Subaru Vehicle Consumer Complaint Incident Report
This report synthesizes consumer complaints logged in the source data to provide a structured overview of reported issues concerning Subaru vehicles. The findings are categorized by vehicle model and the affected system to facilitate an organized internal review and analysis of recurring consumer-reported incidents.
1.0 Multi-Model & Uncategorized Incidents
This section details consumer complaints where the vehicle model was not explicitly categorized in the source data or where multiple models were referenced within a single issue group. These incidents are significant as they highlight potential cross-platform issues that may not be isolated to a single model line.
1.1 General Equipment, Electrical, and Mechanical Issues
A variety of complaints with a Medium widespread level were reported without a specific model assigned. These range from sensor failures with hazardous consequences to premature wear on key components.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
517449 A recalled oxygen sensor failed, causing gasoline to be dumped into the catalytic converter, which reportedly became red hot.
520518 Windshield cracked upon activation of the defrost function.
528460 Excessive brake wear reported, requiring replacement every 30,000 miles.
536083 A left gasket was replaced on a 2001 Subaru Outback at 74,000 miles.
568155 The airbag warning light on a 1998 Subaru Outback Sport illuminated at 76,000 miles, indicating the system was no longer working.
605848 Consumer expressed satisfaction with a new 2004 Subaru Outback, noting no problems and proper maintenance.
617579 Vehicle would not go into gear and required a new transmission; the claim was denied under warranty due to alleged "driver error".
634935 Consumer reported having problems with a vehicle after it reached 75,000 miles.
1033899 The speedometer calibration design makes it difficult to quickly determine urban speeds between 25-45 mph.
1330750 A 2010 model key fob failed to open locked doors, and none of its features, including the panic button, were operational.
1.2 Multi-Model Electrical and Mechanical Failures
Analysis of multi-model complaints reveals distinct patterns of failure in key mechanical systems, including premature wear of rear drivetrain components and recurring ignition lock-ups, suggesting potential vulnerabilities in shared-platform parts.
Rear Wheel Bearing and Differential Failures
Complaint ID Incident Summary
583228 Failure of rear wheel bearings reported.
808454 A loud noise, initially suspected to be wheel bearings, was diagnosed as a rear differential failure requiring replacement.
Key and Ignition System Failures
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1068792 Key intermittently fails to unlock the steering wheel, making it difficult to start the engine.
1068790 Key intermittently fails to unlock the steering wheel, making it difficult to start the engine.
Engine and Drivetrain Vibration Issues
Complaint ID Incident Summary
864191 Report of persistent vibration in the steering wheel and thumping from the tires on a 2011 Outback.
1401693 A 2010 Forester engine was destroyed after it ran out of oil on the highway, despite a recent oil change from the dealership.
The following sections transition from these cross-platform incidents to a detailed analysis of issues reported for the Subaru Ascent, the first of several model-specific deep dives.
2.0 Subaru Ascent
This section focuses exclusively on incidents reported for the Subaru Ascent model. The following subsections detail failures across various systems, from electrical components to structural integrity, providing a model-specific overview of consumer concerns.
2.1 Back Over Prevention System Failures
An Emerging level of complaints was noted regarding the back over prevention system, including total failure of the backup camera and associated warnings.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1772657 The backup camera failed to engage, warning beeps were inoperative, and the entire console screen was not operational.
1904549 Consumer describes a parking maneuver; no specific system failure is detailed in the complaint text.
2.2 Electrical System and Battery Issues
Incidents with a Unique widespread level point to significant electrical concerns, including rapid battery drain and system-wide malfunctions.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1691561 Vehicle failed to start while parked in a garage due to a drained battery.
1817737 The battery was found completely drained, preventing the vehicle from starting.
1840235 The battery would drain overnight, requiring the vehicle to be jumpstarted.
1533331 Persistent electrical issues with the radio and Bluetooth systems reported since two weeks after purchase.
1592840 A complete electrical malfunction occurred while driving, disabling all safety features including collision and blindside monitors.
