2006 Subaru Tribeca problems

subaru logo

The Subaru Tribeca is a mid-size crossover SUV made from 2005 to 2014. Released in some markets, including Canada, as the Subaru B9 Tribeca, the car derives its name from the Tribeca neighborhood of New York City. Built on the Subaru Legacy platform and sold in five- and seven-seat configurations, the Tribeca was intended to be sold alongside a slightly revised version known as the Saab 9-6X. Saab, at the time a subsidiary of General Motors (GM), abandoned the 9-6X program just prior to its release subsequent to GM's 2005 divestiture of its 20 percent stake in FHI.

Inspired by the B9X concept car, the Tribeca's original design was criticized at launch and subsequently revised in 2007 for the 2008 model year, and the model name was shortened to simply Tribeca in all markets.

Although not sold in Japan, North American markets received the Tribeca in 2005 for the 2006 model year, and it was introduced to Australasia and Europe in late 2006. In addition to these markets, the Tribeca was also sold in South America, South Africa, China, the Middle East, and parts of Southeast Asia.

2006 Subaru Tribeca

Social links

Common 2006 Subaru Tribeca problems

The Subaru Tribeca, produced from 2006 to 2014, is known for several common problems that affect its performance and reliability. These issues are primarily related to the engine, transmission, drivetrain, and body of the vehicle

  • Engine Overheating and Head Gasket Failure: The Subaru Tribeca's engine, particularly the 3.0L EZ30 and 3.6L EZ36 boxer engines, are prone to overheating. Overheating can lead to serious consequences, such as a blown head gasket, which results in uneven distribution of warm and cold air from the vents, and clogged small passages in the heater radiator . Regular monitoring of the coolant level, radiator condition, and timely cleaning can help delay these problems, but they typically manifest after 100,000 to 200,000 kilometers .
  • Premature Piston Ring and Liner Wear: The engine's piston rings and liners may wear out prematurely, especially after 200,000 to 300,000 kilometers. This issue is more common in high-mileage engines and can lead to reduced engine performance and efficiency .
  • Fuel Pressure Regulator Failure: The fuel pressure regulator, located in the fuel pump, can fail over time, causing traction dips and misfiring. This issue typically occurs after 200,000 kilometers and requires solder repairs in the ECU to resolve .
  • Catalytic Converter Failure: The catalytic converter can become unusable after 200,000 kilometers, requiring replacement with a flame arrestor and re-flashing of the engine ECU .
  • Automatic Transmission Fluid Overheating: The Jatco 5EAT 5-speed automatic transmission in the Subaru Tribeca is prone to overheating, which affects the overall health of the vehicle. This issue is more common in non-European versions, as they lack an additional radiator. Repairs may be necessary after 150,000 to 200,000 kilometers .
  • All-Wheel Drive System Malfunctions: The Subaru Tribeca's all-wheel drive system can experience oil overheating in the rear differential, which can lead to malfunctions of key components. These issues are rare but can affect the vehicle's performance and drivability .
  • Body Rust and Corrosion: The Subaru Tribeca, like many cold-weather vehicles, is susceptible to rust and corrosion, particularly in the body panels. This issue is more than just cosmetic and can lead to more significant problems if not addressed.
  • Hood Latch Failure: A small number of 2006 Subaru Tribeca owners have reported issues with the hood flying up while driving, which can be a safety concern.
  • Intermittent Gear Locking: Some 2007 Subaru Tribeca owners have experienced intermittent gear locking, which can also affect the vehicle's drivability and safety.

When considering purchasing a used Subaru Tribeca, it's essential to be aware of these common problems and have a thorough pre-purchase inspection performed by a trusted mechanic. This will help identify any potential issues and ensure that the vehicle is in good condition before making a purchase.

2006 Subaru Tribeca engine

Is Subaru Tribeca 2006 a good vehicle?

Very reliable vehicle

Runs very smooth. strong engine requires little maintenance very roomy and comfortable. awesome stereo sound. powerful engine.

Is Subaru Tribeca a reliable car?

The Subaru Tribeca Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 18th out of 26 for midsize SUVs. The average annual repair cost is $563 which means it has average ownership costs.

Why did Subaru discontinue the Tribeca?

Subaru, however, when celebrating its 50th year as an automaker in America, owned up to the fact that the Tribeca wasn't the best it had to offer, stating: "The model was quickly found to be too small for the U.S." and "the model never achieved its planned-for sales and was dropped in 2014 with the announcement of a ...

