NHTSA attached an advisory to a recall on this vehicle. Advisories apply to specific production runs — check your VIN with the manufacturer or at nhtsa.gov/recalls before driving it.
When it fails
03000030,000 milesMedian miles at failure
515 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 30,000–40,000 miles.
Most common 2017 Subaru Outback problems
379 of the 921 complaints (41%) are about the electrical system.
Component
Reports
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Electrical System
370
4
1
2
Visibility/Wiper · wipers
194
1
0
1
Unknown or Other
129
0
1
1
Power Train · transmission
29
2
0
0
Visibility › Windshield
26
0
0
0
Engine
23
0
0
0
Structure › Body · body and frame
22
1
0
0
Service Brakes · brakes
19
4
0
2
Steering
17
1
0
0
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration
16
5
0
3
2017 Subaru Outback electrical system problems
41% of all complaints
379 of the 921 complaints are about the electrical system. This is what owners describe:
drains the battery or stops charging41% · 155
will not start15% · 55
sets off warning lights on the dash3% · 12
Share of the 379 electrical system complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.
“I think recall work was not done, but says it was done (or is not open). Does it say when and where recall work was done? This car has a parasitic battery drain, 3 batteries in 3 years, required 2 jump starts, 1 call to AAA. There is a recall for such an issue, but I do not believe it was fixed and done. It showed NO open recalls, and just last week I had brake work for a recall done.”
Owner complaint, filed Apr 7, 2026
“If the car engine does not run for more than 4-5 days, the battery is drained completely dead and the car needs to be jump started to get the engine to run and have the alternator recharge the battery. Ongoing issue.”
Owner complaint, filed Jan 5, 2026
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the electrical systemRecall (red: the electrical system)NHTSA investigation opened
Complaints about the 2017 Outback peaked in 2021, with 260 filed that year. No recall on file covers the electrical system, the subject of 41% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 17 so far.
4 safety recalls
Part 573 reports
Air Bags › Air Bag/Restraint Control Module19V910000
Filed Dec 19, 201946 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Outback vehicles. A replacement air bag control module may have been installed that is not compatible with the passenger air bag module, possibly affecting air bag deployment.
Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating passenger frontal air bag deployment, the air bag may not deploy properly, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger air bag module, free of charge. The recall began February 3, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUX-09.
Filed Oct 6, 201654 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2017 Legacy and Outback vehicles manufactured September 21, 2016, to September 23, 2016. In the affected vehicles, the knee guard bracket may not be properly attached to the steering beam assembly.
Risk. If the knee guard is not properly attached and the driver is not wearing a seatbelt, the knee guard may not be able to properly restrain the driver's lower body in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the knee guard welding on each vehicle's steering beam, replacing the beam as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 14, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTL-72.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Caliper16V576000
Filed Aug 3, 201699 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2017 Outback vehicles manufactured June 20, 2016, to June 23, 2016. The affected vehicles may have improperly tightened attaching bolts for the front left and right brake calipers, wheel hubs, and the right stabilizer clamp.
Risk. If any of the front brake caliper, wheel hub or stabilizer clamp attaching bolts loosen or detach, the related components would also become loose and may detach possibly making the vehicle unstable and reducing the braking capability. These conditions would increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will inspect the bolts for proper torque, and replace any loose bolts, free of charge. The recall began on August 8, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTE-66.
Filed May 11, 201648,819 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.
Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Legacy and Outback vehicles manufactured February 29, 2016, to May 6, 2016. The steering column on the affected vehicles may have been improperly machined, and as a result, turning the steering wheel may have no effect on the direction of the wheels.
Risk. The loss of steering ability would increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the lot number on the steering column, replacing the steering column, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 13, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783 or by visiting http://www.wtd65.service-campaign.com. Subaru's number for this recall is WTD-65. Note: Until the vehicles have been inspected, owners are advised not to drive their vehicles.
All 4 campaigns on file, newest first.
NHTSA investigations
Office of Defects Investigation
Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. One names the 2017 Outback.
Desiccated Air Bag Inflator RuptureEngineering analysis EA21002Open
Opened Sep 17, 2021airbags
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at …
Technical service bulletins
397 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2017 Outback. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
electrical system 128equipment 86transmission 34steering 32engine 31seats 10airbags 9body and frame 8
SubaruNet AnnouncementWarranty extensionSep 23, 2024electrical system
This letter provides information regarding the warranty extension for the Telematics Data Communications Module (DCM).