2.3 Forward Collision Avoidance System Issues
A Medium level of complaints indicates a pattern of issues with the forward collision avoidance system, including erratic behavior and sensor failures.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1741723 Lane assist with cruise control reportedly over-corrects, pulling the vehicle into adjacent lanes.
1899871 System slams on the brakes for non-threatening objects blowing across the road, creating a dangerous situation.
1910941 A loose gas cap caused the computer to disable multiple safety features, including collision avoidance and cruise control, while driving.
1946015 The Subaru EyeSight system turns off randomly while driving or after restarting the vehicle.
1961797 Auto-braking system is reported as not accurate, triggering in unsafe situations.
1972613 Right front camera is blocked by plastic from the factory, causing unreliable operation of adaptive cruise control and emergency braking.
2.4 Latch, Lock, and Linkage Failures
Several Unique but critical failures were reported related to vehicle latches, including doors opening at highway speeds.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1871923 The driver's side door opened independently while driving at 60 MPH.
1908770 Doors were difficult to open due to large gaps caused by improper welding.
1909083 The automatic rear liftgate closes suddenly and immediately after opening.
2052130 The hood was observed flapping up and down while driving at 70 MPH.
2.5 Power Train Failures
Unique incidents related to the power train point to transmission failures and software control issues.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1826566 Consumer reported a transmission failure on a 2020 Ascent.
1867243 Consumer complaint related to a transmission safety recall (NHTSA 21V-955).
2021257 The vehicle jolted forward while shifting from 1st to 2nd gear during acceleration from a stop.
2.6 Service Brake System Issues
A High volume of complaints was registered for the service brake system, detailing a range of severe malfunctions.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1538852 While in traffic, the dashboard flashed, systems began shutting off, and the brakes applied on their own.
1544754 The brake warning indicator illuminated on the instrument panel while driving.
1555897 Brakes described as rough, causing a very bumpy ride at only 6,700 miles.
1570957 Brake pedal could not be depressed and felt "jammed" after starting the vehicle.
1628339 The collision avoidance system incorrectly identifies vehicles in adjacent lanes as obstacles and slams on the brakes at highway speeds.
1628544 Brakes made a loud noise from the time of purchase, which was dismissed as normal for a new car.
2.7 Structural and Body Integrity Issues
A High widespread level of complaints was also noted for structural and body issues, ranging from leaks and rust to component instability.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1674456 An inch of water was found under the driver's seat after the vehicle sat through rain storms.
1717193 Rust and corrosion were observed on the metal window panels of a 7-month-old vehicle.
1726393 The hood was reported to vibrate and flex violently at 50 MPH, worsening when being passed by other vehicles.
1753779 The panoramic sunroof cracked spontaneously while the vehicle was parked in a garage.
1785354 The hood wobbles excessively when driving at or over 65 MPH or in high winds.
2.8 Visibility and Windshield Issues
A High volume of complaints centers on the windshield, with numerous reports of spontaneous cracking and extreme fragility.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1663730 A large crack was found across the windshield after the car had been parked for two days.
1670532 Windshield is highly susceptible to chips, requiring replacement shortly after purchase and chipping again within days.
1670887 The windshield cracked without any impact while the vehicle was parked.
1670915 The windshield cracked without any impact.
1687845 While driving at 45 MPH, an abnormal cracking noise was heard as the front windshield cracked without warning or impact.
1709055 The windshield cracked in the driver's view without warning while driving at 40 MPH.
Transitioning from the newer Ascent model, the analysis now shifts to the B9 Tribeca, where consumer reports indicate a concentration of critical electrical and structural failures.
3.0 Subaru B9 Tribeca
This section synthesizes consumer complaints related to the Subaru B9 Tribeca model, covering a range of reported issues from electrical systems to structural integrity.
