Au7o mascotAu7o
Known IssuesTest Hub demo
  1. Au7o
  2. /
  3. Known Issues
  4. /
  5. Subaru
  6. /
  7. Tribeca
Subaru · Known Issues

2006-2014 Subaru Tribeca Problems: 10 Known Issues

2006-2014 model years · 1,580+ owner reports · Updated October 2026

Share:@au7o.io

All years · All trims · All engines

Choose the year and equipment for your written issues and visual request.

No email neededHow interest is saved

Interest applies to the selected vehicle and configuration; it is not a reservation. Voting stores a first-party identifier for up to 180 days to prevent repeat votes. No account or email is needed. Clearing cookies or using another device may count separately. Privacy

Visual coming soon

Your interest helps us choose what to build next.

Visual Known Issues · Coming soon

$4.99/month plus taxes at launch · No payment today

Preview the XT6 example
Known IssuesMotorcycle IssuesDTC LookupDrivePricingAboutTermsPrivacyCookiesConsentData rightsCopyrightFeedback
Share:@au7o.io

Vehicle data and repair guidance on this site are compiled with AI assistance and may contain errors. Always verify with your service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data protection representation

DataRep representative in the United KingdomDataRep representative in the European Union
Au7o · 2026
Built for DIY mechanics. Privacy-first.
Explore free Hub demo
Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,580+ owner reports, the 2006-2014 Subaru Tribeca has 10 documented known issues, with 6 rated critical. The most serious are EZ36 Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Wear ($2,500-$4,500 repair), EZ30 3.0L H6 Head Gasket Leak ($2,500-$4,000 repair), 5EAT Parking Rod Damaged at Assembly, Stuck in Park or Rollaway (Recall 13V336) ($0-$0 repair), Replacement Mechanical-Key Ignition Switch Ball Spring Breaks, Engine Shuts Off (Recall 19V297) ($0-$0 repair), VDC G-Sensor Installed Backwards at Factory, Stability Control Reacts Wrongly (Recall 08V645) ($0-$0 repair) and Hood Latch Seizes From Rust or Hardened Grease, Hood Can Open While Driving (Recall 16V060) ($0-$0 repair). The most commonly reported issue is EZ36 / EZ30 Engine Oil Leaks - Valve Cover and Oil Cooler with 780 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Tribeca Engine3
  • Tribeca Transmission3
  • Tribeca Electrical2
  • Tribeca Safety/Recalls1
  • Tribeca Body/Panels1
  • Recalls11
  • FAQ
Get Started
Back to top

In This Article

  • Engine3
  • Transmission3
  • Electrical2
  • Safety/Recalls1
  • Body/Panels1
  • Recalls11
  • FAQ

All 10 Known Issues

NHTSA Recalls11 recalls

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

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.

Campaign #19V00900009/01/2019

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

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.

🔧
A mechanic who knows YOUR exact car
Answers tuned to your year, make, model & trim — not generic advice. Save your garage so it always has the right context.
Get ahead of Subaru Tribeca problems — free
Leave your email and we'll alert you the moment there's a new recall or known issue for your Subaru Tribeca. Free, no account needed.

Don't see your problem? Describe your symptoms to get a diagnosis, or .

Other Subaru Models

Subaru Forester41Subaru Outback39Subaru WRX31Subaru Ascent25Subaru Solterra24Subaru Crosstrek22

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Subaru Tribeca problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,580+ owner reports, the 2006-2014 Subaru Tribeca has 10 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: EZ36 Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Wear, EZ30 3.0L H6 Head Gasket Leak, 5EAT Parking Rod Damaged at Assembly, Stuck in Park or Rollaway (Recall 13V336). Of these, 6 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Subaru Tribeca reliable?

