1997 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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Common 1997 Subaru Outback problems
The Subaru Outback is known for its reliability, but certain model years have common problems. The 1997 Subaru Outback, in particular, has been reported to have issues with head gasket leaks.
Another common issue with the Subaru Outback, although not specifically mentioned for the 1997 model, is excessive oil consumption.
Transmission failure is another problem that has been reported for the Subaru Outback, specifically for the 2013 model.
While not specifically mentioned for the 1997 model, it is worth noting that the Subaru Outback has had issues with its Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in the past, particularly between 2010 and 2015.
In summary, the 1997 Subaru Outback has been reported to have issues with head gasket leaks, which can cause the engine to overheat and potentially seize during long trips. It is recommended to nurse the car, allow it to cool off, and top off the radiator every 100 miles while allowing it to cool each time the radiator cap is removed. Additionally, it is advised to use only a radiator cap from a Subaru dealer. Other common issues with the Subaru Outback include excessive oil consumption and transmission failure, particularly for the 2013 model. While not specifically mentioned for the 1997 model, it is worth noting that the Subaru Outback has had issues with its CVT in the past, particularly between 2010 and 2015.
What year was bad for Subaru Outback?
2010 and 2011 Subaru Outbacks Stand Out as the Worst Years Due to High Recall Count, Excessive Oil Consumption, Head Gasket Failures, and Transmission Problems.
What is a common problem with a Subaru Outback?
A: Common issues with Subaru Outbacks across various years include vibration during acceleration, problems with the AC system, O2 sensor failures, weak windshields prone to cracking, cooling system failures, headlight burnouts, excessive oil consumption, and unintended acceleration in specific models.
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.
What were the best years for Subaru Outback?
Subaru Outback Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
| Generation | Best Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|
| 3rd generation (BP) | 2007 | 2005 2008 2009 |
| 4th generation (BR) | 2014 | 2010 2011 2012 |
| 5th generation (BS) | 2016 2017 | 2015 |
| 6th generation (BT) | 2022 2024 | 2020 2021 |
What year is bad for Subaru Outback?
After reports from multiple owners that they were buying oil in large quantities, Subaru eventually issued a recall. The 2011 to 2013 models had a defective piston ring that caused oil to leak or burn excessively. The excessive burning led to engine failure, which wasn't discovered until much later.
What is a common problem with a Subaru Outback?
Some top Subaru Outback problems include weak windshields, poor cooling systems, oxygen sensor failure, excessive oil consumption due to oil leaks, and faulty airbags.
Are old Outbacks reliable?
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.
1997 Subaru Outback car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Outback problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Service brakes problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Subaru Outback vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Subaru Outback
The NHTSA has received 80 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Subaru Outback. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Subaru Outback vehicles.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-10-06
- VIN: 4S3BG6850V7
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: NOTICED A LEAK OF FLUID FROM PASSENGER SIDE BY THE REAR WHEEL. DETERMINED IT WAS GASOLINE. UPON INSPECTION FOUND FUEL LEAKING FROM THE FILLER TUBE TO THE GAS TANK. GOT THE CAR TO A SUBARU REPAIR SHOP AND WAS TOLD THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM. THERE IS NO UNDERCOATING APPLIED TO THE TUBE. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-26
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4S3BG6854V7
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING AT RELATIVELY LOW SPEEDS AND DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL IN AN ATTEMPT TO PARK WHEN THE VEHICLE ABNORMALLY ACCELERATED. THE CONTACT PROCEEDED TO CRASH INTO A VEHICLE AHEAD OF HIM. THERE WERE NO REPORTED INJURIES. THIS WAS NOT THE FIRST INSTANCE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO LOCATE NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 98V035000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL) RELATIVE TO THE FAILURE BUT WAS ADVISED BY THE MANUFACTURER THAT THE RECALL REPAIR WAS PREVIOUSLY PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL MECHANIC FOR INSPECTION WHERE IT WAS VERIFIED THAT THE REPAIR HAD NOT BEEN PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 121,000.