3.1 Electrical System and Wiring Issues
Incidents with Emerging and Unique widespread levels indicate several critical electrical system failures, including vehicle fires.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
592007 A fire, determined to be caused by a short circuit, burned in the center console between the front seats.
628418 The vehicle's navigation system began to blink while driving.
634186 All dashboard lights illuminated while driving at 20 MPH, followed by vehicle hesitation.
654775 The vehicle became engulfed in flames while driving at 35 MPH.
664896 An electrical fire was reported.
1607815 The entire electrical system failed, including climate control, radio, and heated seats.
3.2 Exterior Lighting Failures
A Medium level of complaints was recorded for exterior lighting, highlighting recurring issues with headlights and other lighting components.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
604138 Left fog lamp and right headlamp repeatedly go out.
612377 Instrument panel illumination issues related to daytime running lights.
848973 Low beam headlights require replacement several times, lasting only about 5 months.
1053600 A strong burning smell and smoke came from the left rear passenger puddle light area.
1145888 Front low beam headlights burn out constantly.
1180660 An electrical burning smell and smoke were observed coming from the driver-side rear puddle light while the vehicle was parked and off.
3.3 Latch and Lock Issues
A Unique but severe incident was reported concerning the hood latch mechanism.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1402075 While driving at approximately 60 MPH, the hood opened unexpectedly and shattered the windshield.
3.4 Service Brake System Issues
Complaints with Low and Emerging widespread levels were noted for the service brake system, with a distinct pattern of failure in cold weather.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
959224 In freezing weather, the brake pedal gave no response when backing out of a garage.
1036085 In cold weather, the brake pedal became "hard as a rock" and unresponsive when the car was placed in drive.
1146460 In temperatures below 10°F, brakes work at partial capacity, requiring 10 times the normal stopping distance.
1362971 Brakes completely locked up in cold weather, preventing the pedal from being depressed.
1857026 After starting in sub-freezing temperatures, the brakes operated without any power assist, requiring extreme pressure.
3.5 Structural and Body Integrity Issues
A High volume of complaints was filed regarding structural integrity, detailing multiple incidents of the hood flying open at highway speeds.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
877554 The passenger door flew open while making a turn at 15-20 MPH.
906115 The hood flew open while driving at 65 MPH, shattering the windshield and denting the roof.
955014 While driving on the highway, the hood opened and smashed into the windshield.
957784 The hood flew open at 55 MPH, smashing the windshield.
1004571 Hood flew up while driving at 45 MPH, resulting in approximately $5,000 in repairs.
1096123 The hood latch would not lock and secure the hood closed; only the secondary safety latch engaged.
From the structural issues of the B9 Tribeca, the analysis now proceeds to the Subaru Forester, a model with a significant volume of complaints centered on airbag systems, engine oil consumption, and visibility components.
4.0 Subaru Forester
This section compiles a significant volume of consumer complaints for the Subaru Forester across numerous vehicle systems. Notable trends were identified in airbags, engine components, and visibility-related systems.
4.1 Air Bag System Malfunctions
With multiple categories rated at a High widespread level, the airbag system is a major area of concern for this model. Complaints consistently fall into three main categories: failure to deploy, erroneous warning lights, and faulty passenger detection.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
538311 The passenger side airbag did not deploy when the vehicle was hit on the passenger side at 40 MPH.
571347 Airbags failed to deploy during an accident at 55 MPH.
593376 The airbag warning light stays on intermittently; a technician found a loose connector under the driver's seat.
630953 The airbag light illuminated after an oil change; the dealer stated adjusting the seat caused wires to become loose.
672266 An electrical connector under the driver's seat is stressed by seat movement, causing the airbag system to malfunction.
643647 The front passenger Occupant Detection System intermittently deactivates the airbag for an adult passenger (105 lbs).
1481391 The passenger airbag light remains off or turns off while an adult is in the seat, triggering the SRS airbag error light.
1501927 Report of faulty passenger-side airbag sensors that randomly turn off the airbag while the seat is occupied.
1514400 The passenger detection system has been intermittent since purchase, deactivating the airbag with an adult in the seat.
4.2 Engine and Engine Cooling Issues
Complaints with a Low widespread level were noted for the engine, including excessive oil consumption and major component failures.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1762242 Excessive oil consumption reported on a vehicle purchased with 56k miles.
