1999 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 1999 Subaru Outback problems
The Subaru Outback 1999 is known for several common problems that have been reported by owners. These issues include automatic transmission problems, suspension issues, engine and engine cooling problems, tire issues, and body hinge and attachment problems.
One of the most frequently reported problems with the Subaru Outback 1999 is related to the automatic transmission. The power train automatic transmission has been reported to have issues, with the ODI (Office of Defects Investigation) number 700777. This issue can cause the car to hesitate and not allow the driver to go over a certain speed. The problem can be caused by a bad valve body in the transmission, and some owners have reported that replacing the filter and fluid does not solve the problem.
Another common problem with the Subaru Outback 1999 is related to the suspension. The suspension multiple axle has been reported to have issues, with the ODI number 566057. This issue can cause the car to have a rough ride and can also affect the handling of the car. The problem can be caused by worn-out suspension components, and some owners have reported that replacing the suspension components solves the problem.
The engine and engine cooling system of the Subaru Outback 1999 has also been reported to have issues. The engine and engine cooling system have been reported to have issues with the ODI number 557752. This issue can cause the car to overheat and can also cause the engine to run poorly. The problem can be caused by a faulty thermostat or a clogged radiator, and some owners have reported that replacing the faulty parts solves the problem.
The tires of the Subaru Outback 1999 have also been reported to have issues. The tires have been reported to have issues with the ODI number 551027. This issue can cause the car to have a rough ride and can also affect the handling of the car. The problem can be caused by worn-out tires, and some owners have reported that replacing the worn-out tires solves the problem.
The body hinge and attachment of the Subaru Outback 1999 have also been reported to have issues. The body hinge and attachment have been reported to have issues with the ODI number 547242. This issue can cause the car's doors to not close properly and can also affect the car's appearance. The problem can be caused by a faulty door hinge or a misaligned door, and some owners have reported that replacing the faulty parts solves the problem.
In conclusion, the Subaru Outback 1999 is known for several common problems that have been reported by owners. These issues include automatic transmission problems, suspension issues, engine and engine cooling problems, tire issues, and body hinge and attachment problems. These issues can be caused by various factors, and some owners have reported that replacing the faulty parts solves the problem. It is essential to keep up with regular maintenance, especially with the cooling system, to prevent head gasket failure, which is a common problem with the Subaru Legacy of the same year.
Is 1999 a good year for Subaru Outback?
The 1994 to 1999 Subaru Outback
We know these may seem old, but if there are glory years of the Subaru, these are. It had a simple exterior with all the right specs that accounted for its smooth drive and reliability.
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?
Some top Subaru Outback problems include weak windshields, poor cooling systems, oxygen sensor failure, excessive oil consumption due to oil leaks, and faulty airbags.
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 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 is the best year of a Subaru Outback?
To sum it up, Subaru Outback 2022, 2017, 2016, 2014, 2007, and 2001 are the best years. Overall, the Subaru Outbacks are good, reliable station wagons that can go on without major breakdowns and repairs for 16-20 years, and regular maintenance is the key to attaining this.
Are Subaru Outback engines 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.
How many miles will 1998 Subaru Outback last?
While results will vary and the big variable is always how well the car has been maintained, what I can tell you is a Subaru is capable of going 300,000 miles. And if you are a regular maintenance type of owner you should expect to get that type of mileage out of it.