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-07-04
- VIN: 4S3BG6858V7
- Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: DRIVING ALONG I-495 SOUTHBOUND IN MASSACHUSETTS JUST BEFORE EXIT FOR I-90. SPEED WAS 65 MPH. HOOD LATCH FAILED CAUSING THE HOOD TO COME UP WITHOUT WARNING. THE WINDSHIELD WAS SMASHED, THE ROOF WAS DENTED, AND THE HOOD WAS BENT WITH THE HINGES PARTIALLY DEFORMED AND CRACKED. THE HOOD HADN'T BEEN OPENED OR TOUCHED IN SEVERAL WEEKS/>2000 MILES. PASSENGER AND I WERE LUCKILY UNHARMED, I WAS ABLE TO CLOSE THE HOOD AGAIN, AND DROVE HOME AT 50 ON THE HIGHWAY, 25 ON REGULAR ROADS. WINDSHIELD WAS REPLACED THE FOLLOWING WEEK, HOOD STILL DAMAGED. HOOD SECURED WITH BUNGEE CORD AS I NO LONGER TRUST THE LATCH. LOOKING INTO INSTALLING HOOD PINS WHEN I FIND A REPLACEMENT HOOD, SIMPLY FOR SAFETY/LIABILITY REASONS. THE ONLY REASON THIS WASN'T A MUCH MORE SERIOUS ACCIDENT WAS THAT I WAS ALREADY IN THE RIGHT HAND LANE, AND WAS ABLE TO PULL INTO THE BREAKDOWN LANE INSTANTLY. HAD TO DO THIS BLINDLY, AS I COULD NOT SEE AROUND THE HOOD. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-09
- VIN: 4S3BG6851W7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I BOUGHT A 97 SUBARU LEGACY OUTBACK WGN AND FOUND OUT THE BLOCK WAS CRACKED IN CYL3 AFTER TEAR DOWN FOR GASKET REPLACEMENT,NOW PUT TOGETHER AND NOW WON'T START. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-08-29
- VIN: 4S3BG685XV7
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL FILLER NECK RUSTED CAUSING GAS TO LEAK OUT ONTO GARAGE FLOOR AND WHILE DRIVING AND FILLING TANK. VEHICLE WAS BROUGHT INTO DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIR TO REPLACE THE RUSTED FUEL FILLER NECK. FROM RESEARCH AND COMMENTS FROM DEALERSHIP, THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS MAKE OF VEHICLE. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-21
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: LOSS OF COOLANT, OVERHEATED ENGINE, DIAGNOSIS OF BLOWN HEAD GASKET CAR: 1997 SUBARAU LEGACY OUTBACK WITH 2.5 LITER ENGINE. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-23
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: OVERHEATING, BLOWN HEAD GASKET. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-15
- VIN: 4S3BG6854V7
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: GAS TANK FILLER PIPE HAS RUSTED THROUGH. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-01
- VIN: 4S3BG6850V7
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: HOOD OPENING ACCIDENTALLY WHILE DRIVING. I WAS DRIVING ON A HEAVILY RAINY DAY WHEN THE HOOD OPENED UP AND SLAMMED THE WINDSHIELD. THE WINDSHIELD WAS COMPLETELY BROKEN AND THE HOOD WAS SEVERELY DAMAGED INCLUDING THE BODY OF THE CAR JUST ABOVE THE WINDSHIELD. I HAD NOT OPENED THE HOOD LEADING UP TO THE EVENT. LUCKILY I DIDN'T GET INTO A ACCIDENT WHEN THE INCIDENT HAPPENED. I SUBSEQUENTLY CALLED SUBARU ABOUT IT AND ADVISED ME THAT THE INCIDENT HADN'T, TO THE BEST OF THEIR KNOWLEDGE, IN OTHER 1997 SUBARU OUTBACK WAGONS. I WAS NOT DIRECTED TO FILE A COMPLAINT WITH YOUR AGENCY, THUS I LET IT PASS. I WAS REMINDED OF THE INCIDENT, AND THE POSSIBILITY OF THE ACCIDENT BEING MORE PREVALENT, WHEN I SAW A SIMILAR CAR WITH THE EXACT SAME DAMAGE TO THE HOOD (I.E., PATTERN AND BENT). *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-14
