2016 Subaru Outback: recalls and problems
4 recalls and 642 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is electrical system.
Check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA straight away and follow the instructions in the notice.
Most common problems
What owners report
Odometer fraud. the contact purchased a 2016 subaru outback. the contact stated that after purchasing the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. the vehicle was a private sale, but the contact discovered the seller was associated with a car dealer. at the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 87,059. after obtaining a carfax report, the contact became aware that the mileage was 207,000.
The car accelerates on its own at times. i am not pressing the gas or going down a hill. it is flat road, sometimes even pulling into my driveway. there is also feeling like i am being bumped from the back and moving when i am idle. i am strict about oil changes and have it fully inspected when i take it every 3 months as i am a single mom and cannot afford for my children and i to be hurt in an accident or be withou
Unknown when pulling into a parking space at the [xxx] diner my 2016 outback suddenly accelerated while i was ready to shift from drive to park. it was as if i put the gas peddle to the floor. there was a car about 6feet in front of me which i hit. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6)
There is a crack in the exhaust manifold and the exhaust smell is entering the cabin affecting driver and passengers' health. the problem has been confirmed by a subaru dealer and an independent mechanic. there were no warning lights, i was made aware after routine maintenance by an independent mechanic. the same part has failed in multiple subaru models: recall wuj-95 (soa says my car is not covered in the recall/c
Crash-test ratings
| Version | Overall | Frontal | Side | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 Subaru Outback SUV AWD |
Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering Outback. Last refreshed 2026-09-29.