2019 Subaru Outback

Above average

Owners filed 1,036 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the electrical system. It has been recalled 3 times.

Avoid One of the Subaru Outback years to avoid: 4.6× the complaints of a typical Outback year. Which Subaru Outback years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
10,200 milesMedian miles at failure

470 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2019 Subaru Outback problems

351 of the 1,036 complaints (34%) are about the electrical system.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Electrical System340
100
Visibility/Wiper · wipers309
000
Unknown or Other134
010
Visibility › Windshield57
000
Steering25
000
Structure › Body · body and frame24
001
Engine23
200
Service Brakes · brakes17
603
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration13
401
Air Bags · airbags13
6010

2019 Subaru Outback electrical system problems

34% of all complaints

351 of the 1,036 complaints are about the electrical system. This is what owners describe:

  • drains the battery or stops charging32% · 113
  • will not start13% · 47
  • sets off warning lights on the dash5% · 17

Share of the 351 electrical system complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
13,000 mi
median of 101 reports
Peak year of filing
2022
78 electrical system complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
1 · 0 · 0
in these complaints
Recalls on the electrical system
None
“Repeated battery drain within 48 hours use of the vehicle, to the point the battery will no longer start the car. I believe this has come to be known as a parasitic battery drain, and has been traced to the Data Communications Module in these Subarus.”
Owner complaint, filed Jul 29, 2025
“Battery draining fast. installed new battery last month. Car is dead and had to be towed to dealer. DCM issues. System prematurely drains battery because system is trying to connect to 3g even when car is off. There should be a recall. Not just an extended warranty that Subaru may not accept for rebuilt titled cars”
Owner complaint, filed May 7, 2025

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2018: 4 complaints, 0 about the electrical system'182019: 118 complaints, 4 about the electrical system'192020: 230 complaints, 48 about the electrical system'202021: 201 complaints, 76 about the electrical system'212022: 170 complaints, 78 about the electrical system'222023: 129 complaints, 61 about the electrical system'232024: 114 complaints, 54 about the electrical system'242025: 49 complaints, 24 about the electrical system'252026: 21 complaints, 6 about the electrical system'26Recall 19V493000 (body and frame)Recall 20V218000 (fuel system)Recall 21V587000 (fuel system)
All complaintsAbout the electrical systemRecall (red: the electrical system)

Complaints about the 2019 Outback peaked in 2020, with 230 filed that year. No recall on file covers the electrical system, the subject of 34% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 21 so far.

3 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump21V587000
Filed Jul 29, 2021175,968 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.

Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.

Risk. Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2021. Subaru and Toyota owners may call customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRG-21.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump20V218000
Filed Apr 16, 2020188,207 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.

Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Impreza, Outback, Legacy, and Ascent vehicles. The low pressure fuel pump may become inoperative.

Risk. If the low pressure fuel pump fails, the engine may stall without the ability to restart the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the low pressure fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRD-20.

Structure19V493000
Filed Jun 26, 20192,107 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.

Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Legacy and Outback vehicles. Spot welds located on the duct below the cowl panel may have been improperly applied, impacting the vehicle's body strength.

Risk. In the event of a crash, the reduced strength of the vehicle body may increase the risk of injury.

Remedy. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles and repair or repurchase the vehicle, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began July 26, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUH-93.

All 3 campaigns on file, newest first.

Technical service bulletins

430 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2019 Outback. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

electrical system 175equipment 113transmission 33engine 24fuel system 13equipment adaptive/mobility 10body and frame 8seats 5
15-318-24RWarranty extensionApr 28, 2025electrical system

This bulletin announces the Warranty Extension for the Data Communication Module (DCM) up to 8 years (96 months) or 150,000 miles (whichever comes first) to address a dead battery resulting from excessive dark current draw caused by the DCM, due to internal memory corruption.

15-318-24RWarranty extensionFeb 21, 2025electrical system

This bulletin announces the Warranty Extension for the Data Communication Module (DCM) up to 8 years (96 months) or 150,000 miles (whichever comes first) to address a dead battery resulting from excessive dark current draw caused by the DCM, due to internal memory corruption.