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: '97 SUBARU OUTBACK WAGON IMPECCABLY MAINTAINED 85,000 MI IS OVERHEATING. BEGAN AS INTERMITTENT PROBLEM APPROX 5 MONTHS AGO. FLUSHED RADIATOR, REPL CAP, PRESSURE TESTED RADIATOR. DRIVING DOWN HILL ON MOUNTAIN ROAD IN MORNING COLD, OVERHEATS AFTER ABOUT 6 MILES. REPL THERMOSTAT, WATER PUMP, TIMING BELT. SUBARU DEALER REPAIR MECHANIC SAYS HEAD GASKET. GOOGLED PROBLEM ONLINE BEFORE REPLACING THERMOSTAT. BLOGS FROM OUTBACK OWNERS WITH SAME SYMPTOMS SAY HEAD GASKET. AN INCREDIBLE NUMBER OF BLOGS DESCRIBING THE SAME PROBLEM AND STATEMENTS THAT SUBARU HAS NEVER TAKEN RESPONSIBILITY FOR THIS FLAW WHICH HAS AFFECTED SO MANY OUTBACK OWNERS. THIS IS A CRIME. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-13
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 4S3BG6856V7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH ON NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS, THE PASSENGER FRONT TIRE EXPLODED. THE AAA PROVIDED ASSISTANCE AND REPLACED THE TIRE WITH THE SPARE(DOUGHNUT). WHEN THE VEHICLE ARRIVED TO THE RESIDENCE, THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL WAS ON FIRE. THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED WITH WATER. THE OWNERS MANUAL IN PAGE 8-11 INDICATED IN FINE PRINT, WHEN THE SPARE DOUGHNUT WAS USED A FUSE HAD TO BE PLUGGED IN THE FUSE BOX TO MAINTAIN AN EMERGENCY LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE NEAREST INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO DETERMINED THE FIRE WAS DUE TO THE DIFFERENTIAL OVER HEATING BECAUSE THE UNEVEN DISTRIBUTION OF TRACTION WHEN A SMALLER SIZE TIRE WAS IN USE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED, AND DETERMINED THE VEHICLE SHOULD BE TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED SUBARU DEALERSHIP TO HONOR THE REPAIRS COST.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-04-12
- VIN: 4S3BG6859V7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: NOTICED OIL LEAKING FROM ENGINE. HAD TO HAVE FRONT CRANK SEAL REPLACED. ALSO NEEDED TO GET TIMING BELT REPLACED AS OIL LEAKED INTO TIMING BELT COVER. COST $368 TO GET FIXED. LEAKAGE BEGAN WHEN CAR WAS JUST A FEW YEARS OLD. THAT SHOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED AS CAR HAD NOT BEEN IN ACCIDENT OR ABUSED. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-03-16
- VIN: 4S3BG685XW6
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: BLOWN HEAD GASKET 1997 SUBARU OUTBACK LEGACY. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-02-21
- VIN: 4S3BG6856V6
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1997 SUBARU OUTBACK 2.5 DOHC ENGINE 1) CAR WAS SUDDENLY LEAKING ANTI-FREEZE, BROUGHT IT IN TO SHOP ASAP 2) HEAD GASKET BUSTED, RUINED THE ENGINE 3) NEEDED TO REPLACE MOST OF ENGINE, INCLUDING BLOCK CHECKED OTHER SITES, THIS SEEMS TO BE A HUGELY COMMON PROBLEM WITH SUBARU 2.5 DOHC ENGINES AND THEY AREN'T DOING ANYTHING ABOUT IT. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-21
- VIN: 4S3BG6858V7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: OUTBACK 1997: 108,000. CAR OVERHEATED SUDDENLY ON A SHORT TRIP. REPLACED THERMOSTAT AND FLUSHED/FILLED RADIATOR AT LOCAL FIRESTONE. TWO DAYS LATER, CAR OVERHEATS. IN BOTH CASES, RADIATOR FLUID EJECTED ONTO ENGINE. TOOK CAR TO DEALER WHO IDENTIFIED THE NOW VERY COMMON "BLOWN HEAD GASKET". REPAIRS MADE AT A COST TO ME OF $1400! THIS IS A DEFECT IN THESE AUTOMOBILES THAT NEEDS TO BE TAKEN CARE OF BY SUBARU. WHAT DOES IT TAKE FOR THIS PROBLEM TO BE ADDRESSED? I WAS FORTUNATE TO NOT HAVE BURNED MY ENGINE, OTHERS HAVE NOT BEEN. TIME TO TAKE ACTION!! *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-26
