Subaru Outback problems
The Subaru Outback is an automotive nameplate used by the Japanese automaker Subaru for two different SUV-themed vehicles: a Legacy-derived crossover station wagon, the Outback (1994–present, also sold as Legacy Outback (Japanese: スバル・レガシィアウトバック, Hepburn: Subaru Regashi Autobakku) in some markets), and an Impreza-derived off-road themed hatchback, the Outback Sport (1994–2011).
Most versions of the Outback wagon and Outback Sport have had all-wheel drive as standard equipment.
History
The original Outback station wagon was derived from the wagon variant of the second-generation Subaru Legacy. The first-generation Legacy, which made its debut in 1989, did not receive the cosmetic and suspension modifications to create an Outback version, although Subaru offered an Outdoor option package for the 1994 model year Legacy L all-wheel drive model, which added a compressed air strut height adjustable suspension, a luggage rack, a skidplate, and mud flaps.
Earlier, a raised-roof "Touring Wagon" variant had been offered on the preceding Subaru Leone for the 1988 and 1989 model years. Subaru also sold a raised-roof variant (chassis code BF) of the first-generation Legacy wagon outside the United States. North American Legacy wagons were only offered as the flat-roof variant (chassis code BJ) until a special "GT" model was marketed for the 1994 model year.
The second-generation Legacy wagon became the first generation of the Outback crossover series, called the "Legacy Grand Wagon" in Japan in 1995, and the "Legacy Outback" in most other markets. Compared to the existing Legacy wagon, the "Outback" variant added partial protective plastic side body cladding for off-road conditions, used a raised roof, and would later raise the suspension to provide additional ground clearance. It was introduced at the 1994 New York Auto Show. Aside from other small differences in trim, the Outback shares almost all of its components with the Legacy donor model.
When launched in Australia in 1996, the name "Legacy Outback" was shortened to "Outback", followed in other markets afterwards. In the United States, Subaru also retailed the Legacy SUS sedan between the 1997 and 2007 model years, with similar modifications to distinguish it from the equivalent Legacy model sedan. The Impreza Outback Sport was introduced at the 1996 New York Auto Show, but for the 1997 model year, the donor model names were dropped, and the cars were known as the "Outback" and "Outback Sport".
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Subaru Outback model years
Common Subaru Outback problems
Common Problems with Subaru Outback Cars:
- Oil Leaks and Oil Consumption: Oil leaks are a common problem in Subaru Outbacks, particularly in the 2013 model, which may suffer from a defective piston. Older models, such as those from 2000-2003, may also experience oil leaks due to camshaft and crankshaft seal failures. In some cases, these issues may require an expensive engine rebuild.
- Cooling System Failure: Many Subaru Outbacks, particularly those released between 2000 and 2018, may experience cooling system failure. This issue often starts with minor problems like a broken thermostat, radiator issues, or coolant leaks, which can lead to more severe damage, such as head gasket failure. Subaru has extended the warranty for this issue, which typically occurs at the 100,000-mile mark.
- Transmission Issues: Transmission problems have affected various model years of the Subaru Outback, with the 2002 and 2004 models being particularly prone to issues like clutch damage and high-pitched noises. These problems can lead to more severe issues, such as transmission slippage, which can be dangerous on the road.
- Electrical Problems: Electrical issues are the worst problem category for the Subaru Outback, with the 2013 model year being the worst due to higher repair costs and more problems at lower mileage.
- AC System Issues: Drivers have reported problems with the AC system in the Subaru Outback, with some experiencing intense shuddering during acceleration.
- Weak Windshields: Subaru Outback windshields are prone to cracking, particularly in the 2013 model year, which was part of a recall due to a defective piston ring that caused oil to leak or burn, potentially leading to engine failure.
- Vibration During Acceleration: Approximately 280+ people have reported an intense shudder during acceleration in the Subaru Outback.
- Dead Battery: The most-reported problem for the Subaru Outback is the dead battery issue in the 2017 model year.
While the Subaru Outback has faced various issues in the past, newer models, such as those released after 2018, have seen improvements in reliability and durability, particularly in the CVT transmission.
What is the most common problem with the Subaru Outback?
A list of some of the most common issues Outback owners have to deal with.
- Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires. ...
- Legacy and Outback Headlights Burn Out. ...
- Melting Dashboards. ...
- Subaru EyeSight Problems. ...
- Subaru Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags. ...
