2016 Subaru Outback engine problems
This is a safety-related system. If you notice symptoms, stop driving and have it inspected.
What owners report
“I am submitting this complaint concerning a failure of the front exhaust assembly on my 2016 Subaru Outback 2.5L. the dealership diagnosed a leak at the exhaust bellows in the front exhaust assembly and recommended replacing the assembly. I proceeded with the repair at a cost exceeding $3,000. I subsequently learned of Subaru Service Campaign WUJ-95, which addresses cracking of the bellows in the front exhaust pipe, including the catalytic converter, on certain 2015–2016 Subaru Legacy and Outb…”
NHTSA complaint · filed 11/02/2026
“There is a crack in the exhaust manifold and the exhaust smell is entering the cabin affecting driver and passengers' health. The problem has been confirmed by a Subaru dealer and an independent mechanic. There were no warning lights, I was made aware after routine maintenance by an independent mechanic. The same part has failed in multiple Subaru models: Recall WUJ-95 (SOA says my car is not covered in the recall/campaign due to my car's production date being 24 days after the "Affected Produc…”
NHTSA complaint · filed 07/20/2026
“leak in cam carrier gasket caused large ammounts of smoke to fill engine bay and enter cabin air system. Struggled to breath and vision to an extent was obstructed. when car was parked, smoke continued to fill the engine bay. problem was confirmed by an independent technitian, with the vehicle undergoing a complete inspection about a year ago from the dealership of purchase. no warning lamps turned on until enough oil had seeped from the leak in the liquid silicon gasket, at which point the low …”
NHTSA complaint · filed 04/06/2026
“My 2016 Subaru Outback CVT transmission has exhibited an intermittent jerking and grabbing sensation when accelerating from a stop, worse when cold, since at least February 2023. This is a known defect covered under Subaru warranty extension bulletin 16-115-18. February 2023 — An authorized Subaru dealer documented the complaint in writing. The technician stated the vehicle never warmed up during the test drive and dismissed the concern. The CVT issue was never repaired. I was never informed of …”
NHTSA complaint · filed 03/25/2026
“My 2016 Outback 2.5L model experienced an exhaust noise and/or odor coming from cracks at the bellows section of the front exhaust pipe which includes the catalytic converter. It was diagnosed as leak occurring at the front exhaust pipe. Quoted repair for replacement part only is $2700 plus $1000 labor to repair. Upon investigation, it was discovered that Subaru Recall WUJ-95 with subject Exhaust Pipe Front (EPF) Bellows Cracking was issued in 2020. My specific VIN was excluded from this recall …”
NHTSA complaint · filed 02/13/2026
“Steering wheel controls frequently fail to work properly on the cruise control system specially the speed control. Also the exhaust system bellow has cracked. The moonroof leaks into the cabin and floor area of the passenger side. Also leaking into the A pillar on the passenger side. I only have a picture of the engine valve cover that is leaking and had to be replaced. I have video of the exhaust leak coming from the crack in the bellow pipe. Do not have video of the cruise control speed issues…”
NHTSA complaint · filed 10/27/2025
“Accelerated on its own doing 25mph and accelerated quickly and took pumping brakes to get it to stop”
NHTSA complaint · filed 09/16/2025
“The contact owns a 2016 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the low oil warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine seal had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.”
NHTSA complaint · filed 08/25/2025
Unverified owner reports from NHTSA's public complaint database.
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- How common are 2016 Subaru Outback engine problems?
- 53 owners reported engine issues to NHTSA for the 2016 Subaru Outback, 2 involving a crash and 2 a fire. Counts scale with how many were sold.
- Is there a recall for 2016 Subaru Outback engine problems?
- No matching recall is on file. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest.