Subaru · Known Issues

2012 Subaru Tribeca Problems: 3 Known Issues

2012 model year · 1,580+ owner reports · Updated August 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,580+ owner reports, the 2012 Subaru Tribeca has 3 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is EZ36 Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Wear ($2,500-$4,500 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Subaru Tribeca problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,580+ owner reports, the 2012 Subaru Tribeca has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: EZ36 Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Wear, EZ36 / EZ30 Engine Oil Leaks - Valve Cover and Oil Cooler, 5-Speed Automatic Transmission Torque Converter Shudder. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Subaru Tribeca reliable?

The 2012 Subaru Tribeca has 3 known issues documented across 1,580+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: EZ36 Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Wear. 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 $150 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 is the 2008-2014 Subaru Tribeca EZ36 Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Wear?

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 2006-2014 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.

2012 Subaru Tribeca Problems: 3 Known Issues

All 3 Known Issues

2008-2014 Subaru Tribeca: EZ36 Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Wear#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What you need to fix it

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2006-2014 Subaru Tribeca: EZ36 / EZ30 Engine Oil Leaks - Valve Cover and Oil Cooler#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What you need to fix it

Research This Issue

2010-2014 Subaru Tribeca: 5-Speed Automatic Transmission Torque Converter Shudder#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What you need to fix it

Research This Issue

Other Subaru Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Subaru Tribeca problems?

Is the Subaru Tribeca reliable?

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

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

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

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