- Excessive Oil Consumption. ...
- Rust and Corrosion Problems. ...
- Leaky Head Gaskets.
What year is bad for Subaru Outback?
Quick Answer: Avoid Subaru Outback Year Models 2013 and 2014. When searching for the most dependable Subaru Outback, it's vital to consider the worst.
Is a Subaru Outback a reliable car?
Q: How reliable is the Subaru Outback? A: The Subaru Outback is considered one of the more reliable vehicles in its class and price range. With proper maintenance, typical users can expect 16-20 years of use before significant repairs or breakdowns are needed.
What are common Subaru Outback starting problems?
The most common reasons a Subaru Outback won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Subaru Outback years
We have researched Subaru problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Subaru Outback cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Subaru Outback model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Subaru Outback model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Subaru Outback years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Subaru Outback car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Subaru Outback , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Subaru Outback vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Outback model years
A total of 365 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Outback model years
There were a total of 76 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Outback model years
There were a total of 238 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Outback model years
There were a total of 6 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 9068 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Subaru Outback . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Subaru Outback vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Subaru Outback 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-21
- VIN: 4S4BSAFC0K3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Infotainment unit failed. Battery died and was replaced with a larger capacity battery. Shortly after, the infotainment head unit became inoperable with ghosting of buttons. Then, the car would not hold a charge again and a bypass box for the digital communication center is being installed today under a recall. The ghosting/inoperable infotainment center remains non-functional and is apparently a separate issue? It randomly beeps and selects buttons, which is distracting. Unit has to be shut off to avoid this.
Subaru Outback 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-19
- VIN: 4S4BSANC4K3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Battery goes dead after not using car for 4 days. Subaru said the battery that came with the car was not strong enough. There was a lawsuit, but i missed the date to buy a new battery. I bought a strong battery, but problem happed again. Based on many forum messages, there is a parasitic battery drain while car is off. Problem is tied to Starlink Fuse. Also saw a new lawsuit on the fact that Starlink is trying to connect to 3G network, which no longer exists. Subaru is not fixing this problem. Google Subaru 2019 Starlink battery, it is all over the place.
Subaru Outback 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-14
- VIN: 4S4BTGPD9N3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Have second deep crack with light rock impact in less than one year
Subaru Outback 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-04
- VIN: 4S4BTGLD5N3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Windshield has a crack. There is no external force, neither accident happened
Subaru Outback 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-30
- VIN: 4S4BSAFC7K3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DCM battery drain and bad head unit display. The class action law suit does not cover the fix for the battery drain problem. Just a new battery. My is the battery continues to drain. I cannot afford to replace the problem DCM. I had to pull that fuse as a fix. I now do not have fro t speakers or Bluetooth. My CarPlay maps no longer tell me where I need to turn. Causing me to looks at the display more frequently. This is not good in busy areas. The other issue is with the head unit. When it gets warm and humid, the display doesn’t work. It clicks all over causing issues with CarPlay, Bluetooth and the radio. This is due to moisture getting in the display. Again causing problems and distractions. This will cause accidents if it hasn’t already. There are a lot of complaints out there for this as well as the DCM battery drain.
Subaru Outback 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: 4S4BSAFC6K3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Head unit delaminating after Data Control Module repair in 2023. Head unit is entirely inoperable and poses a safety risk to driver by turning radio on and off, switching stations, raising and lowering volume level, and affecting the eyesight periodically. Head unit can be turned off after multiple attempts, however powers back up on its own continuing the previously mentioned issues.
Subaru Outback 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 4S4BSBJC2F3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The horn stopped working on my vehicle. This puts my safety and other driver's safety at risk since I can not alert them if they are coming into my lane. I contacted Subaru Customer Advocacy but they are not willing to fix this problem. I checked the online forums and this seems to be a common problem.
Subaru Outback 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 4S4BRBGC0C3
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that his vehicle was consistently burning out head light bulbs. The contact stated that in a 3 year period he had replaced the both the driver's side and the passenger side bulbs 7 times, and following one failure he had replaced the passenger side housing. The contact stated that the bulb in the new housing had blown out. The contact stated that he had also blown a headlight while driving at night at an undisclosed speed. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic was diagnosed and it was determined that the wiring and electrical system was in working order. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Subaru Outback 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 4S4BSENCSK3
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Subaru Outback 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 4S4BTGUD5R3
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that after the purchase of the vehicle, the dealer informed the contact to schedule an appointment to install the trailer hitch harness. The contact was informed by the dealer that the vehicle could tow a capacity of 3,500 lbs. The contact wanted to attach a camper to the trailer hitch. The contact was then informed by the dealer when the dealer attempted to install the hitch harness that the vehicle did not have any trailer brakes to which the tow harness could not be installed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the dealer would not install the trailer brakes and referred the contact to an independent mechanic for further assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 3,395.