07-207-22RWarranty extensionSep 6, 2022electrical system
This bulletin announces a warranty extension information regarding 12 Volt vehicle batteries.
SubaruNet Announcement (MOtherOct 5, 2026electrical system
This announcement provides information on a new software update for the Midtronics Dss and DCA machines.
SubaruNet Announcement (TOtherSep 28, 2026electrical system
This announcement provides information on an enhancement of the TechShare CVT diagnostic assitance application.
18-244-26Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 18, 2026electrical system
"This Bulletin announces additional troubleshooting steps for the following DTCs: DTC C1956: RH Actuator Circuit DTC C1957: LH Actuator Circuit"
15-304-22RService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 14, 2026electrical system
This bulletin has been developed to outline the steps for gathering basic but essential information during diagnosis of Infotainment concerns. This is an revised version of the original bulletin.
15-333-25RService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 14, 2026electrical system
This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure. This is an revised version of the original bulletin.
15-308-23RService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsAug 20, 2026electrical system
This Service Information Bulletin outlines a systematic procedure for diagnosing parasitic draw (dark/standby current) in vehicles experiencing battery drain when the ignition is off, leading to no-start conditions or frequent jump-starts.This is an revised version of the original bulletin.
Showing the newest 6 of 128 bulletins about the electrical system, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version tested
Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk
2017 Subaru Outback SW AWD
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
17.5%
New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator PedalCrash1 injured
Filed Oct 26, 2026112,000 milesLA
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. While the contact's wife was driving into a parking space, the vehicle unintendedly accelerated. The vehicle drove over two concrete curbs and crashed into a shipping container, pushing the shipping container back several feet. The driver parked the vehicle in the parking lot. The driver experienced body soreness and stiffness but did not seek medical attention. The failure mileage was approximately 112,000.
Structure › Body
Filed Oct 26, 2026NY
The vehicle is 10 years old with 150,000 miles. The vehicle did not pass inspection, as the front end chassis/structural frame is completely rusted and corroded. The cost to replace this structure is $3,200. This seems unusual for a 10 year old car with no visible rust that is in very good condition. I read that the air conditioning condensate drips on the structure. This coupled with road salt in Rochester, NY, caused the unusual corrosion.
Steering
Filed Oct 16, 2026CO
On Sunday, [XXX], I was driving my 2017 Subaru Outback 3.6R Touring after leaving the [XXX]. After I had merged onto [XXX] and immediately before the first roundabout under [XXX], the vehicle emitted three warning beeps, numerous dashboard warning lights illuminated, and the engine began running roughly. I was traveling approximately 31 mph when the warnings began. While attempting to reach a safe place to stop, I entered the roundabout beneath [XXX]. At approximately 7 mph, the electronic power-steering assistance stopped functioning, making the vehicle extremely difficult to steer. I was able to exit the roundabout and pull into a parking lot without a collision. I turned the vehicle off, waited approximately five minutes, and restarted it. The warning lights were no longer illuminated. Diagnostic information later reviewed by Grand Junction Subaru documented that the vehicle’s electrical voltage had dropped to 8.6 volts during the incident. The dealership could not reproduce the event or conclusively identify its cause. Although the original alternator reportedly tested normal, the dealership reprogrammed the ECU/ECM, disabled the DCM, and replaced the alternator. Because the root cause remains unconfirmed, I am concerned that the sudden low-voltage condition and loss of steering assistance could recur at highway speed. Because [XXX] and the two-lane roundabout are very busy, I felt that my life was in danger. As I continued through the roundabout, there was a Ford Platinu
Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 7, 2026NV
Under Subaru's bulletin WUJ-95, certain 2015-2016 Outbacks were recalled due to the exhaust pipe front (EPF) bellows cracking. My 2017 Subaru outback has developed a crack in the bellows (flex pipe on the catalytic converter) and has had to be replaced. The emissions warranty ran out at 80K miles, I currently have 92K miles on the vehicle. If not replaced, the vehicle would not pass smog and would fail to meet emission levels certified by the EPA. Subaru's current Bulletin WUB-87 is initiating a service campaign that would involve replacement of the front exhaust pipe assembly which includes the catalytic converter. I had to pay out of pocket for the replacement part. I would like to see the catalytic converter be recalled and be able to be reimbursed for this cost. Subaru has made a defective part which cracks and breaks and needs to be re-engineered to ensure this does not keep happening. The 2017 outback has the same emission parts and placements as the 2016 and this problem will continue to happen if Subaru is not held responsible to fix the problem.
