2010 Subaru Tribeca problems

General information about Subaru-Tribeca
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list
Negative car reviews
Positive car reviews

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.

Social links

Common 2010 Subaru Tribeca problems

The Subaru Tribeca, produced between 2005 and 2014, has been reported to have several common problems by its owners

. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:

Hood Latch and Locking System Defect: This issue affected the entire Subaru lineup between 2004 and 2014. A defective hood latch and locking system could come loose while traveling over rough roads, causing the hood to fly open and potentially smash the windshield, leading to an accident. A recall was issued in 2016 to inspect, clean, and replace defective parts.

Power Lock Malfunction: Some Subaru Tribeca owners reported that the power locks on their SUVs would not activate properly. Opening a window might result in the door locking, which then would not unlock when the car was put into Park. Replacement of the door and window modules was found to fix the problem.

Puddle Light Short Circuit: Some owners of the 2008 to 2012 Tribeca reported that the welcome puddle lights, activated by the remote, would stop working after a year or two. An investigation found that poor design allowed water to collect in the side mirror, corrode electrical connections, and melt the housing. A recall for sealing the wiring harness was issued.

Brake Rotor Rust: Drivers of the 2010 Subaru Tribeca reported significant rust on front brake rotors after just 45,000 miles on the road. The rotors were replaced to fix the problem.

Door Flying Open: A limited number of 2010 Tribeca owners experienced their door flying open while the car was in motion. The power cable for the windows in the front doors was run incorrectly during assembly, causing the locking mechanism to get caught in the cable. A recall was issued for fewer than 2,000 vehicles to be inspected and cabling repositioned as needed.

Suspension Squeak: Some owners of the 2008 Subaru Tribeca reported a strange squeak in the suspension, most noticeable during wet weather. Some dealers confirmed the phenomenon, but it was not associated with any mechanical failures. The noise diminishes in warm, dry weather.

Manual Keyed Ignition Malfunction: Some of the earliest vehicles manufactured as a Tribeca included a manual keyed ignition that some customers discovered allowed their car to shut off while in motion. The weight of their key ring or their knee could cause the key to switch to the accessory position, cutting power to the engine. A recall required Subaru to replace the ignition switch if found to be defective.

Suspension and Transmission Issues: Owners of the 2010 Subaru Tribeca have reported issues such as the car jerking when braking, feeling like the passenger side wheel hits the wheel well over speed bumps, and the transmission making a loud mechanical jerk noise when shifting into reverse. These issues may be related to the suspension or transmission and could require professional inspection and repair.

Key Fob Malfunction: Some owners have reported issues with the key fob not working properly, despite replacing the battery. This issue might require purchasing a new key fob, which can be expensive.

These common problems should be taken into consideration when purchasing a used Subaru Tribeca. While many of these issues can be addressed with repairs, they may still impact the overall ownership experience and cost of maintaining the vehicle.

Is a 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.

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.

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 ...

What was unique about the Subaru Tribeca?

Tribeca is Subaru's largest and most luxurious vehicle, and the only Subaru that seats seven. Subaru recently discontinued production of the Tribeca but we stock used ones. Overview: Tribeca is constructed on a stretched Outback platform, so in terms of proportions and road presence, it is like a tall Outback.

Is a 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 stop making the Tribeca?

The biggest reason for the Subaru Tribeca being discontinued was the low sales rate. They simply weren't selling, so Subaru decided to scrap the name and car in favour of a better vehicle, the Subaru Ascent. In 2014, the last year the Tribeca was sold, only 732 models were sold.

What was unique about the Subaru Tribeca?

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

2010 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:

Electrical system problems
Structure problems
Air bags problems
Power train problems
Service brakes problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2010 Subaru Tribeca vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2010 Subaru Tribeca complaints

The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2010 Subaru Tribeca.

2017-12-01

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2016-12-13
VIN: 1GNUCHE00AR
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: TAKATA RECALL

Add Complaint

2017-02-16

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2016-06-01
VIN: 4S4BRBCC9A3
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: THE CVT TRANSMISSION SEEMS TO BE A PROBLEM ITEM. MY TRANSMISSIONS SEEMS TO BE SLIPPING SINCE AROUND 143,000 MILES. HAD A NEW OEM TORQUE CONVERTOR INSTALLED. WHEN DRIVING THE TRANSMISSION/TORQUE CONVERTER BANGS AT AROUND 20MPH AT SLOW ACCELERATION/DECELERATION. MOST ANY SPEED AT A CRUISING DRIVE THE TRANSMISSION SEEMS TO HAVE THE ENGINE LUGGING HARD. I'VE ALREADY BEEN ABLE TO PRESS THE GAS PEDAL AS THE RPMS INCREASE TO NEAR 2,000 RPMS BEFORE THE CAR WILL START MOVING. THERE'S A VIBRATION THAT FEELS LIKE ITS COMING FROM THE TRANSMISSION AS WELL. AT TIMES I HAVE TO USE THE PADDLE SHIFTER TO DOWNSHIFT OR UPSHIFT TO HAVE THE TRANSMISSION ADJUST AS NEEDED TO MAKE IT UP HILLS OR TO ACCELERATE AND TO DROP FROM HIGH RPMS A CRUISING TO PROPER RPMS. THIS 2010 CVT IS A DISASTER AND SHOULD BE RECALLED AT THE LEAST. SUBARU SAYS THERE'S NO FIX BUT IS AWARE OF THE ISSUE BEING WIDESPREAD. REALLY? ONGOING SINCE 143,000 MILES AND CURRENTLY AT 157,300 MILES.

