Subaru Subaru truck problems

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The Subaru Sambar is a cabover truck and microvan manufactured and marketed by Subaru as Japan's second truck compliant with the country's strict Keitora (軽トラ) or Kei vehicle tax class, after the Kurogane Baby. Introduced in 1961 in microvan and Kei pickup configurations, the Sambar remains in production, now in its eighth generation — beginning with the sixth generation as a rebadged Daihatsu Hijet.

Since its introduction, the Sambar has used a rear engine, rear wheel drive layout with body-on-frame rather than unibody construction. The first two generations used the air-cooled engine from the Subaru 360 and later generations used the water-cooled engine from the Subaru Rex, Vivio and the Pleo. Four-wheel drive became optional in 1980. Sambar models were manufactured in China as the as well as in Finland in a joint venture with Elcat Automotive. Passenger variants of the Sambar were later marketed as the Subaru Dias Wagon.

With the Sambar, named after a species of deer, Subaru may have borrowed from the Type 2 (1951-1967) van — using a marketing name very similar to the Volkswagen's upper trim level, the Samba, and using a similar rear-drive, rear air-cooled engine, cabover configuration. The Sambar was the second Kei truck (after the Kurogane) and was the last Kei-compliant vehicle to use a rear-engine, rear-drive layout.

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Subaru Subaru truck model years

subaru subaru truck 1988 photo
Subaru truck 1988
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Common Subaru Subaru truck problems

Subaru trucks are popular for their off-road capabilities, safety features, and durability. However, like any other vehicle, they are prone to certain common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with Subaru trucks, based on complaints from owners:

  1. Damaged Bumper: Subaru trucks are often used for off-roading, which can result in damage to the bumper. This is especially true if the truck is driven on rough terrain or in tight spaces.
  2. Fast Battery Drain: Some Subaru truck owners have reported issues with the battery draining quickly. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty alternator or a parasitic draw on the electrical system.
  3. Dings and Dents: Subaru trucks are often used for work and play, which can result in dings and dents on the body. This is especially true if the truck is used for towing or hauling heavy loads.
  4. Broken Fuel Pump: A faulty fuel pump can cause the engine to stall or fail to start. This is a serious issue that can result in a safety hazard, especially if the engine stalls while driving.
  5. Starlink Issues: Subaru's Starlink infotainment system has been the subject of several class-action lawsuits. Some owners have reported issues with the system freezing, shutting down, or not responding to touch inputs.
  6. Cracked Windshields: Subaru trucks are prone to cracked windshields, especially in areas with rough roads or extreme weather conditions. This can be a safety hazard and can also result in expensive repairs.
  7. Sudden Unintended Acceleration: Some Subaru truck owners have reported issues with sudden unintended acceleration. This can be a serious safety hazard and can result in accidents or injuries.
  8. Electrical Issues: Subaru trucks are prone to electrical issues, including problems with the alternator, battery, and wiring. These issues can result in a variety of symptoms, including dim headlights, difficulty starting the engine, and intermittent electrical failures.
  9. Misaligned Frame: A misaligned frame can cause a variety of issues, including uneven tire wear, poor handling, and increased susceptibility to damage. This is especially true if the truck is used for towing or hauling heavy loads.
  10. Scratched or Chipped Paint: Subaru trucks are often used for work and play, which can result in scratches or chips on the paint. This can be a cosmetic issue, but it can also result in rust or other forms of damage if left untreated.
  11. Faulty Light Switch: A faulty light switch can cause issues with the interior and exterior lights, including the dashboard lights, headlights, and taillights. This can be a safety hazard and can also result in expensive repairs.
  12. Defective CVT: Subaru's continuously variable transmission (CVT) has been the subject of several recalls and lawsuits. Some owners have reported issues with the transmission slipping, jerking, or failing altogether.

It's important to note that not all Subaru trucks will experience these issues, and many owners report high levels of satisfaction with their vehicles. However, these are some of the most common problems reported by Subaru truck owners. If you're considering purchasing a Subaru truck, it's important to do your research and be aware of these potential issues.

Subaru Subaru truck

What is the most common problem with subarus?

Here are some of the most common Subaru problems to look out for: Damaged bumper. Fast battery drain. Dings and dents.

What years did Subaru have engine problems?

Although Subaru has been challenged with engine issues, most of the issues were isolated to a few engines, namely the EJs that were in the Impreza, Forester, Legacy, Outback and Baja models between 1996 and 2005. The latest Subaru boxer engines are part of the FB series boxer engines.

Which Subaru has least problems?

What are the most reliable Subarus?

  1. Subaru Crosstrek. Ranked first among compact SUVs, the Crosstrek earns a 4.5 out of five-star rating from RepairPal. ...
  2. Subaru Legacy. As cliche as it sounds, the Subaru Legacy does uphold a tradition of reliability among midsize sedans. ...
  3. Subaru Outback.

What are the cons of the Subaru Baja?

Cons from Owners

One con of owning a Subaru Baja is that is does not get amazingly great gas mileage. Another con is that it has a lot of maintenance needed every year. Because this model is no longer made it can be expensive to get fixed.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Subaru Subaru truck years

We have researched Subaru problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Subaru Subaru truck cars and compiled the top 1 most problematic Subaru Subaru truck model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Subaru Subaru truck model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Subaru Subaru truck years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Subaru Subaru truck car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Subaru Subaru truck , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Seat belts problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Subaru Subaru truck vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Subaru Subaru truck . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Subaru Subaru truck vehicles.

List of Subaru Subaru truck complaints

Subaru Subaru truck 1988
  • Date Of Incident: 1992-04-04
  • Date Complaint: 1998-07-01
  • VIN: PLEASE FILL
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: THE BACK SEAT BELTS JAM WHEN THE PASSENGER ATTEMPTS TO BUCKLE THE SEAT BELTS. THE OWNER SAID THAT SOMETIMES THE FRONT SEAT BELTS WILL JAM ALSO. *AK

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