Wheels
Filed Jul 8, 2026IN
The CVT failed at 62 miles per hour on a busy interstate, XXX. This caused the drivetrain to lock. The car has been repaired and traded locally in [XXX]. The car was very difficult to steer with locked wheels in traffic. This was a rapid evasive manuver on a busy interstate. An undrivable vehicle on an interstate is life threatening to many. Flat bed driver told me I was lucky to steer off of lanes onto shoulder with four locked wheels. This incident put me in mild shock. The Subaru dealer had to replace the transmission. The dealer and Subaru Regional Rep. examined the CVT failure. It was outside of the 100,000-mile warranty by about 895 miles. Repair invoice attached. I did not have advanced warning of CVT failure. There were no warning lights on before the CVT failure. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 7, 2026OK
Came out to car on the morning of July 1, 2026 and found windshield had cracked from the very bottom of the windshield (no impacts). This is the third windshield I will be putting in this car. Original windshield was replaced by Subaru 4/25 2025 for the same exact problem. 2015 &16 Outbacks had a settlement filed as did the 20-23 subarus. This is a known problem.These cracks limit visibility, interfere with all other safety systems: Lane change, cruise control, visibility, auto brake for emergency and other related safety systems. I could not go with aftermarket windshields (Safelite) because Subaru said they would not cover any malfunctions with the eyesight system unless it was Subaru glass. I have contacted my Subaru dealer and they said Subaru will more than likely not cover it. Their glass was put in by them 15 months ago and this not the result of a chip or impact. Came out in the morning and it was cracked. Go to any Subaru owners web sites and you will see this is a reoccurring, KNOWN problem for almost ALL Subaru models. How can safety items LIKE WINDSHIELDS ( which affects ALL other safety systems) not fall under NTHB?? So class action lawsuits cover the two PRIOR years and the next three model years, but not 2017?? jSame glass, same manufacturer, same know problem.
Service Brakes
Filed Jun 22, 2026CO
On Monday [XXX] were driving on [XXX] going north up [XXX]. I was doing about 60-65 mph in traffic which was flowing in both directions. While ascending the pass, the car suddenly started to misfire, rapidly lost power, power steering failed and all dash lights lit up. With no shoulder to pull out this was a very scary experience. Eventually managed to limp to a spot where I could pull out off the pavement. Car was dead. Popping the hood showed significant battery corrosion. I had a toolkit with me. The voltmeter measured the battery voltage at 9.3V. Thinking maybe cleaning the battery terminals would allow the car to be restarted, I managed to get the cables off and cleaned everything with a wire brush. But still no power. After a while a state trooper passed by and hung on while I contacted a towing service. After another 1.5 hours, the tow truck arrived and towed the car the 60 miles or so to the dealership in Denver with my wife and I in the cab of the tow truck. Dealer repair invoice indicated Data Control Module (DCM) "causing excessive draw on electrical system." More significantly, the battery had drained below the the operating threshold voltage required for vehicle drivability (understood to be 10-10.5V). There was no mention of this by the dealer service adviser. Although dealer diagnostic was carried out, no computer codes were provided. Vehicle mileage at time of incident 73,456. I have owned the car since new and have all service records. Car was repaired and pi
Electrical System
Filed May 11, 2026UT
Ignition key not releasing after turning engine off. Put shifter in park, foot on brakeii, turn Ignition key off. Key will not release. Have to cycle multiple times to get key released.
Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 24, 2026CA
The front passenger window does not work correctly all the time. The driver is not able to put the window up when pressing button on driver’s side and the passenger needs to keep pressing button to have it go back up again. So if the driver puts the window down while driving, the driver cannot put it back up. It occurs every few months. It’s such a common problem that there are many sites on you tube on how to fix it. It is known on you tube that it happens with Subaru often.
