2016 Subaru Outback engine problems

Filed Nov 2, 2026 · Engine · OK

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 Outback 2.5L vehicles. Subaru has informed me that my vehicle's VIN is not included in the campaign. However, the component and type of failure described in the campaign appear relevant to the failure experienced by my vehicle. I contacted Subaru of America Customer Advocacy and requested an explanation of the technical distinction between the condition addressed by WUJ-95 and the failure diagnosed in my vehicle. Subaru declined to compare the conditions and denied my request for goodwill assistance or reimbursement. The company considers its review complete. I recognize that my vehicle's failure does not automatically establish that it qualifies for the existing campaign. However, I am concerned that a similar failure of the front exhaust bellows occurred in a vehicle of the same model year and engine type. I respectfully request that the federal safety agency review this report in conjunction with other complaints and available technical information to determine whether the failure warrants further examination, including whether it may affect emissions performance or present other safety concerns.

Filed Jul 20, 2026 · Engine · CO

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 Production Dates") . Additionally, Subaru of America extended the exhaust pipe warranty on the same part on other models, as late as 2018, so the part continued to be in use and problematic. Subaru of America says replacing the part is not covered by a recall for my car, however I feel strongly that it SOA should replace the part due to the proximity of my production date and the continued issues with the part across multiple models.

Filed Apr 6, 2026 · Engine · CA

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 oil warning light had turned on.

Filed Mar 25, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · IN

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 Subaru's CVT warranty extension program. February 17 2026 — seven days before my warranty expiration — the same authorized Subaru dealer physically identified and documented a CVT oil pump cover leak. The same jerking complaint was again documented in writing. No repairs were made and the warranty expired one week later. The CVT defect has been physically confirmed by an authorized Subaru dealer within the warranty period and Subaru of America has denied my warranty claim in writing. This issue presents a safety concern. The unpredictable jerking and hesitation when accelerating from a stop creates dangerous situations in traffic, particularly at intersections and when merging. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. Subaru chose to handle this known widespread defect as a quiet warranty extension rather than a mandatory recall despite hundreds of owners reporting identical symptoms.

Filed Feb 13, 2026 · Engine · FL · 3 injuries

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 but I have experienced the exact issue described in the recall. As a result of this situation and exhaust inhalation the car is not able to be driven, this cause breathing issues for me, my wife and our 9 month old baby.

Filed Oct 27, 2025 · Driver assistance, Engine · AL

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 as I can’t take a video while driving.

Filed Sep 16, 2025 · Engine · WA

Accelerated on its own doing 25mph and accelerated quickly and took pumping brakes to get it to stop

Filed Aug 25, 2025 · Engine · 110,000 miles · KY

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.

Filed Jun 18, 2025 · Engine · ID

Safety concern - Exhaust entering into the car. Smells of exhaust. Warranty should be extended to 15 years, 150,000 miles as was done on identical part 2017-2018MY Subaru Forrester Exhaust Pipe Front (EPF) Bellows Cracking. This part is known to be defective. 1. My 2016 Subaru Outback 2.5L if manufactured 12/9/2013 - 9/30/2015 is covered. My Subaru just outside this window, manufactured 12/2015. Service Program Bulletin Number: WUJ-95. 2. My Subaru is within the 80,000 routine emissions warranty, though 1 year outside the 8 years. 3. This Exhaust Pipe Front (EPF) Bellows Cracking happens on the identical part in the Forester and has an Exhaust Pipe (Front) Warranty Extension (W122-013) to 150,000, 15 years. Attached - Repair estimate, Service Program Bulletin WUJ-95 dealing with this year Outback, Service Bulletin Number 09-84-22 dealing with identical part 2017-8 Subaru Forester

Filed Jun 18, 2025 · Engine · MI

Exhaust leak in or near exhaust manifold / bellows / flex pipe identical to problem identified in WUJ-95 recall, confirmed by both dealer and independent mechanic. Problem produces 'growl' and fumes in passenger cabin. This problem likely existed when we purchased the car used from LaFontaine Subaru in Commerce, MI.