9 Cars And SUVs We Just Cant Recommend

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9 Cars And SUVs We Just Cant Recommend
Posted On: September 8, 2022

As car enthusiasts and reviewers, we're always disappointed when we can't find a reason to recommend a car. 


No car is perfect, but we typically like to believe that every car has its virtues. However, there are some we come across where the cons outweigh the pros to the point it's hard to recommend to any demographic, and there's usually a better option. Aside from buying them for the sake of being different, some cars just don't really have a strong selling point, sadly.


We try to keep things positive here at CarBuzz, but these are cars we've driven and reviewed but just can't bring ourselves to recommend to anyone, knowing full well that there are better options to go with. Cadillac XT6rnThe Cadillac XT6 starts off well with what we described as an "authoritative and contemporary exterior design." The interior is spacious but doesn't live up to the promises the exterior makes, then mixes questionable build quality with low-grade materials. While the technology is the latest and greatest and the ride is Cadillac-standard, the four-cylinder engine is underpowered, and the V6 isn't as smooth and easy to drive as it should be. While not a terrible car, it's hard to recommend it based on the premium price and the strong competition it faces, particularly with its interior. With a starting price of $48595, a sport trim that isn't sporty, and a luxury trim that doesn't up the luxury with any satisfaction, something like the often underrated Buick Enclave is a better option in the same price range. Mini JCW Convertible.


A Mini with a John Cooper Works badge promises performance, which means the car will be quick, agile, and fun to drive. For the Hardtop and Countryman versions, that is the case. Unfortunately, the JCW Convertible is an exercise in style over substance. The problem is Mini didn't fix the one problem convertibles cause to performance cars. The roof is an important structural element, and torsional rigidity is essential for a vehicle that's supposed to grip and handle well. As a result, the JCW Convertible is a bit of a wet noodle compared to the Hardtop, and yet somehow, it's remarkably harsh and feels like the shocks are too stiff for the car they're in. If you want performance, get the JCW Hardtop. If you want a soft top, get the normal convertible. If you want both together, look elsewhere. GMC Terrain.


"The soft-roader market is hot right now," we said in our 2022 review of the GMC Terrain, "and GMC is perfectly poised to slip into it with the already aptly named Terrain." Unfortunately, the Terrain is woefully inadequate and massively overpriced. It starts at $29900 (including a mandatory OnStar subscription) and comes with a 1.5-cylinder engine making 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, a dated interior, and a truck-like driving experience from a car-based chassis. The Terrain isn't as premium as its price tag suggests, and as a daily driver, you can throw a dart at a list of Japanese-brand SUVs and come away with something much better. Step up to the off-road AT4 trim, and you're spending $35859 for something that can't compete with an off-road trimmed Bronco Sport. We wanted to be impressed by the Terrain, particularly in AT4 trim, as we know what GMC is capable of. But we weren't. Subaru Impreza Sedan.


Once upon a time, the Impreza was a great family car and a fun daily driver. Now, it's still a great family car, but only an okay daily driver at best, and the fun is sucked out by an underpowered engine and a "whiny, dimwitted CVT auto." If you want what the Impreza was, you'll have to spring for the excellent WRX. Or, if you're not a performance hound but still enjoy driving, you could save your money and buy a Honda Civic. For now, the Impreza is an engine, a gearbox, and an infotainment system away from greatness, and you can get AWD plus turbo power from the Mazda 3. Infiniti QX80rnIf you're looking for a value contender for the more expensive large luxury SUVs, wait until the Infiniti QX80 gets its upcoming redesign. Its current old-school V8 is excellent but thirsty, the bodywork is showing its age despite a refresh, and its ride on the road is sea-sick inducing. With a starting price of $71950, it's just not competitive here in 2022. The good news is that Infiniti based the QX80 on the Nissan Armada, which is cheaper and better. If you're in a hurry, we recommend that instead. Jeep Renegade.


Despite its retro-Jeep looks, all-wheel-drive, and a 'Trail-Rated' badge, what you're looking at is a modified Fiat 500X. Not many owners will be off-roading, though, and for day-to-day driving, the 180-horsepower naturally aspirated 2.4-liter or 177-hp 1.3-liter turbo engines are not great matches for the dimwitted nine-speed transmission. As a result, like the Mini JCW Convertible, the Renegade is a case of style over substance. Unfortunately, the Fiat 500X it's based on is overpriced, so it's hard to recommend over the Renegade. For the same price as the Renegade's second trim up the ladder, Lattitude, you can get a base model Ford Bronco Sport. We would go for that. Mitsubishi MiragernEntry-level budget-friendly cars are not as popular as they once were, but that should mean the remaining ones are good, right? Right?


The Mitsubishi Mirage is a baby hatchback that weighs in at $16,245 (unless a dealer marks it up) and goes up against contenders including includes the Chevrolet Spark and Kia Rio. It comes with a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine with 76 hp and 74 lb-ft of torque driven via either a five-speed manual gearbox or CVT automatic (CVT only from 2023 on) to the front wheels. It is one of the cheapest and most fuel-efficient cars you can buy new in 2022, but this is truly a case of cheap = cheap and nasty. Unfortunately for Mitsubishi, the Chevrolet Spark and Kia Rio exist. The Spark is cheaper and has more power, and the Rio has a better cabin and ride quality. Another option is the Nissan Versa, which is a sedan that starts at $15,580, comes with more pep, is surprisingly fun to drive, and has a friendlier and more spacious interior. Maserati Quattroporte.


Going in the opposite direction price-wise, the Maserati Quattroporte aims to be a large, opulent executive sedan to rival the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes S-Class and comes with a price tag to match. Unfortunately, the base Quattroporte GT trim costs $104,700 and has less power than a Chrysler 300S. The Trofeo trim with the 523 hp Ferrari-derived V8 engine is a powerhouse, but it doesn't have the ride quality or handling chops to justify the $151,500 price. We hate to say it, as we wanted to love the Quattroporte, but buy a BMW 7 Series or Audi A8 instead. It seems even Maserati realizes it's not in that category, as the next generation will shrink and replace the Ghibli, which is getting the axe. Chrysler 300rnDespite numerous updates, the Chrysler 300 has only aged well in its exterior looks. Inside, it's lagging in technology and build quality. It's also heavy on gas, and the base model is sparsely equipped. Sure, it's an old-school cruiser on the road, and nostalgia is a valid reason to choose a car, but you should not be getting that from a brand-new car. Apart from some light refreshes and special editions, it's the second generation car that went into production in 2011. That's a shame because a third generation with the 300s looks, but a turbocharged straight-six-based hybrid drivetrain would be a great American answer to something like the Genesis G80 or Lexus ES.


Reposted From Source: carbuzz.com.



[BACK]
9 Cars And SUVs We Just Cant Recommend
Posted On: September 8, 2022

As car enthusiasts and reviewers, we're always disappointed when we can't find a reason to recommend a car. 


No car is perfect, but we typically like to believe that every car has its virtues. However, there are some we come across where the cons outweigh the pros to the point it's hard to recommend to any demographic, and there's usually a better option. Aside from buying them for the sake of being different, some cars just don't really have a strong selling point, sadly.


We try to keep things positive here at CarBuzz, but these are cars we've driven and reviewed but just can't bring ourselves to recommend to anyone, knowing full well that there are better options to go with. Cadillac XT6rnThe Cadillac XT6 starts off well with what we described as an "authoritative and contemporary exterior design." The interior is spacious but doesn't live up to the promises the exterior makes, then mixes questionable build quality with low-grade materials. While the technology is the latest and greatest and the ride is Cadillac-standard, the four-cylinder engine is underpowered, and the V6 isn't as smooth and easy to drive as it should be. While not a terrible car, it's hard to recommend it based on the premium price and the strong competition it faces, particularly with its interior. With a starting price of $48595, a sport trim that isn't sporty, and a luxury trim that doesn't up the luxury with any satisfaction, something like the often underrated Buick Enclave is a better option in the same price range. Mini JCW Convertible.


A Mini with a John Cooper Works badge promises performance, which means the car will be quick, agile, and fun to drive. For the Hardtop and Countryman versions, that is the case. Unfortunately, the JCW Convertible is an exercise in style over substance. The problem is Mini didn't fix the one problem convertibles cause to performance cars. The roof is an important structural element, and torsional rigidity is essential for a vehicle that's supposed to grip and handle well. As a result, the JCW Convertible is a bit of a wet noodle compared to the Hardtop, and yet somehow, it's remarkably harsh and feels like the shocks are too stiff for the car they're in. If you want performance, get the JCW Hardtop. If you want a soft top, get the normal convertible. If you want both together, look elsewhere. GMC Terrain.


"The soft-roader market is hot right now," we said in our 2022 review of the GMC Terrain, "and GMC is perfectly poised to slip into it with the already aptly named Terrain." Unfortunately, the Terrain is woefully inadequate and massively overpriced. It starts at $29900 (including a mandatory OnStar subscription) and comes with a 1.5-cylinder engine making 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, a dated interior, and a truck-like driving experience from a car-based chassis. The Terrain isn't as premium as its price tag suggests, and as a daily driver, you can throw a dart at a list of Japanese-brand SUVs and come away with something much better. Step up to the off-road AT4 trim, and you're spending $35859 for something that can't compete with an off-road trimmed Bronco Sport. We wanted to be impressed by the Terrain, particularly in AT4 trim, as we know what GMC is capable of. But we weren't. Subaru Impreza Sedan.


Once upon a time, the Impreza was a great family car and a fun daily driver. Now, it's still a great family car, but only an okay daily driver at best, and the fun is sucked out by an underpowered engine and a "whiny, dimwitted CVT auto." If you want what the Impreza was, you'll have to spring for the excellent WRX. Or, if you're not a performance hound but still enjoy driving, you could save your money and buy a Honda Civic. For now, the Impreza is an engine, a gearbox, and an infotainment system away from greatness, and you can get AWD plus turbo power from the Mazda 3. Infiniti QX80rnIf you're looking for a value contender for the more expensive large luxury SUVs, wait until the Infiniti QX80 gets its upcoming redesign. Its current old-school V8 is excellent but thirsty, the bodywork is showing its age despite a refresh, and its ride on the road is sea-sick inducing. With a starting price of $71950, it's just not competitive here in 2022. The good news is that Infiniti based the QX80 on the Nissan Armada, which is cheaper and better. If you're in a hurry, we recommend that instead. Jeep Renegade.


Despite its retro-Jeep looks, all-wheel-drive, and a 'Trail-Rated' badge, what you're looking at is a modified Fiat 500X. Not many owners will be off-roading, though, and for day-to-day driving, the 180-horsepower naturally aspirated 2.4-liter or 177-hp 1.3-liter turbo engines are not great matches for the dimwitted nine-speed transmission. As a result, like the Mini JCW Convertible, the Renegade is a case of style over substance. Unfortunately, the Fiat 500X it's based on is overpriced, so it's hard to recommend over the Renegade. For the same price as the Renegade's second trim up the ladder, Lattitude, you can get a base model Ford Bronco Sport. We would go for that. Mitsubishi MiragernEntry-level budget-friendly cars are not as popular as they once were, but that should mean the remaining ones are good, right? Right?


The Mitsubishi Mirage is a baby hatchback that weighs in at $16,245 (unless a dealer marks it up) and goes up against contenders including includes the Chevrolet Spark and Kia Rio. It comes with a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine with 76 hp and 74 lb-ft of torque driven via either a five-speed manual gearbox or CVT automatic (CVT only from 2023 on) to the front wheels. It is one of the cheapest and most fuel-efficient cars you can buy new in 2022, but this is truly a case of cheap = cheap and nasty. Unfortunately for Mitsubishi, the Chevrolet Spark and Kia Rio exist. The Spark is cheaper and has more power, and the Rio has a better cabin and ride quality. Another option is the Nissan Versa, which is a sedan that starts at $15,580, comes with more pep, is surprisingly fun to drive, and has a friendlier and more spacious interior. Maserati Quattroporte.


Going in the opposite direction price-wise, the Maserati Quattroporte aims to be a large, opulent executive sedan to rival the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes S-Class and comes with a price tag to match. Unfortunately, the base Quattroporte GT trim costs $104,700 and has less power than a Chrysler 300S. The Trofeo trim with the 523 hp Ferrari-derived V8 engine is a powerhouse, but it doesn't have the ride quality or handling chops to justify the $151,500 price. We hate to say it, as we wanted to love the Quattroporte, but buy a BMW 7 Series or Audi A8 instead. It seems even Maserati realizes it's not in that category, as the next generation will shrink and replace the Ghibli, which is getting the axe. Chrysler 300rnDespite numerous updates, the Chrysler 300 has only aged well in its exterior looks. Inside, it's lagging in technology and build quality. It's also heavy on gas, and the base model is sparsely equipped. Sure, it's an old-school cruiser on the road, and nostalgia is a valid reason to choose a car, but you should not be getting that from a brand-new car. Apart from some light refreshes and special editions, it's the second generation car that went into production in 2011. That's a shame because a third generation with the 300s looks, but a turbocharged straight-six-based hybrid drivetrain would be a great American answer to something like the Genesis G80 or Lexus ES.


Reposted From Source: carbuzz.com.