1999 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:
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Suspension problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Subaru Outback vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1999 Subaru Outback
The NHTSA has received 112 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Subaru Outback. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1999 Subaru Outback vehicles.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-14
- VIN: 4S3BG6850X7
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: THE VEHICLE IS USING ITS POWER TO MAKE THE CAR THINK IT IS IN NEUTRAL AND DOES NOT START PROPERLY. IT WILL START IF YOU PULL THE FUSE OUT AND THEN PUT IT BACK IN TO PUT IT IN DRIVE. ALSO, LENDING WAY TO PROBLEMS WITH THE TRANSMISSION SYSTEM. EFFECTING MILEAGE ON THE COUNTER. CAR WAS STATIONERY UPON OCCURRENCE. THE CAR ITSELF IS GOOD IT RUNS PRETTY WELL YET, TO PUT IT IN DRIVE IT BURNS TRANSMISSION FLUID BECAUSE IT IS ALWAYS TELLING THE CAR IT IS IN NEUTRAL.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-03
- VIN: 4S3BG6855X7
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: FRONT COIL SPRING BROKE IN HALF WHILE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY - ALMOST PUNCTURING TIRE, AND RENDERING VEHICLE IMMOBILE - THE BROKEN END OF THE COIL WAS WEDGED INTO THE TIRE SIDEWALL. IF THIS HAD HAPPENED WHILE VEHICLE WAS MOVING, IT WOULD HAVE CAUSED A BLOWOUT AND POSSIBLE ACCIDENT. SUBARU HAS A RECALL FOR COIL SPRINGS, BUT SAID THE VEHICLE WAS NOT COVERED BECAUSE IT WAS OUTSIDE THE VIN RANGE - BUT WAS CLEARLY STILL AFFECTED BY THE PROBLEM.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-13
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1999 SUBARU LEGACY OUTBACK. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE BEGAN TO ROLL BACKWARD WHILE TRYING TO REMOVE KEYS. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED SHE PARKED THE VEHICLE, PLACED IT IN PARK, AND LEFT THE KEYS IN THE IGNITION, SO SHE COULD CHECK OUT THE NEW HALOGEN BULBS THAT HAD BEEN INSTALLED. WHEN SHE RETURNED TO REMOVE THE KEY, WITH THE DOOR BEING OPEN, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ROLL BACKWARDS, AND THE OPENED DOOR PUSHED HER TO THE GROUND. THE CONSUMER STATED SHE CAREFULLY CHECKED AND MADE SURE, THE VEHICLE WAS SECURELY IN PARK, BEFORE SHE EXITED TO CHECK THE LIGHTS, AND DID NOT TOUCH ANYTHING WHEN SHE RETURNED. SHE WAS SUBSEQUENTLY, TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL BY AMBULANCE SUFFERING FROM SEVERE HEAD, BACK AND NECK INJURIES AND SPENT 2 DAYS IN THE HOSPITAL. THE VEHICLE ROLLED INTO TWO OTHER PARKED CARS AND CAUSED DAMAGE TO BOTH. UPDATED 05/20/14 UPDATED 06/19/14
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-03-07
- VIN: 4S3BG6853X7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND TO ACCELERATION ATTEMPTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE HAD TO CONSTANTLY CHANGE THE GEAR FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE IN ORDER FOR IT TO WORK. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION BUT THEY COULD NOT DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED BUT PROVIDED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-05-01
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 1999 SUBARU OUTBACK LTD POWER STEERING RACK LEAK AND CAM SEAL LEAK WHICH RUINED TIMING BELT. THIS CAR IS A PIECE OF JUNK! *TT
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-10