How many miles can you get out of a Subaru Tribeca?

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.

Is Subaru Tribeca 2006 a good vehicle?

Very reliable vehicle

Runs very smooth. strong engine requires little maintenance very roomy and comfortable. awesome stereo sound. powerful engine.

Is the Subaru Tribeca reliable?

The Subaru Tribeca Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 18th out of 26 for midsize SUVs. The average annual repair cost is $563 which means it has average ownership costs.

Why did Subaru discontinue the Tribeca?

Subaru, however, when celebrating its 50th year as an automaker in America, owned up to the fact that the Tribeca wasn't the best it had to offer, stating: "The model was quickly found to be too small for the U.S." and "the model never achieved its planned-for sales and was dropped in 2014 with the announcement of a ...

How many miles can you get out of a Subaru Tribeca?

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.

2006 Subaru Tribeca car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Tribeca problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Structure problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Exterior lighting problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Visibility/wiper problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2006 Subaru Tribeca vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2006 Subaru Tribeca

The NHTSA has received 93 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2006 Subaru Tribeca. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2006 Subaru Tribeca vehicles.

2024-01-23

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-06-07
  • VIN: 4S4WX85C164
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: I have had 3 Subarus in the last 2 years. All 3-a 2006 Subaru Tribeca B9, a 2007 Subaru Tribeca B9, and a 2014 Subaru Crosstrek have had electrical and lighting problems. They all have burnt out headlights, interior lights and fog lights, have loose wiring that has affected the computer and navigation system. 2 of them lost all lighting. The Subaru Crosstrek burnt out all the lights in one incident and the 2007 Subaru Tribeca B9 had an alternator problem that fried all the lights at one time as well as the navigation system. They all have more lights lit on the dash than there should be.
2021-07-02

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-06-20
  • VIN: 4S4WX83C664
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca. The contact stated while driving 30 mph, the vehicle loss motive power and was unable to be restarted. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence but was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 280,000.
2020-09-01

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-07-11
  • VIN: 4S4WX82C864
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SUBARU B9 TRIBECA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOSS MOTIVE POWER AND STALLED. THE CONTACT PULLED OFF OF THE ROADWAY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FAILURE WAS WITH THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE. THE DEALER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
2020-07-24

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-07-13
  • VIN: 4S4WX85C764
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
  • Summary: JUST PURCHASED
2020-03-04

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-03-02
  • VIN: 4S4WX82C964
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: I WAS DRIVING VEHICLE IMA CITY STREET AND VEHICLE UNEXPECTEDLY TURNED OFF. TRIED TO TURN ON THE CAR AGAIN AND IT RAN BUT ONCE AGAIN UNEXPECTEDLY TURNED OFF.
2019-09-30

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-09-29
  • VIN: 4S4WX83C664
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
  • Summary: MY WHOLE ELECTRIC SYSTEM IS NOT WORKING. CLIMATE CONTROL RAIDIO HEATED SEATS ANYTHING ELECTRIC.
2019-06-17

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-06-10
  • VIN: 4S4WX85C864
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: HOOD RELEASE CABLE IS BAD AND WILL COMPLETELY BREAK IF NOT REPAIRED SOON! IF THIS BREAKS, IT WILL BE EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO OPEN THE HOOD.
2019-02-03

STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-02-01
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 4S4WX85CX64
  • Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY ABOUT 65-70 MPH AND MY HOOD FLEW OPEN STRIKING THE WINDSHIELD CAUSING ME TO DRIVE INTO A GUARD RAIL. CURRENTLY EXPERIENCING NECK AND BACK ISSUES. I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED OF THIS RECALL.
2018-12-13

SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-12-07
  • VIN: 4S4WX82C164
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT. ELECTRICAL ADJUSTER BUTTON STOPPED WORKING FOR THE FORWARD POSITION. IT WILL MOVE UP , DOWN & BACKWARD. I WAS OUT OF TOWN & WHEN I STOPPED IN MY DAUGHTERS DRIVEWAY , MOVED THE SEAT BACK, AS MY PHONE SLIPPED UNDER THE SEAT. I WAS HORRIFIED WHEN I COULDN'T MOVE IT BACK. I HAD OVER 150 MILES TO DRIVE BACK HOME. I HAD TO USE SEVERAL PILLOWS TO REACH THE STEERING WHEEL SO I COULD DRIVE BACK HOME. I DID SOME RESEARCH AND FOUND OUT THAT MANY SUBARU OWNERS OF VARIOUS MODELS AND MAKE YEARS HAVE HAD THE SAME PROBLEM , WITH DRIVER SIDE FORWARD SWITCH. I'M TRYING TO FIND OUT IF THERE HAS BEEN ANY RECALLS ON THIS PROBLEM. I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE IN JUNE OF 2016, FROM POWER FORD.
2018-08-25

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-08-24
  • VIN: 4S4WX82C564
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL MY AIR BAG LIGHT STAYED ON AFTER I HAD MY PASSENGER AIR BAG REPLACED , NOW THEY ARE TELLING ME MY DRIVERS SIDE AIRBAG NEEDS TO BE REPLACED BECAUSE OF THIS AND IT IS NOT PART OF THE RECALL IT IS AN INTERNAL SHORT SO THEY WANT TO REPLACE THE WHOLE AIRBAG FOR 860 DOLLARS PLUS LABOR
2018-07-07

STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-06-08
  • VIN: 4S4WX85C564
  • Components: STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: ON FEBRUARY 23, 2018, THE HOOD LATCH WAS REPAIRED DUE TO A HOOD LATCH RECALL. THIS WAS WITH THE NEW HOOD LATCH. IT WAS FRIDAY JUNE 6, 2018, A LITTLE PAST 0600, I WAS ON MY WAY TO WORK. I WAS DRIVING ON A TWO LANE COUNTY HIGHWAY, DOING BETWEEN 60-65, WITH CRUISE CONTROL ON. I HAD DRIVEN ABOUT 4 MILES FROM HOME WHEN THE HOOD SUDDENLY FLEW OPEN,AND SHATTERED THE WINDSHIELD. I WAS ABLE TO SLOW DOWN AND MOVE TO THE SHOULDER. THANKFULLY NO ONE ELSE WAS IN THE VICINITY. AFTER I GOT OUT OF MY VEHICLE I CLOSED THE HOOD, IT TOOK A LOT OF EFFORT. I NOTICED MY VEHICLE WAS NEAR THE END OF A GUARDRAIL AND THERE WAS A GRAVEL AREA, SO I MOVED MY CAR OFF THE ROAD. WHILE I THE VEHICLE I NOTICED THAT IT WAS RAINING GLASS. I GRABBED MY WORK GEAR AND JUMPED OUT. MY CAR WAS TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP, AND I WAS GIVEN A RIDE TO WORK.
2018-03-13

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-03-31
  • VIN: 454WX85CO64
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: ENGINE STABILIZER BRACKET (DOGBONE) WELDING DEFECTIVE AND FALLS OFF. COULD START A FIRE IN PASSENGER AREA. FIREWALL WEARS DOWN. NOISE IS A CHIRPING SOUND DURING ANY MOVEMENT. TRANSMISSION AND ENGINE BECOME UNSTABLE. TRANSMISSION MOUNTS BREAK AS A RESULT.
2018-02-03

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-11-01
  • VIN: 4S4WX86C064
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: I HAVE RECEIVED NUMEROUS NOTICES TO HAVE MY FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG REPLACED. ON TWO OCCASIONS I HAVE MADE APPOINTMENTS WITH THE LOCAL CORPUS CHRISTI SUBARU DEALER TO HAVE THIS REMEDIED. ON BOTH OCCASIONS THEY TELL ME THAT THE PARTS ARE UNAVAILABLE. THE LATEST NOTICE DATED 8/17 TELLS ME THAT. "PARTS ARE AVAILABLE", HOWEVER THE DEALER TELLS ME THEY ARE NOT. I KEEP GETTING THE RUNAROUND AND IN THE MEANTIME I CANNOT HAVE A PASSENGER SIT IN MY FRONT SEAT AND I DON'T FEEL SAVE DRIVING IT.
2017-10-10

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-07-01
  • VIN: 4S4WX86CX64
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SUBARU B9 TRIBECA. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V016000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. VISTA SUBARU OF SILVERTHORNE, COLORADO (171 9TH ST, 80498) WAS MADE AWARE OF THE RECALL AND STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
2017-08-24

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-07-25
  • VIN: 4S4WX85C364
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SUBARU TRIBECA. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V359000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER (GRAYSON SUBARU IN KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. .. ..UPDATED 09/25/17 *BF UPDATED 10/19/2017*JS
2017-08-14

AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-06-15
  • VIN: 4S4WX85C164
  • Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL INFLETER ON ,MY SUBARU TRIBECA ITS A PROBLEM I HAVE TO GO GROSERY CHOPPING WITH MY FAMILY I PUT MY FAMILY BACK IN THE AND MY CHOPPING BAG ON THE PASSENGER SIT TO BE SAFE IN CASE OF A ACCIDENT YOU KNOW!!!!
2017-05-23

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-02-01
  • Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
  • Summary: THE TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT NEVER GOES OFF. SOMETIMES IT MAY GO OFF IF THE CAR IS HOT, SUCH AS DURING SUMMER WHEN THE TEMPERATURE OUTSIDE IS OVER 75F.
2017-05-12

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-01-04
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 4S4WX86C464
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: I WAS TRAVELING AT ABOUT 30 MILES PER HOUR ON MY WAY TO WORK. LUCKILY HAD NOT ENTERED THE FREEWAY YET. APPROACHING A STOP AND MY BRAKES FAILED! THE PEDAL WAS HARD AS A ROCK. I COULD NOT STOP THE VEHICLE AS I WAS HEADING INTO CROSSING TRAFFIC. I ENDED UP HITTING A SNOW BANK. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIR. THEY REPLACED THE BRAKE BOOSTER AND VACUUM HOSES. ON MAY 11, 2017 I HAD MY VEHICLE IN FOR THE 120,000 SERVICE CHECK. UPON PICKING UP MY VEHICLE, I WAS HEADING HOME AND NOTICED THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS VERY MUSHY AND MY FOOT WAS ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR AND THE CAR WAS BARELY STOPPING. I TOOK THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY HAVE YET TO CONTACT ME REGARDING WHAT THE PROBLEM IS. I FEEL THAT SUBARU SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS REPAIR AND SHOULD RECALL THE VEHICLES FOR BRAKE BOOSTER FAILURE!!! I HAVE SEEN MANY POSTS ON THE SUBARU FORUMS REGARDING THIS SAME ISSUE. I COULD HAVE BEEN IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT! PLEASE RESPOND. TO [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
2017-05-11

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-05-06
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 4S4WX82CX64
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, I CAN'T EMPHASIZE RIGHT NOW HOW DISAPPOINTED I AM IN SUBARU'S CUSTOMER SERVICE IN BOTH THE USA AND IN THE REPUBLIC OF PANAMA. I CURRENTLY RESIDE IN THE REPUBLIC OF PANAMA. I HAVE YET TO CONTACT CORPORATE IN JAPAN, AND I SHOULDN'T HAVE TO. UNFORTUNATELY, BOTH PARTIES ON THE SIDES OF SUBARU IN PANAMA (SUBARU DEL CANAL S.A.) AND SUBARU IN THE USA (1-800-782-2783) HAVE BEEN MORE WORRIED ABOUT COSTS THAN PROMOTING SUBARU'S STANDARD OF SAFETY WHICH IS WHY I INVESTED IN THE SUBARU IN THE FIRST PLACE, BEING AN EXPECTANT FATHER AT THE TIME. AROUND JULY OF 2010 MY WIFE AND I BOUGHT A SECOND HAND 2006 B9 TRIBECA FROM A DEALER IN PHOENIX, AZ. WE ENJOYED THE VEHICLE SO MUCH, THAT WE DECIDED TO BRING IT WITH US ON OUR MOVE BACK TO PANAMA. I GUESS THIS IS WHERE SUBARU'S COMMITMENT TO SAFETY DRAWS THE LINE. EVERYONE I HAVE SO FAR SPOKEN TO HAS BASICALLY TOLD ME WELL SINCE YOU DIDN'T BUY THE CAR HERE WE CAN'T HELP YOU, OR, SINCE YOU ARE NO LONGER HERE, WE CAN'T PAY FOR IT. I AM SITTING HERE TRYING TO FIGURE OUT HOW YOUR DESIGN FLAWS, ARE MY FAULT JUST BECAUSE I MOVED THE CAR FROM ONE SUBARU MARKET, TO ANOTHER. THE RECALLS IN QUESTION ARE: WQE41, WQY60, AND TKA16. MY WIFE AND 2 CHILDREN WERE IN THE CAR ABOUT TO LEAVE MY RESIDENCE WHEN IT CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT AND REAR PUDDLE LIGHTS BOTH FAILED. THE FRONT ONE WAS SMOKING HEAVILY AND THE REAR ONE WAS ON FIRE. MY WIFE IMMEDIATELY GRABBED THE HOSE AND STARTED SPRAYING THE REAR ONE WHILE I GRABBED A 10MM WRENCH AND DISCONNECTED THE LEAD TO THE CAR BATTERY. UNFORTUNATELY, THE TRIM ON THE UNDERSIDE HAS PLASTIC MELTED WITH A BIG GAPING HOLE AND THERE ARE BURN MARKS ON THE PAINT AND PLASTIC ON BOTH PUDDLE LIGHTS.
2017-03-30

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-07-25
  • VIN: 4S4WX85C364
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SUBARU TRIBECA. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V359000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
2017-03-24

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-03-24
  • VIN: 454WX85C264
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: HOOD LATCH OPEN GOING 70 MILES PER HOUR GOING SOUTH ON I74 SOUTH OF INDIANAPOLIS INDIANA. DROVE TO AIRPORT TO PICK UP MY DAUGHTER. ON WAY NAME HOOD SMASHED WINSHIELD WITHOUT WARNING. MIRROR HIT ME IN THE FACE WAS ABLE TO STOP VEHICLE. DID DAMAGE TO HOOD BROKE WINSHIELD AND DID A LITTLE INSIDE DAMAGE INSIDE. MAP LIGHTS
2017-03-20

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-03-20
  • VIN: 4S4WX83C464
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL. RECEIVED INITIAL RECALL NOTICE JULY 2016. I HAVE RECEIVED NO FURTHER NOTIFICATION. I WAS AT MY LOCAL DEALER ABOUT ANOTHER ISSUE AND CHECKED WITH THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT TO CHECK ON THE TAKATA RECALL AND THEY TOLD ME THEY HAD THE PARTS IN STOCK AND SCHEDULED AN APPOINTMENT FOR THE NEXT DAY. THE RECALL SAID SUBARU WOULD CONTACT ME WHEN PARTS WERE AVAILABLE. THAT DID NOT HAPPEN. MY LOCAL DEALER (WHERE I BOUGHT THE CAR) IS LITHIA RENO SUBARU #38.
2017-03-14

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-01-07
  • VIN: 4S4WX85C964
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: TWICE NOW IN THE COLD MY BREAKS HAVE COMPLETELY LOCKED UP TO WHERE I CAN NOT EVEN PUSH THE PEDAL DOWN. THEY SEEM TO RELEASE AFTER SO MANY TRIES, BUT ONE TIME I COULD NOT STOP AT AN INTERSECTION DUE TO THE PROBLEM.
2017-02-16

AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-09-12
  • VIN: 4S4WX86C764
  • Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SUBARU B9 TRIBECA. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V359000 (AIR BAGS) AND 16V060000 (STRUCTURE, LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES). THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME FRAME TO SCHEDULE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER DID NOT GIVE A SPECIFIC DATE FOR WHEN THE PART WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER COULD NOT PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED DATE FOR WHEN THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WOULD RECEIVE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT WAS NOT EXPERIENCING A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
2017-01-17

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-01-17
  • VIN: 4S4WX86C764
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SUBARU B9 TRIBECA. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V358000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART FOR THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.

2006 Subaru Tribeca recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 8 recalls for different components of the 2006 Subaru Tribeca.