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Product Reviews:

I purchased a new 2011 Subaru Forester in May 2011. In June 2013 I had it i
I purchased a new 2011 Subaru Forester in May 2011. In June 2013 I had it in for its 30K mile check up and the engine was leaking oil. It was the camshaft. Took it to the dealer, they said it would be repaired under warranty. They had it for 2 weeks, said it was repaired and all was well. About 2 months later, the symptoms of the camshaft leak started again, so I took it back, they repaired it and said all was well. In Dec of that year at about 37K, the car stopped starting. Guess what it was, the Camshaft. Took it to the dealer, they put shims in and said it was a known issue so it was covered under warranty. They gave me the car back and about a week later I get a call saying the parts they ordered are in. Im thinking what parts, the car is fine. It wasnt they had to replace all of the gaskets and some of the pistons due to improper wear and performance. I feel as though I rent this car from the dealership. Its only driven occasionally (about once a week) with the exception of the winter (I live in CO which is why I bought it in the first place). It has also had trouble with its fuel gauge and now the battery. Not only will I NEVER buy another Subaru, I wont recommend them either. Subaru knew about these issue and sold the car anyway without correcting them, they just put out service bulletins. What a SHAM and a LEMON. Seriously, NEVER AGAIN.
Published: February 16, 2015
Kara of Boulder, CO
Source: consumeraffairs.com

My 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX consumed excessive oil, resulting in bearing pie
My 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX consumed excessive oil, resulting in bearing pieces being circulated throughout the engine ruining it. This was my first Subaru and my last. I called Subaru but was told the car was out of warranty. Even though the engineering was defective the company would still not stand behind its product. I am currently having to pay over $8,000 for a new engine & labor. Have never been more disappointed in anything that I have bought ever. If a company knows its product is defective you would think they would have an obligation to offer pay for at least part of the engine. Awful, awful experience. Im going back to my German built autos, never one problem with them.
Published: November 1, 2017
Mark of Omaha, NE
Source: consumeraffairs.com

2015 Keyless Legacy Outbacks electric shuts down, no recourse - Several mon
2015 Keyless Legacy Outbacks electric shuts down, no recourse - Several months ago a purchased a new Subaru Outback from Herb Gordon Subaru. First, I truly did not understand what keyless technology meant in practice. When I got it home the trunk lift would only lift halfway. I took it back. They fixed it. It broke again. It later fixed itself. But, one day I moved the car in the driveway and forgot to put it in park. Apparently my husband opened it to put something in. When I came out I could not get it in park and it would not start. It was in total lockdown as if the electric system had totally shut down. I sat with the unreadable instruction book and figured out how to manually get it in park but no luck on starting. My neighbor, an engineer, tried, no luck. Finally after several hours called roadside assistance and they jumped it and all was fine. Friday my husband moved it again in the driveway and forgot to put it in park. Same thing. I got it into park but then nothing would work. It was a Friday so called dealership service.The guy talked me through a few things but said that he thought it was a bigger problem and I should bring it in (a two hour drive). Roadside assistance sent the fax to the wrong place and 3 hours and many phone calls later roadside assistance showed up but this time it would not jump and we arranged for him to come back the next day, Saturday, and tow it to the nearest dealership which is in Waldorf Maryland and hour from my house. I spoke with the woman on the phone, she took the information, but no one has called back as promised I assume because it is the weekend. So I will begin Monday. But this is what I want to say. I hate this car. I love everything but this shut down thing and I dont trust that it will ever be fixed and I think it is an outrage that I buy a brand new car and it does something like this and no one even gets in touch with me.This is my third Subaru and I have loved them in the past BUT the last one had a minor electrical problem (it was an odd year, 2006, in which they tried to combine the heating controls with the radio and you can imagine the result) but it was not like getting stuck for 3 days luckily at home. I feel helpless to do anything but to go onto every consumer website I can find and tell my long sad story. I am giving the car the worst rating possible because it flunked the reliability test so all other things make no difference.
Published: November 1, 2015
susan of Ridge, MD
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Sorry to say this is turning out to be the worst car buying experience that
Sorry to say this is turning out to be the worst car buying experience that either of us has ever encountered in over four decades of driving. First off the sales person lied to us about the accessories options available for our vehicle, and the finance guy was condescending. So I went to the parts department and began ordering the accessories that I was told were not available. The L E D side view mirrors were installed by the supervisor of the service department. He admitted damaging the inner workings of the mirrors and ordered replacements. Another trip back to the dealership and the problem was even worse. He tried to convince me that it was normal to see through only half of the mirrors as they could not be adjusted properly to be able to see the lanes to either side of me. He eventually got frustrated with my insisting that they be fixed to the way they originally worked, and told me to go home to my wife. I called the corporate office and it has been over two weeks with no resolution in sight. A week ago I try to remote start before I left to work. The STARLINK system would not connect. When I went out to the car to start it. The dashboard and ignition lights were blinking and it would not start. I had it towed to the dealership, they gave us a small dirty loaner car and yesterday, a week later, they called to say it was fixed and ready to be picked up. We made the trip there to find that it was not true, the vehicle was not ready as the STARLINK was still not working. Were back in the loaner vehicle, its the next day and we have not received another call about the status of our car. This car is two months old and its their top of the line SUV. Do I have a lemon? More to come.
Published: January 27, 2021
Paul of Bronx, NY
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Subaru is one of those Teflon companies like Apple that seems to have a loy
Subaru is one of those Teflon companies like Apple that seems to have a loyal consumer base without any regard to their conduct. For example, their advertising suggests that they are good corporate citizens but they are one of the very few auto companies with not a single hybrid or electric model. (When they once experimented with a hybrid Impreza, it added precisely one mpg to its fuel efficiency). But what really surprised me is how, at the corporate level, Subaru is extraordinarily unlike the image it projects. After experiencing a significant mechanical problem with just 34,000 miles on my Impreza, I brought the car in for service. The service department tried six repairs, all making the problem worse. When I informed Subaru of America, they offered me two options: a $500 credit toward a new model (the type of incentive routinely offered to new customers), or a return visit for a seventh repair.I asked a supervisor I spoke with in Consumer Affairs, What would you do if this were your car? She refused to respond. I asked why she would not answer and she became angry and told me to call the attorney generals office. (This was someone who trains others in how to interact with consumers). Another Subaru of America representative echoed her invitation and told me not to bother reaching out to anyone else -- that he, a middle manager, was the last word. Even if I was satisfied with the car, the experience with the company was enough to make this Subaru, my third and last.
Published: June 29, 2017
Andrew of Newton, MA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I have owned a 2014 Outback since 12/2013. I am the only owner and have kep
I have owned a 2014 Outback since 12/2013. I am the only owner and have kept the car meticulously maintained. It is really a nice ride and handles well. Two weeks ago I had a “rumble”. I thought it was a tire but tires were fine. I called a tow truck and had it taken to my local mechanic, a Subaru trained mechanic. Turns out that the VALVE SPRING BROKE!! Damaging the rocker arm and camshaft. $2455 and two weeks later I have the car back. Subaru of America will do ABSOLUTELY nothing for me. I have 124,800 miles on the car and planned on driving it for quite a while longer. This damage happened due to no fault of mine. There is a defect in the 2014 Outback engine.
Published: November 6, 2019
Cecelia of Dayville, CT
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Bought a new Subaru Outback in January - no experience with CVT transmissio
Bought a new Subaru Outback in January - no experience with CVT transmissions and salesman casually mentioned that one of the features was a roll back preventer switch. The reality is if you back up it takes a full 2 seconds after switching to drive to have any power. If you back into traffic and need to get away quickly - youre dead in the water. If youre parallel parking on a hill and back in, youre very likely to hit the car behind you - it just rolls back when you switch to drive.Lots of other complaints including much less than advertised gas mileage - about 10L/100km based on half city and half highway driving. Voice command system is a joke - with long delays and unasked for tutorials - Entertainment system not compatible with my 2 year old smart phone. And what really bugs me is the spring rewind on the seat belt is so weak that I am forever closing the door on the end of the seat belt - just one of many silly oversights. The swept back roof line and curved in rear door mean that there is far less storage space than you might think from looking at the storage floor area.
Published: March 23, 2015
John of Halifax, Ns, NS
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Love my Subaru???? Great car for the value. Feel safe every time I get behi
Love my Subaru???? Great car for the value. Feel safe every time I get behind the wheel. Especially when it comes to bad weather. Snow sleet driving rains cant keep me off the roads. Would recommend to everyone.
Published: December 11, 2019
Suzanne of Carmel, NY
Source: consumeraffairs.com

My wife told me our 2010 Outback was making strange noise coming from the e
My wife told me our 2010 Outback was making strange noise coming from the engine and took it on a road trip to visit her mom and called to tell me that it got terrible gas mpg and that there were lights on the dash flashing--brake, cruise, and traction control lights. The code that was brought up was P0026 which is for a valve stuck. I took it to Puyallup Subaru, and they told me its because of low oil and that brand-new Subarus use a quart of oil every thousand miles. I check the oil before my wife left on her trip, and the oil level was fine. They cleared the computer, change the oil, and sent me down the road. I contacted a different dealer, and they are no way, very unhappy!
Published: February 1, 2012
Damien of Tacoma, WA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I had protective trim molding installed on my new Subaru Forester as part o
I had protective trim molding installed on my new Subaru Forester as part of factory accessories. A few months after receiving the new car, the passenger door molding came loose. The problem was caused by an admitted poor design. This piece on both sides was attached only with 2 way tape. Although Subaru replaced the molding, because of the poor 2 way tape design, it continued to fall off every few months. Subaru did keep its word that it would continue to replace the molding if it fell off again, due to the poor design, even after the warranty period, as it had not been permanently fixed from the beginning. After a dozen repairs over the years, Subaru has now decided they will no longer honor the warranty, and will no longer fix their poor design. I had to drill holes and put bolts into the trim to make sure the last repair now held. I see that Subaru Love only is temporary. And I see new Subarus at the dealer also use two way tape to hold protective molding. The dealer has repeatedly said the molding is likely falling off because I drive on some gravel and dirt roads. If you plan on taking a car off paved roads and want an honest warranty, I would not recommend a Subaru, that is a taped together vehicle.
Published: December 21, 2018
John of Farmington, MI
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I bought a 2008 Subaru Legacy (with EJ25 engine), took great care of her, s
I bought a 2008 Subaru Legacy (with EJ25 engine), took great care of her, synthetic oil and all and she has a blown head gasket. Ya, a 4-year vehicle, a reliable and expensive vehicle that has been properly maintained has a blown head gasket. At first, I was completely blown off by the service manager, Ron **, then I talked to the GM of the store, Brian **. He admits to seeing these cars with blown heads all the time, and its a known problem. Then I talked to Subaru America. Nothing happened until they admit there is a recall on this engine, but my VIN does not match?! Who cares about the VIN? Theres a known problem with the engine that even the GM says once its fixed, theres never another problem. That means its a factory defect, i.e., you need to recall and fix the $2000 problem on all these engines, not say, too bad, so sad to a single mother still paying payment on her car.
Published: October 31, 2012
Robin of San Jose, CA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Spoke to Subaru service department yesterday. Asked about oil consumption i
Spoke to Subaru service department yesterday. Asked about oil consumption issue. His reply was oh dont worry, the problem seems to be going away. Gee, didnt know cars could fix themselves.
Published: November 9, 2015
Brent of St.Clairsville, OH
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Its a Subaru. Really close to the safest car on the planet. Its our fourth.
Its a Subaru. Really close to the safest car on the planet. Its our fourth. Saabs including an Aero convertible, Nissan 350Z. Fast (at least to 50mph). And safe, safe, safe.
Published: November 25, 2016
Phil of Graham, North Carolina
Source: consumeraffairs.com

My 2010 Outback that has always been garage kept is rusting from peeling pa
My 2010 Outback that has always been garage kept is rusting from peeling paint on the fender. Totally unacceptable for a 8 year old vehicle, as my old 2003 Outback that I still have in my family has had no paint peeling and has no rust... and that vehicle is twice the age as my 2010 thats rusting! Also have had numerous problems with the CVT transmission in my vehicle. Did I mention that my 2010 is always kept in a garage at my home and in a covered parking garage at my work?! My Subaru dealerships body shop was shocked at how thin the paint was on the fender of my car from the factory, they called Subaru of America to inquire about this and to see if anything can be done about this issue on their end. Subaru brushed it off as not being a problem. Shows the quality of newer Subarus are lacking, and that they are not what they used to be and dont want to stand behind their product. Im sure my 2003 Outback will continue to keep on going in the years to come. I know my 2010 will be dead long before my 2003 is. Sad, as Subaru was a great company with a great product. Not so anymore!
Published: March 11, 2018
Alex of Magna, UT
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I purchased my 2005 Impreza 2.5RS wagon new in 11/04. I now have 122,000 mi
I purchased my 2005 Impreza 2.5RS wagon new in 11/04. I now have 122,000 miles on it and aside from normal maintenance and minor repairs, the car has been fantastic and inexpensive to own. Another new Subaru will be at the top of my shopping list when the time for a new car comes.
Published: April 10, 2012
Ken of Hudson, NH
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I wanted to buy Subaru xv premium 2015 Black From Bayraktar Subaru. They to
I wanted to buy Subaru xv premium 2015 Black From Bayraktar Subaru. They told me they will have in 2 weeks. And I told I will have 4 weeks because I needed to sell my old car. Then I sold my car faster than I think. I visit them 3 times and every time I visit they gave me 3 different date about cars arrival. At last they said they will have the color I want next month... maybe. Called their manager and got information about they don’t know when they will black cars arrival. They said it is normal. The only thing I wonder why they did not tell me that in the first time I was there when I said I wanna buy Subaru xv premium 2015 black...
Published: May 21, 2015
Burak of stanbul, Other
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Bought a 2012 Forester for my daughter. When we took it in at the scheduled
Bought a 2012 Forester for my daughter. When we took it in at the scheduled oil change, it was a quart low on oil. When I question how such a new car that was brought in at scheduled maintenance time could be that low or low at all on oil, I was told that the flat line engine uses more oil than a normal car and needed to be checked more frequently...???? Less than a year later, the starter starts to drag after the car sits all night. Told that new software ($100) had to be installed at my cost to correct the issue. Apparently, according to Subaru it is not considered abnormal for a relatively new Forester to develop this issue; however they have software you can buy to correct it...even though it is not an issue...REALLY?? Subaru thinks its customers are stupid. They got me this time, but it will be the LAST Subaru I buy.
Published: March 20, 2014
J. F. of Edmond, OK
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Ive always been an American car buyer, but Ive always been intrigued by the
Ive always been an American car buyer, but Ive always been intrigued by the Outback. I have been researching your vehicles for some time. So I decided to buy my first Subaru. I went used, and I bought it from Subaru of Melbourne Florida. Here is my nightmare of an experience, this the letter I wrote to the dealer: Hi Shannon, I dont know if you remember me, but we talked about 4 weeks ago. I was interested in a 2011 Outback that you had for sale. As a matter of fact I did come down from Michigan and buy it. It was one of my worst buying experiences ever. I told Larry to have everything ready. I would be there by noon on 4-3-2017. I was on vacation and didnt want to waste a lot of time. Got there by noon, left by 3. Here is a list of problems and delays:1. In the picture on your website the car had a trailer hitch. I wanted that, but no hitch. Larry said they had to take it off because it wasnt a Subaru hitch. It was after market. So I have to buy a hitch. U-Haul is 300.00. 2. In the picture on your website it had a rear cargo mat. No mat. Larry said it was bad, so they threw it out. He finally gave me a used one from another car. 3. It took 45 minutes to find the second set of keys. OK, so I got the car, drove it home to my place in FL. Waxing it and notice a dent in the front fender passenger side. I had it removed by a dent removal service 195.00. I did ask for detailed pictures that I never received, and I also ask Larry if there were any paint deficits or dents. Of course he said no.The final thing, drove it to work yesterday in the dark and notice a headlamp out. Now I know there is an extended warranty for bad headlamps on 2010, 2011. So I replaced the lamp myself and found that Larry and your dealership had left non Subaru HID headlamp conversion kit on the car, so now I dont know if Subaru will honor the warranty.
Published: April 24, 2017
RICK of Waterford, MI
Source: consumeraffairs.com

