2013 Subaru Tribeca problems
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 2013 Subaru Tribeca problems
The Subaru Tribeca, produced between 2006 and 2014, has been known for several common problems that owners have reported. These issues range from hood latch failures to engine and transmission problems.
One of the most significant problems with the Subaru Tribeca is the defective hood latch and locking system. This issue affected the entire Subaru lineup between 2004 and 2014, with the hood potentially flying open while driving due to a loose hood latch. This problem could cause severe accidents, as the hood can smash the windshield upon opening. A recall was issued in 2016 to inspect, clean, and replace defective parts to address this issue.
Another common problem with the Subaru Tribeca is the failure of power locks to activate correctly. This issue can result in the door locking while opening a window, which then fails to unlock when the car is put into Park. Replacement of the door and window modules is necessary to fix this problem.
The welcome puddle lights on the Tribeca have also been known to fail after a year or two of use. This issue is caused by water collecting in the side mirror, which then corrodes electrical connections and melts the housing. A recall was issued to seal the wiring harness and address this problem.
In addition to these issues, drivers of the 2010 Subaru Tribeca have reported significant rust on front brake rotors after just 45,000 miles on the road. A recall was issued to inspect and reposition the cabling as needed.
Engine and transmission problems have also been reported with the Subaru Tribeca. These issues include shaking while driving, engine oil seepage, transmission failure, banging, and hard shifting. Lights, interior, and drivetrain problems have also been reported.
While the Subaru Tribeca has been known for these common problems, it is essential to note that most of these issues are easily fixed. Subaru owners are generally loyal to their vehicles, and the Tribeca is regarded as a versatile and dependable mid-size ride for a growing family. However, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and consider the costs of repairs before purchasing a used Subaru Tribeca.
Are Subaru Tribecas 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 was the Subaru Tribeca discontinued?
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.
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.
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.
Are Subaru Tribecas 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 was Subaru Tribeca discontinued?
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 engine is in a Subaru Tribeca 2013?
The lone engine choice is 3.6-liter six-cylinder boxer engine that produces 256 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic and Subaru's full-time all-wheel-drive system completes the powertrain combo.
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.
2013 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:
- Engine problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2013 Subaru Tribeca vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2013 Subaru Tribeca complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2013 Subaru Tribeca.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-27
- VIN: 4S4WX9HD9D4
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: SUBARU OF AMERICA CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT HELLO I OWN A 2013 SUBARU TRIBECA WITH VIN [XXX] THAT HAS RECENTLY LOST ALL THE ENGINE OIL AND NO WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED ALERTING ME THE VEHICLE WAS LOW OR HAD NO OIL. THIS VEHICLE WAS JUST IN THE SUBARU SERVICE DEPARTMENT FROM 1/301/9-2/5/19 FOR LOSS OF ENGINE POWER AND A REPORTED BELT BREAK AT HIGHWAY RATE OF SPEED REQUIRING IT TO BE TOWED. SUBSEQUENTLY IN 2/25/19, I NOTICED MY CAR MAKING A "KNOCKING" NOISE AND SOMEONE ASKED IF I HAD CHECKED THE OIL AND I HAD NOT BECAUSE 1. IT WAS JUST IN FOR SERVICE WITH A MULTI-POINT INSPECTION BY A SUBARU CERTIFIED TECH NOTING THEY HAD TOPPED MY OIL AND SECONDARILY BECAUSE I HAD NO WARMING LIGHTS TO ALERT ME OF SUCH INCIDENCE. ADDITIONALLY, THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE OF AN OIL LEAK IN MY GARAGE OR PARKING SPOT AT WORK. I PROCEEDED TO ADD 5 QUARTS OF OIL UNTIL IT WAS ABLE TO BE REGISTERED ON THE DIP STICK. I LATER LOST POWER AND REQUIRED TO BE TOWED INTO THE SUBARU DEALER-LOU FUSZ ST. PETERS, MISSOURI (636-397-2012). I HAVE BEEN CONVERSING WITH SUBARU AMERICA AND ST PETERS SERVICE MANAGER REGARDING THIS MATTER AND THEY ARE WILLING TO OFFER A FRIENDS AND FAMILY INCENTIVE OF 1500. I FOUND THIS TO BE UNACCEPTABLE SO I PROCEEDED TO CONTACT THE MAYOR OF ST PETERS, MISSOURI; MISSOURI ATTORNEY GENERAL, BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU AND OUR LOCAL NEWS CHANNEL THAT INVESTIGATES ISSUE LIKE THIS ONE. IT WAS THE NEW STATION THAT ALERTED ME TO THIS CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT FILED BY YOUR FIRM. MY VEHICLE FALLS WITHIN THE YEAR OF THE CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT BUT NOT THE MODEL. PERHAPS BECAUSE THERE WERE NO CLAIMS MADE TO DATE REGARDING THIS SUBARU MODEL. BOTH OCCURRENCES, VEHICLE STALLED ON HIGHWAY AT HIGHWAY SPEED REQUIRING TOWING AFTER STALL. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-01
- VIN: 4S4WX9GD7D4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL
2013 Subaru Tribeca recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 2013 Subaru Tribeca.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: Subaru of America is recalling certain model year 2014 Legacy 3.6R and Outback 3.6R and 2013 Tribeca vehicles manufactured June 12, 2013, through June 28, 2013 and equipped with 5-speed automatic transmissions. In the affected vehicles, the parking rod may come loose inside the automatic transmission.