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 99 SUBARU LEGACY OUTBACK /W AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION DOS NOT ENGAGE WHEN PLACED FROM P TO D, OR DISENGAGE FROM GEAR WHEN VEHICLE STOP. I WAS ON A SLIGHT HILL STOPPED. CAR DISENGAGED FROM GEAR AND I COULD NOT MOVE. IN D - WHEN I RELEASED BRAKE THE CAR ROLLED BACKWARDS CAUSING CONTACT WITH THE CAR BEHIND ME. *TR
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-25
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 4S3BG6851X7
- Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY ABOUT 65 MPH, THE HOOD FLEW OPEN SMASHED THE WINDSHIELD, SHE CROSSED A LANE OF TRAFFIC WENT INTO THE DITCH, HIT HER HEAD ON THE STEERING WHEEL AND RECEIVED A MILD CONCUSSION. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-20
- VIN: 4S3BG6855X7
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WE EXPERIENCED AN INCIDENT IN WHICH A FRONT SUSPENSION COIL SPRING FAILED. PARKING OUR 1999 SUBARU LEGACY OUTBACK, THE VEHICLE WAS PERFECTLY FINE. IN THE MORNING THE VEHICLE HAD A FLAT DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE. JACKING THE CAR, IT WAS DIFFICULT TO REMOVE THE FLAT TIRE AND WHEEL. THE REASON IT WAS HARD TO REMOVE WAS THAT A SHARP LONG PIECE OF THE FRONT COIL SPRING HAS BROKEN AWAY, AND PUNCTURED THE SIDEWALL OF THE TIRE. WHEN THE TIRE AND WHEEL WERE FINALLY REMOVED, THE BROKEN COIL SPRING COULD BE SEEN SITTING ATOP THE FRONT STRUT. THE REMAINDER OF THE COIL SPRING HAD A LONG SHARP POINT THAT HAD SHOT DOWN OVER THE SPRING SEAT ON THE STRUT AND WAS PROTRUDING INTO THE WHEEL WELL AREA WHERE IT HAD DAMAGED THE TIRE. ALSO, MANY PIECES OF BLACK PAINT WHICH HAD BEEN COATING THE COIL SPRING COULD BE SEEN NOW LYING ON THE GROUND. THE COIL SPRING ITSELF WAS RUSTED OVER THE ENTIRE SPRING SURFACE OF THE SPRING. THE BROKEN PIECE OF THE COIL SPRING WHICH WAS SEPARATED FROM THE REST OF THE SPRING WAS PULLED OFF OF THE STRUT AND PUT INTO THE CAR. THE REMAINDER OF THE BROKEN COIL SPRING WAS THEN ABLE TO BE LIFTED UP AND SUSPENDED ABOVE THE STRUT COIL SPRING SEAT IN ORDER TO DRIVE THE CAR TO A SUBARU DEALER. THE SUBARU DEALER CHECKED MY VEHICLE VIN# TELLING ME THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THIS VEHICLE FOR ANY FAILED COIL SPRINGS. I REFERENCED A RECALL NOTICE I HAD FOUND ONLINE WHICH DETAILED THE EXACT FAILURE IN WHICH I HAD EXPERIENCED, A BROKEN COIL SPRING, CAUSED BY DEFECTING PAINT COATING THE SPRING, LEADING TO RUSTING OF THE SPRING AND BREAKAGE, ALSO OCCASIONALLY PUNCTURING TIRES IN THE PROCESS. I WAS TOLD A CALL WOULD BE PLACE TO THE SUBARU REP TO INQUIRE ABOUT SUCH A RECALL. I RECEIVED NOTICE THAT NO SUCH RECALL EXISTED AND NO WARRANTY COVERAGE EXISTED FOR THE FAILED COIL SPRING AND TIRE PUNCTURE. I CAN ONLY IMAGINE HOW SUCH A FAILURE AT HIGHWAY SPEED AND THE SUBSEQUENT DAMAGE TO VEHICLE AND DRIVER AND PASSENGER MIGHT ENSUE. *TR
SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-11
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- Components: SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS
- Summary: 99 SUBARU OUTBACK HIT IN REAR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY MINOR NECK AND LOWER BACK BRUISES. ALSO, ANOTHER FRONT WHEEL BEARING FAILURE AFTER 50,000 MILES. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-08-01
- VIN: 4S3BG6852X7
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL FILLER TUBE CORROSION CAUSES LEAK OF FUEL AND FUEL VAPOR. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATES CODE P0440 (EVAP EMISSIONS MALFUNCTION). FUEL FILLER TUBE AND VALVE ASSEMBLY PARTS COST IS $200. LABOR $275. COMMON PROBLEM ON SUBARUS THAT SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED AND RECALLED DUE TO FUEL VAPOR LEAKAGE POSES AN ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY HAZARD. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-11