My 2015 Subaru WRX was great prior to the Pre-Ignition Recall and ECU repro
My 2015 Subaru WRX was great prior to the Pre-Ignition Recall and ECU reprogramming. They replaced my engine because they thought it was damaged due to the poor programming. After breaking in the new engine, I have significantly less power and the car is totally different. The dealership has been working with Subaru of America technical support and Field Engineers for months and have gotten nowhere! I am also outside of my Statess lemon law, although fully within my manufacturers warranty. I have not driven my car all summer and have been in Subaru Forester loaner for months.I involved Subaru of America customer service early in the process, and have experienced what I can only describe as the worst customer service experience of my life. Not only are they unwilling to help me get into a new vehicle, they provide no information on what theyre actually doing to fix the car. I can get better service from their call centers auto attendant. The truth is, they have no idea how to fix the car, but continue to drag this issue out. The Subaru dealer who has the car is at their wits end, and wants Subaru of America to do something to resolve this. They simply wont and I have absolutely no recourse other than to hire a lawyer and give him half of whatever he gets me. I guess this is what makes a Subaru, a Subaru.
Published: August 11, 2016
David of Lantana, TX
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I want to highlight 2 specific points about Subaru Finance. Reference to my
I want to highlight 2 specific points about Subaru Finance. Reference to my purchase of 2021 Crosstrek on Nov 2020. The Finance rep provided me false information that they checked with Chase and the best rate they could offer we was 4.49 and if I purchased extended warranty they can offer me 4.29. My Credit Score > 800 and I have multiple financial relationship with Chase. I was told chase has all access to my information and based on the current market situation this is the best rate they can offer. Being a Saturday evening I couldnt verify. On Monday I went to the branch and asked for details. I was surprised to learn that they didnt get any inquiries. So I asked for what my rate would be for new car financing. I was offered 2.39.(I have email proof of this). To add to that - Even the refinance rate which I checked with BoFa was 3.49 and Credit Union offer me 2.99 (I have proof of this as well). Over a 72 month term that would have translated to an additional $1500 in interest. To gain business, I have to believe the finance manager blatantly lied that they had checked with all the banks including Chase and based on my credit score this is the best they can offer. I did reach out to finance department and customer relations. But once the sale is done, they seem not bothered to even respond.2. I was charged document and fees and told the title and registration will be taken care and I will get the refund for my 2019 subaru crosstrek from DMV once the transfer the title from me. I have paid $725 for 5 years registration just in April 2020 so had the prorated refund of 4.5 years to be refunded. 2 months fast forward, I checked even as of today on AZ DMV portal. They have not even notified the car as sale per my DMV website and Title was still under my and the credit unions name (have taken the printscreen of the same too). And I have not got the refund either as of today.I was also not provided the price which I had agreed to for which after speaking the dealership person said they will speak with the GM and get back to me. Again the Finance guy provided misinformation on cost of ownership stating that it includes the interest I would be paying which doesnt seem to be true. I followed up few times since but they never got back on this. I had sent a detailed note on this as well. For any concerns/arbitration - Dealership had asked me not to reach outside till I have discussed my concerns with dealership. I have been patient enough thus far, but as I have not heard back on any resolution/remediation from the dealership I am writing this review. Based on all the above points I have to believe Subaru Finance has been provided false information and unethical practices to get my business.
Published: January 23, 2021
Hari of Phoenix, AZ
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I bought a used 2016 Subaru Forester with only about 20k miles on it, still
I bought a used 2016 Subaru Forester with only about 20k miles on it, still under warranty. I was okay at first, now I notice how harsh the ride is. I can feel every bump in the road! Is there something wrong with the shocks? Are the shocks adjustable? Is there someone with the same vehicle experiencing the same thing?
Published: November 24, 2017
TTT of Smogville, IN
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I have a 2010 Subaru Forester with no problems and the older engine. As you
I have a 2010 Subaru Forester with no problems and the older engine. As you know, they switched to a newer engine in 2011 models, which have a piston oil control ring that wears prematurely and there have been a successful lawsuit which extends the engine warranty to 100K and 8 years with the stipulation that you have a Subaru dealer oil consumption test. I bought a 2013 Forester and the oil pressure light started coming on around 45k. I replaced the sensor 2 times based on Subarus recommendations because they pretended they didnt have a clue. How many thousands of complaints has Subaru had, and they act like they are innocent. To get a new engine, you have to get a TSB oil consumption test. Ive had 2 oil consumption tests. The first one the dealer overfilled and then filled up and told me it was normal. I complained to BBB and got my money back. I went to another dealer and this time I made them show me the oil level before I left, however, they also filled the engine back up, and told me there was no problem and they would never lie because they have newborns and they are honest. Right. Because Im a girl who has 42 years of experience working on cars, and I couldnt possibly know how to pull out an oil stick and check the level. So... the moral of this story is that unless you can get the dealer to admit you have low oil, you wont get the new engine. Which means you have to make them check it in front of you. Preferably with your camera rolling. Take pictures, get witnesses, and dont let your car out of your sight until they have the dipstick in their hands. Sound crazy? Try talking with the Subaru of America customer service reps. Youll be hanging up on them, guaranteed. Youll be so pissed off, you will wonder what the hell is wrong with this company. And it never ends. Its like a nightmare merry-go-round where your car is the POS. Plan on losing thousands along with these nasty ass people. I have now started documenting every time I check my oil and have to add it. I plan on posting on Youtube. Its very inconvenient. I carry two quarts in my back door. The 1st time was in Canyonlands, the second in my parking lot, which the 2nd dealer said laughingly, OMG a parking lot... Everyone knows a parking lot isnt level. So my next documentation oil check will have levels. I still love my Subarus, but its absolutely DISGUSTING that this corporation does not stand behind their vehicles. They knew about the problem and are letting their customers eat the costs. Problems that are documented by unhappy customers all over the web from 2011 to at least 2015. Im sure the 2016 and 2017s will have the same problem based on my dealings with this company. Can we say stick your head in the sand and pretend there isnt a problem? Ive NEVER had a car that burned oil at 45K!!! And from that point on, your peace of mind is OVER. Everywhere you go, you better remember to check the oil and put some oil in. Two quarts fits perfectly in the rear door... Just an FYI. Thatll get you down the road 2400 miles. Then you need some more oil. Im burning a quart every 600 miles, but Subaru tells me Im a dumb bunny... How would I know where the level is on an oil stick??? Dumb Bunny. Oh yeah, but the camera can see it... Really, the camera can see it, but the dealers cant? Now isnt that odd. Subaru consistently says there isnt a problem, but I have to keep adding oil because if I dont, Ill ruin my engine. And Subaru hopes that will happen.Subaru, you need to do right by your customers. You might be going strong now with sales of cars... but if everyone of those customers have the same problems with shady lying people that work in your dealerships, youll be lucky if anyone ever buys another car from you. Subaru is losing their loyal fan base. I have two Subarus right now. Will I buy another one? Not on your life. Because I dont buy new cars to open bug covered hoods, check burning oil sticks in 100 degree weather, crank open the hot oil cap and then add a half quart to go 400-600 miles. And then do it all over again and again and again. And then deal with a bunch of crappy liars. Camping?? Taking your relative to the Mayo Clinic 2000 miles away? Dont forget your quarts of oil, a funnel, plastic bags to put the oil in, something to wash your hands with because of the dirt and oil, some paper towels, and a hot pad. And a lot of patience. Dont waste your time with dealers or Customer Service. You will be much happier. At some point you will have to unload the oil burner. Who do you choose? A dealer or an unsuspecting person. I have the paperwork from Subaru to back up that my car isnt burning oil. How disgusting is that??? But youve got a Subarus dealers word for it. Does that tell you something? If it doesnt, it should. Buy a different brand. Because this is part of the Subaru culture when you buy one of those cool Subaru cars. Not to mention how unbelievable it is dealing with all the BS with the Customer Service people and Dealers. Mind boggling to say the least. And how many people have they screwed over??? Im one of them. I have a 2003 Honda Accord with 103,300 miles on it. No problems, and it doesnt consume oil. Ive had Toyotas who have rusted out, but the engine still wasnt burning oil and a Toyota RV that I drove all over the place with humongous loads on it, it never used oil. My POS 2013 Subaru burns oil like a sieve. Its a PZEV, which means its zero landfill. What about all that oil burning into the atmosphere and the extra oil every 600 miles? So for a 5000 mile oil change, its 5.5 quarts of synthetic 0W20, new oil filter and gasket for $39.99 and a quart of oil for every 600 miles at approximately 6.95/quart, which is 8.33 quarts of oil, at an additional cost of $57.92. Dont forget the aggravation of making sure you know when your oil is going to be low... like around 600 miles. Now this is me changing my oil using Mobil 1 synthetic. If you have them change it, its $58 to $116, and then add the $57.92, plus the aggravation, the BS and the absolute nothing that Subaru will admit to. Then you get to repeat, and repeat, and repeat. My advice, buy a Honda or Toyota or some other reputable brand. Ive had Hondas my whole life and Toyotas for over 20 years. No problems. My 2013 Subaru? The car itself is nice, but well, the engine is messed up. The main part of the car, and Subaru sells it to you that way. Some people pay $37K and get a bad engine. What? Huh? Read all the reviews you can. Because they arent liars. I love my car... I hate the engine, the dealers, and the car maker. Unless you want to pull the engine and put some decent oil control rings on the pistons, but Subaru didnt even care enough to do that and people are getting screwed. Its a really bad thing. The government should get involved. Maybe if there are enough complaints to congress.
Published: July 20, 2017
J3 of Denver, CO
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Okay, first off Id like to comment that generally the 2017 Subaru Outback i
Okay, first off Id like to comment that generally the 2017 Subaru Outback is an excellent vehicle. Now on to the real subject. The Fujitsu-10 navigation system Subaru installs in these vehicles is Dysfunctional and pretty much AWFUL. I purchased two 2017 Subarus, one Outback and one Crosstrek, in the later part of 2016; both have the NAV system and I think they are both the same. Shortly after purchasing the Outback I began to notice that the nav system, which I use all the time, tends to provide inaccurate directions. I first picked up on the inaccurate directions because no matter what address I plugged into the nav system, 95% of the time the system tells me I have reached my destination when, in fact, I could be 3 to 4 blocks to as much as 1/8 mile from the final destination. So I began to watch more closely.To my amazement I realized that some of the directions, not all but maybe 20%, given by the nav system were–I cannot say this in a politically acceptable manner–not intuitive, stupid and dysfunctional. Two examples are 1) it tells me to exit a major highway, go through a toll booth, then get back on the same highway, and 2) to make a right hand turn it told me to go around the block in a counterclockwise direction when, in fact, there was nothing preventing me to simply turn right.I first reported the erroneous navigation performance to the Service Manager at Bath Subaru in Bath, Maine in May 2017. They took a look and reported the Service Tech could not find anything wrong. The Service Manager asked that if happens again I should document exactly what happened. The issue continued so I documented almost each and every occurrence, some including pictures of the nav screen. In June the Service Manager sent an email asking that I bring the Outback in on June 22, 2017, so a Subaru Field Service Engineer could take a look and provide a remedy. Vehicle went in on June 22 and it was reported per Subaru’s Field Service Engineer, “I am ordering you a new radio head unit. There seems to be a hardware failure making your navigation fail intermittently. Great… or at least I thought so at the time.At the end of July 2017 the new Head Unit was finally installed. The Service Manager said the new head unit will resolve the nav failure and asked that should any further incidents of erroneous performance occur I clearly document them and email them to her. The new head unit did not resolve the defective nav performance and a week later, on August 8, I sent 5 different examples to her. Thereafter, I continued to send her 3-5 different examples for several more weeks. Fact was, the new head unit made the problem worse.Here are two examples: 1) I needed to travel south on Route 95. This is a major highway, not some obscure road in nowhere Maine. The nav unit directed me to enter into the Rt 95 northbound exit, against exiting traffic, drive over both the northbound and southbound lanes on an imaginary overpass that clearly didnt exist, then travel on an imaginary Rt 95 southbound entrance ramp that also did not exist, and get on Rt 95 south. Quite dangerous! 2) In order to get to my final destination the Subaru nav system instructed me to turn right into a field having no road, travel off-road for 2 miles across this roadless field, and meet up with another road on the other side of the field. The Subaru handles different terrains fairly well, but not that well.On or about August 15, 2017 the Service Manager at Bath Subaru asked Subaru of America to step in. I received an email from Subaru of America in which a Subaru representative apologized for my navigation concerns and asked for some time to review the problem. On September 20 I received a follow-up email stating At this time, our Quality Assurance team is still in the processing of reviewing the concerns you are experiencing with your navigation unit with the units vendor, Fijutsu-10. There is no updated feedback that has been provided.It is now October 16th. I took the Outback in for routine service during which time I spoke to the Service Manager about the nav issues. I was told by the Svc Mgr that she has a number of other reports of the same problem, all waiting for Subaru of America and/or Subarus Quality Assurance team and/or Fujitsu-10 to identify the cause of the dysfunctional navigation system and re-mediate the problem.Six months in passing and Subaru cannot provide an answer to the AWFUL and sometimes dangerous performance of the Fujitsu-10 navigation system. Although the performance of the 2017 Subaru Outback is very good, I would never purchase another Subaru, not only because the navigation system is defective and/or dysfunctional and/or dangerous from time to time but because Subaru seems unable or unwilling to fix the problem with the navigation system which I paid upwards of $2,000 for. Buyer beware!
Published: October 16, 2017
Robert of Brunswick, ME
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I purchased a used 2002 Subaru Outback from Diamond Auto, 8213 Ritchie Hwy,
I purchased a used 2002 Subaru Outback from Diamond Auto, 8213 Ritchie Hwy, Pasadena, MD 21122, 410-544-2496 on February 11, 2012 for $6,289.00. I initially contacted Diamond Auto on February 2, 2012 about the car, which I put down $1,000.00 security deposit to hold the car while they supposedly made repairs. I test drove the car and advised Milton of the repair items I immediately noted that needed to be fixed. Diamond Auto (Milton) informed me on February 11, 2012 that they had made the repairs and the car was available for pick up. I picked the car up on February 11, 2012 and stroked a final check to Milton for the balance due of $5,289.00. Milton stated if I noted any additional problems with the car, to bring it back. While driving the car home and a few short days later, I took the car back with a list of problems with the car. Oil leaks, alignment, check engine light, C02 sensors and rotors squealing. I explained to the owner that I could not keep running back and forth from Owings Mills, MD to Pasadena, MD about the car. The owner assured me that he would resolve all the vehicle defects and have the car delivered. A month later, the owner contacted me stating that all the repairs had been done and to get my address again. I gave the owner my address and he said he would deliver the car by a certain day. That day came and I had not heard from the owner or anyone from Diamond Auto. A few days later, Milton left me a voice message stating they didnt have a driver, etc. The owner contacted me a few days later, confirming the address again and to advise me that the drivers were on their way with the car. Also, he had assured me that he drove the car home, etc. and that everything was okay. A day after they dropped the car off, the check engine line came on again. I took the car to the Subaru dealer to learn that the CO2 sensors were not the problem, but the catalytic converters were bad. Also, the source of the continued oil leaks was a bad gasket near the converters and the timing chamber. They also revealed other defects that needed to be addressed. They quoted me a repair cost of $3,200.00 total. I could not afford that. I took the vehicle to Meineke. Meineke confirmed the converter issue, but also said that the left CV axle was bad too. They would also have to degrease the engine to pinpoint the exact location and source of the leakage. The total replacement of all the defective parts and related services totaled $1,398.00. Meineke also revealed that someone temporarily tried to mask a safety issue with the coils with Permafix versus replacing the bad parts. I contacted Diamond Auto today to advise them that they failed to make all the promised repairs and deliver a defect-free vehicle. You dont sell the car first, then make necessary repairs, etc. after the fact. They knew this car was in bad shape, but sold an unsafe vehicle anyway. They continue to take the position by telling me to keep bringing the vehicle back, etc. My position is they should have fixed the car properly before they sold it, not after the fact, and I should not have to continue to waste my time, energy, efforts or risk me and my families lives by driving an unsafe vehicle. Thats a poor business practice, thats misleading an unknowing customer and they put me and my familys lives at stake by knowingly selling an unsafe vehicle.
Published: May 3, 2012
Carl of Owings mills, MD
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Can describe this car in two words: HATE IT. The driver seat is so uncomfor
Can describe this car in two words: HATE IT. The driver seat is so uncomfortable Ive bought a cushion and even that doesnt help (aside from now pushing my head up against the ceiling). There is something in the seat bottom that pushes on the nerves right below my buttocks that make my butt and lower back scream in agony. Unfortunately on a test drive you dont find this out and sitting there for longer than 15-20 minutes it soon becomes very apparent. This makes being in the car torture. The other thing is the EyeSight. Great safety feature set but it is really super annoying to hear the damn car beep for one thing or another that it is warning you about. It does this constantly. You can turn off all of the features, but then why pay for this expensive option if you have to do this? They need to have a better way of informing the driver like Cadillac uses with a seat vibration. Also the window lock feature (a must with kids) is so ass-backwards. If you activate it, none of the window controls work including the drivers controls! You have to unlock it, do a window, then lock it again. Other cars the driver controls continue to work. So stupid. The Starlink feature is also convoluted and has so many apps and functions with menus and submenus that you need the EyeSight working because you cant drive and work the thing without seriously having an accident. Talk about distractions. And even though it is keyless entry and push-button start, it does not have a remote start function, not even as an option which extremely odd as pretty much every other manufacturer that has this type of system does this, and the door locks are from 1980 because you cannot program them for any option at all. They dont lock when in gear, they dont unlock when you turn off the motor, and they dont lock when you walk away. I am constantly leaving the car unlocked while driving and the places I drive thats a real safety issue. Remembering to do this on a car that is rich in features is a bit mind-boggling. I thought I was buying a good car, but after reading all the issues other Subaru owners are having I seriously want to dump this POS car tomorrow and Im not too impressed with the dealer because buying this new it took them 3 weeks to schedule me in to fix a fog light defect. Great way to welcome a new customer! So based on my experience and reading what others are going through I will never buy a Subaru again. Terrible, terrible car.
Published: October 21, 2016
Robert of Reno, NV
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I love my 2013 Subaru Impreza and had no issues up to now. I know Im part o
I love my 2013 Subaru Impreza and had no issues up to now. I know Im part of a class action suit, and I reviewed it and saw it was not only for oil issues but also for CVT transmission problems. My car is 62,000 and Ive done all of the services. After my 60,000 check up, where everything checked out fine, I heard an odd grumbling noise and was told I needed a new transmission, which luckily is still under warranty. However, there are simply no parts available in all the USA and it could take weeks or months due to back order. I was told it was safe to drive, but I live alone and drive country roads and was told it could stop at some point. To me thats not safe. I find it unacceptable that a car so popular should have such a serious issue. Ive been in touch with the customer service hotline and someone keeps promising me hell try to expedite getting the part, but theres been no action. I cant even get a guesstimate. Ive been offered $500 for a rental car, but thats only 10 days and that will not even begin to cover that it could take weeks. So, its worthless right now until I can even get an estimated arrival date. Im beginning to think I need to trade in the car, but after this, not sure I want another Subaru. Buying a new car is hard work and Im not in the mood for all of that. I dont like driving around with a faulty major part of the car. Im disgusted and angry. Im going to write a letter to the Chief Operating Officer at their headquarters to see if I can get some action.
Published: August 29, 2017
Susan of New Milford, CT
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Please, please, please STOP recommending Subaru cars as being reliable. I h
Please, please, please STOP recommending Subaru cars as being reliable. I have purchased two of them based on Consumer Reports recommendations and both have had major expensive repairs. I am old, have had all the routine maintenance done and still have had lots of problems. The 2010 Forester (that was said to be a very reliable car) needed to have its head gasket replaced at 95K (turns out they had lots of head gasket issues) and the 2011 Outbacks CVT just went out, 3 weeks after the extended warranty expired (expired on July 31, 2018). As I stated earlier, I am old (retired) and cannot afford a costly fix on a car that is only 7 years old. I have contacted Subaru of America to see if they would help me and all they do is say that they are waiting to be contacted by the local dealer (where I took the car to be repaired) but the local dealer called me to tell me that they have called Subaru of America twice and no one ever responds. Does this sound like a reputable company? Shoot, if they are not going to help me, cant they at least tell me? Maybe they used to be reliable but that time has passed.
Published: September 6, 2018
Paul of Edgewood, WA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

