2012 Subaru Outback engine problems
Owners reported engine problems in 52 complaints for the 2012 Subaru Outback, 14% of the complaints on file. It is the 2nd most reported problem area for this model year.
At a glance
- Complaints
- 52 14% of this year's complaints
- Typical mileage
- 111,000 miles 34 complaints with mileage
- Crashes and fires
- 0 and 3
- Injuries and deaths
- 0 and 0
Source: NHTSA owner complaints
When engine problems show up
View the numbers
| Mileage | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 0k to 20k miles | 2 |
| 20k to 40k miles | 1 |
| 40k to 60k miles | 0 |
| 60k to 80k miles | 5 |
| 80k to 100k miles | 7 |
| 100k to 120k miles | 5 |
| 120k to 140k miles | 6 |
| 140k to 160k miles | 5 |
| 160k to 180k miles | 2 |
| 180k to 200k miles | 1 |
| 200k+ miles | 0 |
What the data shows
Of the 34 engine complaints that report mileage, the median is about 111,000 miles, and 9% were reported before 60,000 miles.
These complaints mention 3 fires.
What owners wrote
Coolant light then check engine light on. After driving 2 1/2 hours coolant appeared to be leaking so filled coolant to top with water.. 12 minutes later, while driving, lights back on/engine rev/engine dies/ smoke. Lifted hood/many flames from center /slammed hood shut and ran far away. Several small explosions as car burned. Voluntary fire dept. Finally arrived but car almost totally gone. Only back tires left usable.
Vehicle shudders and stalls when braking hard. It will not stall on a gradual stop but will stall in any situation when stopping quickly. Does not have to be a panic stop to stall, just hard braking. Resulting stall means loss of power brakes and steering. Have to shift into park and restart vehicle. Has no issues when running or driving. Engine runs vey smooth and has been well maintained as I am the original owner. It is an ongoing issue and repeatable in every circumstance. No computer codes set for this issue.
Other problems reported for the 2012 Subaru Outback
- Drivetrain & axles 104 complaints
- Brakes 40 complaints
- Air bags 39 complaints
- Electrical system 37 complaints
- Lighting 18 complaints