Air BagsCrashFire1 injured
Filed Apr 9, 2026VA
I was recently involved in a multi-car accident, where the vehicle rammed into my outback from behind, leading to a spin-up and hit again by the driver side, forcing me to collide into a vehicle that had side-lined on a highway. In this situation, I would expect the airbags to get deployed, but to my surprise and shock, none of the airbags were deployment (both frontal as well as side)
Electrical System
Filed Apr 7, 2026OR
I think recall work was not done, but says it was done (or is not open). Does it say when and where recall work was done? This car has a parasitic battery drain, 3 batteries in 3 years, required 2 jump starts, 1 call to AAA. There is a recall for such an issue, but I do not believe it was fixed and done. It showed NO open recalls, and just last week I had brake work for a recall done.
Unknown or OtherFire
Filed Apr 6, 2026MI
My car caught on fire while I was driving in 3/30/26. The far started somewhere in/near the front driver’s side, initial observed flames were coming from just above the front driver’s side tire. There were no warning lights on at the time the fire started. The car was a total loss by the time firefighters arrived.
Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator Pedal
Filed Mar 24, 2026129,000 milesWA
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving at a slow speed, the brake pedal was depressed, but the vehicle experienced unintended acceleration. The contact lifted her foot off the brake pedal and then firmly depressed the brake pedal another time. The vehicle was able to come to a stop. The contact stated that prior to the failure, the vehicle had stalled while driving. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the dealer, who were unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 129,000.
Engine
Filed Mar 16, 2026VA
Total of 3 incidents when my car had approx 1/8 to 1/4 of a tank of gas....as going up incline on interstate....car like stalls and slows down, will not speed up....get it over to the side to avoid being hit and it finally starts going again...close call with vehicles behind us in the passing lane. Below listed the last time it happened... Did not use to do this...first time was same area listed below in November 2025.
Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 22, 2026NY
While driving, the car suddenly shut off while in motion. It came to a stop at the bottom of hill where we were able to put it in neutral, and push it into a parking lot. After that we attempted to start it 4 or 5 times, and the engine would turn over and shut off after a couple of seconds. After leaving it off for about 5 minutes, it was able to start. Additionally, it occasionally feels jerky while driving, usually at lower speeds.
Latches/Locks/Linkages › Hood › Latch
Filed Feb 5, 2026KY
The contact's sister owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, the hood unlatched, flew open, and struck the windshield, causing the windshield to shatter. The driver was able to pull over to the side of the road. It was unknown whether the driver was able to close the hood. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the driver was provided a loaner vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. It was unknown if the manufacturer was contacted or notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Electrical System
Filed Jan 5, 2026UT
If the car engine does not run for more than 4-5 days, the battery is drained completely dead and the car needs to be jump started to get the engine to run and have the alternator recharge the battery. Ongoing issue.
Unknown or Other
Filed Dec 29, 2025PA
Driving on a flat dry road with cloudy conditions we heard what sounded like a shotgun. Pulled over and found our Moonroof exploded. I have dashcam video with audio of the explosion as well as photos and video of the damage immediately after
Visibility/Wiper
Filed Dec 10, 2025NC
My Outback has been through 5 genuine Subaru windshields this year, and 7 since 2019. Only one was impact damage, the rest developed cracks after installation. One only lasted 3 days after being replaced. Others have lasted 3 months. There is something defective with the current Subaru replacement windshields and the dealers can't help. These are $1,300 insurance claims each. Subaru needs to figure out what is happening with the poor quality before someone gets hurt from shattered glass or impaired visibility from cracks.
Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Dec 3, 2025MD
While in a parking lot moving at very slow rate speed the car suddenly accelerated on its own. I had just slowly turned within a parking lot in preparation to backing into a parking space. I had just removed my foot from the accelerator and the car was almost at a stop and I was about to brake and put the car into reverse when it suddenly and rapidly accelerated on its own. My foot was not touching the accelerator at the time (it was over, but not yet touching, the brake). The car felt as if someone had suddenly slammed on the accelerator, but my foot was not on the accelerator at the time. Luckily my foot was over the brake when the rapid unexpected acceleration occurred and also luckily there were no cars in front of me. I was able to immediately slam on the brake so that the car did not hit anything. Before I was able to brake, the car quickly lurched forward at a surprisingly rapid rate of speed for a short distance. Quick application of the brakes stopped the sudden and rapid forward movement of the car. I did not notice any warning lights or messages on the car. This could have been a very dangerous situation. If someone had been walking in front of the car, they would have been hit and potentially seriously injured. If there had been cars parked in front of the space I was about to back into, the car would have hit them and caused damage. This happened earlier today and I have not yet reported it to the dealer. No police or insurance personnel were involved as I manage
Unknown or Other
Filed Nov 3, 2025MI
The key gets stuck in the ignition when turning off the ignition.