2019-04-11
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch installed as a replacement part. The ball spring inside the switch may break, reducing the strength of the ignition switch. If this occurs, the weight on the key ring and certain road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
  • Consequence: The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. If a crash occurs under this condition, the air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ignition switch, replacing the ignition switch, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 10, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUF-91.
2017-01-11
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Baja, 2009 Forester, Legacy and Outback and 2006-2009 Impreza (including WRX and STI models) and Tribeca vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger front air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2017. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-17.
2017-01-10
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Baja, 2006-2008 Impreza (including WRX and STI models), Tribeca, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles, originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 8, 2017. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-17.
2017-01-10
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Subaru Baja, 2006-2011 Impreza (including WRX and STI models), 2006-2012 Tribeca, 2009-2012 Forester, Legacy, Outback, and 2012 WRX vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2017. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-17.
2016-05-25
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2009-2011 Legacy, Outback, Forester, 2006-2011 Impreza, Tribeca, 2003-2006 Baja, and 2006 Saab 9-2x vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." These vehicles may be equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 26, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Saab owners may contact GM at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-16.
2016-05-25
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2006-2008 Impreza, Tribeca, 2006 Saab 9-2x, and 2003-2006 Baja vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." These vehicles may be equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 24, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-16. Note: This notice is only for vehicles that were not covered by 16V-358 for Zone A.
2016-02-03
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2006-2014 Tribeca vehicles manufactured November 16, 2004, to January 27, 2014. Due to a possible malfunction of the hood safety system and hood lock system, the hood may open unexpectedly while driving.
  • Consequence: If the hood unexpectedly opens while driving, it may interfere with the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will complete this recall in two phases. Phase one will involve inspection, cleaning, and lubricating the hood safety and hood lock systems. If after this is performed the hood latch does not operate properly, it will be replaced with a new current style part. Phase two will involve installing an improved hood safety system and hood lock system. Interim notification was mailed March 4, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQX-59 (phase one) and WQY-60 (phase two).
2012-12-26
  • Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010 and 2011 Legacy and Outback vehicles, certain model year 2006 through 2012 Tribeca vehicles sold before January 2012, and certain model year 2009 through 2012 Forester vehicles sold before January 2012. Up to 78,650 of these vehicles may have been equipped with accessory puddle lights that, when illuminated, brighten the area under the doors of the vehicle. A short circuit can develop when either the puddle light or connector are exposed to an electrolytic moisture source (such as road spray that has road salt in it) and it penetrates the circuit board of the puddle light or the pins of the puddle light connector(s).
  • Consequence: Over time, migration of the moisture into the circuit board and/or into the connector cavity, may result in a short circuit of the puddle light system. This may generate heat which may melt the plastic resulting in smoke or fire.
  • Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional fused-harness, free of charge. The recall began February 19, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
Leave your review of 2006 Subaru Tribeca

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2006 Subaru Tribeca problems:

2006 Subaru Tribeca - Tribeca troubles? - Maintenance/Repairs ...
2006 Subaru Tribeca - Tribeca troubles? - Maintenance/Repairs ...
https://community.cartalk.com/t/2006-subaru-tribeca-tribeca-troubles/190839

May 27, 2023 ... He was quite happy with the car when he traded it for an Outback last year. What issues did you have with yours? VDCdriver May 28, 2023 ...

What are your thoughts on 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca? : r/subaru
What are your thoughts on 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca? : r/subaru
https://www.reddit.com/r/subaru/comments/vzss0v/what_are_your_thoughts_on_2006_subaru_b9_tribeca/

Jul 15, 2022 ... As long as you like the looks, 2006 was one of the best years in terms of reliability. Not really any big common issues. Upvote 1. Downvote

1st Generation (2006-2007) B9 Tribeca Problems
1st Generation (2006-2007) B9 Tribeca Problems
http://www.subarucomplaints.com/models/b9-tribeca/generations/1/

Worst Issues · hood flew up in the 2006 B9 Tribeca. 2 complaints · locks into gear intermittently in the 2007 B9 Tribeca. 2 complaints · faulty head gasket in the ...

Tribeca reliability from long term owners | Subaru B9 Tribeca SUV ...
Tribeca reliability from long term owners | Subaru B9 Tribeca SUV ...
https://www.sb9t.com/threads/tribeca-reliability-from-long-term-owners.4494/

Apr 16, 2019 ... Tribeca reliability from long term owners · 1) Serpentine belt idler or tensioner bearing failure · 2) Coolant leak · 3) Not checking oil often ...

Subaru B9 Tribeca Transmisson Problems — Car Forums at ...
Subaru B9 Tribeca Transmisson Problems — Car Forums at ...
https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/16122/subaru/b9-tribeca/subaru-b9-tribeca-transmisson-problems

Oct 3, 2006 ... Has anybody had issues with the transmission when the car is cold, and when it is shifting from 2nd to 3rd gear? My 2006 Tribeca, w/30k miles, ...

Other years of Subaru Tribeca

subaru tribeca 2007 photo
Tribeca 2007
Subaru

29

8

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru tribeca 2008 photo
Tribeca 2008
Subaru

29

9

25

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru tribeca 2009 photo
Tribeca 2009
Subaru

13

9

30

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru tribeca 2010 photo
Tribeca 2010
Subaru

8

10

19

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru tribeca 2011 photo
Tribeca 2011
Subaru

4

8

23

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru tribeca 2012 photo
Tribeca 2012
Subaru

4

7

14

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 2006 Subaru Tribeca?

Add car complaint
2006 Subaru Tribeca photo