Subaru Outback Problems

We haven't had any other reports of this issue here at Carsguide, so we asked Subaru for their help. They advised that they "have found that 'upgrade' headlight globes (brighter/ cleaner light) tend to have shorter lives. It seems that they have a trade-off between higher performance and longevity. This is true of genuine and non-genuine parts, although non-genuine parts seem to be worse as regards longevity. The recommendation is to buy standard genuine globes from the dealer, and try these." They added "starting the car with the headlights off will assist with longevity of the   bulbs." In general, they said, "if there was a problem with the car's electrical system, such as an alternator issue, the problems would be more general and not restricted to the headlight globes only."

The spare, while it would have become harder in the time it has been sitting in the rear of the car, would still be quite serviceable. Tyres can sit in dealer’s stock for longer than that before they’re sold off as new tyres. The decision to buy three Yokohamas or four of another brand is a line ball one. The Yokohamas would set you back around $910, four Michelins would cost about $20 more, and four Dunlops about $100 more. If you were to buy the three Yokohamas you would do well to put the current spare on the road and rotate all five when you come to do your rotation, that way the spare won’t be sitting in the back in the sun getting hard.

Anyone having problems with blown globes would be well advised to have the alternator output checked as suggested.

We have received a number of reports from Outback owners and all report they have replaced a number of low beam headlamp globes.

Without wishing to send you into a blind panic I would have it diagnosed and fixed. It is likely to get worse and eventually could bring the car to halt altogether, leaving you or your family stranded. It is likely to be a sensor as the dealer suggests, perhaps a crank angle sensor, and they should be able to identify it and replace if needed.

It does sound like your son has been treated very shabbily. You could complain directly to Subaru about the treatment he received. It should also serve as a lesson to your son that he shouldn't allow himself to be bullied in any way. If he isn't sure about what the dealer is telling him, or doing, he should tell the dealer and ask for a full and proper explanation, and even ask to see the parts that need replacing. If he's still unhappy he could take the car to another dealer, or another mechanic.

If you like the Outback then I would go for that, you should be able to get a 2007 model within your budget, but if you shopped for a new car you would be restricted to an Impreza at best in the Subaru range.

Here's Subaru's answer: "As with most brands gearboxes are not totally sealed units. If the vehicle is exposed to very heavy sand, the clutch may fail and sand could be evident during replacement." From that you should get the message that you shouldn't attempt to drive through heavy sand.

Take it to an independent Subaru service specialist who will be able to rebuild it, or have it rebuilt. We were quoted $400-$500 for a full rebuild, including new seals, and that included a two-year warranty.

Check the tread-wear indicator bars in the tread grooves. If they are visible on the surface of the tread the tyres should be replaced. If not, you have to make a judgment. I would err on the side of safety and replace the tyres before you leave. They're close to the point they need replacing anyway.