- VIN: 4S3BG6851X7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: HEAD GASKET FAILED ON 1999 SUBARU AT 38,000. CAR WAS MAINTAINED RELIGIOUSLY. SUBARU RECALL WAS NEVER SENT TO ME. I WAS TOLD MY CAR WAS THE 'WRONG PHASE ENGINE' TO BE COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. CAR HAD OVERHEATED 3 MONTHS EARLIER. SUBARU FLUSHED THE SYSTEM AND ADDED 'SPECIAL COOLANT LUBRICANT'. THIS WAS WORTHLESS. I WAS TOLD IT WOULD COST $2000+, EVEN THOUGH MY FAMILY HAS PURCHASED 4 SUBARU'S FROM THE SAME DEALER. AFTER A LOT OF SCREAMING AND YELLING, THEY REPLACED BOTH GASKETS, RADIATOR, THERMOSTAT AND WATER PUMP. I ENDED UP PAYING $250. DEALER, (WAKEFIELD SURBARU, WAKEFIELD MA.) HELPED CONVINCED SUBARU CORPORATE TO FOOT MOST OF THE EXPENSE. LATER WHEN SUBARU OIL FILTERS FAILED (LEAKS) AND AFTER MORE SCREAMING AND YELLING WITH THIS DEALER SHIP, (AFTER THEY SAID I WAS MAKING UP THE LEAK PROBLEM) I'VE CHANGED DEALERSHIPS WHO HAS A MORE PROFESSIONAL SERVICE CENTER. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-06
- VIN: 4S3BG6857X7
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 SUBARU OUTBACK. THE VEHICLE HAS GOODYEAR REGATTA 2 TIRES, SIZE 205/70/15. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN VIBRATING. THE VIBRATIONS WORSENED AS THE SPEED INCREASED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD NOISE OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO PRIOR WARNINGS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR INSPECTION AND HE STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER TIRES EXHIBITED EXCESSIVE ROAD FORCE VARIATIONS. A ROAD FORCE BALANCING MEASUREMENT WAS PERFORMED ON THE DEFECTIVE TIRES; HOWEVER, THE FOUR TIRES MOUNTED ON THE VEHICLE EXHIBITED UNIFORM WEAR AND TREAD LIFE. THE TIRES WERE TEMPORARILY ROTATED TO THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE TECHNICIAN RECOMMENDED REPLACING THE DEFECTIVE TIRES. THE CONTACT IS IN THE PROCESS OF REPLACING ALL FOUR TIRES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 125,355 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 127,305. UPDATED 8/10/09 *CN UPDATED 08/13/09.*JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-05-17
- VIN: 4S3BG6850X6
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 SUBARU OUTBACK. WHILE DRIVING IN REVERSE AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE PASSENGER SIDE COIL SPRING FAILED AND PUNCTURED THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE. THE CONTACT DID NOT REALIZE THE FAILURE UNTIL THE TIRE WAS CHANGED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER (01V216000). THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 171,798.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-08-15
- VIN: 4S3BG6857X7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING: BLOWN HEAD GASKETS 1999 SUBARU LEGACY OUTBACK DOHC. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-01
- VIN: 4S3BG6856X7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1999 SUBARU LEGACY OUTBACK SPEEDOMETER/ODOMETER FAILURE. INTERMITTANT PROBLEM. INFORMED BY DEALER THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH 1999 SUBARU'S. DEALER INFORMS CUSTOMER THAT PROBLEM IS ELECTRONIC CIRCUIT BOARD ISSUE. SPEEDOMETER REPLACED BY DEALER AT COST OF $315. SUBARU PART NUMBER 85020AC330. CONSUMER HAS OLD, FAILED UNIT. THIS IS NOT AND SHOULD NOT BE A "WEAR" TYPE ITEM. THIS TYPE OF FAILURE IS SUBARU MANUFACTURER'S DEFECT. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-14
