Subaru Xt problems
The Subaru XT is a two-door, front- or all-wheel drive, four passenger 2+2 coupé manufactured and marketed by Subaru for model years 1985-1991, with a facelift in 1987. At introduction, the XT was the most aerodynamic car marketed in the US market, heavily influenced by noted designer Alex Tremulis.
Marketed as the Alcyone in Japan; as the Vortex in Australia and New Zealand; and as the XT (with the EA-82 four-cylinder engine) or XT6 (with the ER-27 six-cylinder engine) in North America and Europe, all XT's were assembled at Subaru's Yajima Plant in Ota, Japan. Over its single generation, production reached just over 98,000.
The XT was conceived in the United States for the US market, and debuted globally in the US. After sales began in February 1985 in the US, the XT Turbo 4WD's debuted in Europe at the March 1985 Geneva Motor Show, followed by its Japanese debut in June 1985.
The XT was noted for its pronounced wedge shape, low coefficient of drag; aviation influences from the aircraft division of parent company Fuji Heavy Industry; and its host of features, either innovative or uncommon in the XT's class — including height-adjustable pneumatic suspension, digital dash, central locking system, op-art upholstery, fold down rear seat, pod- and center console-mounted HVAC controls, advanced trip computer, and instrument cluster that tilted with adjustment of the steering column. With available front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, depending on the model year, the XT offered three trim levels, DL, GL (non-turbo, front-drive only), and GL-10 Turbo.
The Alcyone nameplate derives from Alcyone, the brightest star in the Pleiades star cluster, stylized in the Subaru logo. The model was superseded by the Subaru Alcyone SVX in 1992.
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Subaru Xt model years
Common Subaru Xt problems
Based on the complaints from owners of Subaru XT cars, here are some common problems associated with these vehicles:
- Oil Consumption:
- Many drivers have noted higher oil consumption rates compared to other vehicles, often requiring more frequent oil changes due to cracks or leaks in seals like camshaft, crankshaft, and oil pump seals.
- Electrical Issues:
- Recent models have experienced various electrical problems, ranging from issues with opening the tailgate to problems with the GPS system. While inconvenient, these issues do not render the car inoperable.
- Check Engine Light and Engine Issues:
- The Check Engine light may illuminate due to problems with the oxygen sensor, catalytic converter efficiency, or the knock sensor. These issues can lead to smog test failures and engine performance concerns.
- Lineartronic CVT Reliability:
- The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) in Subaru vehicles has shown problems with age, causing shaking and hesitation during gear shifts. In extreme cases, this can lead to engine stalling.
- Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires:
- Rodents are attracted to the soy-derived wire coatings used in Subaru vehicles, leading to costly repairs for owners. Subaru, like other automakers, denies this as a defect.
- Subaru EyeSight Problems:
- Subaru's EyeSight technology has faced issues, particularly in bad weather driving, where it may not function as expected. While newer versions have improved, some consider it bulky and expensive.
- Excessive Oil Consumption:
- Subaru, among other automakers, has been accused of producing engines that excessively burn oil, leading owners to add oil between scheduled changes.
These problems highlight various issues that Subaru XT owners have encountered, ranging from mechanical concerns to electrical and technological challenges. Owners should be vigilant and address these issues promptly to ensure the longevity and reliability of their vehicles.
Is The Subaru XT A Good car?
Driving. Thanks in large part to the XT's 250 horsepower, the Forester is arguably the best-performing vehicle in this class. When combined with confident braking, on and off-road handling and multiple driving modes, the Forester is clearly a jack-of-all-trades.
How many miles will a Forester XT last?
Based on various sources and owner accounts, Foresters can last 200,000 and 250,000 with proper TLC – nothing short of impressive. The Forester has been in production since 1998, so there are a lot of models to choose from.
Why did Subaru discontinue Forester XT?
Sure, there's a chance Subaru could put the 2.4-liter turbo flat-4 from the Ascent, Legacy, and Outback into the Forester, but considering the company discontinued the turbocharged Forester XT years ago due to super-slow sales, we won't be holding out for its return.
What does the XT stand for in Subaru?
The XT in Touring XT refers to Subaru's 2.4L boxer-four. Subaru has offered this turbocharged engine in the Outback since this generation launched. It's a big power boost over the naturally aspirated 2.5L boxer engine offered in anything without that XT badge.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Subaru Xt years
We have researched Subaru problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Subaru Xt cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Subaru Xt model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Subaru Xt model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Subaru Xt years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Subaru Xt car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Subaru Xt , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Seat belts problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Interior lighting problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Subaru Xt vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Xt model years
A total of 1 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 9 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Subaru Xt . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Subaru Xt vehicles.
List of Subaru Xt complaints
Subaru Xt 1989
- Date Of Incident: 1990-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2002-06-06
- VIN: JF1AX4327KB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THERE IS OIL LEAKING SLOWING FROM THE DRAIN PLUG AREA. NO MATTER HOW TIGHT CONSUMER TIGHTENS IT THERE IS STILL A SLOW LEAK. CONSUMER FEELS THIS MAY CAUSE A FIRE. *AK *TT
Subaru Xt 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 1998-08-04
- VIN: JFIAX8423MC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: AUTOMATIC SEATBELTS OPERATE VERY ERRATICALLY. SEAT BELTS WHEN LATCHED CHOKE DRIVER. ALSO SEATBELTS GET STUCK IN THE RETRACTING POSTION. CAUSE UNKNOWN. *AK
Subaru Xt 1986
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 1998-07-07
- VIN: JF2AC75B6GF
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DIGITAL INSTRUMENT PANEL IS VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE TO READ DURING DAYLIGHT.
Subaru Xt 1986
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-01
- Date Complaint: 1997-09-04
- VIN: JF1AX43B1GB
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HEALIGHT SWITCH FAILED TWICE. *AK
Subaru Xt 1986
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-12
- Date Complaint: 1997-07-22
- VIN: JF1AX43B1GB
- Components: INTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE OWNER HAS REPLACED THE DASHBOARD SWITCH TWICE BECAUSE IT NO LONGER OPERATES. *AK
Subaru Xt 1988
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-17
- Date Complaint: 1996-09-04
- VIN: JF1AX732XJD
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER'S MOTOR BELT INOPERATIVE/ALSO LOSS OF TENSION IN LAP BELT..
Subaru Xt 1987
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-03
- Date Complaint: 1995-08-03
- VIN: JF2AX75B3HD
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELTS FAIL TO RETRACT. *AW
Subaru Xt 1989
- Date Of Incident: 1995-02-09
- Date Complaint: 1995-02-10
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVERSIDE MOTORIZED SEATBELT HARNESS PREMATURELY LOCKS UP WHEN EXITING FROM VEHICLE CAUSING BELT TO GRAB DRIVER'S NECK. TT
Subaru Xt 1988
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-27
- Date Complaint: 1994-12-27
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF1AX9425JH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING FAILED, CAUSING LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL/ACCIDENT. *SKD
Latest 5 recalls Subaru Xt
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 10 recalls for different components of the Subaru Xt.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Subaru Xt 1986
- Report Received Date: 2005-10-05
- Manufacturer: SPX FILTRAN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 45-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F350-S1, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 1993-1997 FORD PROBE,1993-2001 MAZDA 626 AND MX-6, AND 1983-1994 LOYAL, 3-DOOR COUPE, HATCHBACK, SEDAN, WAGON, BRAT, DL, GL, GL-10, RX, XT, AND XT6 PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 90-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F300-S2, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 19983-1994 SUBARU VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. FUEL MAY LEAK FROM THE FILTER DUE TO NON-CONFORMING BRAZING WELDS WHERE THE INLET TUBE IS CONNECTED TO THE FILTER CAN.
- Consequence: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A VEHICLE FIRE CAN OCCUR.
- Remedy: SPX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND PROVIDE A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN SEPTEMBER 27, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MR. CHRIS GREESON AT 704-869-3733 OR CONTACT THE WIX INFORMATION HOTLINE AT 800-949-6698.
- Model: Subaru Xt 1988
- Report Received Date: 2005-10-05
- Manufacturer: SPX FILTRAN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 45-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F350-S1, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 1993-1997 FORD PROBE,1993-2001 MAZDA 626 AND MX-6, AND 1983-1994 LOYAL, 3-DOOR COUPE, HATCHBACK, SEDAN, WAGON, BRAT, DL, GL, GL-10, RX, XT, AND XT6 PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 90-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F300-S2, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 19983-1994 SUBARU VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. FUEL MAY LEAK FROM THE FILTER DUE TO NON-CONFORMING BRAZING WELDS WHERE THE INLET TUBE IS CONNECTED TO THE FILTER CAN.