Add Complaint

2015-04-17

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2015-04-16
VIN: 4S4WX9HD3A4
Components: SERVICE BRAKES
Summary: DROPPED OFF CAR FOR 45K MILE SERVICE AND WHILE ROTATING THE TIRES WAS WARNED THAT THE FRONT BRAKE ROTORS WERE SEVERELY WORN AND RUSTED AND PADS WORN AT 95%. THEY RECOMMENDED REPLACEMENT BECAUSE IF THE ROTORS WERE TO BE CUT, THEY WOULD FALL BELOW ACCEPTABLE SAFETY TOLERANCE. AS SUCH, THEY WERE REPLACED AND THOUGH WE HAD THE 7YR/70K MILE "GOLD PLUS" EXTENDED WARRANTY, THE ROTORS WERE NOT COVERED (OF COURSE) UNDER THE EXTENDED WARRANTY. THE TRIBECA IS OUR FIRST SUBARU HOWEVER, NOT OUR FIRST NEW CAR. WE HAVE A JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE WITH 98K MILES AND HAS THE ORIGINAL FRONT ROTORS AS DID OUR HONDA CR-V, CHEVY BLAZER AND FORD EXPLORER. ALL HAD ORIGINAL FRONT ROTORS WELL INTO THEIR RESPECTIVE 90-110K MILES. GOOD THING THAT THE SERVICE TECH CAUGHT THE PREMATURE RUST ON THE ROTORS AS THEY BOTH APPEARED TO BE CLOSE TO SEPARATING FROM THE CARRIERS. MY WIFE IS BEGINNING TO HAVE TRUST ISSUES WITH THE CAR NOW. *TR

Add Complaint

2015-02-04

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2015-02-04
VIN: 4S4WX9GD0A4
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE HOOD OF THE 2010 SUBARU TRIBECA OPENED AND CAME BACK FAR ENOUGH TO BREAK THE WINDSHIELD. THE VIEW OF THE DRIVER WAS COMPLETELY BLOCKED ALMOST CAUSING A MAJOR ACCIDENT. POLICE WAS CALLED TO FILE A REPORT. THIS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE. *TR

Add Complaint

2014-07-15

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2014-06-28
Fire: 1
VIN: JF1GPAC67CH
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: MY WIFE WAS DRIVING THE CAR AND SUDDENLY SMELLED SMOKE SO SHE PULLED OVER AND NOTICED THAT THE CAR WAS ON FIRE AND IT WAS COMING FROM THE BACK PASSENGER DOOR. LUCKILY TWO GUYS DRIVING BUY STOPPED AND HAPPEN TO WORK FOR HONDA AND THEY PUT OUT THE FIRE WITH AN EXTINGUISHER THEN THE POLICE AND TOE TRUCK CAME AND TOOK THE CAR AWAY. THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR WAS COMPLETELY RUINED AS WELL AS MY 2 KIDS CAR SEATS AND THE WHOLE INTERIOR IN THE CAR FROM THE FIRE AND EXTINGUISHER AS WELL AS OTHER INTERIOR OF THE CAR THAT WAS AFFECTED. PROGRESSIVE INSURANCE CAME TO CHECK THE CAR SINCE SUBARU OF AMERICA DIDN'T WANT TO TAKE BLAME WITHOUT THE INSURANCE COMING AND PLACING THE BLAME ON THEM FIRST THIS IS DEFINITELY SUBARUS FAULT AND THE CAR MUST HAVE FAULTY WIRING OR A DEFECT THAT NEEDS TO BE RECALLED. *TR