Electrical System
Filed Nov 2, 2025SC
Battery drains consistently after a few days of not driving/
Engine
Filed Oct 30, 2025NY
I been hearing a loud humming sound like a sports car and smell of fumes inside the cabin.
Electrical System
Filed Oct 8, 2025CA
Since purchasing this Subaru in 2017 there has been multiple incidents where the car battery drains overnight. Causing the car not to start due to a dead battery.
Vehicle Speed ControlCrash
Filed Sep 15, 202541,000 milesDE
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that after driving onto the driveway and pressing the brake pedal to park, the vehicle suddenly experienced unintended acceleration, drove forward, and crashed into the garage door. The contact shifted to the reverse position and the vehicle drove in reverse but would not stop while pressing the brake pedal. Eventually, the contact was able to shift to the park position, and the vehicle was stopped. During the incident garage door was severely damaged along with the rear end of a classic vehicle parked inside the garage. No injuries were reported, and no police report was filed. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer was notified of the incident. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 41,000.
Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 15, 2025WA
The design of the dashboard along with the dashboard screen has a very poor design that makes it nearly impossible to see when the sun is out. When the sun is out and especially when driving towards the sun during sunset and sunrise, the dashboard reflects back the light onto the windshield making it essentially impossible to see objects that may be on the side of the road. Even with polarized sunglasses, I often find myself having to reduce my speed on 50 mph zones by as much as 30 mph under the speed limit in order to give myself enough time to potentially see hazards that would be unseen at higher speeds do to the severe glare. Without sunglasses, even driving during the middle of the day, the dashboard reflects light off the windshield that can make it nearly impossible to see objects, especially objects that are only visible on the lower third of the windshield. This faulty design has almost caused me to hit cyclist and or joggers on the road even going substantially below the speed limit due to being blinded by the sun. The second issue I have is with the backup screen on the dashboard. Whenever any sun hits the dashboard screen, it is essentially useless as the sun almost completely makes it impossible to see where I'm backing into. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone or any law enforcement, but I do feel this is a serious safety hazard and the design of the dashboard in that it reflects light right back into the windshield makes for an undue stressful experie
Power Train
Filed Aug 19, 2025DE
AT ABOUT 112,000 MILES, MY 2017 SUBARU OUTBACK'S TRANSMISSION SHOWED SIGNS OF FAILURE. THE "MANUAL SHIFT" GEAR LEVER POSITION WOULD NO LONGER INCREASE OR DECREASE THE TRANSMISSION RPM AND A WHIRRING AND CLICKING NOISE BECAME APPARENT AND INCREASED OR DECREASED WITH SPEED. THE SUBARU DEALER IN SALISBURY, MD DIAGNOSED A FAILING TRANSMISSION AND QUOTED $9,916 TO REPLACE IT.
Electrical System
Filed Aug 19, 2025UT
Subaru was not willing to cover the cost to replace their faulty gear shifter. My key gets stuck in the ignition. This problem has been confirmed by a dealership. No warnings happen, it gets stuck. This is a safety issue because I have to leave my keys in my car (unlocked) and come back for them when the car decides to recognize that it is in park. This is a know issue and Subaru wiped its hands of me and said deal with it by yourself.
Engine
Filed Jul 6, 2025CO
Car was being driven on the highway in cruise control, when the cruise control turned off and the car began to decelerate. When the gas pedal was pressed, the RPMs shot up but there was no acceleration. The car was pulled over, turned off, and we were not able to turn it on again. The car was towed to a shop, where they were able to identify the engine wasn’t working but not the root cause, and also mentioned the possibility of there being a transmission problem. We then brought it to a Subaru dealer, and they said a similar thing without being able to diagnose anything more specific. This car is 8 years old and has had routine, consistent maintenance the entire time. The surprise of an engine failure with no warning is very alarming and dangerous.
Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 26, 2025NJ
We have a Subaru 2017 and have had to replace the windshield TWICE. In each instance a small rock flew up and cracked the windshield. I have owned different models of cars for years and have NEVER had to replace a windshield twice? Is there a manufacturing defect in these windhshields? Both times we have taken it to a Subaru dealer to have the windshield replaced and we ordered Subaru windshields NOT an after market product. I will upload the documents from the two dealers when I can but I just wanted to see if this is a common issue? Looking online it seems to be.