535195 A head gasket was reported as blown after a service visit at a dealership.
730207 Report of a defective head gasket.
832280 A blown turbo led to catastrophic engine failure.
834485 The turbo charger failed while driving at 70 MPH, causing the vehicle to lose all power.
4.3 Exterior Lighting Failures
A High volume of complaints was received regarding exterior lighting, with recurring issues of premature failure and environmental compromise.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
534910 Using the turn signal lever causes the headlights to go out.
576764 Low beam headlights fail to provide sufficient light for safe travel, creating a sharp cutoff of illumination.
748053 The rear tail light enclosures fog up constantly on a vehicle with less than 100 miles.
824477 Low beam bulbs were replaced three times in 11 months.
950757 Plastic headlight lenses fogged over after approximately four years, reducing light output and dispersing the beam.
4.4 Seat and Seat Belt Issues
Seat and seat belt systems registered a High level of complaints, including several critical structural failures of the driver's seat.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
724401 Headrests are described as very uncomfortable, pushing the driver's head forward and causing back ache.
744832 The front passenger seat belt spool will not release, locking the belt in place.
795440 The driver's seat separated from the base of the vehicle while driving at 25 MPH.
945077 The driver's seat bracket fractured on both sides, causing the seat to collapse onto the floor while driving.
957836 Welds holding up the driver's seat failed while driving, causing the seat to collapse.
970220 The driver's seat belt fails to release without being repeatedly worked and pulled on.
4.5 Service Brake and Suspension Issues
A High widespread level of complaints was also reported for interconnected brake, steering, and wheel systems.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
706712 Wheel bearing failure was diagnosed after a loud noise was heard while driving.
819719 Vehicle shakes and shimmies when driving at highway speeds.
924750 Grinding sound from the rear brakes, indicating premature wear.
967424 The left front wheel bearing was replaced four times in six months.
996065 Rear brakes were completely disintegrated and required replacement.
1484964 The front of the vehicle shook while driving at 75 MPH.
4.6 Structural and Visibility Issues
Structural and visibility components also generated a High volume of complaints, with spontaneous windshield cracking being a dominant theme.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
619983 The hood latch released while driving on the interstate at 65 MPH, occurring twice in under 30 minutes.
676275 An auto-dimming rearview mirror is reported to have leaked caustic fluid.
995078 The self-dimming rearview mirror became cloudy and discolored, obstructing the rear view.
1488426 The power liftgate suddenly slammed down on the user's arm.
1615935 The front windshield suddenly cracked after the defroster was activated.
1663852 The windshield developed a crack while the vehicle was parked, with no impact.
1666399 A 6-inch crack started from the bottom of the windshield while driving and grew to over 12 inches within hours.
2042482 The automatic rear liftgate opens completely and then closes automatically on the user's head/back.
The following analysis consolidates findings for the Impreza, WRX, and WRX STI models, where data reveals a distinct pattern of failures related to the clutch pedal assembly and its mounting point on the vehicle's firewall.
5.0 Subaru Impreza, WRX, and WRX STI
This section consolidates reported incidents for the Impreza, WRX, and WRX STI models. The data covers a wide array of issues, with significant patterns emerging in suspension components, clutch assemblies, and structural integrity.
5.1 Air Bag System Malfunctions
A High volume of airbag-related complaints was recorded for the Impreza, primarily concerning deployment failures and sensor issues.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
570853 Airbags failed to deploy in a 2004 WRX during a collision.
574169 Airbags in a 2004 WRX sedan did not deploy upon impact, resulting in facial contusions.
669853 The passenger airbag sensor sporadically turns on and off when an adult is in the passenger seat.
680364 In a head-on collision, the airbags failed to deploy.
685860 The sensor for the passenger airbag will not keep the airbag armed for a passenger weighing 110 pounds.
5.2 Power Train and Clutch Assembly Failures
A recurring theme for these models, with a Low widespread level, involves premature failure of the clutch assembly and related structural components.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
522198 Total clutch failure occurred in rush hour traffic, leaving the vehicle stranded.
817535 The clutch on a 2008 WRX suddenly failed, causing the vehicle to shift into neutral and lose acceleration.
909668 Spot welds holding the clutch and brake pedal assembly to the firewall failed entirely, causing pedal detachment and inconsistent brake performance.
