2018 Subaru Outback Technical Service Bulletins

439 technical service bulletins (TSBs) are on record for the 2018 Subaru Outback. TSBs are notes manufacturers send to dealers about repair procedures for issues seen in the field. They are not recalls and do not by themselves mean a vehicle has a fault.

• 10160490Mar 8, 2019Engine cooling, Equipment. This Service Information bulletin provides new inspection and repair procedures for AVCS (Active Valve Control System) -related DTCs on the FA and FB engine equipped models listed above. The applicable Service Manuals will be revised with this new information in the near future.
• 10160485Mar 4, 2019Equipment. This bulletin provides a procedure to follow for addressing customer concerns of a shuddering condition or chattering -type sound heard or felt when making sharp turns. If an applicable vehicle presents with the condition as described, it is recommended to perform the transfer clutch break-in procedure as described.
• 10155226Feb 28, 2019Equipment. This bulletin announces a design change made to the HVAC control panels for the models listed above. The change will address customer concerns of the seat heater switches sticking in the ?pressed? position but not returning to ?flush? with the face of the control panel when released as shown in the photos below. A series of small air outlets (vents) has been added to the assembly to keep dust and dirt from…
• 10155225Feb 22, 2019Equipment. This Service Information bulletin announces a design change made to the rubber timing hole access plug to improve its retention and prevent water intrusion into the converter case.
• 10155209Feb 21, 2019Fuel system, Electrical system. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling all 2018 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles to reprogram the combination meter software to correct an error in the driving range indicator calculation in the multi-information display. A total of 228,648 U.S. vehicles will be affected by this recall.
• 10155222Feb 20, 2019Transmission and drivetrain. This bulletin announces reprogramming file availability to optimize the Transmission Control Module (TCM) used with the TR580 CVT. Contamination in a fluid pressure solenoid valve can cause a DTC P0841. The new logic will allow the solenoid to operate in a manner enabling it to discharge the contamination.
• 10155220Feb 20, 2019Electrical system. This bulletin announces a design change to the CVT select lever (shifter) mechanism in response to isolated customer concerns of not being able to remove the key from the ignition switch when the vehicle is in Park. The cause is contamination of the Park-Range switch internal components.
• 10155218Feb 15, 2019Electrical system. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling 2018 model year Legacy, Outback, and BRZ vehicles equipped with a certain combination of head unit hardware and software, due to the possibility of noncompliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 111 ? ?Rear Visibility.?
• 10155210Feb 15, 2019Electrical system. In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is initiating a service program to update the Harman Kardon head unit on certain vehicles with the latest version of software.
• 10155211Feb 7, 2019Brakes. This bulletin announces a design change made to the rear ABS wheel speed sensor on the models listed above. The change involves the addition of an additional shielding cover to protect the harness from damage caused by road debris.
• 10154418Jan 24, 2019Wheels. This bulletin announces a slight design change made to the sealing areas of the wheel hub assemblies for the models as listed above. The change was made to enhance productivity during the vehicle assembly process.
• 10154204Jan 22, 2019Electrical system. The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed above. The procedure will involve either downloading the software update files from Subarunet (or using those sent directly from Nuspire) and transferring them onto a flash drive for head unit…
• 10154202Jan 22, 2019Electrical system, Equipment. In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is initiating a service program to update the Harman Kardon head unit on certain vehicles with the latest version of software.
• 10154201Jan 22, 2019Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors), Equipment. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling 2018 model year Legacy, Outback, and BRZ vehicles equipped with a certain combination of head unit hardware and software, due to the possibility of noncompliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 111 ? ?Rear Visibility.?
• 10154207Jan 10, 2019Equipment, Air bags. This Bulletin provides information regarding Event Data Recorder (EDR) functionality which has been incorporated into the airbag system.
• 10153615Dec 11, 2018Electrical system. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling all 2018 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles to reprogram the combination meter software to correct an error in the driving range indicator calculation in the multi-information display.
• 10153612Dec 5, 2018Equipment, Electrical system. The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed above. The procedure will involve either downloading the software update files from Subarunet (or using those sent directly from Nuspire) and transferring them onto a flash drive for head unit…
• 10153184Nov 13, 2018Seats. This bulletin provides a procedure to help identify the source of a squeaking, creaking or popping -type sound heard coming from the driver?s seat. A change has been made to the Teflon bushings used in the seat cushion frame assembly.