- VIN: 4S3BG6850X7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: SPEEDOMETER PERIODICALLY DOES NOT WORK. I HAVE FOUND THIS IS COMMON PROBLEM IN THESE MODELS AND IT IS NOT EASY TO GET IT REPLACED. KNOWING THE SPEED WHEN DRIVING IS VERY IMPORTANT. I AM PETRIFIED MOST OF THE TIME THAT CHP IS GOING TO PULL ME OVER ON HIGHWAY. IT TYPICALLY GOES OUT IN HIGHWAY DRIVING. I JUST BOUGHT THIS, BUT IT IS OBVIOUS PRIOR OWNER HAD ISSUES WITH IT AS MANY OTHER PEOPLE ONLINE WITH SAME YEAR MODEL. IT SHOULD BE RECALLED. ALSO, NONE OF THE BELLS, BUZZERS, ALARM GIZMOS ASSOCIATED WITH OPENING THE DOOR AND PUTTING ON SEATBELTS IS WORKING. I THINK THIS IS ALL RELATED. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-10
- VIN: 4S3BG6858X7
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: MY 1999 SUBARU OUTBACK WAGON ISSUED A CEL WITH A 440 CODE. IN FINDING THE SOURCE OF THE PROBLEM, I DISCOVERED THAT THE GAS FILL PIPE BELOW THE GAS CAP HAS ROTTED OUT AND HAS DEVELOPED, HOLES LEADING TO RAW GAS SPILLAGE AND FAILURE OF THE EMISSIONS SYSTEM. THE DESIGN OF THE COVER AROUND THE OUTSIDE OF THIS PIPE CAUSED THE ACCUMULATION OF DIRT AND DEBRIS OVER THE YEARS THAT HAS RUSTED THE PIPE FROM THE OUTSIDE IN. THIS IS A POOR DESIGN THAT ALLOWS THE DIRT TO COLLECT HERE. THERE IS NOTHING IN THE MANUAL THAT INDICATES ANY CLEANING OF THIS AREA IS REQUIRED TO PREVENT THIS FROM OCCURRING. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-03-20
- VIN: 4S3BG6858X7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: HEAD GASKET FAILED AT 125K MILES. I SPENT $1725 GETTING THE HEAD GASKET & CYLINDER BOLTS REPLACED. THE HEAD GASKET IS NOW FAILING AGAIN 9 MOS & 12K MILES LATER. I HAVE ALWAYS METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED THIS CAR. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4S3BG6855W7
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 SUBARU OUTBACK. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO THE GUARDRAIL. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY AND HE WENT THROUGH THE WINDSHIELD. THE INSURANCE COMPANY STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 39,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-03-27
- VIN: 4S3BG6855X6
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: SPEEDOMETER FAILS SPONTANEOUSLY, INTERMITTENTLY AND FREQUENTLY. INDICATED SPEED DROPS TO ZERO. RETURNS SPONTANEOUSLY AFTER 10 SECONDS TO 15 MINUTES. NOT VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR (VSS) OR WIRING/CONNECTOR RELATED. SERVICE TECHNICIAN FOUND SPEEDOMETER CIRCUIT BOARD DELAMINATED, CAUSING COMPONENTS TO SEPARATE FROM CIRCUIT BOARD. STATED THIS APPEARED TO BE CAUSED BY OEM SEALANT USED ON THE CIRCUIT BOARDS AS SEEN IN OTHER SUBARUS AND MANY HONDA VEHICLES. SPEEDOMETER IS AN OBVIOUS SAFETY AND LEGAL LIABILITY COMPONENT, WHICH PROVIDES CRITICAL FEEDBACK TO VEHICLE OPERATOR. MANY OTHER FAILURES REPORTED ON INTERNET. RECALL SHOULD BE ISSUED IF FURTHER INVESTIGATION CONFIRMS DEFECT FREQUENCY. *JB
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-06
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: COLLISION AT APPROX 40 MPH, SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE TO RT FRONT QUARTER AND BUMPER. AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY, SEAT BELT DID NOT RESTRAIN DRIVER. *NM
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-12-08
- VIN: 4S3BG6855X7