- VIN: 4S3BG6858V7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: HEAD GASKET FAILURE. PURCHASED IN 2/07 (EST. DATE) BEGAN TO FAIL AT LEAST IN 1/05 (1X). THEN WEEKLY IN 7/05. BUT MAY HAVE BEEN SIGNS OF PROBLEM AS EARLY AS 1997/1998. RESULT OF PROBLEM IS UNEXPECTED AND RAPID BUBBLING OVER AND OVERHEATING PLACING OCCUPANTS IN POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS SITUATION. FOR EXAMPLE, ALMOST STRANDED IN BLIZZARD IN 1/05. HAD TO PULL OVER ON HIGH SPEED HIGHWAYS IN SUMMER 05 DUE TO RAPID RED LINING AND RISK OF ENGINE FIRE. SUBARU PICKED UP 1/2 COST ALTHOUGH NOT IN WARRANTY FOR US AND HAS DONE 1/2 TO FULL FOR OTHERS WHO COMPLAINED. ONE OF THE 2.5L ENGINES HAS BEEN SUBJECT TO RECALL. THE 2.5L ENGINE IN OUR CAR HAS NOT BEEN RECALLED BUT WE BELIEVE THAT THE PROBLEMS ARE AS FREQUENT (AND WORSE) AND THE CAR SHOULD BE RECALLED. THIS IS NOT AN ISOLATED INCIDENT. LOCAL MECHANIC SAID HE SEES FREQUENTLY ON SUBARU OUTBACK. FOUND INTERNET WEBLOG STARTED 18 MONTHS AGO WHICH HAS 275 COMPLAINTS AND GROWING MONTHLY - ON BOTH THE 2.5L ENGINES (INCLUDING THE ONE IN OUR CAR). BAD ENOUGH WE HAD TO INCUR $800 OF THE $1600 COST BUT PEOPLE ARE DRIVING AROUND WITH AN ENGINE THAT REPEATEDLY HAS FAILED (HEAD GASKET) AND CREATED A HAZARDOUS CONDITION. I CAN PROVIDE YOU WITH COPIES OF CORRESPONDENCE WITH SUBARU IF YOU WOULD LIKE. SEE LINK BELOW TO WEBLOG PAGE WHERE YOU CAN SEE OTHER PEOPLE'S EXPERIENCE DISCUSSED (275 AND GROWING MONTHLY): HTTP://SCOTT.MCGERIK.COM/2004/02/18/SUBARU-OUTBACK-HEAD-GASKET-LEAK/. *JB
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4S3BG6852V7
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CRUISE CONTROL DID NOT DISENGAGE RESULTING IN A ROLL-OVER ACCIDENT TOTALING THE VEHICLE
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-16
- VIN: 4S3BG6858V7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: IN 2001 I HAD TO HAVE MY TRANSMISSION REPLACED BECAUSE THE ENGINE WOULD NOT HOLD THE CAR BACK WHEN GOING DOWN HILLS. I WAS GOING DOWN A STEEP MOUNTAIN ROAD AND HAD TO USE THE BRAKES ALONE. IT DID NOT MATTER IF IT WAS IN 1, 2 OR D IT WAS THE SAME AS NEUTRAL. IT WOULD ALSO NOT SHIFT INTO THE TOP GEAR ON THE FREEWAY. IT COST OVER $3000 TO GET A SUBARU REBUILT TRANSMISSION PUT IN AT THE DEALER. IT HAD 97K ON IT AT THE TIME. I JUST NOW TOOK MY CAR TO THE DEALER BECAUSE THE CAR WAS SHAKING AND HESITATING. THE DEALER TOLD ME THAT THE CAR NEEDED A NEW TRANSMISSION AND IT WOULD COST $3500. THIS TRANSMISSION IS ONLY 4 YEARS OLD AND HAS LESS THAN 50K ON IT! I CAN'T AFFORD TO REPLACE THE TRANS EVERY 4 YEARS.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-04
- VIN: 4S3BG6857V6
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THIS IS THE STANDARD SUBARU 2.5L HEAD GASKET FAILURE PROBLEM. I ADD THIS TO THE DATABASE TO INCREASE THE PRESSURE ON SUBARU OF AMERICA TO ADDRESS THIS PROBLEM PROPERLY. FOR MORE INFORMATION SEE: HTTP://MYSITE.VERIZON.NET/VZE730QE/GUESTLOG.HTML THE SYMPTOMS ARE AS FOLLOWS. CAR ENGINE BEGAN OVERHEATING -- LARGE TEMPERATURE SPIKES AND THEN WOULD RETURN TO NORMAL. ENGINE OIL APPEARED IN COOLANT RESERVOIR. COOLANT SPEWS ONTO ENGINE. LOSS OF POWER IN SOME GEARS.*JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-23