• 10153181Nov 8, 2018Equipment, Electrical system. This bulletin announces availability of new audio system amplifiers to address the following operating concerns with the Harman Kardon Gen 3 infotainment system: Symptom 1: No audio output is heard but, the volume level displayed changes when turning the knob Symptom 2: Audio volume increases to maximum intermittently without turning the knob Symptom 3: A buzzing, screeching or crackling-type sound is heard coming…
• 10153180Nov 8, 2018Equipment. Current MY18 Outback & Legacy vehicles on Stop Sale can have the combination meter replaced through the normal United Radio procedures. Due to limited availability, ONLY retailer new vehicle inventory VINs are authorized for repair at this time. United Radio has been provided with a list of VINs for affected retailer new vehicle inventory to validate qualifying orders.
• 10150952Oct 30, 2018Equipment. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to use when diagnosing concerns of the Apple CarPlay and/or Android Auto feature not connecting or launching properly when a compatible device is connected to the head unit.
• 10150927Oct 30, 2018Equipment, Electrical system. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to use when diagnosing concerns of the Apple CarPlay and/or Android Auto feature not connecting or launching properly when a compatible device is connected to the head unit.
• 10150945Oct 19, 2018Equipment. This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure. The exchange program policy can also be found in Sections 8.4.9 and 11.2.10 of your Claims Policies and Procedures Manual found in Subarunet.
• 10150939Oct 16, 2018Equipment, Electrical system. The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed above. The procedure will involve either downloading the software update files from Subarunet (or using those sent directly from Nuspire) and transferring them onto a flash drive for head unit…
• 10150914Oct 16, 2018Electrical system, Equipment. The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed above. The procedure will involve either downloading the software update files from Subarunet (or using those sent directly from Nuspire) and transferring them onto a flash drive for head unit…
• 10150931Oct 9, 2018Transmission and drivetrain. In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is extending the New Car Limited Powertrain Warranty coverage for the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) on the above listed models and model years from the original five (5) years or sixty thousand (60,000) miles (whichever comes first) to ten (10) years or one-hundred thousand (100,000) miles (whichever comes first).
• 10150886Oct 9, 2018Transmission and drivetrain. In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is extending the New Car Limited Powertrain Warranty coverage for the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) on the above listed models and model years from the original five (5) years or sixty thousand (60,000) miles (whichever comes first) to ten (10) years or one-hundred thousand (100,000) miles (whichever comes first).
• 10146484Sep 21, 2018Electrical system. The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed above. The procedure will involve either downloading the software update files from Subarunet (or using those sent directly from Nuspire) and transferring them onto a flash drive for head unit…
• 10146474Sep 5, 2018Electrical system, Equipment. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to use when diagnosing concerns of the Apple CarPlay and / or Android Auto feature not connecting or launching properly when a compatible device is connected to the head unit.
• 10146473Sep 5, 2018Equipment. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to use when diagnosing specific and general audio/sound related concerns. Please start by completing the Harman Investigation Guide-Questionnaire as it gathers important details which will assist you with this diagnosis and is required should the condition not be resolved by this troubleshooting. Once the questionnaire is completed, follow the questionflow based on the…
• 10146472Sep 5, 2018Equipment. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to follow when diagnosing customer concerns involving Bluetooth (BT) functionality. Please start by completing the Harman Investigation Guide Questionnaire as it gathers important details which will help with diagnosis and will be required should the condition not be resolved by this troubleshooting. While completing the questionnaire, follow the question flow based on…
• 10146471Sep 5, 2018Equipment. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to follow when diagnosing clock-related customer concerns. Please start by completing the Harman Investigation Guide Questionnaire as it gathers important details which will help with diagnosis and will be required should the condition not be resolved by this troubleshooting. While completing the questionnaire, follow the question flow based on the customer concern.
• 10146470Sep 5, 2018Equipment. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to follow when diagnosing a customer concern of the display screen being either frozen (unresponsive) or black (blank). Please start by completing the Harman Investigation Guide Questionnaire as it gathers important details which will help with diagnosis and will be required should the condition not be resolved by this troubleshooting. While completing the questionnaire…
• 10146469Sep 5, 2018Equipment. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to follow when diagnosing customer concerns of the Navigation system?s functionality. Please start by completing the Harman Investigation Guide Questionnaire as it gathers important details which will help with diagnosis and will be required should the condition not be resolved by this troubleshooting. While completing the questionnaire, follow the question flow based on…
• 10146468Sep 5, 2018Electrical system, Equipment. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to follow when diagnosing customer concerns regarding USB functionality. Please start by completing the Harman Investigation Guide Questionnaire as it gathers important details which will help with diagnosis and will be required should the condition not be resolved by this troubleshooting. While completing the questionnaire, follow the question flow based on the customer…
• 10146467Sep 5, 2018Equipment. This bulletin provides helpful information about operating conditions observed in the field for Technicians to use when diagnosing customer concerns which may arise while operating Harman Gen 3.0 and 3.1 Navigation and Display Audio systems. We will continue to add to this bulletin as more information becomes available.
