Subaru Outback Driver-assist systems problems
130 of the 3,749 complaints about the Subaru Outback (3.5%) concern Driver-assist systems, making it the model's #5 problem area. That share is 0.6× the Driver-assist systems share across all tracked vehicles.
Analysis
By model year, Driver-assist systems complaints peak with the 2020 model (32, 4% of that year's complaints) and are lowest for the 2018 model (8). 13 Driver-assist systems complaints were filed in the last 12 months versus 14 in the 12 months before — a steady pace.
Owners most often describe: “eyesight”, “windshield”, “crack”, “lane” and “collision”. 7 of these reports (5.4%) describe a crash or fire, with 0 injuries and 0 deaths mentioned.
No recall campaign addresses Driver-assist systems for the tracked model years.
By model year
When complaints were filed
Last 12 months: 13 · Previous 12 months: 14
Common terms in reports
- eyesight33
- windshield52
- crack30
- lane34
- collision32
- braking31
What owners report
1. Pre-collision warning system malfunctioned. On my vehicle it has activated 4 different times when there was no obstacle in the roadway -- one of which happened in front of a semi truck and the semi truck almost rear ended me.
The Subaru front camera incorrectly detected a hazard. The automatic braking system engaged and locked the steering. I skidded off the pavement, causing damage to the car.
While driving on the highway I had my cruise control on with my driving assist turned on. My car tried to veer to the left, hard, almost into the guardrail. It had happened before but not as severe as this time.
Phantom Braking of Pre-Collision Braking 2023 Subaru Outback Turbo Wednesday, July 29, 2026. 9:30 am, sunny day Driving south on local city street.
Twice in one week I was backing slowly out of my driveway. No cars were in sight and the Subaru slammed on the breaks. The first time tweaked my back as I was looking over my shoulder when it broke so aggresively. I am fine.
Traveling southbound onXXX in Virginia between the hours of 7-9am. Weather was clear with bright sunshine. While traveling at highway speed with the cruise control activated the emergency braking system activated on 3 separate occasions.
Excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA, trimmed for length. The ODI number is NHTSA's record identifier.
Related recalls
No recall campaign addresses Driver-assist systems for the tracked model years.
Problem areas · Subaru Outback
- Body & structure1468
- Electrical1026
- Interior & equipment476
- Engine184
- Driver-assist systems130
- Transmission / powertrain95
- Airbags & seat belts73
- Steering71
- Brakes63
- Fuel system58
Subaru Outback problems, complaints & recalls by model year ›
Related reading
- Phantom braking and other driver-assist complaints: what goes wrong and which models draw the most reportsHow automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise and lane keeping produce false alarms, why some models generate far more reports, what NHTSA has investigated, and what to test before buying.
Frequently asked questions
How common are Driver-assist systems problems on the Subaru Outback?
130 of the 3,749 complaints about the Subaru Outback (3.5%) concern Driver-assist systems, making it the model's #5 problem area. That share is 0.6× the Driver-assist systems share across all tracked vehicles.
Which Subaru Outback model years have the most Driver-assist systems complaints?
By model year, Driver-assist systems complaints peak with the 2020 model (32, 4% of that year's complaints) and are lowest for the 2018 model (8).
Is there a recall for Subaru Outback Driver-assist systems problems?
No recall campaign addresses Driver-assist systems for the tracked model years.