield like a chip. They told me that they are putting Subaru OEM windshields on right now because they have had to replace 20 recently for the same issue. They just suddenly crack no damage. They said there is a lawsuit. I asked the dealership and they told me that haven't heard any issues with windshields. I just wanted to let you know. It is pretty scary and expensive to have the windshield suddenly crack and it is pretty deep. I'm going to take a picture since my Subaru dealership wouldn't record the issue for me.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11592752June 5, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The infotainment display on our 2019 Subaru Outback for the past 10 months has been inoperable and poses a distraction to the driver. One time this display distraction caused a near miss incident. Moisture under the display causes the screen to randomly touch buttons and beep continuously as they are being touched. The bubbles below the screen became apparent roughly 2-3 months before the screen became inoperable. The vehicle was brought into the dealership and the parts department claimed the part would be in within a month or so every time we contacted them. It is now 10 months later and the part still has not been replaced. Subaru is aware of this issue yet they have sent no notice or recall advisory to any of its customer about this issue. We have contacted Subaru of America countless times and after three call attempts and multiple emails, we received a call saying the part is shipped but were not given any tracking information. We have been told false information by multiple Subaru representatives and have had extreme difficulty getting help with this matter. There were no warning lights indicating this issue had occurred and no way to correct it other than replacing the display.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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