924890 The clutch was always very stiff and eventually failed.
1095600 The clutch assembly is breaking away from the firewall, causing a popping sound when the pedal is depressed.
1259849 Firewall flexing from repeated clutch use has broken spot welds, rendering the clutch useless and making it impossible to shift gears.
5.3 Suspension and Wheel Issues
A High level of complaints points to critical failures in suspension and wheel components, including control arm breakage and bearing failures.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
732747 Premature failure of rear wheel bearings.
849578 The vehicle has severe vibration at speeds above 55 MPH.
856335 A lower control arm on the right front wheel snapped due to rust while driving, causing a loss of control.
887666 The front passenger side control arm broke due to rust damage while backing out of a garage.
1011083 Rear wheel bearings required replacement after less than 50,000 miles.
1201199 Rear wheel bearings emit a low-pitch noise that increases with speed, making conversation difficult at highway speeds.
5.4 Visibility and Windshield Issues
A High volume of complaints was also noted for visibility systems, with spontaneous windshield cracking being a prominent issue.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
655018 A greasy film forms on the inside of the windows approximately every 1-3 days, impairing visibility.
672053 The windshield cracked its entire length for no apparent reason while driving.
976174 The driver-side sun visor spring mechanism broke, causing it to fall.
1018979 While driving in heavy traffic at 65-70 MPH, the sun visor dropped down, blocking the driver's vision.
1145934 The windshield cracked when the defroster was turned on in cold weather.
1217426 A crack appeared in the middle of the windshield, starting from the bottom, after no impact while parked.
The investigation now shifts to the Legacy and Outback models, which, due to their shared platform, exhibit similar high-volume complaint patterns in exterior lighting and suspension systems.
6.0 Subaru Legacy & Outback
This section combines and analyzes incidents reported for the Subaru Legacy and Outback models, as they share a common platform for many model years. The analysis reveals significant complaint volumes related to airbags, exterior lighting, suspension, and visibility.
6.1 Air Bag System Malfunctions
A High widespread level of complaints was registered for the airbag systems in both models, with reports covering inadvertent deployment, failure to deploy, and sensor malfunctions.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
527320 While sitting at an intersection, airbags went off inadvertently without a collision.
543897 The airbag in a 1996 Outback suddenly deployed while driving at 55 MPH.
561098 None of the airbags, including side curtain airbags, deployed after a 2005 Outback rolled over about three times.
570279 In a collision where the vehicle was hit on the front passenger side at 40 MPH, the airbags failed to deploy.
764711 The passenger side airbag in a 2010 Outback stays off for adult passengers weighing 135-140 lbs.
784532 The passenger side airbag in a 2010 Outback does not function properly, remaining off with adult occupants.
893035 The passenger-side airbag in a 2010 Legacy turns off intermittently and spontaneously while the car is in motion with a 120-lb passenger.
6.2 Exterior Lighting Deficiencies
A High volume of complaints was logged regarding exterior lighting for both models, with consistent themes of poor illumination and premature component failure.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
654020 Headlight enclosures on a new Legacy contain visible signs of moisture that never dissipates.
689635 Low beam headlights on a 2008 Outback are described as dangerous on hilly roads, with a sharp horizontal cutoff line.
720812 Low beam light bulbs burn out frequently, requiring replacement every 3-4 months regardless of bulb quality.
746030 A 2008 Legacy GT has moisture/condensation buildup in the headlight assembly.
753429 Headlights on a 2010 Legacy are reported as not meeting US standards, providing insufficient illumination.
881022 Headlight low beams provide a very short viewing distance, making it difficult to see road debris in time to stop.
6.3 Service Brake Issues
Service brakes also registered a High level of complaints, with notable patterns of cold-weather failure and premature wear of rotors.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
519952 Brakes malfunctioned and seemed to freeze up as the weather became cold.
524979 Front brake rotors on an Outback have been replaced four times in 60,000 miles due to warping.
550218 All four brake rotors on a 2005 Outback warped at 14,000 miles, producing violent pulsating and inefficient braking.