The 2006-2014 Subaru Tribeca has 10 known issues documented across 1,580+ owner reports. 6 issues are rated critical: EZ36 Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Wear and EZ30 3.0L H6 Head Gasket Leak and 5EAT Parking Rod Damaged at Assembly, Stuck in Park or Rollaway (Recall 13V336) and Replacement Mechanical-Key Ignition Switch Ball Spring Breaks, Engine Shuts Off (Recall 19V297) and VDC G-Sensor Installed Backwards at Factory, Stability Control Reacts Wrongly (Recall 08V645) and Hood Latch Seizes From Rust or Hardened Grease, Hood Can Open While Driving (Recall 16V060). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Subaru Tribeca problems?

Repair costs for known Subaru Tribeca issues range from $0 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, EZ36 Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Wear, typically costs $2,500-$4,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What year Subaru Tribeca is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the Subaru Tribeca. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2006-2014 Subaru Tribeca with 10 documented issues documented across 1,580+ owner reports.

What is the 2008-2014 Subaru Tribeca EZ36 Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Wear?

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 1,580+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Filter:
ALL YEARS201420132012201120102009200820072006

When Issues Typically Appear

5-Speed Automatic Transmission Torque Converter Shudder
24K-36K
EZ36 Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Wear
120K-180K
EZ30 3.0L H6 Head Gasket Leak
130K-200K
050K100K150K200K mi
Community reported
420 owners

The 3.6L EZ36 flat-6 engine uses timing chains instead of belts, but the chains and guides are not maintenance-free as often assumed. The timing chain tensioner and plastic chain guides wear over time, typically after 120,000-180,000 miles. Worn chains stretch, causing rough idle, misfires, and timing-related codes. The EZ36 uses three timing chains (one for each bank plus one for the center) making replacement a complex and labor-intensive job. If a chain jumps timing due to severe stretch or guide failure, valve-to-piston contact can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Common Symptoms

  • Rattling or chattering noise from front of engine on cold start
  • Rough idle that improves as engine warms
  • Check engine light with timing correlation codes (P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019)
  • Reduced engine performance
  • Engine misfires at idle
  • Chain noise that increases over time

How to Fix

Replace all three timing chains, chain tensioners (3 units), chain guides (6 pieces), and chain tensioner shoes. This is a major job requiring 12-16 hours of labor. Use genuine Subaru timing chain kit or quality aftermarket (OSK brand). Replace water pump, thermostat, and front crank seal while the front of the engine is disassembled. Total repair with all components: $2,500-4,000 at an independent shop.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Subaru 13143AA071 Timing Chain

    one of three required chains after mechanical timing diagnosis Fitment/availability: 2008-2014 Tribeca 3.6-liter EZ36; current replacement for 13143AA070, confirm VIN/production date Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days with …

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 13143AA081 Timing Chain

    second timing chain after diagnosis Fitment/availability: 2008-2014 Tribeca 3.6-liter EZ36; current replacement for 13143AA080, confirm VIN/production date Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days with Add to Cart live when reviewed

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 13143AA061 Timing Chain

    third timing chain after diagnosis Fitment/availability: 2008-2014 Tribeca 3.6-liter EZ36; current replacement for 13143AA060, confirm VIN/production date Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days with Add to Cart live when reviewed

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 13142AA050 Timing Chain Tensioner

    one of three position-specific tensioners Fitment/availability: 2008-2014 Tribeca 3.6-liter EZ36, position 13142; confirm VIN Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days with Add to Cart live when reviewed

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 13142AA040 Timing Chain Tensioner

    second position-specific tensioner Fitment/availability: 2008-2014 Tribeca 3.6-liter EZ36, position 13142B; confirm VIN Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days with Add to Cart live when reviewed

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 13142AA080 Timing Chain Tensioner

    third position-specific tensioner Fitment/availability: 2008-2014 Tribeca 3.6-liter EZ36, position 13142A; confirm VIN Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days with Add to Cart live when reviewed

    SubaruPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$2,500 - $4,500

Research This Issue

Based on 420 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence420 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

The 2006-2007 Subaru Tribeca with the 3.0L EZ30 flat-6 engine can develop head gasket leaks, typically at higher mileages (130,000-200,000 miles). While the EZ30 is generally more resistant to head gasket issues than the smaller EJ25 boxer engines, the problem does occur. The flat-6 boxer design means the head gaskets are oriented horizontally, which allows coolant to seep past the gasket under gravity when the engine is off. Symptoms include external oil leaks between the head and block, coolant consumption, and in severe cases, coolant entering the combustion chamber causing white exhaust smoke and overheating. The repair is complex due to the flat-6 layout and cramped engine bay of the Tribeca.