Visibility/Wiper
Filed Jun 18, 2025MI
My windshield (which has had multiple class action lawsuits) cracked spontaneously sitting in my driveway. I contacted Subaru of America and they denied any responsibility and claimed there is no assistance they can provide. This crack has gone from about half of my windshield to nearly the entire windshield horizontally. This is clearly a defective product as numerous complaints have been made by owners of multiple Subaru models including the Outback. This is indeed a huge safety concern along with a very unfortunate lack of accountability by Subaru of America.
Electrical System
Filed May 17, 2025CA
I'm the original owner, purchased May 2017, and have had to replace the battery five times. Online research indicates that the root cause is phantom draining caused by the DCM apparently searching for a no longer existent 3G signal. Subaru has not addressed the issue directly and has instead issued a technical service bulletin to AAA affiliates to advise their customers to go to dealerships for larger batteries, group 47, with higher cold cranking amps which will also require new battery trays, hold downs and an adjustment to the car's computer. My dealership in Carlsbad, CA informed me the cost might exceed $650 and would not be covered by Subaru. I strongly believe this is an issue that Subaru must address on their dime.
Visibility › Windshield
Filed Apr 29, 2025110,000 milesIN
The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and unoccupied in the garage, the contact’s son opened the garage door and became aware of a crack on the front passenger’s side windshield. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was determined that the windshield needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The contact was informed that vehicle was too old to repair. The approximate failure mileage was 110,000.
Visibility/Wiper
Filed Apr 14, 2025OK
Ongoing problem with Subaru. Spontaneous windshield crack. 74 degrees, parked in shade, no chips. Came out and has the crack completely across windshield just above drivers eyeline. This is has happened to many Subaru owners and Subaru does nothing. Now I want Safelite to do repair, but Subaru will not honor any work involving eyesight navigation unless it is Subaru glass,
Engine
Filed Mar 21, 2025WV
Hi I had my car into the local Subaru Dealership (Wheeling Subaru) a few weeks ago to investigate a couple of issues that the car has been having for years (and they have never been able to find). Over the course of that investigation, they finally were able to recreate two issues that should have been covered under the warranty since it's been happening and reported to them for years (the seat memory programming button isn't working and the right sight steering wheel controller isn't working). The parts and labor for those two issues come to $545. But the much bigger issue is that they told me the engine needs to be pulled out and resealed because of cam carrier and spark plug gasket leaks, and that repair is $5,076 plus tax. When I expressed astonishment over this and asked what is going on, the service advisor explained this is a common problem with Subaru cars from this model year because of the switch from timing belts to whatever it has now. with the CVT engine I looked around online and discovered that this is a common issue with 2017 Outbacks. I thought I was making an investment that would last when I bought a brand new Subaru rather than a Ford, Honda, Toyota, Hyundai, etc because Subaru was supposed to be a car that did not have poor quality manufacturing issues like this. Given that this appears to be a common issue with the way this model and year car was manufactured, I am very upset that Subaru is not fixing this under recall but is expecting me to pay $5076 (b
Electrical System
Filed Mar 19, 2025CA
Repeatedly DEAD BATTERY Caused by a parasitic drain from a faulty DCM fuse, and an alternator programmed from the factory to NOT fully charge the battery.
Engine
Filed Mar 11, 2025NC
PER SUBARUS BULLETIN 02-192-25 POSED ON 10-26-2024 THEY PROVIDED DETAILS ON HOW TO FIX A LEAK FROM ZONE 4 FOR CAM SHAFT CARRIER AND VALVE COVER. I HAVE A LEAK FROM THESE TWO ITEMS NOTED. I HAVE BEEN BREATHING THE OIL FUMES FOR WHO KNOWS HOW LONG. I HAVE HAD THESE ISSUES CONFIRMED BY BOTH SUBARU DEALERSHIP SERVICE CENTER AND AN INDEPENDENT SERVICE CENTER. NO ENGINE LIGHTS HAVE BEEN DISPLAYED OR CAME ON TO INDICATE ANY OF THESES ISSUES. THE ODOR OF STRONG OIL JUST GOT WORSE OVER TIME AND MY VEHICLE ONLY HAS 87000 ORIGINAL MILES ON IT AND HAS PROPER DOCUMENTED OIL CHANGE AND SERVICE EVERY 3000 MILES.