- Consequence: As a result of the parking rod detaching, the transmission may not be able to be moved from the "park" position preventing the vehicle from being moved or driven. Furthermore, even with the transmission shifted into the 'park' position, the parking mechanism may not engage, and the vehicle may roll away while in the "park" position, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the transmission, free of charge. The recall began during August 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's recall number is WQJ-46.
Negative 2013 Subaru Tribeca car reviews
Positive 2013 Subaru Tribeca car reviews
-
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!
-
We purchased a 2011 model which had a back support issue from the beginning. We then decided to upgrade to the 2012 model, which has a better design. Despite the high fuel consumption, we are committed to paying off the vehicle over the next 7 years with confidence in our decision.
-
I'm glad to hear that this is your fourth Subaru and that you're sold on its versatility, reliability, and safety. It's great to know that the Tribeca performs well in terms of appearance, comfort, and safety, ranking number 1 in its class. Although it may not have the best fuel economy, this is understandable given its heavy weight and all-wheel drive. The third row seat is a nice addition for children 8 and under, and with it down, there is plenty of storage room. It's unfortunate that the electronic fold-in mirrors are not available for tight spaces like the garage, but it's good to hear that you haven't experienced any issues with the vehicle at 9,889 miles. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
-
This car is definitely a lot of fun to drive, especially after covering 8000 km. The symmetrical AWD is one of a kind and provides a firm grip on the road, giving me complete control of the vehicle. Safety is a top priority for me, especially with two small children, and this car has a 5-star crash test and safety rating, which is fantastic. The interior is stylish and easy to clean with its smooth lines. The seats are comfortable and firm, and even on long rides, my body stays rested. The front and back visibility is great, and the over-sized side mirrors are a bonus. Overall, this is a great car!
-
I have a 2012 Tribeca that has been an awesome car! Other than brakes and belts, I have had no issues and now it has 220,000 miles. Although it tends to go through headlight bulbs prematurely and the fuel mileage is not super, if I drive the car conservatively, I can get 29 mpg. I absolutely love this car and cannot wait to review it again after it turns 300,000 miles!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2013 Subaru Tribeca problems:
2013 Subaru Tribeca Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2013 Subaru Tribeca? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Tribeca 2013 fans and slight overheating issues | Subaru Outback ...
Dec 4, 2022 ... Have the shop look into the fan control relay or an error with AC control. A cooling pressure test will also identify a head gasket leak. A ...
What's Wrong with the Subaru Tribeca?
Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 7th in overall reliability out of 17 Subaru models , with real engine and transmission concerns. 2 Common Subaru ...
Tribeca reliability from long term owners | Subaru B9 Tribeca SUV ...
Apr 16, 2019 ... 1) Serpentine belt idler or tensioner bearing failure · 2) Coolant leak · 3) Not checking oil often enough
Is the Subaru Tribeca 2006-2014 a decent affordable option for a car ...
Oct 5, 2020 ... Most subarus made and designed before 2013 actually have that same issue, regardless of the model, whether its an outback Tribeca impreza, ...
Other years of Subaru Tribeca
Are you having problems with your 2013 Subaru Tribeca?
Donny McDermott 2024-08-25
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! Overall, I'm still enjoying my Tribeca and look forward to more adventures in it. Thanks for listening!
Halle Paucek 2024-05-01
This is my 4th Subaru and my first Tribeca. I live in Australia, so the vehicle specs are different from those in the USA and Europe. Unfortunately, I have encountered a few issues with my vehicle, such as the lack of fold-back mirrors, reversing sensors, digital speedometer, auto on/off headlights, rear fog lights, and adjustable steering wheel. Additionally, I have been unable to program the Sat Nav to show vehicle speed, roadway speed, or set over speed warnings. I was disappointed to find out that the only GPS software I could install was 'whereis', which cost me AU$295 for a one-year map. When I reached out to Subaru and Kenwood for assistance, they refused to re-program the unit or show me how to do it myself. I was also disappointed to find out that my vehicle did not come with an alarm system, despite being advertised as pre-wired for one. When I raised this issue with Subaru, they went back on their deal to pay for the alarm if I paid for fitting. Despite these issues, I remain a loyal Subaru customer and hope to receive better after-sales support in the future.