Common Symptoms

  • Oil seeping between cylinder head and engine block
  • Coolant level dropping without visible external leaks
  • White exhaust smoke (coolant burning in combustion chamber)
  • Heater blowing cold air intermittently (air trapped in cooling system)
  • Engine overheating
  • Sweet coolant smell from engine bay
  • Temperature gauge fluctuations

How to Fix

Typical repair cost:$2,500 - $4,000

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence
Community reported
780 owners

The Tribeca's flat-6 engines (3.0L EZ30 in 2006-2007, 3.6L EZ36 in 2008-2014) develop significant oil leaks from multiple locations. The most common leak points are the valve cover gaskets, front crankshaft seal, and the oil cooler O-ring that sits between the engine block and oil filter housing. The oil cooler O-ring leak is particularly common on the EZ36, causing oil to drip onto the exhaust and create a burning oil smell. The flat-6 boxer design means these leaks are on the sides of the engine and can be difficult to diagnose from above.

Common Symptoms

  • Oil dripping under the vehicle
  • Burning oil smell from engine bay
  • Oil spots on garage floor
  • Oil level dropping between changes
  • Smoke from engine bay (oil dripping on exhaust)
  • Oil visible on bottom of engine near oil filter area

How to Fix

Oil cooler O-ring: Replace the O-ring between the oil filter housing and engine block (Subaru 21108AA090). This is a common and relatively inexpensive repair (~$5 part, 1 hour labor). Valve cover gaskets: Replace both valve cover gaskets (Subaru 13270AA200 left, 13270AA210 right). Front crank seal: Replace front crankshaft oil seal during timing chain service. Address all leaks together to avoid repeated labor costs.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Subaru 21370KA001 Engine Oil Cooler Gasket

    cooler-to-block gasket only when that joint is proven to leak Fitment/availability: Subaru catalog lists Tribeca fitment; confirm VIN, oil-cooler location and leak source Fitment/availability: direct OEM product page live when reviewed

    Darrell Waltrip Subaru Parts
  • Genuine Subaru 13270AA210 Right Valve Cover Gasket

    right cover gasket after leak localization Fitment/availability: 2008-2014 Tribeca 3.6-liter EZ36 passenger-side cover; not the 2006-2007 EZ30, confirm VIN Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days with Add to Cart live when reviewed

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 13272AA150 Left Valve Cover Gasket

    left cover gasket after leak localization Fitment/availability: 2008-2014 Tribeca 3.6-liter EZ36 driver-side cover; not the 2006-2007 EZ30, confirm VIN Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days with Add to Cart live when reviewed

    SubaruPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $1,200

Research This Issue

Based on 780 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence780 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

Recall 13V-336 (Subaru code WQJ-46) covers 202 vehicles in total across 2013 Tribecas and 2014 Legacy and Outback 6-cylinder models with the 5-speed automatic, built June 12-28, 2013. The transmission's parking rod could be damaged during assembly and come loose inside the transmission. Once loose, the shifter may not move out of Park, leaving the vehicle stuck. Or the parking pawl may not engage fully, so the vehicle can roll away even with the selector in P.

Common Symptoms

  • Transmission parking mechanism may fail to hold the vehicle in Park, allowing movement without warning
  • Parking mechanism may fail to release when the selector is moved out of Park

How to Fix

For a VIN affected by 13V336 / WQJ-46, Subaru replaces the transmission assembly at no charge. The dealer notice lists a very small 2013 Tribeca VIN range within 202 vehicles across three models and requires dealer confirmation of coverage. Ask Subaru to verify campaign completion; a prior transmission replacement or empty NHTSA search alone is not proof. Always engage the parking brake.