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1997 SUBARU OUTBACK BLOWN HEAD GASKET. *BF THE VEHICLE LOST INTERNAL HEAT AND THE ENGINE TEMPERATURE READ HOT. THE CONSUMER PULLED OVER AND CHECKED UNDER THE HOOD AND DID NOT NOTICE ANY LOSS OF STEAM, HOWEVER, THE RESERVOIR BOTTLE WAS EMPTY AND FLUID HAD SPILLED ALL OVER THE ENGINE. THE CONSUMER WAS AWARE OF SIX OTHER VEHICLE THAT HAD EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEM. *SC
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-10
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE STARTED TO OVERHEAT. THE THERMOSTAT WAS REPLACED, AND THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO OVERHEAT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER, AND THE ENGINE HAS TO BE REPLACED.*AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-29
- VIN: 4S3BG6856V7
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: THE HOOD FLEW OPEN WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE HOOD CRACKED THE FRONT WINDSHIELD, DENTED THE HOOD AND BENT THE HINGES. THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THE PROBLEM WAS DUE TO A FAULTY HOOD LATCH. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE BOTH NOTIFIED. *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-21
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4S3BG6859V7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: PROBLEMS WITH BRAKE EQUIPMENT ON 1997 SUBARU OUTBACK. *MR THE BRAKES FAILED TO STOP, RESULTING IN THE CONSUMER REAR ENDED THE VEHICLE IN FRONT. MOISTURE WAS FOUND IN THE HOSE WHICH RESULTED IN THE VALVE FREEZING DUE TO COLD TEMPERATURE, BLOCKING OFF THE VACUUM TO THE POWER BRAKE UNIT. *SC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-21
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE A '1997 LEGACY OUTBACK SUBARU. I HAVE HAD THE VEHICLE FOR 3 YEARS. TODAY, JUNE 21, I STOPPED ON MY WAY TO BAR HARBOR, MAINE FOR A CUP OF COFFEE. I PLACED THE COFFEE CUP IN THE CUP HOLDER AND GOT BACK ON THE HIGHWAY. SHORTLY AFTER THIS, I THOUGHT I SMELLED BURNING, BUT THOUGHT IT MUST BE COMING FROM OUTSIDE. I THEN STOPPED AT A BANK TO TAKE CARE OF A TRANSACTION, AND AS I WAS LEAVING THE BANK, I AGAIN SMELLED A FAINT BURNING ODOR. LUCKILY, NOT FAR DOWN THE ROAD, I PASSED MY SUBARU DEALERSHIP, FOR A SHORT DISTANCE PAST THE DEALERSHIP I HEARD A CRACKLING COMING FROM MY CAR RADIO. THINKING I'D LEFT IT ON, I WENT TO TURN IT OFF, ONLY TO DISCOVER IT WAS OFF. THEN THE BURNING SMELL BECAME MUCH MORE EVIDENT, AND I REALIZED I MUST HAVE AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM. I TURNED AROUND, AND WENT BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP. THEY DISCOVERED THAT COFFEE HAD SPILLED ONTO THE RADIO FROM THE STYOFOAM CUP(WHICH HAD A TIGHT CAP ON IT, BY THE WAY!), CAUSING THE ELECTRICAL PROBLEM. A WOMAN I HAD BEEN CHATTING WITH WHILE WAITING FOR THE DIAGNOSTIC WORK TO BE DONE SAID THAT HER '97 SUBARU HAD HAD THE CUP HOLDER BY THE RADIO TOO, BUT THAT THE FOLLOWING YEAR, THE CUP HOLDERS HAD BEEN MOVED FROM THAT LOCATION. IF THE SUBARU COMPANY HAD KNOWN OF THIS POTENTIAL ISSUE, WHY WASN'T I MADE AWARE OF IT? LUCKILY, I WAS NOT COMING THROUGH THE BLACKS WOODS INTO ELLSWORTH WHICH IS 20 MILES OF NOTHING BUT TREES! I BOUGHT MY SUBARU BECAUSE THEY ARE TOUTED AS ONE OF THE SAFEST VEHICLES ON THE ROAD TODAY. I'M NOT SO SURE THAT THEY ARE TAKING CARE TO NOTIFY CONSUMERS OF PENDING SAFETY ISSUES. TODAY COST ME OVER $T60.00, AND I'M OUT A RADIO TO BOOT. BUT I AM GRATEFUL THAT I WAS NEAR A SUBARU DEALER, BECAUSE THE INCIDENT COULD HAVE BEEN MUCH MORE SERIOUS. THE DEALERSHIP KEPT THE RADIO AND TOLD ME THEY COULD ORDER ONE, BUT IT WOULD HAVE TO BE SHIPPED FROM CA. I HAD JUST SPENT OVER $700 THE WEEK BEFORE WITH THEM, INSURING MY CAR WAS MAINTAINED AND SAFE FOR THE ROAD. GEE, WAS I WRONG. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-01
- VIN: 4S3BG6856V7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: AFTER ALTERNATOR REPLACED, NOTICED THE FOLLOWING SEQUENCES OF ELECTRICAL OUTAGES: REAR POWER OUTLET, SEAT HEATER SWITCHES, RADIO DIAL ILLUMINATION LIGHT, KEY-IN-IGNITION ALARM, DOOR AJAR LIGHTING, SEATBELT OFF LIGHTING.*AK
1997 Subaru Outback recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1997 Subaru Outback.
- Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT COIL SPRINGS ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW YORK, NEW JERSEY, NEW HAMPSHIRE, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA, AND WISCONSIN, AND IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THE FRONT COIL SPRINGS WERE PRODUCED WITH POOR PAINT QUALITY WHICH, AFTER CONTINUED EXPOSURE TO CORROSIVE SALT, CAN RESULT IN BREAKAGE OF THE SPRING.
- Consequence: DEPENDING ON THE LOCATION OF THE FRACTURE, A BROKEN SPRING COULD MOVE PAST THE SPRING SEAT AND CONTACT A FRONT TIRE. SOME TIRES HAVE DEFLATED DUE TO CONTACT WITH A BROKEN SPRING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL NOTIFIY CUSTOMERS TO BRING THEIR VEHICLE TO AN AUTHORIZE DEALERSHIP TO HAVE A SPRING GUARD INSTALLED ON BOTH FRONT STRUTS TO PREVENT TIRE PUNCTURE AND REPLACE ANY BROKEN SPRINGS FREE OF CHARGE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 18, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
- Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:LEAF SPRING ASSEMBLY:HANGER,BRACKET
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER STATION WAGON, SEDAN AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. DUE TO IMPROPER WELDING, FRACTURES CAN OCCUR ON THE SUPPORT BRACKET OF THE FRONT TRANSVERSE LINK.
- Consequence: SUCH FRACTURES CAN RESULT IN PARTIAL OR COMPLETE SEPARATION OF THE BRACKET CAUSING A FAILURE OF THE LOWER SUSPENSION MOUNTING, LEADING TO A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE IF NECESSARY THE FRONT SUSPENSION SUPPORT BRACKETS.
- Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS. DUE TO POOR WELDS, IGNITION KEYS CAN STICK, SHIFT LEVERS/LINKAGES CAN BREAK AND SHIFT LEVERS CAN MOVE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE UNEXPECTED MOVEMENT OF THE VEHICLE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER ASSEMBLIES (EXCEPT THE HANDLE GRIP).
- Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE THROTTLE SHAFT BALL BEARING ON THE SENSOR SIDE OF THE THROTTLE BODY ASSEMBLY WAS NOT INSTALLED IN CERTAIN THROTTLE BODIES.
- Consequence: OPERATION OF A VEHICLE WITH A MISSING THROTTLE SHAFT BEARING CAN EVENTUALLLY LEAD TO AN INCOMPLETE RETURN OF THE THROTTLE VALVE RESULTING IN A HIGH IDLING CONDITION.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE THROTTLE BODY AND REPLACE THE THROTTLE ASSEMBLY IF THE BEARING IS MISSING.
Additional sources
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