2021 Subaru Outback recalls and problems
The 2021 Subaru Outback has 4 safety recalls and 300 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Subaru dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2021 Subaru Outback vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2021 Subaru Outback recalls
Recall 24V-227: Air Bags
Problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
Risk: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will replace the ODS sensors on the front passenger seat, free of charge. Owner notifications were mailed February 3, 2025. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-24.
Recall 23V-755: Power Train
Problem: Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
Risk: An inoperative inhibitor switch may prevent the reverse lights from illuminating and the rearview camera image from displaying, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the inhibitor switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WRQ-23.
Recall 22V-485: Power Train
Problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.
Risk: An improperly secured drive chain may slip and break, causing a loss of drive power and increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will reprogram the TCU, inspect TCU data for chain slip, and visually inspect the chain guide. If evidence of chain slippage or damage is found, the transmission will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 24, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRK-22. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 21V-955.
Recall 21V-024: Power Train
Problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2021 Outback and Impreza vehicles. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) select lever cable nut may not have been tightened properly, allowing the nut to loosen.
Risk: A loose nut can lead to a lost of retention in the CVT select lever cable and the gear selector not functioning properly, increasing risk of crash.
Fix: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, and, if necessary, tighten the nut, free of charge. The recall began February 12, 2021. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-21.
2021 Subaru Outback problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility/Wiper | 98 | |
| Electrical System | 76 | |
| Unknown or Other | 67 | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 43 | |
| Engine | 21 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 19 | |
| Air Bags | 17 | |
| Power Train | 12 | |
| Visibility | 10 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 10 | |
| Lane Departure | 8 | |
| Structure | 7 |
Most reported parts
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking — 18
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings — 13
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control — 12
- Visibility › Windshield — 9
- Structure › Body — 7
- Lane Departure › Warning — 4
- Electrical System › 12v/24v/48v Battery — 2
- Back Over Prevention › Rearview System Braking — 2
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 3,600 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 2021 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 2021 Subaru Outback have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 4 recalls for the 2021 Subaru Outback: 24V-227 (air bags), 23V-755 (power train), 22V-485 (power train), 21V-024 (power train). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2021 Subaru Outback?
Owners report visibility/wiper problems most often (98 reports), followed by electrical system (76). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 3,600 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.