My 2005 Outback was taken to the local Subaru dealer - St. J Subaru in St.
My 2005 Outback was taken to the local Subaru dealer - St. J Subaru in St. Johnsbury, Vermont for the brake line recall inspection. We waited 1 week for the appointment and were told following their inspection of the brake lines that our car - of the 600 or so that they had inspected for this recall - was the first to fail. They then said that they had no part in stock to fix it with. There was only one part in the country but they would try to get it. 2 days later. I stopped in to check on progress and was told they did get the one part in the whole country, but they probably wouldnt be able to fix the car for up to 3 weeks because they were booked up. So the car sits in their lot while we wait for them to get around to fixing it. Is it usual and customary for Subaru dealers to treat recalls like this?
Published: September 2, 2014
Sabra of Monroe, NH
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I purchased a Subaru Legacy 2008 Special Edition after my Toyota Corolla wa
I purchased a Subaru Legacy 2008 Special Edition after my Toyota Corolla was totaled in an accident, 5 years ago, as I hear it is SUCH a great car, great safety etc. I felt better buying a newer vehicle for hopes I would have to only do basic maintenance and not have any major repairs for at least a few years as my other car was 15 yrs old. EVER since I purchased this vehicle, it has been nothing but a money pit! It got sold to me with unbeknownst to me a faulty wheel bearing. I had NO idea and rode with a humming noise for several months thinking my car was fully looked over by the technicians and car dealership selling it (I paid 15k for this car mind you!) It needed tires also... so after $700 worth of tires and $300 for a wheel bearing on top of the 15k I paid for it, fast forward to I am now needing MY THIRD WHEEL BEARING!!! IN 5 YEARS!!!I dont do ANY heavy driving whatsoever, do not beat the car, I drive locally on sideroads 35-40 mph or less and sometimes a small drive on the highway to visit a friend. 3 wheel bearings needing replaced on a 9 year old car in the last 5 yrs of owning it???! I presume the 4th is about to go too... Not get past the wheel bearings failing, the car eats gas like no tomorrow. I eat a half a tank of gas in 3 days. Yes 3 days. Ever since I owned the car, (its an automatic) it constantly shifts rough and jerks hard sometimes shifting gears. Or is very sluggish (I have had the transmission checked and everything after I bought the car). Its like the car is choking on itself. I will NEVER buy another Subaru again! It has been costing me so much money. I cannot afford it. And for a safe reliable 4 door vehicle the insurance on it is as much as a BMW or Audi. I should have bought one of those because the parts are just as expensive as a expensive luxury vehicle! Thats another thing parts are EXPENSIVE! Now I took it to the shop and there is oil on the oil pan dripping out (I only have 88k miles mind you and get the oil services every 6 mos). And the entire dual mufflers and cat back is shot and rotting out and needs replacement (it costs over 600 bucks for that). I dont know at this point, but I feel like selling this money pit expensive mess of a junk by Subaru and finding a more quality vehicle that will not need CONSTANT repairs and attention.
Published: June 25, 2017
Joe of **, PA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

We have a 09 Outback that has weather stripping falling off the back door.
We have a 09 Outback that has weather stripping falling off the back door. We took it to Ganley Euclid, OH about 3 times and they said we have to live with it. Next, we have both lighters/chargers that have pulled totally out of the sockets. I cannot believe everybody that paid $30,000 for a 09 Subaru Outback is putting up with this poor workmanship. We have owned 20 years of Subarus and have lost our commitment to them.
Published: January 14, 2012
Karen of Cleveland heights, oh
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Has late night purchase, gave finance manager $15000 cashiers check us and
Has late night purchase, gave finance manager $15000 cashiers check us and additional $2000 cash to get my monthly payment down below $400/month. After reviewing my paperwork couple days after, realize they added $1000 to my agreed purchase price. Before confronting Jay, salesperson, about this problem I went through my car details including the price he gave me. Two separate times he agreed with the price he had given me by phone on more than 3 occasions before I committed to purchase. This price was the original price Jay told me at the beginning. After he reconfirmed his and my price two additional times, I told him that I had given extra cash during financing and told him exactly $1000 added to my initial price. He hesitated, then said it was the changed figure. It was obvious he was covering for finance and Moe sales manager.So I gave Jay and Moe a week to come up with solution... Long story short they didnt. So contacted GM, Jobe **. He said he would find out info and get back to me... He didnt. Finally got him on phone week later and he told me he had talked to owners and he has good and favorable news for me, put me on hold so he could get my paperwork. After holding for short while, unidentified person came on phone asking if the could help me..(?) I told them I was holding for Jobe. That he had asked me to hold awaiting answer for my situation. Person, Moe, sales manager, said Jobe was in a meeting. That he wanted to know how he could help me(?) Not wanting to rehash again with someone who had previously refused to do anything for over 10 days after knowing of problem. Since then... I contacted Subaru of America for help communicating with Glendale Subaru, Jobe, GM because he refused on 3 separate occasions to take my phone call. Plus I called Lane ** general sales manager. He didnt return my call. I asked Moe, by email twice to relay the owners and GMs solution, but he and GM refused to return my call. Now he told corporate Customer service agent trying help me get info that the GM and Owners had decided. Its become obvious the GM put this $1000 cash fraud back on Moe... Because Moe, Glendale sales manager, refuses to relay this message. Seems likely he is directly involved in this late night fraudulent buying transaction. I would advise ANYONE looking to purchase a Subaru... I 1000% would never do business with Glendale Subaru!! They protect and cover for each other with dishonest transaction. From GM by washing his hands of the situation by not getting involved and leaving it up to his dishonest sales and finance department to get out of this situation alone. In my opinion, Jobe lacks a backbone because he refuses to talk to dissatisfied customers. Yet he blows smoke up peoples rear, by saying he and his dealership are honest and he wants to make thing right and wants to make sure THEIR customers are happy. The GM and THEIR sales staff at Glendale in my opinion are ripping off THEIR owners $$... Very very unhappy Glendale Subaru and Corporate Customers service for allowing this GM to say he is happy with his dealerships customer outreach (ha ha) towards me. Dismissing all my attempts to get him on phone and to complete telling me his owners good and favorable decision. Absolute appalling customer care and outreach. What a rotten egg dealership. Makes me wonder how much $$$ they have defrauded other customers. Ive consulted other car dealers, GMs and previous Subaru Dealership owners. They know exactly what happened. They told me its obvious the GM, Jobe, knows too. He doesnt want to write a check so he just told culprits, his finance and sales to handle the situation they created. BOTTOM LINE. This lack of customer care and outreach to take care of this issue. Receives 1 on scale of 10 for honesty and true care for all customers. I know now I was foolish to give Glendale Subaru any cash. Especially at last transaction of work night. That further explain why the finance manager stuck the cash $ in his pocket... Thought that was highly unusual.
Published: May 19, 2016
Stan of Palm Desert, CA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

My vehicle is out of warranty and software on my head unit is out of date.
My vehicle is out of warranty and software on my head unit is out of date. There is a TSB to update it and fix multiple major bugs and in addition to allow mobile devices to connect. Some bugs can even be considered safety issue (e.g. backup camera lag - it takes 8 seconds for camera to turn on when car put in reverse). Based on Exemption to Prohibition on Circumvention of Copyright Protection Systems for Access Control Technologies act passed in 2014 car manufacturers cannot block car owners from updating their cars software on their own. I understand that such updates are done at my own risk and can possibly void warranty, which I don’t have any longer, so warranty coverage is unrelated to this case.3 other makes I own since 2014 allow owners to update head unit software and make all of the update downloads public. Subaru of America also had updates published and available to public until they removed it few month ago. I sent multiple inquiries to Subaru HQ and received a reply that I MUST go through authorized retailer service in order to receive updates. When I contacted retailer they stated that such updates can only be done for a fee and they can’t provide update media to a customer even when I agreed to pay for it. This is direct restriction of customer’s rights and it is done only for the purpose of making it impossible for customer to update their software on their own, forcing people to go through retailer services so Subaru can make more money. I love the company and this is 2nd Subaru vehicle I own, but this new business model is just unacceptable. It shows how Subaru as a company cares less about laws and its customers.
Published: November 10, 2017
Aleksey of Hanover, MA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I had this Impreza on March 2016, so far very disappointed. Compare with my
I had this Impreza on March 2016, so far very disappointed. Compare with my last car Hyundai is not that good. First the painting is not a very good quality, the front lower paint is already had lots white spot, maybe in the rough road a bit damaged, but the Hyundai never like this and I had more than 8 years, just show the painting not very strong. Second the sound system sometimes not working, still display everything on screen, just not play, like dead computer, I have to restart it. And today I found my windscreen got a crack line, not really like a stone hit as the crack very even, maybe the original fitting is not good so sooner or later will cracking. I just wondering whats happened in that day when they assembly this car in Japan? And I want to know is really Japanese care about their customer.
Published: January 4, 2017
JEN of Ringwood East, Other
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Subaru has always been our choice in vehicles, due to the safety factor and
Subaru has always been our choice in vehicles, due to the safety factor and having an excellent reputation for producing a quality vehicle. However, I have a 2009 Forester, and we just noticed rust in several areas on the lip above the windshield. I took our vehicle to the dealer and the Service Manager said it was caused by stone chips and he would take no responsibility for it. The paint is still fully intact and there is absolutely no evidence or indication that a stone chip or any object came in contact with the vehicle where the rust is bubbling underneath the paint.There are a couple of stone chips along the front edge of my hood, however, and the rust has not bubbled at all and does not resemble the number of rust spots above the windshield. There is no rust anywhere else on the vehicle. Given we have been loyal customers to Muskoka Subaru. I am very disappointed with the Dealerships Service Manager response to my issue. Based on the warranty, the Anti-Perforation Limited Warranty (60 month/Unlimited km) covers perforation due to corrosion to body sheet metal panels for 60 months, regardless of kilometres. The Service Managers attitude towards me and my husband was ambivalent and discourteous. Frankly, his behavior reflected an attitude of not caring.When it became obvious to us there was not going to be any resolution dealing with the Service Manager. I stated I would escalate this issue to Subaru Canada. He informed me that I could not contact Subaru Canada and must deal directly with the dealership. I certainly hope this is not the policy of Subaru Canada, to prohibit customer input to achieve satisfactory resolution. It is unfortunate that a minor fix has resulted in change in our opinion towards purchasing and recommending Subaru vehicles in the future. The competent handling and resolution of our issue will restore our faith as a loyal Subaru customer in the future.My Experience today and documented to Subaru Canada: I was supposed to meet with the regional manager today at 11:00 A.M regarding the 21 rust spots on above my windshield. I believe you have the pictures. I arrived early to find he was in a meeting behind closed doors. I was given a courtesy car as I asked to have my snow tires put on and was told they would call me when he was out of his meeting. I arrived back to find he had left, said my issue is not covered. I am EXTREMELY upset he did not have the decency to meet with me, a loyal customer and how do I even know he looked at the Forester. Who can I take this up with now?? I need to go hire up and need this resolved. If I dont get any satisfaction, I will resort to social media. I am very unhappy with the lack of service and respect I have received to date.
Published: November 13, 2013
Karen of Port Sydney, ON
Source: consumeraffairs.com

It is 2014. I have a 2007 Subaru Legacy which has 79000 miles on it. I have
It is 2014. I have a 2007 Subaru Legacy which has 79000 miles on it. I have taken impeccable care of this vehicle only to have it diagnosed this week with the need to replace the head gasket. Where is the recall on this? Why should the consumer be responsible for Subarus negligence of their poor quality? I firmly believe this should be fully paid for by the company, Subaru who boasts of their high quality product, etc. I think mine and any other person who has had to replace this part should be fully 100% reimbursed for the cost. I urge Consumer Affairs to reach out legally in this matter. Please include me in the claim.
Published: June 6, 2014
Adele of Voluntown, CT
Source: consumeraffairs.com

It is a great all around vehicle. It is unique, all wheel drive, excellent
It is a great all around vehicle. It is unique, all wheel drive, excellent gas mileage, very comfortable, really fun to drive, handles well, very durable and dependable. Also, it is only a four cylinder but had a lot of get up and go. Love the all wheel drive and the excellent gas mileage as well. However, it is on the small side and is not as easy as some cars to get in and out of. Sometimes the maintenance can be costly and timing belt change every 80,000 miles is a must as well.
Published: June 21, 2018
Allen of Charlotte, NC
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Contacted Subaru about a recall on my dashboard because I lost the recall c
Contacted Subaru about a recall on my dashboard because I lost the recall card. They told me that that recall was over in June around the end of the month. I call on July 15th. I told them that there was no date on the card that noted when the recall was done. The representative was very nice but they still would not replace it. I feel they are responsible because they used fabric that melts in the sun. I feel that Subaru quality has gone downhill in their cars. BUYER BEWARE!!! Oh, but they did send me a $300.00 COUPON IF I DO WANT TO REPLACE IT. Thanks but no thanks. The estimate was $780.21 to replace it. Plus a lot of their cars have a head gasket problem.
Published: July 16, 2019
Constance of Johnstown, PA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Purchased a 2014 Subaru Forester because of Subarus good reputation. To my
Purchased a 2014 Subaru Forester because of Subarus good reputation. To my surprise, my NEW car burns oil. I have to keep checking the oil because it needs to be added on a regular basis. At my first oil change the Subaru mechanic told me this just happens and I have to keep an eye on it. That sounds like garbage to me when talking about a new car. Im angry I switched to Subaru, never again!
Published: November 6, 2014
Rachel of F, NJ
Source: consumeraffairs.com

The Subaru flagship has terrible engine alert system. Apparently, when ther
The Subaru flagship has terrible engine alert system. Apparently, when there is an engine problem instead of just a check engine light, all feature lights go on and the extra safety features, eyesight etc. become disabled! Subaru service says that the car does this so youll bring the car in to be serviced and that most cars do this. I have never had this experience. Why disable any safety features! We are dealing with the all lights on, no safety features, for the second time. When I inquired about our lost garage opener left in their loaner car, that loaner was out more than two weeks because they couldnt figure out what was wrong with the owners car. I thought I was buying a good car for my son and now Im really starting to wonder.
Published: January 17, 2017
R of Woodinville, WA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I leased Subaru xv October 2012. After 2 months it stopped suddenly. They s
I leased Subaru xv October 2012. After 2 months it stopped suddenly. They said it was the flywheel and it was on the warranty. Then after another two weeks the clutch failed again and this time I was to blame. It was my driving style. Then after another one and a half year the clutch failed again! Before that I had my driving skills tested with the car authorities, who said my driving pattern was not a threat to neither clutch or engine. It does not help. I had to pay for the clutch and rental car. Never Subaru again. SHAME ON YOU, Subaru.
Published: January 9, 2015
Lindbjørg of Drammen, Other
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Driving on the interstate, my 2016 Subaru Crosstreks transmission utterly l
Driving on the interstate, my 2016 Subaru Crosstreks transmission utterly locked up. Without warning, the car ground to a halt in the middle of the freeway and would not move, either in forward, reverse or neutral. Other cars swerved to avoid me. One car hit mine from behind and spun my car 180 degrees, placing me directly in front of oncoming, high-speed traffic. The car has only 18,100 miles. Anyone else experienced such a problem?
Published: February 19, 2018
Tod of St Louis, MO
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I purchased a 2009 Outback 2.5XT manual transmission new. For the first 60,
I purchased a 2009 Outback 2.5XT manual transmission new. For the first 60,000 miles it was flawless. Shortly after the 60,000 mile service, the check engine light came on and the dealer said the rings in the #4 cylinder were stuck. The engine was removed and repaired. Approximately 3000 miles later the incident repeated itself. Once again the engine was removed and this time all of the rings were replaced (at my suggestion) and the valves ground. Shortly after that one of the air tube valves failed. Then a few thousand miles later both the NOX and oxygen sensors failed. Then at 73,000 miles the engine started knocking but no check engine light. At the bottom of the pan directly under the oil pump intake there is a large dent but no scratches or any sign of impact. The dealer says that the restricted oil flow resulting from the dent caused the connecting rod bearings to fail. I am a 78 year old engineering executive in Southern California. 90% of my driving is on the freeway, no off road, no dirt roads. I cannot believe a modern car can have these kinds of problems. This is my first experience with Subaru. Subaru paid for the first 2 overhauls but I have paid for the other repairs and am expected to pay for a new short block replacement.
Published: September 18, 2014
Donald of San Diego, CA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Squeaking in the back end of 2014 Crosstrex - Ive taken my new car in six t
Squeaking in the back end of 2014 Crosstrex - Ive taken my new car in six times within the last month for the same problem and the service manager tells me that its not a safety hazard so theyre not that concerned with it??? I will never buy another Subaru. Their service department is horrible.
Published: February 2, 2015
Pamela of Montgomery, AL
Source: consumeraffairs.com

2012 Outback Subaru loaded, 1st new car brought ever. Took exceptional care
2012 Outback Subaru loaded, 1st new car brought ever. Took exceptional care of my car, kept up on all maintenance and care schedules. Kept my last 2 cars, 2001 Toyota Highlander to 250,000, and 240 Volvo x 350,000 miles +. 2012 Outback head gaskets blew while driving at 50mph, owned 3 years (mainly highway driving, 140 miles to work and Back 4 days a week), Subaru of America paid for half cost of repairs, as said in good faith, $2,25.00. 2018, 141,000 car stalling out, shaking, transmission (stalled out in rush hour traffic, highway as car slowed, very dangerous), there turn out to be problem with the transmission that was not fixed as recall, only if your car has a problem, very dangerous, should be a recall, if you do not drive your car a lot, this chance of having the transmission fixed for free, as it should be ends 7/31/2018.4 weeks later, driving beautifully, engine seized while driving. My oil level was fine, my coolant level was fine, the dealership stated they could not know the reason unless they take the engine apart, probably something in the block. VERY DANGEROUS! Need a new engine. Subaru will not help, they stated they already help me out in good faith. Granted my car has 141,000 miles on it, how many engines that are taken care, regular maintenance, follows Subaru maintenance plan should go through 2 engines and transmission! Here I spent $30,000 on my 1st new car ever, in my 60s, loved the car when it ran properly, handle great, gas mile great, all the bells and whistles I choose.But to have your car die after 5 years when it was well maintained and having no $0.00 value for trade in is not right. Obviously, I have a problem car, a lemon that these kinds of repairs should not have happen once, never mine twice! Never mind how costly an engine is. Being able to have no reasonable recourse. Although I am trying, at least should get bluebook value for the worth my car if it did not have engine issues which is between $6,998-$7,667. Never mind the dangerous situations I was put in, that thank goodness caused no serious accident, Shame on Subaru customer service for putting hardship on their customers that are only looking for a fair outcome!
Published: March 11, 2018
Jody of Scituate, MA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

My car, a 2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i, has stalled for no reason at stop lights
My car, a 2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i, has stalled for no reason at stop lights, accelerating around 45 mph, and also slowing down to get to a stop light. All of these stalling have happened a few months after the ECM upgrade was done to decrease winter emissions it was a nationwide recall for the engine model 2.5 naturally aspirated. Each one of these times, the engine sputters and shakes the car and then stalls completely. Im completely motionless for a while. I restart the car multiple times and it just shuts off. This happened to me all three times but the last 2 times happened where I lost the engine and temporarily, electric! I had no brakes, and no power steering.The first time it happened, I almost rolled back into traffic but I kept turning the ignition and I got the power back on long enough to push in the e-brake. The most recent time this happened, I blocked up the right turning lane onto a moderately heavy traveled road. I tried to restart the car 6 times and it would turn on and quickly stall. The first time though, I was able to move the car to the right lane instead of in the middle lane while it shook the whole time.They have been absolutely no help to me other than telling me 2 of the 3 times it has been the cam sensor and they will replace it, which obviously isnt fixing a ** thing. The one time it wasnt, the came sensor was when they stated that they found no problem at all. They claimed to have driven it 140 miles and no problem. The very next morning I drive to work and on my way back from work, it stalls for the 3rd time. From Subaru to my house and to work is 8 miles, going back home is about 3.My problem is, the one time they were not able to find a problem, they drove a car for 140 miles without any problems but 11 miles later it happens after the dealer had possession for it for 8 days. I know I dont qualify for the lemon law, but Im trying to think What the ** can I do, the law is not really on my side because Subaru will not buy the car back from me no matter how many repeated problems it has. If anyone has or knows anyone that has a problem like this, please re-post on this forum. Im wondering if this is just me or if there are other people dealing with the same thing. If so, I am looking to combine forces. Because I have no faith in this car and that it cant keep me safe at anytime or anyplace on the road.
Published: April 21, 2012
Michael of Blue Bell, PA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I purchased a new Outback in 1998. Sometime after 60k miles, the engine was
I purchased a new Outback in 1998. Sometime after 60k miles, the engine was noticeably leaking oil. I was told it was the head gasket but it was out of warranty. I finally paid $1800 to replace HG at 90k, but the transmission went bad soon after that which cost $1200 for a used replacement. In 2008, I purchased an Outback Limited again, and was told the head gasket problems were solved, only to find out recently at 94k miles that my head gaskets blew probably around 70k miles.I contacted SOA to tell them of the problems I have had since 1998 and they were rude and unhelpful. They do not care about their loyal customers even though they make a big deal about Subie owners in their Drive magazine. Its all hype to promote themselves. Be warned; if you buy any Subaru car, used or new, the engine will soon start leaking oil and it will destroy your head gaskets, costing you at least $2k worth of repairs.
Published: May 24, 2013
John of Nanuet, NY
Source: consumeraffairs.com

2013 Outback P2764 code. Dealership advised contacting corporate and I was
2013 Outback P2764 code. Dealership advised contacting corporate and I was offered $750 toward new car! Seriously, 125,000 miles, known transmission issue with extended warranty to 2022 but not mileage? Vehicles are meant to be driven! Beware of Subaru! Not so giving!
Published: December 27, 2019
Arlene of Versailles, KY
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Heading to the highway, going about 35-40 MPH, the hood flew open and hit m
Heading to the highway, going about 35-40 MPH, the hood flew open and hit my windshield. Thankfully, it did not shatter it, but did crack it all the way across. I call Subaru headquarters and they pretty much said, Too bad for you! I called the dealership and they pretty much said the same thing. The tech at the dealership said I must have opened the latch from inside. Not sure why I would want to do that while I was driving! The car had been parked and locked in my driveway before I drove it so there was no chance of it being tampered with. I feel there should be an investigation into a recall, as it seems I am not the only one this has happened to!
Published: January 22, 2014
Debra of Griswold, CT
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Major transmission issues within the first 25000 miles, 2 years. Brought my
Major transmission issues within the first 25000 miles, 2 years. Brought my manual 2017 WRX in due to noise in transmission area. They said some parts need to be replaced (bearing, etc) and they installed plate, cover, spring, fork, bearing, flywheel and the whole thing. Picked it up on Wednesday and on Thursday while driving on the freeway something popped in the transmission area and the car was towed back in the shop (Carlsen Subaru in Redwood City California) in less than 24 hours from the time I had received it. This is absolutely unacceptable. I have been driving transmission manual cars for 30 years and to get this kind of performance at such low miles is scary.
Published: February 10, 2019
mehran of Belmont, CA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I was coming to a stop at the end of a dead end street when my 2010 Subaru
I was coming to a stop at the end of a dead end street when my 2010 Subaru Outback shot off like a bullet from 10mph to about 30 mph in less than 2 seconds. I hit a tree and sustained severe rib injuries (3 broken ribs) and a lacerated finger and my passenger dislocated his hip and suffered a broken leg. We were lucky not to be killed.
Published: October 30, 2014
Jack of Dundee, OR
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Got this Legacy 2 years ago as a lease return. Had not experience any probl
Got this Legacy 2 years ago as a lease return. Had not experience any problems besides locking and unlocking it. I strongly recommend this car to people but before buying it go to Subaru dealer and check it up. Never buy any of a car without doing a full check up.
Published: August 11, 2013
Maksim of Guelph, ON
Source: consumeraffairs.com