- Consequence: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A VEHICLE FIRE CAN OCCUR.
- Remedy: SPX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND PROVIDE A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN SEPTEMBER 27, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MR. CHRIS GREESON AT 704-869-3733 OR CONTACT THE WIX INFORMATION HOTLINE AT 800-949-6698.
- Model: Subaru Xt 1989
- Report Received Date: 2005-10-05
- Manufacturer: SPX FILTRAN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 45-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F350-S1, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 1993-1997 FORD PROBE,1993-2001 MAZDA 626 AND MX-6, AND 1983-1994 LOYAL, 3-DOOR COUPE, HATCHBACK, SEDAN, WAGON, BRAT, DL, GL, GL-10, RX, XT, AND XT6 PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 90-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F300-S2, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 19983-1994 SUBARU VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. FUEL MAY LEAK FROM THE FILTER DUE TO NON-CONFORMING BRAZING WELDS WHERE THE INLET TUBE IS CONNECTED TO THE FILTER CAN.
- Consequence: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A VEHICLE FIRE CAN OCCUR.
- Remedy: SPX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND PROVIDE A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN SEPTEMBER 27, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MR. CHRIS GREESON AT 704-869-3733 OR CONTACT THE WIX INFORMATION HOTLINE AT 800-949-6698.
- Model: Subaru Xt 1987
- Report Received Date: 2005-10-05
- Manufacturer: SPX FILTRAN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 45-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F350-S1, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 1993-1997 FORD PROBE,1993-2001 MAZDA 626 AND MX-6, AND 1983-1994 LOYAL, 3-DOOR COUPE, HATCHBACK, SEDAN, WAGON, BRAT, DL, GL, GL-10, RX, XT, AND XT6 PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 90-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F300-S2, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 19983-1994 SUBARU VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. FUEL MAY LEAK FROM THE FILTER DUE TO NON-CONFORMING BRAZING WELDS WHERE THE INLET TUBE IS CONNECTED TO THE FILTER CAN.
- Consequence: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A VEHICLE FIRE CAN OCCUR.
- Remedy: SPX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND PROVIDE A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN SEPTEMBER 27, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MR. CHRIS GREESON AT 704-869-3733 OR CONTACT THE WIX INFORMATION HOTLINE AT 800-949-6698.
- Model: Subaru Xt 1991
- Report Received Date: 2005-10-05
- Manufacturer: SPX FILTRAN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 45-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F350-S1, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 1993-1997 FORD PROBE,1993-2001 MAZDA 626 AND MX-6, AND 1983-1994 LOYAL, 3-DOOR COUPE, HATCHBACK, SEDAN, WAGON, BRAT, DL, GL, GL-10, RX, XT, AND XT6 PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 90-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F300-S2, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 19983-1994 SUBARU VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. FUEL MAY LEAK FROM THE FILTER DUE TO NON-CONFORMING BRAZING WELDS WHERE THE INLET TUBE IS CONNECTED TO THE FILTER CAN.
- Consequence: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A VEHICLE FIRE CAN OCCUR.
- Remedy: SPX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND PROVIDE A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN SEPTEMBER 27, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MR. CHRIS GREESON AT 704-869-3733 OR CONTACT THE WIX INFORMATION HOTLINE AT 800-949-6698.
Latest positive Subaru Xt car reviews
Are you having problems with your Subaru Xt?
Niko Terry 2024-08-23
Vehicle year: 1991
I bought this car new in 1991 and I still love it now as much as I did then! I've had other cars simultaneously but they're gone and my Subaru is still around. It's completely reliable: I've only had to do normal routine maintenance/replacement of worn out parts, and my XT shows no signs of wearing out. I'm completely satisfied with my Subaru and will definitely be purchasing another Subaru (obviously a different model) in the future.
Orland Medhurst 2024-04-02
Vehicle year: 1991
Hi there! I'm so excited to tell you about my '87 Subaru! I was lucky enough to find it with only 45000 miles on it, even though it had been sitting in a garage for years. After two years of being outside, my dad tested the car and it fired up instantly! Of course, I've had to replace a few parts since the car sat for so long, like the water pump, alternator, and radiator. The radiator was clogged, which caused the car to overheat, but now it's running better than ever! I absolutely adore this car and can't wait to give it a few more touch-ups to make it even better!