Subarunet AnnouncementWarranty extensionJan 29, 2025electrical system

As part of Subaru's dedication to customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is announcing a Warranty Extension of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage for the CP1 & Gen 3.1 Infotainment head units for the models listed.

09-129-24RWarranty extensionJan 7, 2025fuel and propulsion system

In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is extending the Warranty coverage time period for the fuel pump impeller to 15 years.

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.

15-322-25RService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 14, 2026electrical system

In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is extending the New Car Limited Warranty coverage for the CP1 & Gen 3.1 Head Unit used in the listed models and model years to (8) eight years / 150,000 miles to cover certain qualifying repairs to the infotainment audio system. 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 175 bulletins about the electrical system, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2019 Subaru Outback SW AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★17.4%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Power Train
Filed Oct 10, 2026CT

Subaru Outback 2019 - Transmission CVT and Clutch failed at 6 years 103,000 miles. Transmission Slipped while driving (safety issues) and also clutch lurched/jumped (safety issue) when shifting eg reverse to drive. Common issue for 2010-2018 in manufacturers TSB. My car is 2019, and this was not included per dealer, cost $8000 for rebuilt transmission form Dealer. Subaru claimed no responsibility as normal wear despite car properly maintained.

Electrical System › 12v/24v/48v Battery
Filed Oct 1, 2026156,000 milesMI

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. The battery was replaced, but the failure persisted the following day. The contact associated the failure with the Data Communication Module. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by email. The failure mileage was approximately 156,000.

Steering
Filed Sep 24, 2026NY

Subaru has a tsb for a steering rack pinion rattle noise problem front end rattle, Subaru refused to repair it

Electrical System
Filed Sep 2, 2026SC

The Starlink infotainment touchscreen in my 2019 Subaru Outback Touring has progressively failed. Visible bubbles have formed under the glass, consistent with screen delamination. The screen registers phantom inputs on its own without being touched ("ghost touch"), changing settings, and interrupting functions while the vehicle is being driven. The touchscreen has now become completely unresponsive to actual touch input. Because the head unit controls and displays the backup camera, this failure interferes with the rear visibility display when reversing, creating a safety concern. The ghost inputs also present a driver distraction while the vehicle is in motion. I first documented this problem and presented the vehicle for service at a dealership in April 2025, maybe even prior, and I have dated video documentation showing the progression of the failure since then. The condition has worsened over time regardless of weather, though symptoms intensify with heat and sun exposure. The failure also disables hands-free operation, including Bluetooth phone connectivity, voice commands, and navigation control. Functions designed to be operated hands-free while driving now cannot be used at all, which encourages manual phone handling for navigation and calls - defeating the vehicle's built-in distraction-prevention systems. I am aware this failure pattern (delamination, ghost touch, and unresponsiveness in Starlink units) is widely reported by other owners of 2019–2023 Subaru vehicles

Fuel/Propulsion SystemCrash
Filed Aug 12, 2026RI

My complaint/safety issue is that while I was in my 2019 Subaru Outback, I experienced Unintentional acceleration. While waiting for the large chain-link fence at my storage unit to open, the Outback raced into the gate! I had one foot on the brake waiting for the gate, then I stomped the pedal with both feet, and I held that position while the car smashed through the gate. This happened in July of 2021. I don't recall if I shut the car off or if it just finally came to a stop. I was terrified to drive it for fear of it happening again, but this time hitting a person in a crosswalk! I did take the car to Subaru, and they said that they would go through it thoroughly. After one month, they said that there were no issues with the car and that my carpet must have caused the acceleration. I reminded them that my car had floor mats that clicked into place! It was a nightmare. Even big wigs from Headquarters called me to explain this was a one-time thing and mentioned the floor mats again! I hope no more people are injured by the corrupt managers.