My recent experience. Went to local tire center to replace tires. During pr
My recent experience. Went to local tire center to replace tires. During process tire pressure sensor was damaged and required replacing which tire center did. However after several attempts the warning light would not extinguish. Tire center was told new sensor has to be recalibrated/registered with Subaru costing $160 and requiring the vehicle to be booked into their service center (more than 2 weeks wait) to be corrected. If you want the convenience of choosing how much and who services and repairs your vehicle without being held to ransom this may not be the company for you.
Published: February 8, 2021
Gabriel of Australia, Other
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I bought my Outback new and have taken meticulous care of the car, religiou
I bought my Outback new and have taken meticulous care of the car, religiously changed the oil and all of the customary tune ups. I do quite a bit of driving, having put 149k in less than 6 years but have tended to every update or replacement so to avoid any unforeseen major issues. Last year, my oil light came in which confused me since I had 2k miles to go before the next oil change. Went to check the oil and it was boned drive. Since then, I have carried extra oil - just in case this happened again. Did not think much of this fluke. Fast forward to a couple of months ago, I felt a noticeable decrease in performance. Took it to my mechanic and always got its fine.A month ago, noticed that my acceleration was compromised so my mechanic changed the engine filter and then the battery, which improved the acceleration slightly, but thought it was in my head. The car started to make a rattling sound after trying to accelerate over 60-80MPH; it felt that the engine was choking. I would not even pass other cars for fear of the car stalling; no lights came on. Then the next day, the dashboard went haywire with the lights (cruise control, solid engine light, traction control, and another light that I cant remember right now). Took it to another Subaru dealership in North Attleboro, MA and they hooked it up to the machine and told me that I needed OSV Valves for both side, code P0028. The cost of the valves were 235.74 and labor was 600.00, totaling $835.74, which I paid since I thought it was going to resolve this issue once and for all.I asked if the tech took the car for a test drive and they could not confirm this. I picked up the Subaru and drove off, the car had a slight improvement but not for the 835.75 repair. Called Subaru the next day, and drove the car back to the dealership. Had the general manager drive my car, and he felt that the car had no power to accelerate and that the transmission felt like it was slipping. This was Saturday morning. On Tuesday, the Subaru manager said that they were still working on it; they could not find the source of the problem and was on the phone with another Subaru department trying to figure this out. A day later, we got a text message stating it was my transmission leaking down internally. The cost to replace was $6040 and that did not include other parts and fluid. I wrote to Subaru since I feel that the Class Action Lawsuit of the excessive oil consumption may be related to the transmission.In addition, Subaru had replaced OSV valves and did not test drive the car to see if they remedy the issue. Lastly, why did the diagnostic machine pick this up? I purposely asked the tech, if there was another nested issue underneath the OSV valves; she answered no. The POO28 code was correct diagnosis. I will contest the charge for the valves on my Visa and have written to Subaru Corp about this issue. Between replacing timing belt, fuel pump, tires... this transmission would have set me back well over 10k. If I cant get Subaru to fix this for under 2k, I will trade it in. This car was great in the snow, but the seats were uncomfortable, poor visibility from the side of the car (blindspots were bad). Headlights are constantly burning out and Subaru response is to go to the dealership to get them replaced. Next car will be a Honda or Toyota.
Published: May 25, 2017
Kathy of Worcester, MA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Subaru ripped me off multiple times when the clutches (transmissions?) the
Subaru ripped me off multiple times when the clutches (transmissions?) the sold me were defective. Ive been driving manual transmission cars since 1984, but the clutch on my 2007 Subaru Impreza WRX kept going way bad for years. Only after a non-Subaru mechanic installed a non-Subaru clutch when the 5th one failed 20K miles on the odometer has the clutch on my car been reliable. Subaru fixed only one under warranty, then abandoned all warranty support for their defective product. Of particular concern was the completely crappy service done on the car by the now defunct Subaru dealership in Charleston, SC. This has been my 2nd Subaru, but I will try a Mitsubishi vehicle the next time around.
Published: November 16, 2016
Mark of Beaufort, SC
Source: consumeraffairs.com

2014 Outback- Until now I have done all my oil changes at the dealer (Tom W
2014 Outback- Until now I have done all my oil changes at the dealer (Tom Wood Subaru). On 3 occasions the oil light came on and I had to add one quart of oil. This occurred about 3000 to 4000 miles after the oil change. When I brought this up with the service rep the first time he told me that apparently during assembly, one of the three piston rings had not been installed in some vehicles resulting in excessive oil consumption. Consequently, Subaru had instituted a usage test involving retesting for loss of oil after 1200 miles (loss of 1/3 quart). The dealership has run this test twice and reported no excessive loss of oil in either case. I believe that the test being used by Subaru is not precise enough to detect the problem after 1200 miles and should actually be done between 3000 and 4000 miles. The other possibility is that excessive oil consumption occurs under certain conditions. If this is the case, Subaru needs to share this information with the vehicle owners.
Published: May 26, 2017
angelo of Carmel, IN
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I have owned my Subaru 7 years. I only have to do the manufacturer service
I have owned my Subaru 7 years. I only have to do the manufacturer service maintenance as my Subaru runs beautifully! I have had NO major issues at all. My Subaru is dependable with Great gas mileage! My Muscatell Subaru dealership on Hwy 10 in Moorhead MN does an excellent job of also taking care of my Subaru with their GREAT service staff!
Published: December 9, 2016
Kathleen of Moorhead, MN
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Purchased new 2014 Outback from Maxwell Subaru in Burlington, NC... They sc
Purchased new 2014 Outback from Maxwell Subaru in Burlington, NC... They screwed up paperwork and let tags expired. Have not received explanation yet. Reported the situation to Subaru who seem not to give a damn. Hopefully, this is not an example of the vehicle itself...
Published: March 19, 2014
William of Danville, VA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

After Subaru replaced the left caliper bracket with no results they set up
After Subaru replaced the left caliper bracket with no results they set up new appointments with the factory field agent. Took a couple weeks but they re-looked at my rumble and confirmed it was still there. Using sound sensing device and several test drives they decided to replace the sway bar end links. The only thing they heard after that were the brake pads. This fixed my problem near the end of Jul 2015. But it is now Nov 2015 and the problem is back. Apparently, the brake disk pads float in the brackets with clips (according to Subaru service guys) and you will always hear some rumble. Well if that were true I would hear it on both sides, not just the left. So, back to Subaru service again. They had indicated to me a few months ago that because of the documentation to date, they would still honor further repairs with warranty even though my vehicle is now out of warranty. The issue is not resolved, but apparently this is the only way to update my review on this site.
Published: January 1, 1970
Darrell of Albuquerque, NM
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I have a 2016 Legacy Premium 2.5 engine. I experienced a trembling being fe
I have a 2016 Legacy Premium 2.5 engine. I experienced a trembling being felt on the driver seat, floorboards and on the passenger seat. Ive had it in four times. This didnt happen last year when I bought the car and during the summer when using the A/C. Now this year when I use the a/c and the cooling fans go to high speed you feel this trembling. I went to the dealer for where I bought it and the mechanic said that that was normal. He even felt the trembling. He then said to switch to premium gas.I took it to another dealer and the mechanic felt the trembling also. He then said he would look into it. He called me back and said he sat in a similar 2016 Legacy and with the approx. same mileage and said it did the same. So he even said it was normal. If it is normal why didnt it do the same thing last year. Subaru of America said that there was nothing they could do because the mechanics said it was normal. It feels like you are sitting in a vibrating chair. They say it is normal then Subaru needs to fix this problem. What you pay for the car it should run smooth. I am very dissatisfied with the car and the service. There is something wrong with the fans or engine or trans. Does anyone have this issue.
Published: September 18, 2017
robert of Unionville, CT
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I average 12,000 miles a year on my car. I drive 20 miles rt daily with 85%
I average 12,000 miles a year on my car. I drive 20 miles rt daily with 85% of my trip being 45 mph. I do not drive this car hard. At 62K miles, I took my 07 Outback to the dealer for a scheduled oil change. I mentioned the car seemed to be getting loud as the technician asked if I had any concerns. When I picked up my car, no mention was made of the noise so I attributed it to new tires. As the car has become louder, on my internet research, I have noticed several complaints and even called Subaru when I had seen an extended warranty on 05, 06, and 08s that covered the car for 100K miles or 8 years. I called the dealer and my car didnt qualify. I have also noticed my car had a recall for a piece to the brake. I havent moved since we purchased the car and had no written notice as to the failure... At nearly 80K, I am faced now with rebuilding my rear differential. No recalls had been made for the 07s. I took it to a mechanic and he told me Subarus are known for that. I have found this website and encourage all Subaru owners with problems to please file complaints.
Published: July 12, 2013
Jo of Four Llakes, WA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I brought my Subaru pre-owned and had a question about my extended warranty
I brought my Subaru pre-owned and had a question about my extended warranty. After going through several layers of press the number for your particular question, the option that I chose could not be acknowledged by the automated system. I went through this a few more times before I hit a different option hoping to be connected to where I wanted to go. That worked, but the person who I got on the other end transferred me to the automated system again, which of course still was not working properly. I finally decided to send an email and who knows how long it will take for a response.
Published: December 4, 2019
John of Denver, CO
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Hi, we have a relatively old Subaru, about 8 years but very low mileage and
Hi, we have a relatively old Subaru, about 8 years but very low mileage and the a/c failed with a projected cost of $2,500. Seeing as the vehicle has been used very little, the repair amounts to $3 for every hour it has been driven. I asked if this was normal from Subaru and they simply explained that it was out of warranty. So if you want a reliable car that is going to last for years, and you have low mileage, maybe best to look elsewhere, as they appear unconcerned that there are failures despite low usage. Warranty should be time or mileage-based. My first and last Subaru, oh well.
Published: August 4, 2021
Tony of Mango Hill, Other
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Purchased a new 2017 Subaru Impreza Sport from Flow motors in Winston Salem
Purchased a new 2017 Subaru Impreza Sport from Flow motors in Winston Salem. Check oil light came on at 2500 miles. Failed 2 oil consumption tests and had 2 engine rebuilds before 13,000 miles. Using an appalling 1.5 qts oil every 1000 miles. Not repaired. Dealership cheated on oil consumption test by starting with 6 qts of oil in an engine spec’d for 4.7 qts. Going back under NC lemon law. This company gets a 5 **??? Review.
Published: April 20, 2018
Frank of Rural Hall, NC
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Time proven and highest resale value of all car brands. Customer loyalty se
Time proven and highest resale value of all car brands. Customer loyalty second only to Ferrari. Subaru owns the winter with symmetrical all-wheel drive, out-performs every vehicle in its class.
Published: November 24, 2016
Bob of Finland, MN
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I was driving in the highway at 65mph when all of sudden I heard an explosi
I was driving in the highway at 65mph when all of sudden I heard an explosion. When I stopped and checked the car the sunroof exploded as if someone had punch it from the inside. This is a new 2014 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid with only 9000 miles. The dealer now tells me this is very common for the Subarus. I had minor scratches and thank God nobody in the back seats.
Published: June 15, 2015
Maria of Edinburg, TX
Source: consumeraffairs.com

My 2005 Outback with less than 85,000 miles on it has had both CV joints re
My 2005 Outback with less than 85,000 miles on it has had both CV joints replaced (my expense). Also, the rear axle bushings were replaced (Subaru paid). Last week, I had to have the rubber bushings in the control arms replaced along with the stabilizer links and wheel realignment was performed due to the work on the control arms. The parts were about $80 while the remainder was labor charges. The total I paid with a 15% veterans discount was $694.60. The total labor was $657.78. The car was in the shop for 3 1/2 hours or a cost of about $187 per hour. When I called North Brunswick, NJ Subaru about what I considered an exorbitant labor cost, I was told that it didnt matter how long the work actually took, but that they worked for some book that tells how much time each job should take. We are all being ripped off because this is, as the service manager told me, an industry-wide policy.
Published: July 28, 2012
John of Princeton, nj
Source: consumeraffairs.com

My wife was driving our brand new 2014 Outback. She went slightly off the r
My wife was driving our brand new 2014 Outback. She went slightly off the road and attempted to engage the break release to allow the four wheel to kick in and get out of the small depression she was in. She couldnt get it to work. She called a towing service. They came out and a young man got in the car and engaged the transmission apparently thinking that by moving forward and backward he could get the car out without pulling it out with the truck. In a few minutes the car started smoking and within a few more minutes flames appeared that couldnt be put out with the tow truck fire extinguisher. The car burned up-a total loss. It was a frightening experience for my wife and makes us wonder how this car could possible erupt into flames. Anyone out there with any insight?
Published: September 7, 2014
Paul of Santa Barbara, CA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

In 4.5 years, I have to replaced 5 low-beam headlights in my 2010 Subaru Le
In 4.5 years, I have to replaced 5 low-beam headlights in my 2010 Subaru Legacy. The dealership gave several different excuses for the high burnout rate. Their solution was to tell me not to use the automatic headlight feature, which did not help. I called Subaru headquarters, and the representative decided that replacing a headlight an average of every 22,000 miles was an acceptable burnout rate. At $70 per replacement, I cannot afford to keep this car. I wish I had known about this problem and Subarus lack of caring before I set foot in the dealership.
Published: December 29, 2014
Rachel of Montgomery, MN
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Subaru 2014 Legacy (manual) 9000 miles, under warranty. Last week of June 2
Subaru 2014 Legacy (manual) 9000 miles, under warranty. Last week of June 2015, suddenly first thing in the morning, the car reeked of gasoline (or other hydrocarbon). I went to the nearest garage (with all the windows open, it was that bad) whose owner said Subarus are notorious for gas leaks but he could not deal with that kind of problem.It was then towed to Subaru dealer whose head mechanics diagnosis was... mice (!) had chewed the gas lines. He said that this was not covered by the warranty- $600-$800 repair. Interestingly, we overheard him on the phone with another Subaru owner concerning a gas leak caused by mice! No loaner available to us, but he could supply a rental car. When I took exception to that, he said no charge for the rental.This could be a weird coincidence, or weird mice. But this diagnosis (as opposed to loose connection or clamps, or whatever) works very well for the dealership. They get $600 from me (and the other guy) instead of having to cover the repair cost themselves. Somehow this seems fishy: plastic- gas-loving mice lying in wait in my shell driveway?I see online a lot of current dissatisfaction with Subaru design and service and a company that does not admit to defects in their products or have trained their service departments. Loved my previous Subaru Legacy, also a manual. But this car seems to have been designed by a bunch of geeky kids fooling around in a basement somewhere. Weird coincidence, weird mice, or dealer ploy?
Published: June 27, 2015
Paul of Brewster, MA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

