2016 Subaru Outback recalls and problems
The 2016 Subaru Outback has 4 safety recalls and 644 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Subaru dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2016 Subaru Outback vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2016 Subaru Outback recalls
Recall 19V-910: Air Bags
Problem: 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.
Fix: 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.
Recall 16V-292: Steering
Problem: 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.
Fix: 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.
Recall 15V-794: Power Train
Problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2016 Legacy vehicles manufactured October 24, 2015, to November 16, 2015, and Outback vehicles manufactured October 24, 2015, to November 17, 2015. Due to the improper tightening of the securing nuts, the drive shaft may separate from the rear differential.
Risk: If the drive shaft detaches from the rear differential, it may strike the fuel tank and result in a fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix: Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will inspect the fastening nuts, and tighten or replace them, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on December 10, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Subaru's number for this recall is WQV-57.
Recall 15V-502: Power Train
Problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015 and 2016 model year Subaru Legacy 4-Door and Outback vehicles manufactured July 3, 2015, to July 27, 2015. Transmission oil may leak from a deformed seal cap on the propeller shaft yoke.
Risk: If the transmission oil leaks onto the exhaust pipe, there is a possible risk of fire.
Fix: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the propeller shaft, free of charge. The recall began on August 28, 2015. Owners may contact 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQU-56.
2016 Subaru Outback problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical System | 310 | |
| Unknown or Other | 124 | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 83 | |
| Engine | 54 | |
| Power Train | 45 | |
| Steering | 24 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 22 | |
| Structure | 19 | |
| Service Brakes | 19 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 13 | |
| Air Bags | 10 | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 10 |
Most reported parts
- Structure › Body — 19
- Visibility › Windshield — 5
- Electrical System › Ignition — 4
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking — 4
- Lane Departure › Blind Spot Detection — 4
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings — 3
- Lane Departure › Warning — 2
- Back Over Prevention › Rearview System Braking — 2
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 35,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2016 Subaru Outback complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Subaru Outback years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2016 Subaru Outback have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 4 recalls for the 2016 Subaru Outback: 19V-910 (air bags), 16V-292 (steering), 15V-794 (power train), 15V-502 (power train). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2016 Subaru Outback?
Owners report electrical system problems most often (310 reports), followed by unknown or other (124). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 35,000 miles.
Are Subaru recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Subaru dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.