668262 In cold weather (0°F or below), the brake pedal on a 1997 Legacy becomes hard and unresponsive.
709631 The vehicle shakes and the steering wheel vibrates when applying brakes, giving a sensation of inability to brake.
763143 On a cold start below freezing, the brake pedal becomes hard and will not depress after the third press.
6.4 Suspension and Wheel Failures
A High widespread level was noted for suspension and wheel components, with reports of vehicle instability and frequent bearing failures.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
678359 Sealed front wheel bearings and hubs on a 2001 Legacy required replacement at 68,000 miles.
703088 The rear-end of an Outback feels like it's breaking free in a side-to-side motion ("ghostwalking") on icy or packed snow.
728858 Report of front wheel bearing failure on a Legacy.
751864 A 2005 Outback is described as much more unstable in the rear end on hard-packed snow or ice compared to other vehicles.
782173 Steering wheel shimmy and wobble at highway speeds is reported on a Legacy.
813647 A 2011 Legacy feels "wobbly" at highway cruising speeds of 60+ MPH.
895525 Failed front wheel bearings reported on a Legacy.
6.5 Structural and Visibility Issues
Complaints regarding structure and visibility were also at a High level, dominated by reports of spontaneous windshield cracking and issues with the rear hatch.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
517171 The windshield on a Legacy has cracked a total of six different times while the vehicle was being driven.
1187229 On a brand new Outback, a crack appeared in the windshield while the vehicle was parked.
1277490 The windshield on a 2016 Outback prematurely failed and cracked without impact.
1668460 A crack appeared on the front passenger side of the windshield of a 2020 Legacy.
1720955 The rear hatch appears closed but is not fully latched, causing the battery to drain.
1790518 The rear hatch latch sensor is suspected of causing a parasitic battery drain, leading to a dead battery on multiple occasions.
1800682 The battery on a 2017 Outback drained without warning, linked to a potential issue with the rear hatch.
Following this shared-platform analysis, the report will now examine the Crosstrek models, where high complaint volumes are concentrated in the power train, steering, and service brake systems.
7.0 Subaru Crosstrek & XV Crosstrek
This section synthesizes consumer complaints for the Crosstrek and XV Crosstrek models, focusing on key systems where high volumes of incidents were reported, such as the power train, steering, and service brakes.
7.1 Air Bag Sensor Issues
A Medium level of complaints was registered for the airbag system, with a focus on faulty passenger seat sensors.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1491097 The passenger seat sensor activates the airbag and seat belt warning for items well under the design threshold, such as two 20-ounce soda bottles.
1531560 After a small coffee spill, the SRS airbag warning light appeared, and the passenger seat no longer recognized an occupant.
1611162 The passenger side airbag occupant classification system deactivated when the seat was occupied by an adult.
1704655 The airbag malfunction light intermittently comes on with a passenger in the seat, and the system sometimes registers the airbag as "off".
1750862 The EyeSight system turned off, followed by the illumination of the airbag symbol on the dashboard.
7.2 Power Train Issues
A High volume of complaints was reported for the power train, highlighting performance and safety concerns with the CVT and engine stalling.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1278177 A dangerous lag time of 1-2 seconds occurs when shifting the CVT from Reverse to Drive, sometimes causing the car to lurch.
1282430 The slow response time when shifting from Reverse to Drive is described as unacceptable and dangerous, creating a risk of being rear-ended.
1412247 Random but consistent problems with the CVT, including stalling and acceleration issues.
1421333 The vehicle stalled after slowing down to pay a toll on the highway and would not restart.
1476956 The vehicle turned off twice while driving in traffic, causing near collisions.
1769542 The vehicle would not properly accelerate while driving at various speeds.
7.3 Service Brake Failures
The service brake system registered a High widespread level of complaints, covering issues from recalled components to premature wear.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1306600 While stopped, the brake pedal depressed by itself, causing the driver's foot to slip and the vehicle to cause an accident.
1322133 The brake light switch failed at 73,000 miles, causing the brake lights to become inoperative. This is a recalled part.