Visibility
Filed Aug 3, 202640,250 milesWI

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving at 70 MPH the front windshield cracked approximately 6 inches from the heat sensor, no warning lights were illuminated. The local dealer was contacted however the vehicle was not diagnosed as the contact was advised that the vehicles VIN was not included in a recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 40,250.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 20, 2026FL

Driver controls for windows do not work for front windows .. Can not put windows down. Therefore if window on passenger side or driver side gets foggy, can not lower to see out Dealer has stated that there is dirt in window. Not dirt , bad window motor per my experience. This has been occurring for about 2/3 years.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 6, 2026WV

The touch screen monitor which controls the audio system, navigation, phone, and other car systems has delaminated. It turns on and off, makes phone calls, switches car systems like the audio, and turns off navigation. At best, it is a very annoying distraction. At worst, it is a safety issue when the screen is making emergency phone calls, canceling navigation, or turning on and off constantly and beeping and causing distraction to the driver. It is possible to turn the entire screen off, but it then randomly comes back on. A safety recall has been issued for 2018 but not 2019 Subaru Outbacks. I strongly urge you to consider a safety recall for the 2019 Subaru Outback as the very common screen delamination is widely known and causing issues for many Subaru drivers. The issue began in the summer of 2025 and has continued to be an issue, and is getting worse.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 3, 2026CA

CAR WOULDN'T START IN PARKING LOT, 40K MILES. I NEVER TOOK THE CAR IN TO THE DEALER AND RECEIVED A NOTICE ABOUT A FUEL PUMP REPLACEMENT/RECALL/REPAIR. I DIAGNOSED THIS PROBLEM MYSELF. THE VIN LOOKUP ON SUBARUS WEBSITE SAYS THAT THE PROBLEM WAS ADDRESSED/REPAIRED WHEN IT CLEARLY WAS NOT AND I NEVER RECEIVED ANY PAPERWORK OR VERBAL STATEMENT FROM SUBARU SAYING THEY PERFORMED THAT WORK WHEN I WENT IN FOR AN OIL CHANGE OR TO REPAIR THE BATTERY PROBLEM. THE BATTERY STILL DRAINS EXTREMELY FAST AS WELL. SO NEITHER THE BATTERY CHARGING WORK, OR THE ***SUPPOSED AND UNVERIFIED*** FUEL PUMP WORK HAVE BEEN DONE ON THIS CAR. NOT GOOD. ALSO - THE ORIGINAL SUBARU EL CAJON DEALERSHIP CLOSED AND THEN REOPENED WITH "NEW OWNERSHIP" AS A SUBARU DEALERSHIP. THIS ALL APPEARS EXTREMELY CROOKED.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 24, 2026FL

Vehicle battery continues to drain. Since I have owned the vehicle, it has had 4 batteries. It has had 2 batteries within the last year and half. Installed another battery a 2 weeks ago, vehicle was completely dead after a week of not driving. The last 3 batteries were all purchased (or warranty replaced, new. All forums are pointing to DCM for other years. Yet, 2019's have the same issue, and I haven't received any service bulletin regarding such issues. I presume they need to have a certain number of complaints before action is taken.

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Jun 15, 2026PA

The driver lost control of the vehicle, possibly due to a failure involving the rear driver's-side tire. The vehicle initially made contact with the guardrail, causing moderate damage to the driver's side. Following this impact, the vehicle began to fishtail, and the automatic braking system activated. The driver recalls being thrown about within the seat during the incident, as the seat belt's emergency locking retractor appeared to fail. The seat belt did not lock during the collision sequence, which is supported by the absence of visible bruising across the chest area. Prior to the vehicle's final impact with the embankment, the seat belt unexpectedly released and struck the driver on the right cheek, resulting in visible bruising. Upon the final impact, after the seat belt had released, the driver was lifted from the seat and struck her head against the door frame. The vehicle's airbags did not deploy at any point during the crash. There were no warning messages, alerts, or noticeable symptoms indicating a mechanical issue prior to the incident. The vehicle has since been towed to a local body shop for a damage assessment and further inspection.

Engine
Filed May 7, 2026CA

I am reaching out regarding the cam carrier leak on my 2019 Subaru Outback. After researching this issue, I discovered that cam carrier leaks are extremely common among Subaru vehicles equipped with the boxer engine, especially Outbacks from this generation. Many owners have reported the same exact issue, often at relatively low mileage, with repair costs commonly ranging between $3000 - 5000 What has been most discouraging is learning that Subaru dealerships and technicians openly acknowledge how common this problem is, yet Subaru has not issued a recall or meaningful warranty extension to help loyal customers facing these expensive repairs. This does not appear to be caused by neglect or misuse, but rather by a known design issue involving the sealant used on the cam carriers.