Find a nearby Subaru dealer in Google Maps ↗

Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Oct 2026
Community reported
380 owners

The 2010-2014 Tribeca uses a 5-speed conventional automatic transmission (5EAT) rather than a CVT, but it still suffers from torque converter shudder and lockup clutch issues. The torque converter lockup clutch develops shudder during light throttle cruising at 35-50 mph, creating a vibration felt through the vehicle. The issue is caused by degraded transmission fluid or worn lockup clutch material. If the ATF is not changed regularly, the shudder progressively worsens and can lead to torque converter failure.

Common Symptoms

  • Shudder or vibration at 35-50 mph during light throttle
  • Vibration disappears when accelerating or decelerating
  • Shudder worse when transmission is warm
  • Harsh or delayed gear shifts
  • Transmission slipping sensation

How to Fix

Start with a transmission fluid drain and refill (3 cycles) using genuine Subaru ATF-HP (SOA427V1500). The triple drain-and-fill replaces approximately 90% of the fluid. If shudder persists, a torque converter replacement may be needed. Some shops add Lubegard Instant Shudder Fixx additive to the ATF as a temporary measure. Regular ATF changes every 30,000 miles prevent the issue from developing.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Subaru SOA427V1500 ATF-HP/PS Fluid, 1 Quart

    correct-spec fluid for a diagnosed and condition-appropriate drain-and-refill Fitment/availability: 2010-2014 Tribeca 5EAT service requiring Subaru ATF-HP; confirm current service information, transmission code and measured quantity Fitm…

    SubaruPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $2,500

Research This Issue

Based on 380 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence380 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

Subaru Service Bulletin 16-86-12 (12/11/2012) covers 2013 Tribecas with the EZ36D and 5-speed automatic, along with the 2013 Legacy and Outback. On these vehicles the AT OIL TEMP lamp comes on with one or more stored solenoid and pressure-control DTCs: P0751, P0756, P0761, P0766, P0771 or P1840-P1844. Subaru traced it to TCM logic. The fix went into production in mid-November 2012 starting at Tribeca VIN D*400781. Earlier 2013 Tribecas with TCM part numbers 30919AB190/191/192 are affected. The bulletin's applicability is written for low-mileage vehicles (6,000 miles or less). This lamp is separate from the torque-converter shudder that is already cataloged.

Common Symptoms

  • AT OIL TEMP lamp on or flashing on the dash
  • Stored transmission solenoid DTCs

How to Fix

Have a Subaru technician check the current bulletin and calibration. TSB 16-86-12 is expressly limited to low-mileage (6,000 miles or less) 2013 5AT vehicles with the listed codes. For an applicable Tribeca, it specifies TCM calibration 30919AB193, memory clear, ATF drain/refill with pan and magnet cleaning, then Dynamic Check Mode on a workshop lift—not an owner road-test cycle. If the symptom persists after that procedure, it specifies valve-body replacement. Its warranty labor allowance is 1.2 hours for the combined reprogramming and ATF flush; it is not a current retail quote or extended warranty. An older, higher-mileage vehicle needs diagnosis before applying this low-mileage remedy.

Find a nearby Subaru repair shop in Google Maps ↗

Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $1,500

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Oct 2026

Subaru recall 19V-297 (Subaru code WUF-91) covers 2006-2008 Tribeca models (3.0 EZ30D for 2006-2007, 3.6 EZ36D for 2008) that received a mechanical-key ignition switch as a service replacement part. Factory-installed switches are not included. The ball spring inside the replacement switch can break, which weakens the switch's detent. A heavy key ring or a rough road can then turn the key out of RUN into ACC and shut the engine off while the vehicle is moving. If a crash happens after the engine has shut off, the air bags may not deploy. The recall applies only to vehicles whose ignition switch was replaced with the affected part.