1392960 A failed brake switch caused the vehicle to be stuck in Park. The vehicle was not covered under an existing recall for the same part.
1523830 After the driver's knee bumped the steering column, the dash went blank and both power steering and brakes were lost.
1558941 Rear brakes required replacement at only 36,000 miles, indicating premature wear.
1559177 The engine stalls when the brake pedal is jammed on.
7.4 Steering System Malfunctions
A High volume of steering-related complaints was also noted, ranging from complete failure on start-up to overly aggressive electronic assistance.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1296921 The steering wheel would not turn upon starting the vehicle; it only worked after turning the car off and restarting it.
1441890 The steering warning light comes on at start-up, and the vehicle is unable to be steered.
1554823 During a mild turn at highway speeds, the car unexpectedly pulls in the same direction as the turn.
1561337 The lane assist system is sometimes overly aggressive, once violently trying to correct to the left while taking a right-hand exit ramp.
1569708 A loud clicking noise was heard when steering, which required both front axles to be replaced at 67,000 miles.
7.5 Windshield Vulnerability
Consistent with other Subaru models, the Crosstrek has a High level of complaints related to windshields cracking spontaneously.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1649831 While driving at approximately 55 MPH, the front windshield suddenly began to crack.
1663916 The windshield cracked for no reason while the car was sitting unused in a driveway for three weeks.
1665854 A crack occurred in the windshield while the vehicle was not in motion.
1710043 The front windshield was found to be cracked on the lower passenger's side upon inspection.
1710668 A vertical crack was noticed on the front windshield of the vehicle while it was parked at a residence.
1730006 While driving, the operator became aware of a crack in the center of the front windshield.
The final section of this report consolidates findings for models with lower incident volumes but which still present unique and notable failure modes.
8.0 Other Models with Notable Incidents
This final section consolidates reports for other Subaru models with fewer, but still significant, documented complaints. This includes the BRZ, Baja, and the all-electric Solterra models, each presenting a unique set of consumer-reported issues.
8.1 Subaru BRZ Incidents
Incidents for the BRZ, with Low widespread levels, primarily concern the electrical system and exterior lighting.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1051841 Systemic electrical problem reported, with the battery going dead and requiring replacement. The car also fails to start on occasion.
1291609 Rear tail lights leak and fill with water, fogging the brake lights and potentially causing a short circuit.
1555383 Taillight condensation occurs when it is raining.
1747341 The vehicle is experiencing battery drain issues even after replacing the battery with an OEM unit.
1871445 When the sun is facing the rear of the car, the rear turn signals do not activate, causing the dash indicator to flash rapidly.
8.2 Subaru Baja Incidents
The Baja registered a Low widespread level of complaints, with notable issues related to the power train and structural corrosion.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
652236 Rear brake rotors were pitted and rusted, requiring replacement at 19,800 miles.
701754 The vehicle lunges forward and randomly sputters and hesitates.
1188948 The subframe on the driver's side rear rusted through and broke at the upper support arm, causing the tire to wobble.
1265759 A strong gasoline smell was present in the passenger compartment, and the dealer could not locate the source.
1766235 While attempting to park, the vehicle moved forward inadvertently.
1823209 Upon inspection, severe corrosion was discovered on the rear subframe.
8.3 Subaru Solterra Incidents
The all-electric Solterra model has a Low widespread level of complaints, highlighting issues unique to its EV platform and design.
Complaint ID Incident Summary
1927339 Underbody shields and wheel well liners tore off while driving through approximately 8 inches of water.
1931546 The undercover piece under the front of the vehicle and both front mud guard liners ripped off while driving through 4-5 inches of water.
1959155 The regenerative braking ("S pedal") shuts off randomly, requiring immediate use of the conventional brake pedal.
1967467 The vehicle will not charge above 24kW, making DC fast charging impossible.
2048398 The vehicle is consistently achieving only around 160 miles of range, significantly lower than the advertised 228 miles.
2070789 After being parked, the vehicle displayed multiple system malfunction warnings and would not operate.