Engine
Filed Apr 28, 2026WA

Front exhaust pipe bellows cracked, allowing exhaust gases including carbon monoxide to enter the passenger cabin. This is the same defect Subaru acknowledged in Service Program WUJ-95R (2015-2016 models) and Warranty Extension WI22-013 (2017-2018 Foresters). The failure pattern extends to 2019 model year vehicles and should be investigated for a recall expansion. This is a design flaw, consistent problem across multiple years, and a dangerous problem that needs to be addressed. My local Subaru dealer diagnosed and acknowledges the issue but won't cover it. Subaru of America won't cover the full cost--only 25%. Thank you for your help.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Mar 11, 2026CA

Windshield window crack without any reason couple month ago and it keep crack bigger

Electrical System
Filed Mar 3, 2026119,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the touch screen on the radio failed to properly operate. The screen was delaminated, causing unintended operation of the radio, distracting the driver. This failure caused the back over prevention to become inoperable, and the HVAC defroster options were inoperable. The touch screen and the functions were inoperable. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed with an electrical system failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 119,000.

Electrical System › 12v/24v/48v Battery
Filed Mar 2, 2026122,000 milesMN

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that after the vehicle was not started for approximately five days, the battery was completely drained. The battery was replaced two years previously because of the same issue. The vehicle remained at the residence and the battery was charged. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 122,000.

Electrical System
Filed Feb 24, 2026OH

Battery completely dead after 4 days of not driving; this is after I purchased a $210 brand new batteyr from Autozone. Looks like there is potential class action lawsuit based on the parasitic draw by the DCM unit. I need this repaired at Subaru's expense.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Feb 19, 202682,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed, and the vehicle hesitated and almost stalled. The failure was intermittent but caused the vehicle to stall on several occasions. The check engine warning light and the low oil pressure warning lights recently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, and the contact was informed that oil was leaking from the upper and lower oil pan, the head gasket, and other engine seals. The contact was aware that the vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V587000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The contact researched and became aware that a failure of the fuel pump could lead to other failures with the engine oil seals. The contact stated that the fuel pump had been ordered; however, the vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 82,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Feb 13, 2026FL

Today 13 Feb 2026, around 3pm I was following traffic it was slow (5 miles an hour) and the traffic light turned red so I pushed on my brake to stop the car and it surged forward I pushed down on the brake again and the my vehicle stopped. Lucy I was travel a couple car lengths behind the vehicle in front of me or we would have ran into his back bumper. This is the second time this year this happen the other time was a couple of weeks back and I thought I did something wrong but my wife was in the car this time with me and she thought I did something I told her I pushed on the brake and the car surged forward. I told her I wasn't going nuts as this was the second time this year the car did this. I live in Central Florida and the weather was over 70 degrees, we were shopping and were heading home I estimate we were in the car traveling 4/5 minutes when this happened.

Engine
Filed Jan 23, 2026IL

The Tumble Generator Valve (TGV) assembly within the intake manifold failed on my 2019 Subaru Outback at only 48,000 miles causing catastrophic engine failure. This is a critical engine component that is expected to last significantly longer than the vehicle's current low mileage. The premature failure of this part triggers engine warning lights and disables key driver-assist safety features (such as EyeSight), creating a distraction and potential hazard while driving. This indicates a material defect in the TGV components used in this model year, causing catastrophic failure well before reasonable service life expectations.

Structure › Body
Filed Jan 4, 2026LA

We were driving down an interstate highway going 70 mph on a foggy Christmas Eve 2025 approximately 7 a.m. No cars were close around us. We had been on the road for 30 minutes or so, and it was in the 50-60 degree temperature range. Suddenly we heard what sounded like a gunshot right above our heads. We opened the sunshade under the sunroof, and saw that our sunroof had exploded and left a hole. Before this, we heard nothing strike the sunroof or the car. It seemed like a spontaneous explosion. The explosion noise is recorded on our dash cam video. I was unable to upload the video because it must not be in the correct format.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 29, 2025MA

