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2016 Subaru Outback Airbags Problems

9 owner-reported airbags complaints from NHTSA data

9
Complaints
1
Recalls
4
Crashes
Jan 2026Nov 2018
Date Range

Data sourced from NHTSA public database. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified mechanic.

Airbags Recalls (1)

RECALLCampaign #19V910000

AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Outback vehicles. A replacement air bag control module may have been installed that is not compatible with the passenger air bag module, possibly affecting air bag deployment.

Fix: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger air bag module, free of charge. The recall began February 3, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUX-09.

Owner Complaints (9)

criticalAIR BAGS
CrashFiled: Oct 2020

Wife had an accident where she pulled in front of large f350 truck, hit on passenger side. She was going 15 MPH, and truck was going 50-60 MPH. The side curtain and front airbag on passenger side deployed.

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NHTSA #: 11366703
criticalAIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
CrashFiled: Jun 2017

Tl* the contact owned a 2016 subaru outback. While driving approximately 5 MPH, the vehicle suddenly experienced unintended acceleration. The driver lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a utility pole.

NHTSA #: 10994003
criticalAIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
CrashFiled: Apr 2017

Hit deer with right front fender at about 40 MPH on a dry, straight hwy. Impact was minor, sheet metal damage only,no fluid loss or suspension system damage but air bags deployed violently, much smoke. Side air bags did not deflate making it very difficult to exit vehicle.

NHTSA #: 10971465
criticalAIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
CrashFiled: Sep 2016

Tl* the contact owns a 2016 subaru outback. While the vehicle was secured in park with the emergency brake engaged, the vehicle lunged forward independently when the brake was released. The contact's vehicle crashed into another vehicle.

NHTSA #: 10904945
mediumAIR BAGS
Filed: Jan 2026

Almost after I took ownership of my vehicle in August 2024 from Lexus of Pembroke Pines, I noticed a light on the dashboard that would light intermittently. I purchased an extended warranty for almost four thousand dollars at the time of sale, thank God, as this car has needed a lot of work that I was never told about nor was anything in the CARFAX indicating so many issues.

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NHTSA #: 11708698
lowAIR BAGS
Filed: Nov 2018

Passenger side air bag is expanding out. Dash is splitting. Concern for premature activation.

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NHTSA #: 11154540
lowAIR BAGS
Filed: Apr 2018

Takata recall (unknown whether my specific vehicle airbags are subject to recall) purchased as new car.

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NHTSA #: 11083176
lowAIR BAGS
Filed: Aug 2017

Takata recall

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NHTSA #: 11013647
lowAIR BAGS
Filed: Jan 2016

Takata recall-wanted to purchase a 2016 subaru outback 3.6l, and after multiple inquiries, finally was told that takata airbags still being used in the passenger front seat whereas other manufacturers' airbags are now being used in drivers and side curtain parts of the auto. So passenger front seats are still vulnerable.

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NHTSA #: 10818039

Other 2016 Subaru Outback Issues