• 10145076Aug 27, 2018Equipment. The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed above. The procedure will involve either downloading the software update files from Subarunet (or using those sent directly from Nuspire) and transferring them onto a flash drive for head unit…
• 10145069Aug 21, 2018Equipment. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to use when diagnosing specific and general audio/sound related concerns. Please start by completing the Harman Investigation Guide-Questionnaire as it gathers important details which will assist you with this diagnosis and is required should the condition not be resolved by this troubleshooting. Once the questionnaire is completed, follow the question flow based on the…
• 10145068Aug 21, 2018Equipment. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to follow when diagnosing customer concerns involving Bluetooth (BT) functionality. Please start by completing the Harman Investigation Guide Questionnaire as it gathers important details which will help with diagnosis and will be required should the condition not be resolved by this troubleshooting. While completing the questionnaire, follow the question flow based on…
• 10144887Aug 21, 2018Equipment, Electrical system. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to follow when diagnosing clock-related customer concerns. Please start by completing the Harman Investigation Guide Questionnaire as it gathers important details which will help with diagnosis and will be required should the condition not be resolved by this troubleshooting. While completing the questionnaire, follow the question flow based on the customer concern.
• 10144886Aug 21, 2018Electrical system, Equipment. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to follow when diagnosing a customer concern of the display screen being either frozen (unresponsive) or black (blank). Please start by completing the Harman Investigation Guide Questionnaire as it gathers important details which will help with diagnosis and will be required should the condition not be resolved by this troubleshooting. While completing the questionnaire…
• 10144885Aug 21, 2018Equipment. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to follow when diagnosing customer concerns of the Navigation system?s functionality. Please start by completing the Harman Investigation Guide Questionnaire as it gathers important details which will help with diagnosis and will be required should the condition not be resolved by this troubleshooting. While completing the questionnaire, follow the question flow based on…
• 10144883Aug 21, 2018Equipment. The purpose of this bulletin is to provide a description of current changes to Service Manuals available via the Subaru Technical Information System (STIS) web site. The tables contained within this bulletin are to be used as guides for becoming aware of the latest changes. We advise you to always refer to the STIS web site when looking for the latest Service information
• 10143727Jul 26, 2018Engine, Engine cooling. This bulletin provides a service procedure for installation of additional foam packing to enhance performance of the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor. The additional foam better insulates the sensor from engine compartment heat which may lead to setting a DTC P0072. This information is applicable to models with or without the Active Grill Shutter (AGS) system.
• 10143883Jul 25, 2018Electrical system, Equipment. The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed above. The procedure will involve either downloading the software update files from Subarunet (or using those sent directly from Nuspire) and transferring them onto a flash drive for head unit…
• 10143879Jul 23, 2018Body and structure. This bulletin provides a procedure for diagnosing and repairing customer concerns of a "popping" or "snapping" -type sound heard when opening the sunroof. The sound may occur when the rear portion of the glass lid weatherstrip contacts or catches the roof frame when the sunroof is opened.
• 10143873Jul 23, 2018Electrical system. This bulletin announces a design change to the EPB adapter cord harness connector. In some cases, the retaining tab of the connector may become damaged as a result of removal or installation for diagnosis and later and cause DTC C1956 or C1957 to set and the brake warning lamp to illuminate. The retaining tab portion of the connector has been changed to improve its durability and prevent recurrence of the DTC.
• 10142838Jun 21, 2018Electrical system. This bulletin announces a design change to the CVT select lever (shifter) mechanism in response to isolated customer concerns of not being able to remove the key from the ignition switch when the vehicle is in Park. The cause is contamination of the Park-Range switch internal components.
• 10142827Jun 11, 2018Electrical system. This bulletin provides a measurement and adjustment procedure for the stop lamp switch. An improperly adjusted (or faulty) stop lamp switch can cause any of the DTCs listed to set and result in the related system?s (e. g. VDC and/or EyeSight) warning lamp to illuminate.
• 10142836Jun 4, 2018Equipment, Electrical system. The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed above. The procedure will involve either downloading the software update files from Subarunet (or using those sent directly from Nuspire) and transferring them onto a flash drive for head unit…

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