Exterior Lighting
Filed Feb 15, 2025IA
Headlight lenses fill up with water on interior of lenses causes headlights to distort lighting and reduced visibility.
Electrical SystemFire
Filed Jan 8, 2025OK
I drive 2.5miles to work, Tuesday [XXX], I was turning into the parking lot and my car just cut off. I couldn't use flashers, restart it, put it in park or anything else. I called my husband to come help. I thought maybe the battery cable might have come loose. It was dead. I couldn't get out, if I let my foot off the brake it would roll backwards, going into the road and I didn't want it to hurt anyone. It started smoking from the drivers front side of engine. I called my husband back and said please hurry. It took approximately 7 minutes for him to arrive. I was on the phone about the smoke when he drove up behind me. He told me to get out of the car it's on fire. He tapped my bumper to keep my car from rolling backwards. I jumped out, called 911.He had sandbags in the back of his truck. He put them under the back tires so it couldn't roll into the traffic. A lady stopped that had a fire extinguisher and [XXX] attempted to put the fire out. It was getting quite large. We couldn't open the hood, he could only spray it in the wheel area up front. He had to get back the fire was getting big. The car then exploded. It was so loud, fire and smoke. I went into work and asked to be let off for that day. I smelled like smoke and my lungs hurt. I inhaled so much smoke. My daughter got me a breathing treatment setup to help with breathing. The fire department came and put the fire out. They were so kind. No police showed up, so we only have a fire department report. The tow truck sho
Structure › Body
Filed Jan 6, 2025WI
On 08/17/17 I purchased a new Outback off a Subaru dealers' lot. The fall of 2023 I noticed rust starting on the column portion of the driver's side door. It is on the CAR INTERIOR, ABOVE THE WINDOW. This is a highly unusual area for rust to start. Typically rust starts on the bottom of a car, not 2/3 of the way up from the bottom. I was told by the dealership that it was not covered under warranty, and I was on my own. On 10/22/24 I went to an autobody shop to have the rust repaired. I was told that based off of the bubbling that was occurring on the rust, the rust is not surface rust but occurring on the interior of the door. He said that this was a flaw in production as this should not be occurring. This is evident by the fact that there is no rust on any of the other doors or anywhere else on the car. I called the Subaru dealership and had them look at it. They did not have an autobody shop but the appointment clerk submitted a request for a review to Subaru of Americ. The outcome of the review was a rejection due to being beyond the warranty of the car. This was a production error. I drove out of the lot with a defective door. This resulted in the door being completely rusted on the interior as is evident by the rust through on the INTERIOR of the door. Also, the rust is now presenting itself on the bottom seam. To have this patched is a waste of money as the whole door interior is rusted. I am concerned about the integrity of the door. If I was T-boned or in a roll-over
Unknown or Other
Filed Dec 26, 2024OR
Horn stopped working. When I lock the car the horn makes noise notifying it is locked. I took it into the dealership they think it’s is the clock spring. Then I looked online and found this information. “The 2017 Subaru Outback was subject to a recall related to the steering column, specifically the clockspring. This recall (NHTSA Campaign #10V-283 / WVR-28) addressed potential issues with the electrical wiring in the steering column that could lead to steering wheel component malfunctions.” Why is my vehicle not included in the recall?
Electrical SystemCrash
Filed Dec 22, 2024MO
This has been a constant problem with this car. The battery is dead within 3 days. Has a constant battery drain. Subaru service can’t find it. Big safety problem in cold weather. Car leaves wife stranded. The problem is clearly evident on the web blogs.
Electrical System
Filed Dec 16, 2024WA
My battery continues to die leaving me stranded every winter for the past several years. It is a known issue I believe with the wiring/ fuse for the trunk hatch door. Subaru only offers a new battery - so every year I replace the battery and then end up stranded somewhere again.
Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Dec 16, 2024NC
12/13/24 Incident 1: I braked as I approached a stop sign, but instead the car accelerated, running the stop sign. 12/16/24 Incident 2: I braked to slow down to turn right, but instead the car accelerated. There were no prior warnings or indications of the problem.