Add Complaint

2011-09-03

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2011-08-30
VIN: 4S4WX9GD9A4
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
Summary: WHILE ROUNDING A LEFT HAND TURN AT APPROXIMATELY 15- 20 MPH, THE PASSENGER LOWERED THE PASSENGER DOOR WINDOW USING THE POWER WINDOW SWITCH- THE DOOR FLEW OPEN , BUT WAS CAUGHT BY THE PASSENGER GRABBING THE DOOR , PREVENTING IT FROM HITTING A TELEPHONE POLE NEXT TO THE ROADWAY. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN STOPPED AND THE DRIVER EXITED VEHICLE AND WENT TO PASSENGER SIDE AND ATTEMPTED TO CLOSE DOOR, WHICH WOULD NOT LATCH AND STAY CLOSED. AFTER CYCLING THE ELECTRIC LOCK SWITCH AND THEN CYCLING THE LOCK LEVER MANUALLY, THE DOOR CLOSED AND STAYED SHUT. UPON ARRIVAL HOME TO PARK CAR, PASSENGER DOOR WOULD NOT OPEN. DRIVER THEN CYCLED WINDOW CLOSED AND DOOR LOCK RELEASED AND DOOR COULD BE OPENED AND CLOSED. WE HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY RECALL NOTICES FROM EITHER THE SELLING DEALER OR THE MANUFACTURER. *TR

Add Complaint

2010-12-14

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2010-12-13
VIN: 4S4WX9KD9A4
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: WHEN THE CAR IS STARTED WITH THE REMOTE CAR STARTER THE CAR DOES NOT SHUT OFF WHEN THE BRAKE IS ENGAGED ALLOWING THE CAR TO BE PUT INTO GEAR WITH OUT THE IGNITION IN ON POSITION. CAR IS THEN ABLE TO BE DRIVEN WITH OUT KEYS IN ON POSITION. *TR

Add Complaint

2010-12-14

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2010-10-11
VIN: 4S4WX9KD9A4
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 SUBARU TRIBECA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REMOTE AUTOMATIC STARTER WOULD NOT DISENGAGE WHEN THE KEYS WERE NOT IN THE IGNITION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE FAILURE AND ADVISED THAT A FAILURE WAS NOT PRESENT IN THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS E-MAILED BUT HAD NOT RESPONDED YET TO THE CONTACTS INQUIRY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 20,000.

Add Complaint

2010 Subaru Tribeca recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 10 recalls for different components of the 2010 Subaru Tribeca.

2019-01-09

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles 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 explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Consequence: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-19.

2019-01-09

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, and Legacy vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles 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 passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Consequence: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-19.

2019-01-09

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Forester, 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, Legacy, and 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles 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 used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Consequence: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-19.

2018-01-09

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2010 Tribeca, Impreza, Forester, WRX, Legacy, and Outback vehicles 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 passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Consequence: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other 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 on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-18.

2018-01-09

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Legacy, Forester, Tribeca, WRX and Outback vehicles, and 2009-2011 Impreza vehicles 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 used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Consequence: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other 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 on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-18.

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.

2016-02-03

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.

2010-03-18

Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
Summary: SUBARU HAS NOTIFIED NHTSA ABOUT A DEFECT IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 TRIBECA PASSENGER CARS MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 4, 2009 THROUGH MARCH 8, 2010. THE DOOR LATCH CABLES LOCATED INSIDE THE VEHICLE'S DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER DOORS WERE IMPROPERLY POSITIONED DURING PRODUCTION. AS A RESULT, A CABLE CAN CATCH IN THE DOOR GLASS REGULATOR WHEN A WINDOW IS OPENED OR CLOSED. SHOULD THAT OCCUR, IT MAY UNLATCH THE DOOR, CAUSING IT TO COME OPEN UNEXPECTEDLY WHEN RAISING OR LOWERING THE WINDOW.
Consequence: IF A DOOR WERE TO UNLATCH, IT COULD OPEN SUDDENLY AND WITHOUT WARNING, CREATING A RISK THAT AN OCCUPANT COULD BE EJECTED AS WELL AS A RISK THAT THE DRIVER MAY BECOME DISTRACTED, LEADING TO A CRASH. THIS CONDITION MAY ALSO RESULT IN THE FAILURE OF A DOOR LATCH TO OPERATE, IN WHICH CASE OCCUPANTS WOULD BE UNABLE TO OPEN THE DOOR TO EXIT THE VEHICLE.
Remedy: SUBARU WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS AND WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES BY REPOSITIONING AND SECURING THE LATCH CABLE IN BOTH FRONT DOORS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 19, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-SUBARU3 (1-800-782-2783) MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY BETWEEN 8:30 AM AND 7:00 PM EST AND FRIDAY BETWEEN 10:30 AM AND 5:00 PM EST.

