For the most part, new cars, trucks, and SUVs should offer a pretty stress-free ownership experience for the first few years. Unfortunately, the 2019 Subaru Outback has not done that. This Subaru sport utility vehicle has more complaints than compliments, even though it isn’t even that old. Be on the lookout for these 2019 Subaru Outback problems before driving off into the sunset.

Are there any problems with the 2019 Subaru Outback?

When Car Complaints gathered some feedback from owners, it was clear something was amiss with the 2019 Subaru Outback. Even though the Outback is only a few years old, it has racked up almost 1,000 complaints from drivers. One of the most complained about areas is for electrical problems.

Drivers complain that the battery dies prematurely, the hatchback won’t open as needed, and many folks noted problems with the audio. There are also many complaints about the windshield cracking without warning. Some drivers complained that the steering wheel was difficult to steer with or that there was an intense wobble while trying to drive.

Replacing the windshield could cost more than $800, and some Subaru Outback owners note that it happened twice within a short period. A dead battery isn’t the most expensive issue to remedy, but it isn’t ideal at $100 a piece. The most expensive issue reported by one owner was an unintended acceleration issue, which had a repair cost of $12,000 or more.

The NHTSA has many complaints about the 2019 Subaru Outback

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also accepts complaints from owners. On the NHTSA page for the 2019 Subaru Outback, there are 758 complaints from drivers. Electrical problems are the most common, followed by issues with the engine, airbags, and forward collision warning system.

While each complaint is different, many drivers describe the Outback’s battery as inconsistent and unreliable. Even after replacement and a jump start, the battery sometimes dies within 24 hours. This left some drivers stranded and contributed to the headaches. One of the most significant issues is that there is no warning or light on the dashboard indicating that the battery might malfunction.

More drivers also complained about the sudden unintended acceleration problem. This led to the 2019 Subaru Outback lurching forward and colliding with garages, curbs, parking signs, and more. One owner noted the airbag did not deploy, and there was no warning before the acceleration.

Does this Subaru have any recalls?

The NHTSA has issued three recalls for the 2019 Outback, but none address the most common problems. There are two recalls for the fuel pump failing, which can increase the crash risk. Another recall addresses spot welds that might not protect occupants in the event of a crash.

Even though the 2019 Subaru Outback has a lot going for it, these issues are worth knowing about ahead of time. Skipping the 2019 version for a 2020 or even a 2018 might result in a less stressful ownership experience. Subaru has not addressed some of the larger issues brought up by drivers, either with a recall or a service bulletin. For now, the brand offers more reliable years and models that might result in fewer headaches.