Subaru Outback 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 4S4BTGPD7N3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: DEFECTIVE WINDSHIELDS: COSTLY REPAIR: I purchased this car when it was 9 months old with 7800 miles on it. I now have 30, 080 miles. and I have had to replace the windshield 3 times. I also had one a chip repaired. This means I have replaced the windshield every 7427. miles. Once the crack has started the lane sensing and brake stopping programs are halted. This is a serious safety issue. This is BEYOND RIDICULOUS for a NEW MODEL car. There much be something wrong with the making of these windshields, or the material used to make these windshields. This is a costly repair, being that the windshield needs re-calibrating each time. It's been around $2500.00 each time. The Subaru Dealer I purchased the car from has been made aware, but they have no solutions, no discounts, or no other options. Other than empathy, and tell me many others are having the same problems.
Subaru Outback 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 4S4BTGPDXP3
- Components: POWER TRAIN,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: When coming to a stop at a stop sign, the car jerks and the engine appears to stall. I have brought it to 2 dealerships and both have said that it is "normal". I have had dozens of cars and none have ever performed in this manner. The adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking frequently brakes for no reason or does not recognize cars in front of me. It regularly misses large objects directly in front of the car. The system also has a lot of failures and turns itself off randomly for unknown reasons. (again, "working as designed")
Subaru Outback 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 4S4BSATCXH3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Battery drain kept on happening. The nth time after buying 2 batteries and getting battery recharge 2x, Subaru sent me a letter of notice of possible problems with car keeps on finding radio or gps signal thus drains the battery. Brought car to Subaru then they changed the signal unit and gave me a new battery as well.
Subaru Outback 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 4S4BSANC8J3
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The infotainment screen has delaminated rendering it unusable and will intermittantly interrupt the backup camera while moving. This is the second screen already with this issue in my vehicle
Subaru Outback 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 4S4BTAAC7M3
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Thermo control valve failure. Would not cover it
Latest 5 recalls Subaru Outback
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 199 recalls for different components of the Subaru Outback.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Subaru Outback 2020
- Report Received Date: 2024-03-22
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the ODS sensors on the front passenger seat, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners will receive a second letter once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-24.
- Model: Subaru Outback 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-03-22
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the ODS sensors on the front passenger seat, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners will receive a second letter once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-24.
- Model: Subaru Outback 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-03-22
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the ODS sensors on the front passenger seat, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners will receive a second letter once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-24.
- Model: Subaru Outback 2022
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-09
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
- Consequence: An inoperative inhibitor switch may prevent the reverse lights from illuminating and the rearview camera image from displaying, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the inhibitor switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WRQ-23.
- Model: Subaru Outback 2021
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-09
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
- Consequence: An inoperative inhibitor switch may prevent the reverse lights from illuminating and the rearview camera image from displaying, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the inhibitor switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WRQ-23.
Latest negative Subaru Outback car reviews
Latest positive Subaru Outback car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2004
The Outback is truly the best AWD car on the market. I have become so accustomed to it that whenever I drive any other car, I can't help but compare it to my Outback, which always comes out on top. The solidly built chassis and suspension are particularly impressive, although I do wish there was a little less body roll. I once drove this car uphill in 1.5 feet of snow and it felt like driving a battle tank - the sure-footed handling is truly remarkable. I have tried other 4-wheel drive cars such as the Passat, Volvo, BMW, and Jeep, but nothing compares to the Outback's performance. Even in the Catskill mountains during winter, I found many Jeep 4x4s stuck in the same tracks as mine. The engine is also incredibly robust. I recently took a cross-country trip and found the Outback to be extremely comfortable. I have had no problems so far, even at 100,000 miles. I do believe that VDC should be standard, though.
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Vehicle year: 2010
The car is absolutely wonderful, but the navigation system could use some improvement. As long as you keep up with regular maintenance, this car is an absolute dream!