Common Symptoms

  • Engine shuts off while driving, and the key is found in the ACC position
  • Key turns out of RUN too easily or feels loose in the switch
  • Stalling over bumps or with a heavy key ring

How to Fix

Free recall remedy under 19V-297 / WUF-91: the dealer inspects the ignition switch and replaces it at no charge if it is one of the affected replacement parts. Run the VIN through Subaru's or NHTSA's recall lookup. Until the repair is done, carry a light key ring with nothing else hanging from the ignition key. Any Tribeca that stalls with the key turned to ACC should be checked for this recall first.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Oct 2026

Recall 12V-602 (Subaru WQE-41) covers 2006-2012 Tribecas sold before January 2012, all engines, that have the optional genuine Subaru accessory puddle lights installed at port, by a dealer or subsequently as a kit under the doors. The same recall covers some Legacy, Outback and Forester models. Salty road spray can get into the puddle light circuit board or its connector pins. Over time, the moisture causes a short circuit that generates heat, which can melt the plastic and cause smoke or a fire in the door area. The fire risk exists even with the vehicle parked.

Common Symptoms

  • Puddle lights flicker, stay on or stop working
  • Burning plastic smell near the lower door
  • Melted or corroded puddle light connector
  • Smoke from the door-mounted light area

How to Fix

Free recall remedy under 12V-602 / WQE-41: the dealer inspects and, if necessary, repairs the puddle lights, and adds in-line fuses (an additional fused harness) if not already installed. Check the VIN. Until the repair is done on a vehicle with the accessory puddle lights, Subaru recommends not parking it in a garage, carport or other structure; if you notice smoke in the rocker panel area, turn the ignition off, do not operate the vehicle, and contact a Subaru dealer.

Find a nearby Subaru dealer in Google Maps ↗

Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Oct 2026

Recall 08V-645 (Subaru WVG-17) covers 5,130 2008-2009 Tribecas with the EZ36D. The G-sensor for Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC, Subaru's stability control) is meant to face forward but could have been installed backwards on the assembly line. With the sensor reversed, the stability system gets wrong acceleration data. During hard braking, sudden steering or emergency maneuvers, the vehicle can react unexpectedly or become unstable, and in extreme cases the driver can lose control.

Common Symptoms

  • Stability control steps in unexpectedly during hard braking or quick turns
  • Vehicle feels unstable in emergency maneuvers
  • Often no prior warning of any kind

How to Fix

Free recall remedy under 08V-645 / WVG-17: the dealer checks which way the VDC G-sensor faces. If it is backwards, the dealer reinstalls it correctly and reprograms the VDC system. Check the VIN. Until the inspection is done, Subaru's owner letter recommends turning the Traction Control System off with the switch on the lower left instrument panel each time the engine is started (this fully disables stability/traction control; the VDC monitor light confirms it is off), or, if you leave it on, staying alert for unexpected handling during hard braking and quick maneuvers.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Oct 2026

Recall 16V060 covers 2006–2014 Tribeca vehicles. Rust or hardened grease can prevent proper return of the hood-lock and safety-catch mechanisms. If both fail, the hood can open while moving and obstruct the driver's view. Subaru's final owner notice warns that this may happen without warning; difficult latching is not a required precursor or a unique diagnosis.

Common Symptoms

  • Hood-lock or safety-catch malfunction
  • Unexpected hood opening while moving
  • The defect may occur without warning

How to Fix

Contact Subaru promptly to confirm VIN campaign history and arrange the free WQY-60 final repair if outstanding. The final repair replaces the front hood latch and release-handle assemblies with countermeasure parts. WQX-59 interim cleaning does not substitute for WQY-60; incomplete interim coverage expired when final parts became available. An empty public VIN lookup is not proof of repair.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Oct 2026
Campaign #19V00800009/01/2019

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

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.

Campaign #19V00700009/01/2019

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

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.

Campaign #18V01200009/01/2018

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

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.

Campaign #17V01400010/01/2017

+ 6 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

get a full repair guide

The 3.6L EZ36 flat-6 engine uses timing chains instead of belts, but the chains and guides are not maintenance-free as often assumed. The timing chain tensioner and plastic chain guides wear over time, typically after 120,000-180,000 miles. Worn chains stretch, causing rough idle… Repairs typically run $2,500-$4,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2006-2007 Subaru Tribeca EZ30 3.0L H6 Head Gasket Leak?