We have owned 2 Subarus, one 2002 where at approximately 67000 miles head g
We have owned 2 Subarus, one 2002 where at approximately 67000 miles head gasket blew, we traded the car in for 2010 Subaru Forester, and now again the head gasket is leaking at 47000 miles. Im retired and on social security, was told 2400 dollars to repair leak. Complained to Subaru. Said my warranty was over which I knew. I cannot afford to do repair. Also drivers seat has collapsed will cost 700 dollars to repair. Again no money to fix. This car was suppose to last us a good 14 yrs, now Im stuck with a piece of junk and not very happy about it. We were told when we bought 2010 Subaru that the head gasket problems had been resolved by Subaru, and this would never happen. Well lucky me it did. we only drive less than 10 miles a day, no excuse for this to happen. Will never buy a Subaru again. My daughter has a Outback also and her head gasket blown too, she will not buy a Subaru again, cheap car. I have a 2013 Toyota with 46000 miles, no leaks whatsoever, will definitely buy another Toyota, I have owned 3 and never had major engine problems like the Subaru.
Published: June 3, 2018
robert of Meriden, CT
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I had to buy a new vehicle after my other paid off car was totaled by a per
I had to buy a new vehicle after my other paid off car was totaled by a person who ran a stop sign. I heard great things about Subaru so Just bought a 5-door Impreza with less than 15,000 miles on it. Did not notice it was a “base model” really as it had the Bluetooth and parking camera. The speedometer/tachometer cannot hardly be seen AT ALL except for a red arrow during daylight driving in sunlight. Can appear totally dark in bright sun! Very bad situation. Car does not have “auto” headlights but even turning parking or lights manually on in daytime does not help (as manual said could be done). This really is a unsafe design flaw. The higher option models have a better set up with the lights with lane assist. If you have a base model you are just stuck; cannot change the speedometer light level per the dealer. I wish I would have known this flaw before I bought this but I am happy with rest of car. At night all the speedometer lights and tachometer turn on red and can be seen easily but forget it during the day. I have vision issues and wear contacts so this sure doesn’t help. If I could have spent more for the higher option vehicle I would have now but was trying not to have a car payment still after I unexpectedly lost my other car and stay within my insurance payout. I may have to trade this in For the higher option later if I continue to like the rest of the car, we will see. I think Subaru needs to change this basic safety issue on its base models!! On Google there were other people who had complained about this. I noticed now too. I have only had this car 2 weeks and wish I would have test drive longer as I didn’t notice in the short test drive.
Published: September 16, 2020
Carolyn of Pueblo, CO
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I like the cars performance in bad weather like rain, snow and ice. The car
I like the cars performance in bad weather like rain, snow and ice. The car keep me comfortable. I also like the all-wheel drive and heated seats. But I am disappointed with my Subaru in the cost of repairs. They are very expensive. Also, the windshield has been a bother and has broken numerous times. Rocks hit it and instantly put holes in the window. We have replaced the window five or six times.
Published: June 16, 2018
Donna of Fairfield, OH
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Subaru Outback 2016 - I am unable to change radio stations from the steerin
Subaru Outback 2016 - I am unable to change radio stations from the steering wheel when my screen is in Phone mode. In order to change the stations, I have to hit the Home button on the screen, thereby defeating the purpose of the steering wheel button. Has anyone else had that issue?
Published: August 1, 2017
Holli of Marion, IA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

This car is the best car on the road. It holds its overall value and is mos
This car is the best car on the road. It holds its overall value and is most certainly dog tested and approved. I have hit a deer a couple of years ago and there was hardly any damage to my car. It gets great mileage and proven itself in various weather conditions.
Published: December 13, 2019
Karen of Parsons, TN
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Purchased 2013 Subaru Outback at 3500 miles. Oil light came on, took to dea
Purchased 2013 Subaru Outback at 3500 miles. Oil light came on, took to dealer where I purchased. Mechanic told me thats normal that Subaru uses a lot of oil. After owning three other older Subaru without such problems didnt seem right. They checked the oil and said it was 1 quart low but that wasnt really low, it just seemed that way. I added oil then. When it was time to change oil thought problem was gone. At or about 3500 miles oil light come on once again. 1 quart low. Called Subaru of America, they said to do oil consumption test. Test was done at 1200 miles of consumption test that said it was fine at the usually 3500 miles light came on. Did another consumption test said after 1200 miles on test it didnt not use any oil. I tried to tell them it seems to use the oil at or about 3000-4000 miles, they just didnt seem to get it. Called Subaru of America, tried to explain to them, they didnt seem to get it either. So now between every oil change I have to add 1 quart of oil, use only Subaru oil. Not happy with my Subaru. Will not buy another Subaru again and tell everyone I know about my experience. Very disappointed with Subaru.
Published: July 13, 2015
Scott of Hillsville, VA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I was a long-time Toyota owner and after putting 210,000 miles on my 2000 M
I was a long-time Toyota owner and after putting 210,000 miles on my 2000 Matrix without any issues I decided I wanted to replace it with something that got decent gas mileage and had all-wheel drive. Enter my 2013 Subaru Impreza Sport. Ive had what could be described as minor issues with this car since day one. First, the rear hatch (its the hatchback version) would never shut on the first try. Had that adjusted and fixed.Second was the issue with starting the car which started happening at about 5,000 miles. After googling my issue, I came to find out that this was a common issue that the owners were referring to as a Hard Start and that after denying it for a while, Subaru finally came up with a fix which is basically flashing the cars computer. Subaru sent out a service notification to their dealerships about this issue, but when I went in to 3 different dealerships they denied knowledge of the issue or the service notification until I gave them a copy that I found online (thank you **) and suddenly they remembered this common issue and the fix. I had the computer flashed and I would say the issue is improved, but not totally remedied.At about 30,000 miles I noticed that the oil light would come on after only about 2,500 miles after an oil change. Im concerned that this is going to get worse as the car ages. (Im at just over 50,000 miles now.) One thing I noticed is that a couple days before the light will come on I will smell oil burning, so Im not sure if thats damaging the engine. Ive got into the habit of carrying a couple extra quarts of 0-20 in the spare tire compartment so I can pull over and add oil immediately if the light should come on. A friend of mine had a Subaru WRX thats engine seized because of low oil and his oil light never even came on beforehand. Ive been so disappointed in the quality of this car. From people I know that are die-hard Subaru owners, it seems like they just cant maintain quality with the recent rise in popularity of their cars. Im hoping that the oil issue does not result in a bigger issue before I pay off this loan!
Published: October 28, 2016
Chris of Beverly, MA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

This review only refers to the Service Department of Koeppel Subaru in Quee
This review only refers to the Service Department of Koeppel Subaru in Queens, NY because I purchased my Subaru in another state so I do not have any experience with their car sales. However, I generally do have good experience with Subaru dealership service centers so I was surprised that Koeppel felt like going to a mechanic shop instead. Online it appears that you can schedule a drop-off of your car but when I arrived they had no knowledge of the appointment. They hassled me about every point including the problem with the car, the price, why I didnt want to stay with the car when I had to go to work, why I didnt pick it up sooner, etc... It would have been fine if they had not followed up with an email about my complaints to continue to badger me and blame me for my bad experience. There was never once an apology.
Published: September 6, 2018
Justin of Long Island City, NY
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I purchased a brand new 2006 Subaru Forester. I did 4-5 months of research
I purchased a brand new 2006 Subaru Forester. I did 4-5 months of research and looked at the majority of small SUVs and finally decided on the Forester based on what I had read - reliability, utility, AWD technology, and the Subaru brand name. I have nothing but positive things to say about the Subaru dealership but I cant say that about Subaru Canada - they really dont care about their customers. They have your money. Why should they care?The Forester for the 1st six years of its life was a fairly reliable car. I took the car in for service religiously and performed all the required maintenance/service. The only main item that went which I thought was odd and a bit pricey was the Oxygen sensor which cost me $700 and then went again a year later but I was lucky as the sensor was still under warranty. At about its six year of life - just before Christmas - I was just getting on to the highway and the oil light went on; I immediately got on my phone to my mechanic and he said to bring the car in tomorrow. About 10 minutes later the oil light went on again and I was on the phone to my mechanic who said bring the car in right away, which I did. Turns out it was the head gasket so it cost $3000 to fix (they did the timing belt / water pump at the same time). I called Subaru Canada and they said because the car is out of warranty, there is nothing they could do. So, I got the head gasket fixed and should have dumped the car right then and there. About two years later, I was driving on the highway and stopped at my destination and noticed the temperature gauge going to the H position so I stopped the car, let it cool down and walked down the street to a local service station. They said, Bring the car in, and they were going to do a rad flush but when they started to do it they noticed coolant leaking so they just topped up the coolant. I got back on the highway and the car started to heat up again; the net of it was a leak around the water pump which my mechanic fixed. About 2 months later, the car started heating up again and back to the mechanic.So the probable cause...wait, wait...likely the head gasket; cheapest fix is the thermostat which they swapped out. But, my mechanic is saying the only thing that would fix it would be a rebuilt engine. Again, I contacted Subaru Canada and same story line - out of warranty - too bad, so sad. So I cut my losses and traded the car in on something more reliable - a Honda. I will never ever buy a Subaru again - what a waste of $36,000.
Published: February 14, 2015
R of Toronto, ON
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Complaint and concern for our 2014 Subaru - We are having problems with oil
Complaint and concern for our 2014 Subaru - We are having problems with oil usage, and have had the car towed and had to call roadside twice. The oil light comes on and there is very little oil. We have taken it in and discussed this with the Courtesy Motors in Chico where we bought the car. They say this is a normal thing with Outbacks. What do you say about this? We are tracking the oil ourselves and it is using oil. We cant afford to be on the road with a problem. Please advice. Thank you.
Published: May 14, 2015
Donald of Crescent Mills, CA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I have been a loyal customer of Saturn/Subaru of South Blvd. in Charlotte,
I have been a loyal customer of Saturn/Subaru of South Blvd. in Charlotte, NC. I drive a Saturn 2000 Wagon and had a problem with a weeping radiator. I took it to Subaru and told them to look for the car over to make sure there were no other problems looming so I dont put money into a car that isnt worth it. I assumed they looked it over and did the repair. I drove the car home and the next day, my husband noticed an oil leak on the garage floor. I thought it was an overflow issue since I had just gotten it out of the shop and if it was a problem, surely they would have noticed. So I just overlooked it. This continued for a couple of weeks and no lights came on, so I assumed it was no problem. It got to where there was a pool of oil left behind all the time. I took it back to Subaru and they looked at it again and determined that there was a seal leak that would cost $1800.00 to fix. It had a slow leak that turned into a gusher between Subaru and my home the day I picked it up. I was very upset that at their direction, I had just poured $1200.00 into a car that had an obvious leak that they did not even mention. Now, they tell me the car is not even worth the $1800.00 it would cost to fix. My question is: Why didnt they tell me that $1200.00 ago? I discussed it with the service manager David ** and they had no interest in doing anything to address the problem. It was my problem and their was nothing they would do. I walked in the door as a loyal customer and walked out as a very unhappy camper. I later phoned and asked to talk to the manager, who was in a meeting, so I told the man who took the message for the manager what had happened. He said he would relay the message and have him call me! It has been 2 weeks and I have not heard a word from anyone! I hope you can explain this because I am shocked that they would treat a customer like that! They turned a person, who was in the dealership in need of a new car, into a person who would never buy a car there and will be more than happy to tell all of my friends, who are lifelong animal rescuers, about my ordeal with a Subaru dealership! I even have a dear, personal friend who is a Pilots N Paws volunteer. He would be as shocked as I am if I told him this. I would like to know what you think of this. I am in the market for a new car! Your response will determine what course I could take from here! Ill await your reply! Thank you for your time! Kathy **
Published: October 15, 2011
Kathy of Waxhaw, NC
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I genuinely like the idea of warranties but have always found they cover ne
I genuinely like the idea of warranties but have always found they cover next to nothing. As a woman with little mechanical background, warranties offer the false promise of safety and help where none is likely to be found.
Published: January 10, 2021
Kathryn of Medford, MA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Ive had my 2015 Forester for a year now. There are some things I like and s
Ive had my 2015 Forester for a year now. There are some things I like and some I really dont like. I have put 20,000 miles on the car and havent had any mechanical problems. It drives and handles comfortably, and did well with snow and ice last winter. However there are a number of small irritants. One of my biggest issues is the upholstery. I try to be careful, but it is already seriously stained and starting to show obvious wear. No other vehicle has ever shown wear like this. The panels on the doors look dirty and wont come clean. My dog stepped one time on the padded cover of the storage box between the front seats. He left several permanent dents and the plastic coating tore. Hes ridden in several other vehicles without anything like this happening. Also the finish on the steering wheel where I grip has worn off. I also find the headrests to be remarkably uncomfortable, and its not really possible to sleep in the seat. The worst problem is that when the air is dry, as it usually is in eastern Oregon, I cant get out of the car without getting a static electric shock, just strong enough to be mildly painful. Every single time. I try to slap the door as I get out to prevent it from hurting, but I sometimes forget. This happens occasionally in other vehicles, but rarely. As minor as this seems, its annoying enough that it may prevent me from owning another Subaru. Another thing that probably shouldnt matter is the mileage indicator. I really like this except for the fact that it always shows me getting 1.5 to 2.5 miles more per gallon than I really am. I find this extremely irritating. I also hate the fuel gauge, which is a line of small gray squares which are difficult for me to see. Also the speedometer is smaller than I like, with markings close together and the 5s not indicated. Also, the windshield has cracked all the way across even though I never noticed it being hit by anything, and there is no rock ding. I resent that Subaru did not give me the option of deciding if I wanted a fancy anti-theft system that requires a very expensive key and, if you try to use a duplicate, will cause the computer to crash and cost several hundred dollars to repair. I am cynical enough to think that this was not done for my benefit. I would be perfectly happy with an old unchipped key that costs $2 to duplicate. I also dont like that only one door on the car can be opened with the key and that if I use the spare key to unlock the door the alarm goes off. Every single time. There is supposed to be a way to prevent that but it doesnt work. I also have issues with the mileage. If I drive on the level at about 45 mph, I can get as high as 30 miles to the gallon. But if I get on the freeway and drive 65 mph to Portland and back I wont get over 25 and have gotten as low as 19. The sticker claimed 29 highway. Also, though I live in a town with no more than 10 stoplights, if I do any driving around town my mileage drops like a rock. Also if I go up even a moderate hill. Finally, the clock and temperature gauge are not consistently accurate, the speakers vibrate unpleasantly if you turn the bass up, and the cup holder has broken for no apparent reason.
Published: October 15, 2015
Kevin of Bajer City, OR
Source: consumeraffairs.com