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Vehicle year: 2018
This is an update to my earlier review. Since owning the car, the radio head unit died but was replaced under warranty. So far, the new unit appears to be working, although the volume can be inconsistent. Sometimes, after a phone call, the radio volume comes back far louder than it was set. Additionally, road noise is much more noticeable than in my former car, especially to other people if I'm using the phone. I miss the feature on my old car that lowered the fan speed on the A/C during a call and adjusted the volume for speed on the radio. If you have any back or neck issues, I would recommend an extended test drive. I test drove the Outback several times and even took it home for a weekend. I had some tightness in my mid-back, but I attributed that to some yard work I had been doing. The seats are extremely firm, and as others have mentioned, the lumbar is aggressive and seems a little misplaced for me. I am 5'4They do offer a windshield extended warranty type contract. However, during your test drive, sales may not have mentioned it.
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Vehicle year: 2000
I chose this car for its safety and reliability records. Although I had to replace the transmission at 80,000 miles for $3700, and now need to replace the head gasket for $1300 at 110,000 miles, I still love this car. It performs exceptionally well on Chicago's winter roads and is a great alternative to gas-guzzling SUVs. Despite being noisy above 60mph, I plan on driving this car for as long as possible.
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Vehicle year: 2008
Your car has a high ground clearance, but it's not too tall. I've had all-wheel drive for 8 years and it has been a huge help. The traction is great for both accelerating and stopping, and I can't praise it enough. However, it's worth noting that the gas mileage does suffer a bit with all-wheel drive.
Are you having problems with your Subaru Outback?
Davonte Kozey 2025-10-21
Vehicle year: 2005
Although I have had some issues with this used car, I have taken care of them promptly and efficiently. The alarm issue was resolved by the dealer after some investigation, and I have had some sensors and parts replaced. The car has been well-maintained and has not yet reached 70k miles. I am confident in my ability to handle any future issues that may arise, and I am satisfied with my decision to purchase this car.
Ben Powlowski 2025-10-17
Vehicle year: 2018
I have experienced significant issues with my 2018 Subaru Outback, specifically violent swaying when driving at 65 mph and hitting bumps in the road. Despite visiting the dealership four times, I have been told that this is normal or that they cannot replicate the issue. I even contacted the 800-subaru3 number and spoke with Richard Ambrose, who unfortunately informed me that the lemon law does not apply since they cannot duplicate the problem. I am concerned for my safety and the safety of my children, especially when travelling to Chicago. Despite my efforts to show the dealership online complaints from other customers experiencing the same issue, they have not taken any action. Additionally, I have had problems with the seat belt retracting, which the dealership has dismissed as a non-issue. As a customer, I am extremely dissatisfied with the lack of concern and action from Subaru and its representatives.
Ignacio Maggio 2025-10-15
Vehicle year: 2023
The driver monitoring system disarms when you wear sunglasses or a hat, and the backup alarm only works from the side, not if something is right behind you. The radio keeps changing screens from stations to cell phone, and unfortunately, you cannot shut off the engine stop and go feature. Additionally, the memory seat only works if the passenger gets in the car first, and you can only program what the vehicle allows you to. Despite these challenges, I wish you the best of luck with this vehicle!
Esteban Harris 2025-10-11
Vehicle year: 2002
We had a great experience with our second outback, a 3.0h6 vdc that we bought used. It was fully loaded with everything, including the amazing McIntosh stereo, and had previously been owned by the regional Subaru rep. For 4 years, we took our 2 kids and 80 lb dog all over Colorado in it. However, after hitting 100,000 miles, we did experience some maintenance issues. One of the biggest problems was the car burning through brakes, and it also began to leak oil - a lot of oil! The most concerning issue was when the vdc off light would come on and the engine would overheat while going up hills. Despite taking it to two Subaru dealers, they were unable to find the problem and even overhauled the entire cooling system at great expense. Although we eventually had to trade it in, we still have fond memories of our time with the car.
Miles Hoeger 2025-10-08
Vehicle year: 2001
I have owned this car since new and have put 118,000 miles on it. Unfortunately, I have had to replace the head gasket three times, with the first replacement at 36,000 miles and the second at 83,000 miles. Additionally, in very cold weather (10 degrees or less), the gas lines at the fuel pump tend to condense, which allows fuel to vaporize into the engine compartment, resulting in an unpleasant smell. Despite these issues, I have found that the car has a few smaller problems and goes through tires quickly.