Visibility/Wiper
Filed Nov 13, 2024RI
I have had to replace the windshield three times in this vehicle since purchasing it. I've had it repaired one other time. The most recent incident was this past week when I came out of work and found a large crack near the Eyesight/rear view mirror area for no apparent reason
Lane Departure › Assist
Filed Nov 7, 2024ME
THE LANE KEEPING ASSISTANCE FEATURE IS TURNED OFF IN MY VEHICLE BECAUSE I LIVE WHERE THERE ARE MANY TWO LAND ROADS AND OTHER DRIVES CONSTANTLY CROSS THE MIDDLE LINE, INCLUDING LARGE LOGGING TRUCKS. LATELY IT HAS BEEN COMING ON INTERMITTENTLY AND NUDGING MY CAR BACK TOWARD THE MIDDLE OF THE LANE EVEN WHEN I WOULD LIKE TO DRIVE VERY CLOSE TO THE SHOULDER OR WHITE LINE ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE ROAD. WHEN IT NUDGES THE CAR TOWARD THE CENTER OF THE LANE AND I ATTEMPT TO CORRECT, IT IS A BATTLE AND MAKES ME FEEL VERY UNEASY. I HAVE CONTACTED SUBARU OF AMERICA BECAUSE WHEN I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER, THEY TOLD ME IF I COULD NOT RECREATE IT, IT WAS UNLIKELY THEY COULD FIX IT. AFTER SEEING A POST ON REDDIT, I THINK I AM NARROWING DOWN RECREATING THE EVENT. I HAVE PICTURES OF THE DASHBOARD LIGHTS THAT SHOW LANE KEEPING ASSIST BEING ACTIVE DESPITE THE LIGHT SHOWING IT IS ALSO TURNED OFF.
Unknown or Other
Filed Nov 3, 2024VA
While driving on main road sunroof spontaneously exploded! Speed 55 mph, temp mid 60s. This occurred 11-2-24 about 6pm. Clear weather, open road. I purchased the car new in 2017 and have never even opened the sunroof as I don't like them and car is always garaged when not in use. It has only 27,773 miles on it. No one was hurt but very scary. Will take it to dealership tomorrow, 11-4-24, as the entire center of sunroof is gone with only edges of glass remaining around the perimeter. I will have mechanic report tomorrow (today is Sunday
Electrical System
Filed Oct 17, 2024NM
Battery drain kept on happening. The nth time after buying 2 batteries and getting battery recharge 2x, Subaru sent me a letter of notice of possible problems with car keeps on finding radio or gps signal thus drains the battery. Brought car to Subaru then they changed the signal unit and gave me a new battery as well.
Air BagsCrash2 injured
Filed Oct 15, 2024NC
Was at a stop in the middle lane going to turn left, got hit straight head on by a driver driving in the middle lane. his air bags deployed, none of mine deployed. the front end and drivers side of the subaru was impacted
Electrical System
Filed Oct 15, 2024MA
DCM Parasitic Drain Lawsuit for 2016-2019 Subaru Battery consistently drains to where my vehicle will not start. Dealer has replaced the battery twice (2018 & 2019) I replace the battery in 2022 and will need to so it again soon. Vehicle will not start after sitting for more that 7 days. I've been stranded at night on dark roads. I just came across the link below on a Subaru Forum where others have complained about the the same issue. and this seems to be what is going on with my 2017 Subaru Outback. [XXX] ? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Complaints 1-50 of 921, newest first, reproduced as filed.
Going by the federal record, it is one of the Outback years to avoid: owners filed 921 complaints, 4.1 times as many as a typical Outback year. The most common complaint is about the electrical system (41%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 5 stars overall.
What is the most common problem with the 2017 Subaru Outback?
The electrical system: 379 of the 921 complaints (41%) are about it. Owners most often say it drains the battery or stops charging (41%), will not start (15%) and sets off warning lights on the dash (3%). The typical report comes at 32,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 2017 Subaru Outback have?
4 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Dec 19, 2019. 1 of them carries a do-not-drive or park-outside warning. The largest, 16V292000, covered 48,819 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 2017 Subaru Outback problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 30,000 miles. For the electrical system the midpoint is 32,000 miles.
Has NHTSA investigated the 2017 Subaru Outback?
Yes, once. EA21002 ("Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture") was opened Sep 17, 2021 and is still open.
Are there service bulletins for the 2017 Subaru Outback?
The manufacturer filed 397 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (128), the transmission (34) and the steering (32). They include a warranty extension, SubaruNet Announcement, filed Sep 23, 2024. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
NHTSA has issued a do-not-drive warning for a recall on this vehicle.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Dec 19, 2019. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.