Negative 2010 Subaru Tribeca car reviews

Darius Ratke 2025-01-02

I have owned several Subaru Outbacks in the past and recently purchased a 2009 Subaru Tribeca. Unfortunately, I experienced some issues with the car, but I am confident that the problem has been resolved. The check engine light came on within the first eight months, but it was a minor issue with a faulty sensor. Recently, the car lost power while I was driving, but the problem was quickly identified and resolved by updating the computer. Overall, I am still a fan of Subaru and trust in their ability to provide reliable vehicles.
Harmon Will 2024-10-04

Hi there! I'm new to Subaru and recently made the switch from Toyota to the Tribeca because of its sleek design and great features. After driving over 1000 miles, I have a few minor gripes that I wanted to share. Firstly, I find the steering wheel mounted audio controls to be poorly placed, as I tend to accidentally change the radio station when making hard turns. Additionally, the gas mileage could be better, as I'm currently averaging 18.6 highway miles per gallon. I also haven't noticed much of a difference between regular drive mode and 'Sport' mode. The leather seats could use some improvement in terms of fit and finish, as there are a few bunched up spots. Lastly, I wish there was more small storage space for items like sunglasses, wallets, and my Garmin. Oh, and the Good-Year tires that came with the car aren't great in the snow! Lastly, the audio controls are laid out in an unusual way. Overall, I'm still enjoying my Tribeca and look forward to more adventures in it!
Dillon Durgan 2024-05-20

I was very excited about my new car, but only for 2 weeks. I purchased used car with 12,000 miles. Then problems started- rattles and transmission. My new car didn't accelerate well, made strange noises, took it to the dealer, reflushed transmission and after 3 weeks the same problem came back. Extremely disappointed. Suppose to be fun car to drive but turned out to be a complete disaster. After 3 months I traded in my Tribeca, of course lost a lot of money : (.
Vidal Tillman 2024-01-24

I was pleasantly surprised by the Subaru after test driving CUVs from Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Toyota and Ford. The engine is very drivable around town and the ride experience is as luxurious as the premium brands. The Tribeca feels more like a car as opposed to the minivan roots of the Toyota Venza and the Ford Edge. Interior room for five is exceptional and the rear storage area is huge. The build quality approaches that of luxury brands. If you are in the market for a vehicle in this class, I would recommend test driving them carefully. In my experience, it did not match up with the reviews on this site. It was almost as if the experts were driving different cars!

Positive 2010 Subaru Tribeca car reviews

Paul Wiza 2025-01-08

I was searching for a 7-seat SUV that was luxurious, safe, and reliable. I tested several models including the Audi Q7, Acura MDX, Lexus, Volvo XC90, and BMW X5, but I couldn't make a decision. During a regular service appointment for my Forester, I tested the Tribeca and was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable it was. The price was also much lower than the other models I had considered, so I made the purchase. Some people have complained about the fuel economy of the Tribeca, but it's important to remember that this is not your average Subaru. It's almost like a truck! After driving it for about 1200 miles, I'm getting around 16 mpg in Brooklyn and over 21 mpg on the highway, just as promised. This is in line with other vehicles in its class. Additionally, the Tribeca speeds up really well in sport shift mode.
Raoul Connelly 2025-01-08

I'm so glad I bought my Tribeca Limited! It's such a pleasure to drive and I always get a lot of stares while driving it. The Boxer engine provides great passing power, although I do get a bit nervous sometimes when driving it because I worry about distracted drivers. My wife actually test drove the car and we had a close call with a young girl on her phone who tried to cut in front of us. Despite that, I still love my Subaru!
Neil Ziemann 2024-11-29

Overall, I must say that the fit and finish are excellent. The comfort and performance are very good, and I'm particularly impressed with the nice pickup, great turning radius, and very good visibility. As a previous Toyota owner, I'm pleased to say that this is my first Subaru and I'm very happy with the quality, reliability, performance, and appearance.
Kyle Rodriguez 2024-11-15

I'm so glad to hear that you made a great decision by trading your 2009 Forester XT for the 2010 Tribeca Touring! It sounds like you made the right choice, especially since you needed a larger car for your two kids. The third row is a fantastic feature that can accommodate two extra passengers. I hope you and your family enjoy your new car!
Darrion Shields 2024-09-26

Overall, I think the car is really well designed both inside and out. It's a great replacement for my big SUV and I'm confident it will handle the snow and ice with ease. I'm really loving it so far!!!

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2010 Subaru Tribeca problems:

Several problems with my 2010 Subaru Tribeca - Maintenance ...

https://community.cartalk.com/t/several-problems-with-my-2010-subaru-tribeca/138541

Apr 15, 2019 ... I have a 2010 Subaru Tribeca Limited with 90k miles, the first issue is when i go over speed bumps it feels like my right passenger side ...

Subaru Tribeca Problems To Add To Your List Of Worries ...

https://www.vehiclehistory.com/articles/subaru-tribeca-problems-to-add-to-your-list-of-worries

Jan 23, 2021 ... Most Typical Complaints and Problems for the Subaru Tribeca · Hood Flies Open While Car is in Motion · Doors Fail to Lock or Unlock · Puddle Lights ...