Recalls · problems · safety

2016 Subaru Outback: recalls and problems

4 recalls and 642 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is electrical system.

4recalls
642complaints
22crashes reported
3fires reported
13injuries reported
1 recall with a “do not drive” or “park outside” warning

Check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA straight away and follow the instructions in the notice.

Recalls

Check recalls for your exact VIN

Most common problems

  • Electrical System309 · 48%
  • Unknown Or Other124 · 19%
  • Visibility/Wiper83 · 13%
  • Engine52 · 8%
  • Power Train44 · 7%
  • Steering24 · 4%
  • Vehicle Speed Control22 · 3%
  • Structure19 · 3%
  • Service Brakes18 · 3%
  • Fuel/Propulsion System12 · 2%

What owners report

Electrical System

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.

Vehicle Speed Control,Service Brakes

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

Vehicle Speed ControlCrash

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)

Engine

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

Excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. They are owner reports and have not been verified.

Crash-test ratings

VersionOverallFrontalSideRollover
2016 Subaru Outback SUV AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering Outback. Last refreshed 2026-09-29.