The 2006-2007 Subaru Tribeca with the 3.0L EZ30 flat-6 engine can develop head gasket leaks, typically at higher mileages (130,000-200,000 miles). While the EZ30 is generally more resistant to head gasket issues than the smaller EJ25 boxer engines, the problem does occur. The fla… Repairs typically run $2,500-$4,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2013 Subaru Tribeca 5EAT Parking Rod Damaged at Assembly, Stuck in Park or Rollaway (Recall 13V336)?

Recall 13V-336 (Subaru code WQJ-46) covers 202 vehicles in total across 2013 Tribecas and 2014 Legacy and Outback 6-cylinder models with the 5-speed automatic, built June 12-28, 2013. The transmission's parking rod could be damaged during assembly and come loose inside the transm… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2006-2008 Subaru Tribeca Replacement Mechanical-Key Ignition Switch Ball Spring Breaks, Engine Shuts Off (Recall 19V297)?

Subaru recall 19V-297 (Subaru code WUF-91) covers 2006-2008 Tribeca models (3.0 EZ30D for 2006-2007, 3.6 EZ36D for 2008) that received a mechanical-key ignition switch as a service replacement part. Factory-installed switches are not included. The ball spring inside the replaceme… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2008-2009 Subaru Tribeca VDC G-Sensor Installed Backwards at Factory, Stability Control Reacts Wrongly (Recall 08V645)?

Recall 08V-645 (Subaru WVG-17) covers 5,130 2008-2009 Tribecas with the EZ36D. The G-sensor for Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC, Subaru's stability control) is meant to face forward but could have been installed backwards on the assembly line. With the sensor reversed, the stabilit… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2006-2014 Subaru Tribeca Hood Latch Seizes From Rust or Hardened Grease, Hood Can Open While Driving (Recall 16V060)?

Recall 16V060 covers 2006–2014 Tribeca vehicles. Rust or hardened grease can prevent proper return of the hood-lock and safety-catch mechanisms. If both fail, the hood can open while moving and obstruct the driver's view. Subaru's final owner notice warns that this may happen wit… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2006-2014 Subaru Tribeca EZ36 / EZ30 Engine Oil Leaks - Valve Cover and Oil Cooler?

The Tribeca's flat-6 engines (3.0L EZ30 in 2006-2007, 3.6L EZ36 in 2008-2014) develop significant oil leaks from multiple locations. The most common leak points are the valve cover gaskets, front crankshaft seal, and the oil cooler O-ring that sits between the engine block and oi… Repairs typically run $150-$1,200. Severity: medium.

What is the 2010-2014 Subaru Tribeca 5-Speed Automatic Transmission Torque Converter Shudder?

The 2010-2014 Tribeca uses a 5-speed conventional automatic transmission (5EAT) rather than a CVT, but it still suffers from torque converter shudder and lockup clutch issues. The torque converter lockup clutch develops shudder during light throttle cruising at 35-50 mph, creatin… Repairs typically run $200-$2,500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2006-2012 Subaru Tribeca Accessory Puddle Lights Short Out From Salt Moisture, Smoke or Fire Risk (Recall 12V602)?

Recall 12V-602 (Subaru WQE-41) covers 2006-2012 Tribecas sold before January 2012, all engines, that have the optional genuine Subaru accessory puddle lights installed at port, by a dealer or subsequently as a kit under the doors. The same recall covers some Legacy, Outback and F… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: medium.

What is the 2013 Subaru Tribeca 5EAT AT Oil Temperature Lamp With Solenoid Codes on 2013 Tribeca (TSB 16-86-12)?

Subaru Service Bulletin 16-86-12 (12/11/2012) covers 2013 Tribecas with the EZ36D and 5-speed automatic, along with the 2013 Legacy and Outback. On these vehicles the AT OIL TEMP lamp comes on with one or more stored solenoid and pressure-control DTCs: P0751, P0756, P0761, P0766,… Repairs typically run $150-$1,500. Severity: medium.