2000 Subaru Outback fuel system problems

Filed Jan 6, 2018 · Fuel system · 150,000 miles · NJ

The 2000 subaru outback has a noxious smell from fuel in the cabin only in cold weather,that you must ride with the windows open until this dissipates. I called my local dealer to ask if they would have an idea of what is the problem and what would be an estimate for repair? I, just about got the question out of my mouth,when the service representative said it'll cost around $200 maybe a little more to replace two fuel lines and fittings(screw clamps) on the top right side of the engine. I asked if something this serious was ever covered by a recall and he said no, but I should check with subaru of north america to make sure,being the car is a 2000 his computer may not have it, for that far back? So, I called subaru of na explained the situation and also explained that while I was doing some on-line research it seemed as though this is a well documented and discussed problem with many subaru owners and they are very specific as to what the exact problem is. Subaru of na knows of no problem ever, I guess admission would mean this problem truly exists. This issue only became prevalent with subaru's owned in cold weather areas, southern states or west coast would not see this problem regularly because you need temperatures to be approximately 30 degrees and below. I am just trying to find out why no federal agency has held subaru to a higher standard, especially when it comes to a problem with a fuel line and the fact that this is public knowledge and well documented. I am not a mechanic, and living on a fixed income I don't have the disposable income that I had in the past, subaru knows about this problem, which is evident in the service departments familiarity with the fix? Can someone please enlighten me as to why this has been allowed to go for as long as it has? Subaru knows does the government, I hope not. Concerned, [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).'

Filed May 4, 2016 · Electrical, Fuel system · 124,400 miles · MA

While driving at low speed on a town street the check engine light came on, followed by the odor of gas fumes. Subsequent inspection by experienced subaru mechanics revealed a simultaneous failure of the A/C compressor, catalytic converter, a headlight bulb and finally, a damaged fuel line that was spraying a mist of gasoline over the entire engine compartment. The mechanics had never seen a situation like this before, and had no explanation for how these components could have failed at the same time. The fuel line and bulb were replaced.

Filed Jan 22, 2015 · Engine, Fuel system · 120,000 miles · AK

In cold weather (usually 25 f and below) there is a strong fuel smell. Worse the colder it gets. I am worried for my baby's health and also worried I was inhaling this leaking fuel throughout my pregnancy. It is obviously not something that should be happening and is unhealthy. I reported this to a mechanic shop and they rebuilt the engine because of other issues. They said this rebuilding would fix the fuel leak/smell also. It lessened it, but it is still there every time it is cold out. It dissipates after driving it for a while. I have come to understand this is a widespread issue and there really should be a recall.

Filed Dec 16, 2014 · Fuel system · 224,000 miles · MT

During cold weather when the climate control system is set to fresh air, a gasoline odor enters the cabin. There is apparent fuel line leak that only occurs during cold weather.

Filed Mar 31, 2014 · Fuel system · 76,590 miles · VA

I smelled gas in car in sepy 2013. A fuel pump was gasket was replace.10/2013 fuel pump replaced.11/2013 above fuel pump removed & replaced. Gas smell still present,not as strong.I want to know if this is an issue with subaru's.if so or if not,what will correct the gas smell?

Filed Mar 15, 2010 · Fuel system · 100,000 miles · MA

Fuel leak somewhere in engine compartment; gasoline odor went into passenger compartment. Worse in very cold or very hot weather. It's been like this for 3 or 4 years. My mechanic said it would cost $200 to try to find the leaks -- maybe some hose clamps near the fuel injectors are the culprit, but are hard to get to without taking apart some of the engine? I've seen many similar complaints on various online bulletin boards. I suppose the federal safety agency won't force subaru to issue a recall until some large number of drivers/passengers die from an engine fire that starts from this type of leaking. Most recent incident: late january, 2010.

Filed Feb 14, 2010 · Fuel system · 129,050 miles · WI

A very bad fuel smell inside cabin when it's cold outside and the vehicle is warming up and the vent is running. Fuel leak up by fuel filter area. Checked all hoses and clamps no leaks. Dealer checked it out and couldn't find a leak or problem. Afraid this may start a engine fire sometime.

Filed Jan 1, 2009 · Fuel system · 96,543 miles · VT

There is a fuel leak in the engine compartment of my subaru outback wagon on cold days and is a potential fire hazard. I have talked to several other people and they have the same problem. I would think there would be a recall since it is fuel related and a serious risk. The fuel leaks from a rubber hose on the left side of the engine that connects two hard gas lines. I tried tightening the clamps and it did not have much affect. The house has no holes or tears in it. Neither do the hard gas lines. So I don't know if it cant hold the pressure or what? I noticed it after driving for a few miles. I stopped for a minute and got a strong gas smell. There was gas in the engine compartment when I checked it when I got home. I drove a total of ten miles maybe.

Filed Dec 20, 2008 · Fuel system · 122,000 miles · CO

During weather under 20 degrees the fuel line leaks. It has been tightened several times however continues to return. This happens every winter.

Filed Dec 16, 2008 · Fuel system · 30,000 miles · OR

Strong smell of gas in the cabin of the vehicle during cold weather - definitely smells of leaking gas - dealer advised and looked at car a number of times - could not resolve. I gave this car to my daughter and I fear an engine fire.