The car repeatedly drains the battery after being left for a short time (a day or 2). This has now happened at least four times and has destroyed multiple batteries. I have taken it to the dealer and complained multiple times. They check for software updates and sell me a new battery and then the same thing happens again. Because of this, the car is essentially unusable because I can't trust it to run. The problem seems to come and go, though that may simply be due to having a new battery for a while. There doesn't seem to be any indication before this problem occurs.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Dec 19, 2025FL

I was driving on I-95 South in Georgia on Thursday, 18 December at approximately 9:00 pm in my 2019 Subaru Outback (6 cylinder engine). There was good visiblity and dry road conditions. I did not have the cruise control on. I was traveling at 75 mph and wanted to pass a truck. As I increased my speed to 78 mph to pass the truck, the Subaru began to accelerate to 85 mph and my rpms went up to 4000. The car continued to accelerate. I checked the cruise control and it was in fact off. I felt with my foot to make sure the accelerator was not stuck and it was not. I pushed hard on the brakes to counter the acceleration and after about 1 minute the car became controllable again. I drove the rest of my trip going 70 mph and did not have a further incident that evening. Because of the traffic ahead of me, this acceleration caused me great concern for myself and the passenger in the car. I have not had this problem before and have not reported it to my Subaru dealer yet. No one else has examined the car since this incident yesterday. I did not receive any warning lights or dashboard messages prior to the incident.

Air BagsCrash2 injured
Filed Dec 19, 2025MN

I was involved in a car crash where another car crashed into me at an angle and hit the driver side door and part of the front and the wheel air bag not deploy. The side air bags did. I was going 30, this other car was going 40-50 mph.

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 22, 2025MI

Windshield cracking for no reason.

Air BagsCrash4 injured
Filed Sep 20, 2025MO

While turning left from left turn lane, eyesight failed to detect oncoming traffic resulting in right front side impact. No warning, no braking action. This is an advertised safety system supposedly designed to prevent this type of accident. In addition, passenger side airbag deployed (no passenger in the passenger seat) but driver side airbag did not deploy. Newton's third law of motion says both should deploy. Significant injury occurred to the driver as a result.

Power Train
Filed Sep 16, 2025NJ

I was told by the dealer that my 2019 Outback had a cam carrier oil leak. At the time, my car had 50,700 miles on it. My drivetrain warrantee was for 5 years or 60,000 miles. I was over on the years but under on the miles. The repair was estimated to cost $4,500.00. The dealer said that this oil leak is common and even when repaired it could leak again. This is a design flaw that Subaru has not addressed. There are many articles on it. This has been a problem because Subaru uses a Boxter engine and this engine has historically always had problems with oil leaks that cannot be fixed. It was also disclosed that there was a chance that oil leaking onto the manifold or exhaust could cause a fire in the car which caused me alarm. My wife and I are seniors, and we cannot afford to get stuck in the car and perhaps with car on fire. The dealer could not do anything, so I called Subaru directly and spoke to their consumer advocate dept. (Incidentally, I had two previous repairs to the electrical system and computer system fixed by Subaru at no cost even though we were past warrantee. Subaru decided to extend the warrantee on the two previous issues.) After several calls Subaru told me that they would give me a $1,500 credit towards the $4,500.00 for the repair, which I said was not nearly enough and did not solve the problems. I explained that we are apprehensive about the car because the leak could happen again and there is a chance of fire. Subaru told me that the chance of fire is

Power Train1 injured
Filed Sep 12, 202555,000 milesPA

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving approximately 20-25 MPH, the vehicle started reversing unintendedly while the gear shifter was in drive(D). The contact stated that the vehicle reversed on a steep road, drove onto a curb, and onto the poles that were lying down, and the vehicle stopped. The air bags did not deploy. The contact sustained pain on the right side of the lower back but had not yet received medical assistance. The vehicle sustained damage. The vehicle was towed to the Executive Auto Body repair shop. A police report was filed. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 55,000.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 1, 2025PA