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: THE HOOD FLEW OPEN WHILE I WAS DRIVING 65 MPH. THIS CAR HAD NOT RECENTLY HAD ITS OIL CHANGED OR ITS HOOD OPENED. THE HOOD NEEDS TO BE REPLACED, AS WELL AS THE REAR VIEW MIRROR. *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-11-26
- VIN: 4S3BG6858X6
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THERE WAS NOTHING ABNORMAL THAT PRECLUDED THE FAILURE. THE SPEEDOMETER COMPLETELY STOPPED WORKING WHILE DRIVING AND NOW ONLY INTERMITTENTLY WORKS. FORTUNATELY, THERE HAS BEEN NO INCIDENTS BECAUSE OF THIS FAILURE. HOWEVER, IT COULD LEAD TO EXCESSIVE SPEED WHICH MAY LEAD TO VEHICLE ACCIDENTS AND INJURIES. NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE TO CORRECT THIS ISSUE. A CALL TO SUBARU OF AMERICA YIELDED NO INFORMATION. HOWEVER, ONLINE RESEARCH HAS SHOWN THAT THIS IS OCCURRING QUITE FREQUENTLY AMONG THIS MAKE AND MODEL YEAR. A NEW PART WILL LIKELY HAVE TO BE ORDERED.*JB
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-06-21
- VIN: 4S3BG6857X7
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MY DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT LOCKED ME IN AND I HAD TO CRAWL OUT FROM UNDER IT. IT CANNOT BE RELEASED. *JB
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-04-23
- VIN: 4S3BG685XX7
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: AT 1 P.M. ON 23 APR '06, MY HUSBAND WAS DRIVING OUR 1999 SUBARU LEGACY OUTBACK AT ABOUT 50 MPH. WE HAD JUST ENTERED A CURVE WHEN THE CAR'S HOOD LATCH FAILED AND ALLOWED THE HOOD TO FLY UP AND SLAM INTO THE WINDSHIELD AND ROOF. THAT COMPLETELY BLOCKED OUR FORWARD VIEW AND WE ENTERED THE ONCOMING LANE. FORTUNATELY, NO ONE WAS COMING IN THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION. WE WERE ABLE TO SLOW DOWN AND MAKE OUR WAY ON TO THE SHOULDER. WE WERE COVERED WITH GLASS PARTICLES BUT THANK GOD NEITHER ONE OF US WAS INJURED. I AM NOW VERY NERVOUS WHEN I DRIVE THE CAR. THE HOOD WAS LAST OPENED ABOUT TWO WEEKS BEFORE THE ACCIDENT BUT THE CAR HAD BEEN DRIVEN FOR OVER 200 MILES AND SOME OF THAT WAS ON THE INTERSTATE. THERE WAS NO WARNING. WE HAD TO PAY OVER $2300 TO REPAIR WINDSHIELD, HOOD AND MISCELLANEOUS DAMAGE IN THE MOTOR COMPARTMENT. *NM
1999 Subaru Outback recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1999 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.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1999 Subaru Outback problems:
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Feb 12, 2005 ... I am thinking about buying a 99 Outback it's got 104,000 miles on it,. and they want 10K for it. What are some repairs that are common after ...
Subaru Legacy Questions - i am looking a buying a 1999 subaru ...
Jun 24, 2013 ... Head gaskets seem to be a real problem with them. Oil changes MUST be performed on schedule, as must the cooling system service ...
99 Outback Good or Garbage? | Subaru Outback Forums
Apr 7, 2011 ... We bought a '98 Forester used a few years ago, which I still own. It too had similar problems & I ended up replacing the HG. We also got all of ...
1999 Subaru Legacy Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
Top 1999 Subaru Legacy Problems · Cooling System Problems Cause Head Gasket Failure · Subaru Front O2 Sensor Recall · Failure in ABS causes pump to run ...
Possible electrical problem w/ 99 Outback | Subaru Outback Forums
May 30, 2012 ... It has always had regular maintenance and all previous mechanical problems have been fixed immediately. It is a 1999 Subaru Legacy Outback 2.5 ...
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