We bought a 2012 Subaru Forester because of their reliability and safety. W
We bought a 2012 Subaru Forester because of their reliability and safety. We bought it from a dealer used with only 114,000ish miles on it. After one oil change it now has gone through 2.5qts of oil in half of the oils life. After calling Subaru they said that there is nothing they can do to fix the problem without me paying several thousand dollars because it has more than 100,000 miles. This is completely unacceptable! I have been a mechanic professionally for 16 years and the last time I had a customer that had a vehicle that went through that much oil they blew their engine. Subaru needs to man up and fix this issue and fix it correctly, no band-aid on a bullet hole.
Published: June 5, 2017
Cory of Bel Aire, KS
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I have been a loyal Subaru owner. I have owned 4 Subarus. In the last 6 yea
I have been a loyal Subaru owner. I have owned 4 Subarus. In the last 6 years I have leased 2 outbacks and am planning on leasing my third. I have called and asked for my $500 Loyalty Reward which I used on my 2016 lease. I keep getting the runaround, transferred from one department to another with no results, how much more loyalty is needed! I will continue to try for another week, but I will lease a Toyota and become their loyal customer! Shame on Subaru!
Published: January 16, 2019
Shelley of La Crescenta, CA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I bought a brand new 2009 Subaru Forester with a 5-speed manual transmissio
I bought a brand new 2009 Subaru Forester with a 5-speed manual transmission. From day 1, I had problems getting into reverse. It got so bad, that at times, I could not even get into reverse. Complained many times to the dealer and their response was it was normal, nothing was wrong with the car or that it had to be broken in or it was me. I finally brought it into the dealer and they told me, that they would have to take apart the transmission and Subaru will inspect it. If they deem it to be customer abuse then I would have to pay $4000.00 to fix it. Of course I opted not to do it. But to make matters worse, the engine had no pick up. I had to floor it and it still would not go. What a lemon! I would never buy a Subaru again.
Published: August 1, 2013
Peter of Bayside, NY
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I leased a 2012 Subaru, signed a contract, and took the vehicle home. The d
I leased a 2012 Subaru, signed a contract, and took the vehicle home. The dealership messed up the contract, lied about it to get me to sign another contract under the guise that it was a better deal for me. The truth of the matter is that they either made a mistake, or they are running a scam to get you to sign one contract, take the vehicle, then offer you another contract within a few weeks, or they are just incompetent and unprofessional. When I decided that I did not want the new contract, they became angry and rude. The general manager assured me that he would take care of it, but he did not and I had their company calling me about a vehicle that I had returned (2009 Subaru) to the Subaru dealer a month earlier. The vehicle was on their lot and in their possession. I have returned the new 2012 vehicle because of how I was treated and because the general manager, during his shouting match with me indicated that if that was the way I felt, he did not want to do business with me anyway. I am glad you have enough Subaru business that you can afford to throw away customers who purchased 3 Subarus within four years. I will make it one of my goals in life to make sure that people know you do not want business from me or people like me. Of interest, is that a similar situation happened with this same dealership three years ago. At that time, a few weeks after the 2009 car was purchased, the finance manager called and indicated that he had made a mistake on the contract and that the payment should be higher. Once again, I refused and told him that I had a contract, and he could not go back and change the terms of that contract. What is going on at Subaru AutoBarn of Countryside, Illinois? Are they incompetent, or crooked or both? They definitely could use some training in customer service as you have just lost two customers. Since I have returned the 2012 Subaru last week, I am in the market for an SUV. Guess what, it wont be a Subaru. Someone should investigate further the practices of Subaru Autobarn of Countryside, Illinois. I know I will be continuing my investigation and legal options. Not only am I angry, as noted above, I am inconvenienced and suspicious. I did not check the first box below because I am pursuing all options including legal options. Yes, an attorney can contact me about my complaint.
Published: February 23, 2012
Nettie of Bartlett, IL
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Bought the car 1 month ago, already in the shop with check engine and elect
Bought the car 1 month ago, already in the shop with check engine and electrical issues. Hope this isn’t a lemon but I bet it is. No better way to spend your Saturday day off than at the service dept in Glendale, CA.
Published: March 9, 2019
Dwight of Burbank, CA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Great vehicle. Runs great and has good gas mileage. I love the heater and a
Great vehicle. Runs great and has good gas mileage. I love the heater and air conditioner. Also, I have friends that have bought the same model and they spoke highly of it. I definitely would not want to trade or sell it. Would recommend it to a friend and would definitely purchase another one.
Published: June 24, 2018
Jateah of Columbia, KY
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I purchased a new 2016 Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited in March of 2016. The in
I purchased a new 2016 Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited in March of 2016. The interior is a light-colored leather. A few months after purchase, I found that anyone wearing blue jeans in the car turned the seats blue. I contacted Subaru official site and spoke with my dealer. The dealer stated they were aware of this and have been receiving numerous customer complaints, but have no remedy to offer. They also said frequent cleaning of the leather may cause premature wear. This wasnt something I was warned about when buying the car. I traded in a 10-year-old Honda Accord with the same color leather and never had any problem with dye transfer and no problem with previous leather upholstery, including the other Outbacks in the family. Im looking at the option to trade in my 9 month old car on another brand, though it would cause a major financial loss. But I need to weigh this against the possibility of having to replace my interior.
Published: January 3, 2017
Neil of Woodinville, WA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I bought my 2013 pre-owned Crosstrek November of last year and I have been
I bought my 2013 pre-owned Crosstrek November of last year and I have been in and out of the service department ever since. They ran 3 oil consumption tests to finally figure out that a wire wasnt on. Each visit takes several hours. I went with Subaru because I thought they were above selling faulty cars. Ive tried to get a new Subaru and count my loss but when I took it back into the dealership they gave me a low-ball offer for my trade in. I went into a Chevy dealership and they offered me a way better offer on a my trade in, and that was without me buying a Chevy. Everything about owning and buying my car has been a nightmare.
Published: August 27, 2016
Devin of Las Vegas, NV
Source: consumeraffairs.com

When we purchased our 2014 Subaru Legacy it seemed to have a slow turnover.
When we purchased our 2014 Subaru Legacy it seemed to have a slow turnover. It has 8,000 miles - we bought it September 2013. Im wondering if anyone else has had this problem with their Subaru Legacys starting slow? And if youve purchased a new battery, which battery have you purchased to replace it? Or did you get back to the dealership and have them give you a new battery?
Published: February 7, 2015
William of Colliers, WV
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Bought car from a Subaru dealership that had very bad dealing with taking c
Bought car from a Subaru dealership that had very bad dealing with taking care of my vehicle, contacted the dealership. It took about a week to to finally get the car repair, when it was repair I notice I could still smell oil burning, I contacted both Dealership and Subaru of America. Made several complaints but nothing was done about it, I was assured that the problem was fixed and it was done right.I have maintain and service that car, I was told by the dealership and Subaru of America that all was repairs was done correctly and I did notice that the car was losing oil every 3,000 miles but I was told by the dealership that was normal and nothing to worry about. But I was told to maintain the proper oil changes approximate every 3000 miles and since it was a new car and there was free oil change for 2 years I did just that.Recently I learn that it was not normal about the oil leaking and that this engine in this model car. The Company knew of this problem and had tried to hide it from the consumers to keep a better profit for its shareholders, a class action suit took Subaru of America to court and the details was disclose about the engine losing oil and that the company knew and tried to hide it. The court order them to fix it but I am seeing they are not really living up to the deal made to the courts. What they have done is put in place a scam that makes the consumer to pay for repairs to be able to take the test showing that the engine is faulty which cost about 2500 dollars, but if you fix the problem then the test they want to run dealing with the oil consumption will pass cause the leaks is fixed.But that not the end of this nightmare, I also found out the Subaru of America sued the Dealership that I bought the car from for filing out positive report that the customers said how great the service and how please they were with this car when they were not please at all, and the owner of at this dealership, made people to lie about the engine and the car by filing reports. With the bad experiences they had received like me. This dealership close its doors and the records of how many times I was there for service was lost along with how many times I complained.Do you think that when I came back to Subaru of America since I had found a honest mechanic which told me that I needed a engine repair and point all of this problem to me and also told me that this was a common problem with this engine. So the mechanic advise me to return to Subaru dealership and let them know and see how this was going to be handle. I made several call. Got different quotes just to bring it in to be looked at. But finally the dealership of Irvine where most of the repairs and really I am very happy about most of their service but Subaru of America customer people in charge that I was put in contact with has lied to my face over the telephone that there was nothing wrong with these vehicles 2012 to 2016 I think I was told. But later after a few days the person came back with a offer of 1000 dollars off to help in the repairs of this vehicle, which I was told they was doing me a favor. I was also told that my car never had any reports about oil engine leaks by the person I was dealing with to get this matter resolve and I found out that was not the truth. He was telling me cause the Dealership of Irvine underline that their computer show that the right side was repair for a engine problem and the codes were on the papers showing it needed to be repaired again. But the person never shared that with me and the Corporate America knew of the bad dealing of this dealership where I bought this car and why they went out of business and that they had sued them in court and won. This is what big company do. They find ways not to hold up to their responsibility or try to find ways to appease the consumer by either showing they have little concerns and honor, so they give as little as possible to maintain higher profit. I wrote back to the gentleman which I was assigned but also email Subaru of America my concerns and I know they should fix my car for free instead of paying a small portion or the other offer was 1000 dollars off of a purchase of a new car from them. Now dont you find this to be a real big joke and insulting to anyone who has been scam by dealerships selling their product telling you that they maintain the highest standards and guarantee doing business as well as warranty of excellents.Im still waiting. Its been over a week and no reply from the emails I have sent to all parties not even a phone calls. What is sad is the hours and time spent, researching and being frustrated by employees that are told to lie, not to have compassion, and find any possible way to not honor their commitment. I live in Fountain Valley, I was at the dealership on 10/25/19 customer no. **. Now that is if Subaru of America or anyone want to check but I feel what needs to be checked is the class action suit claims what was discovery first and the outcome which was addressed and then find out there is a charge by most dealership for about 137.00 dollars just to check to find out and you cant get the consumption test until the repairs are done, which is about 2500 dollars. And that cost is also at the consumer dime, even if the test shows that it is a problem you are still out this large amount of money, but what even more funny is the Company has extended the warranty of this engine to 8 years but the cost is still on the consumers.
Published: November 13, 2019
Marialice of Fountain Valley, CA
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I put down a $200 deposit, still havent gotten the check that they promised
I put down a $200 deposit, still havent gotten the check that they promised to send over 3 weeks ago. The manager Erik ** was rude and completely apathetic to anything I spoke about. I would never send anyone here.
Published: April 20, 2017
Kitty of Greenlawn, NY
Source: consumeraffairs.com

2014 Subaru WRX - Blown rod bearing at 8000 miles. Car was not modded in an
2014 Subaru WRX - Blown rod bearing at 8000 miles. Car was not modded in any way. Honestly, not sure what happened. I am 40, and do not race or mod cars. I had several cars, and never had any issues like this. Car is in the shop, and they replaced the short block only. I do not want the car any more, so will see if Subaru will do the right thing. Very disappointed in this brand. My first Subaru, and maybe the last.
Published: May 12, 2015
Adrian of San Antonio, TX
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Never notified of CVT issue. Told me they sent letters regarding the issue
Never notified of CVT issue. Told me they sent letters regarding the issue but I never received anything. Once issue started on my car, they told me they couldn’t do anything because my car was outside of warranty date/mileage. My car is stalling while I’m driving, they claim it’s not a safety issue. They offered to pay 50% of my 2,000$ repair but I declined stating that these vehicles need to be recalled because of it stalling while driving. They declined and said it’s not a safety issue on them to deal with. Basically doing whatever they can to get around handling this situation. From what I’ve seen, when they started with the CVT transmissions back in 2012, those issues are still continuing to happen even on brand new vehicles.
Published: October 16, 2018
Jessica of Muskegon, MI
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Bought used Subaru Legacy 2.2L manual transmission, 264 000. Had it five ye
Bought used Subaru Legacy 2.2L manual transmission, 264 000. Had it five years now at 560 000, never given me a problem. Rock solid car, put maybe $2000 in parts into it. I would happily buy another Subaru. All fluids synthetic. Purrs like a kitten.
Published: April 1, 2015
Chris of Edmonton, AB
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I have a 2011 Outback and I first had to add a quart of oil around 95K mile
I have a 2011 Outback and I first had to add a quart of oil around 95K miles. My son in law said that they probably didnt fill it full when my oil was changed last. So I think anything of it although I told them about it and brought it for an oil change. They didnt bother to tell me about excess oil consumption while I was under an extended warranty. So I got the full synthetic oil change and was told the next change is due in 7K miles. At 4000 mi. the oil light came on and it was 2 quarts low! I am furious that I was not told about this while was under a warranty! Now I have 103K mi. and they probably wont offer any assistance.Also, it almost dies (like a slow idle?) when I stop for a stop light or even a stop sign. It has done this since 39K and they can never diagnose it. It is getting pretty persistent. Does anyone know what this could be? They say it doesnt happen when they test drive it and the computer does not show anything. My guess is, now the warranty is over, they can diagnose it right away! Never another Subaru!!
Published: April 6, 2016
Nancy of Nashville, TN
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Our 2010 Outback failed on a road trip in a cloud of smoke a few days and l
Our 2010 Outback failed on a road trip in a cloud of smoke a few days and less than 1,000 miles after an oil change and 23-pt. inspection at the selling dealership. Were told the engine block would need replacement -- $5,200 -- and a $1,300 tear down to see what other engine parts would need replacement. With few options, in another city, we traded the remains on a 14 Forester. The Outback used immense quantities of oil; we began changing every 1,500-2000 miles and always carried oil because the light went on frequently. Dealers that checked said no biggie. Three times we had episodes where the idiot lights all went on, the Outback shuddered, had no power, etc. Bad plugs (after a dealer change) and perhaps briefly using hi-test gas were blamed. I think NHTSA needs to look at engine reliability.
Published: April 25, 2014
Kames of Milwaukee, WI
Source: consumeraffairs.com

My wife and I bought a brand new Subaru Forrester, our second one. Had no c
My wife and I bought a brand new Subaru Forrester, our second one. Had no complaints with the first one 250,000 miles. The new one is a complete **. Around 30k miles started burning oil at the rate of about a quart every 2k miles, we jumped through all their hoops and did their ridiculous oil consumption test. We were treated like morons, told this is acceptable with a boxer engine which is ridiculous! My boss owns a Porsche which also has a boxer engine and doesnt burn a drop. Anyways they finally admitted there was a defect and replaced the top end (short block). Now with less than 20k since the replacement having the same issues, wife went back to dealer today! Its a shame because we really loved the first one but at this point no matter what they do, we will NEVER, EVER, own another Subaru!!!
Published: August 20, 2015
Robert of Lempster, NH
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I actually recorded the issue this morning and again will be back at the de
I actually recorded the issue this morning and again will be back at the dealership. The Dealership is great. However, my new Subaru Outback 3.6R Touring is not. I loved my 2013 Outback 3.6R and want it back. Never had these issues and it’s not like I can just run the vehicle down the street for issues but have to drive over 30 miles one way. I bought my 2017 in December and the screen freezes up; now a total of 6 times. The camera wont work right and there is a too long of a hesitation from reverse to drive and no one can find the problems. Dealership reset and again the same problems. The scariest was this past Saturday. Mapping, clock everything froze, literally had to pull over and stop the car and then restart it in order to make it sync and work again. If they cant fix this issue someone better be finding my 2013 Outback and getting it back for me since I never had any issues with that one. The 2017 since I have purchased has had one issue after another. It seems others are having these issues as well so why isnt this being recalled or fixed.
Published: August 2, 2017
JoJo of Belton, TX
Source: consumeraffairs.com

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