Subaru Problems

Are you having problems with your Subaru? Let our team of motoring experts keep you up to date with all of the latest Subaru issues & faults. We have gathered all of the most frequently asked questions and problems relating to the Subaru in one spot to help you decide if it's a smart buy.

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Takata airbag recall impacts some brands twice
By Justin Hilliard · 25 Jul 2017
The Takata airbag recalls continue to intensify.
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Used Subaru Tribeca review: 2006-2014
By Ewan Kennedy · 23 Jun 2017
After decades of building small and mid-sized crossover all-wheel-drives, Subaru introduced the Tribeca SUV to compete at the big end of town in the 4WD market.
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Used Subaru BRZ review: 2012-2016
By Ewan Kennedy · 11 Aug 2017
Subaru BRZ is a small rear-drive Japanese sports coupe selling for a pretty reasonable price, particularly when compared with the cost of the typical European equivalents.
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Used Subaru XV review: 2012-2016
By Ewan Kennedy · 20 Jun 2017
The Subaru XV is a compact SUV from the Japanese company that has featured AWD in virtually ever model sold in Australia for the last 25 years.
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Subaru Forester vs Volvo XC60
Answered by Graham Smith · 19 Jun 2017

It depends on the condition and kays of the Volvo. I would expect a 2012/2013 XC60 to have done on average 60,000 to 80,000 km. At that mileage it should still have plenty of life left in it, but it is closer to the end of the road than a new Forester would be. If you chose with your heart you’d take the Volvo, but your head would tell you to buy the Subaru.

Do you have to pay stamp duty when moving states?
Answered by Graham Smith · 15 May 2017

My reading is that you are liable for stamp duty on transferring the registration to NSW, irrespective of what you paid when you bought the car new.

Are convex side mirrors better than flat ones?
Answered by Graham Smith · 14 Jul 2017

Most cars today have convex mirrors to give you a broader view of what’s coming up from behind. It’s something you should get used to; once you do it’s not a problem. If you really want to change it for a flat mirror you could talk to a glass merchant, who might be able to do it for you. Subaru won’t do it.

What oil to use in an MY18 Subaru WRX?
Answered by Graham Smith · 15 Sep 2017

Use a 5W-30 from any of the premium brands.

What cars are similar to the Volkswagen Passat?
Answered by Graham Smith · 28 Jul 2017

That’s the problem with VWs, you can get six good ones in a row, but the next one could be a lemon. Rather than a wagon you’re probably looking at an SUV. I would suggest a Kia Sorento, Subaru Outback, or Toyota RAV4.

How to find cars that are easy to get in and out of?
Answered by Graham Smith · 30 Jun 2017

The best thing you can do is to go around to various dealers and check a number of vehicles to see how they work for you.

Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.
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