Good Morning. I am the victim of a lemon of a car, a 2019 Subaru Outback and no one, I mean no one wants to get involved with exposing this disgraceful uncaring car manufacturer. I am forwarding the 10, yes 10 issues with this dangerous piece of junk I am unfortunately driving putting our lives at risk!! Please see the information below and my hope is that you will care enough to expose and help us get a resolution with this horrible company manufacturing rolling death traps. Thank you [XXX] [XXX] Listed below are the continuing problems with my 2019 Subaru Outback which was purchased new: 3 new batteries in a mileage span of 40,000 or 50,000 miles up to 80,000 miles. These replacements were done at no cost as a result of a class action lawsuit. A windshield settlement which only extends the warranty mileage and not an automatic replacement. Talk about a huge safety risk if this windshield just cracks or breaks, especially if on a major highway. A fuel pump settlement which only extends the warranty mileage and not an automatic replacement unless the fuel pump fails. Very unsafe in my opinion. What if the fuel pump fails while on a major highway. This puts us and our safety at serious risk if this fuel pump were to fail especially going at a high rate of speed. Engine burns a quart of oil, by the way at $11.00 per quart every 3,000 miles which is not normal, and in my opinion, is an engine problem. Replacement of an ECM or Engine Control Module. Received a letter about the VC

Service Brakes
Filed Aug 26, 2025MI

I was driving my 2019 Subaru Outback North on [XXX] just North of Alanson, Michigan on [XXX] when it applied the brakes and made a noise similar to driving on the rumble strip. There were no vehicles in front of me. Scary and now I am nervous driving this car. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Electrical System
Filed Jul 31, 2025ME

"Parasitic" draw. Battery replaced, less than year old, almost daily need to "jump" vehicle to start. Always have to have booster pack. Multiple mechanics trips. Dash screen touch option does not work, have videos of the screen randomly "fluttering" through various screens and or radio stations. Leave the radio off, will randomly come on, on its own.

Electrical System
Filed Jul 29, 2025CO

Repeated battery drain within 48 hours use of the vehicle, to the point the battery will no longer start the car. I believe this has come to be known as a parasitic battery drain, and has been traced to the Data Communications Module in these Subarus.

Engine
Filed Jul 25, 2025PA

My name is [XXX] [XXX] Phone Number: [XXX] My complaint is with Subaru of America, 1 Subaru Drive, Camden, NJ 08103 Phone Number: 800-782-2783 I would like the Pennsylvania State Attorney General’s Office to become involved with the two lemons/pieces of junk my wife and I have been sold. My Subaru is a 2019 Outback and my wife’s Subaru is a 2020 Forester. My ongoing problems with my 2019 Subaru Outback are as follows and in my opinion, I am driving a very unsafe car putting our lives at risk: 3 batteries prior to 80,000 miles resulting from a class action lawsuit filed against Subaru. Replacement of the ECM or Engine Control Module. Burns a quart of oil at the price of $11.00 per quart every 3,000 miles, that’s an engine problem. Right front axle broke and had to be replaced. After replacement of the right front axle, the right front axle seal, which is the axle replaced started to leak and I was charged to replace the axle seal due to a mechanics incompetence. I received a card from Subaru stating a windshield issue. Received another card regarding a fuel pump issue. A letter received this past week from an apparent CVT or continuously variable transmission issue. Now my radio stations jump around arbitrarily changing stations, tracks on my CD, and my hatch doesn’t open, but gets stuck shortly upon opening. This car is a lemon, a piece of junk and very unsafe. How many more problems are unknown to us and when will any of them occur while we are driving putting our lives in d

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 25, 2025SC

Failures of the radio Failures of the main head unit Nagivation errors and failures Display screens that go black, frozen

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 10, 2025TX

The windshield of my 2019 Subaru Outback Touring Edition has begun to split and crack, starting at the frame. The crack split and spread in a matter of days. My car was sitting unused in the driveway when this occurred. The damage started where the windshield meets the frame and has spread. I am not able to drive the car safely other than to get the windshield repaired. I contacted Subaru, and they told me they will not honor their extended warranty to my car because their warranty is on for 2020 and newer Outbacks. I have researched and spoken to many other owners who complain that the 2019 Outback's windshield is just as dangerous as the 2020 model and that once it starts cracking, it is only a matter of time until it will fall apart. Subaru has installed a very expensive (about $1000 to replace and calibrate) yet faulty windshield in their cars without a willingness to correct their mistake.

Engine
Filed Jul 8, 2025WA

2019 Subaru Outback passenger side cam carrier started to seep at 42k miles. 63K continues to seep and Subaru suggested monitoring oil levels. Estimated cost to fix $6k. If leak gets worse and/or proper monitoring of oil in the engine is not done could lead to engine failure and costly repairs.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 22, 2025CT

My Infotainment system randomly places phone calls, changes or cancels maps, and otherwise takes random actions that create distractions that makes for unsafe driving. It appears that the screen may be delaminating in multiple spots which would cause the above problems.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 6, 2025MA

Parasitic draw of the battery. (DCM) class action lawsuit.

Electrical System
Filed May 30, 202591,879 milesAZ

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact attempted to start the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to start as intended. The contact inspected the battery and determined that the battery needed to be charged. The contact stated that the battery needed to be recharged every three days due to the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. Additionally, the contact stated the failure was persistent. The contact stated that the dealer had replaced the battery with a genuine Subaru battery three months prior to the failure. However, the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 91,879.

Electrical System
Filed May 27, 2025SD

Purchased 2019 Subaru outback June 2019. Have had multiple batteries replaced. Approximately every year at least the battery fails and I am left stranded. January 2021 the fuel pump was not working properly and they said that was from low drain on the battery but that when the car went to sleep, the draw was normal so they didn’t do anything. February 5, 2025 I was in for an oil change and everything was working well. March 17, 2025 battery going dead again. I got a jump and drove to the dealership. They said that they replaced the DCM and installed the new battery. It is now May 27, 2025 and my car will not start again not even with the jump. Called the dealership and they said I have to pay for a tow which is 45 miles away and I am not under Warranty any longer so I will have to pay for it. He also suggested that I call my local tow company and get them to try to jump it.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed May 21, 2025GA

I have experienced two separate incidents of spontaneous windshield cracking on my 2019 Subaru Outback, with no external impact or road debris involved. The first windshield crack occurred, and Subaru replaced it under warranty after inspection showed no signs of impact. The second crack occurred again without any collision or impact. However, Subaru has now refused to cover the second incident, even though it clearly follows the same pattern. There is no visible point of impact. The cracks appear to originate near the bottom edge of the windshield and spread rapidly. I park the vehicle in a safe residential area and have not driven over rough terrain or been involved in any accidents. I have also referenced a known class action lawsuit involving similar spontaneous cracking issues with windshields in Subaru vehicles, including the 2017–2020 Outback and Legacy models. This suggests a manufacturing or design defect affecting structural integrity. This issue creates a serious visibility and safety hazard for drivers and passengers, especially if the windshield fails further while the vehicle is in motion. Subaru’s failure to cover a known defect and repeated issue puts drivers at risk. I am requesting that the NHTSA investigate this recurring defect in Subaru windshields to determine whether a recall or broader corrective action is necessary.

Unknown or Other
Filed May 15, 2025AR

I was driving 75mph in heavy, morning traffic. I was behind a large tractor trailer, switching lanes. My car’s ‘obstacle ahead’ warning was attempting to slow me down or stop me. The air pressure inside my car changed suddenly and I could feel the pressure difference. Then there was a huge explosion. It sounded like my back windshield broke. Instead, it was my sunroof. It had exploded outwards from the inside. It just shattered and blew up spontaneously.

Electrical System
Filed May 7, 2025NV

Battery draining fast. installed new battery last month. Car is dead and had to be towed to dealer. DCM issues. System prematurely drains battery because system is trying to connect to 3g even when car is off. There should be a recall. Not just an extended warranty that Subaru may not accept for rebuilt titled cars

Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 26, 2025OH

Subaru did not notify consumers or aftermarket retailers that the Subaru battery in my vehicle was underamped. As a result, I unknowingly bought an underamped battery from Autozone to replace my dying battery in 2024, b/c their records indicated it was the right battery. I found out in 3/25 from Subaru service about the underamped battery issue when my car was dying. Autozone can’t replace it because their system (info they get from Subaru) says this is the right battery, because Subaru didn’t notify anyone. Subaru will not replace the battery for free because it’s not a Subaru battery. I have an internal service memo from 2023 that states what the right battery should be. However, Subaru didn’t notify the public or companies and so several people are probably driving around with underamped aftermarket batteries. I should not have to pay for a new battery, I should have received notice in 2023 about this issue and then I would have replaced it with the right Subaru battery. The battery I replaced in 2024 was the original Subaru underamped battery.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Apr 24, 2025FL

On April 14, 2025, I experienced my fourth windshield break- others- 2 that were 3 months apart in 2023 and another in 2024. I do not know how this most recent crack occurred as I noticed it when I went to drive my car, which was parked inside my garage. I had driven 2 places earlier in the day with no signs of a crack and there were no noted strikes to the windshield during that time. I did ride on a highway the day prior, but did not hear any strikes to the windshield. The prior incidences I did hear something hit the windshield. I have been a car owner for decades and this is the first car I have ever had with any windshield crack. This complaint seems typical for this vehicle as many of the same issues were recently included in a class action lawsuit regarding a defect in the glass. Wile the 2019 model was not included for some reason, many NHTSA complaints from people with this model were included in this lawsuit so I certainly hope that NHTSA will seriously look into why these are a common occurrence for this vehicle.

Electrical System
Filed Apr 19, 2025GA

Car will lane correct when it's not needed. And all warning lights will come on in car when it's very hot. Cannot access touchscreen - because it constantly glitches as if it's being touched passenger side window continues to roll up and down when you click auto control on window and will not stop. I am afraid to drive because of these Electrical issues.

Electrical System
Filed Apr 16, 2025WA

Every few days of car not being used battery is being completely drained. We replaced 3 new batteries with a span of a 1 year.

Electrical System
Filed Apr 14, 2025NC

I am on my third battery for this car. It apparently has a known software issue of a parasitic battery drain that destroys the battery, leaving me stranded.

Air Bags
Filed Apr 4, 2025TX

According to my Subaru service technician the Occupant detection control module is faulty on my car. Research has found that this is a known problem with 2020-2022 Subaru outbacks that is under recall. I believe the recall should be extended to include the 2019 year model because a faulty occupant detection module means that the air bag will not deploy in the event of a crash which is a serious safety concern.

Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator Pedal
Filed Mar 31, 2025WA

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while reversing into a parking spot and depressing the brake pedal, the engine revved and the vehicle seemed to attempt to accelerate unintendedly. The contact maintained the brake pedal depressed. The contact stated that the failure occurred while at a complete stop at the stop sign and while driving over a speed bump. There was no warning light illuminated. The dealer was contacted and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a related recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Complaints 1-50 of 1,036, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2019
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202621000Routine
202583020Routine
2024106020Routine
202389210Routine
2022465440Above average
2021299420Above average
2020904670Above average
2019 — this page1,036320Above average
2018816340Above average
2017921430Do not drive
2016643430Do not drive
2015510550Do not drive
20142081020Above average
20132971261Fatalities reported
20122951660Above average
20116531660Above average
20103601830Above average
20091061330Routine
2008226830Above average
2007130820Routine
2006277730Above average
2005273930Above average
2004901140Routine
2003931510Routine
2002143500Routine
2001171450Routine
2000207253Fatalities reported
1999111110Routine
1998127221Fatalities reported
199779420Routine
199646210Routine
19952100Routine

Compare every Outback year →

2019 Subaru Outback: questions buyers ask

Is the 2019 Subaru Outback a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the Outback years to avoid: owners filed 1,036 complaints, 4.6 times as many as a typical Outback year. The most common complaint is about the electrical system (34%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 5 stars overall.

What is the most common problem with the 2019 Subaru Outback?

The electrical system: 351 of the 1,036 complaints (34%) are about it. Owners most often say it drains the battery or stops charging (32%), will not start (13%) and sets off warning lights on the dash (5%). The typical report comes at 13,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2019 Subaru Outback have?

3 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jul 29, 2021. The largest, 20V218000, covered 188,207 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2019 Subaru Outback problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 10,200 miles. For the electrical system the midpoint is 13,000 miles.

Are there service bulletins for the 2019 Subaru Outback?

The manufacturer filed 430 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (175), the transmission (33) and the engine (24). They include a warranty extension, 15-318-24R, filed Apr 28, 2025. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

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: Jul 29, 2021. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.