2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca

The 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca marked Subaru’s entry into the mid-size SUV market. It came with a 3.0-liter H6 engine producing 250 horsepower and 219 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Many people found the Tribeca’s distinctive (and somewhat controversial) styling to be a plus, along with its standard all-wheel drive and spacious interior. On the other hand, the B9 Tribeca received criticism for its fuel economy, cramped third-row seating, and somewhat polarizing exterior design, especially in the front.

Engine

3.0L H6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from the valve cover gaskets, timing chain cover, or rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+, depending on the location of the leak.
• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, and coolant mixing with oil.
  • Solution: Replacing the head gaskets. This often requires machining the cylinder heads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, especially at low speeds. Can also cause stalling.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
• Shift Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, failure to shift into certain gears, or slipping.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty shift solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+

Suspension

• Rear Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A humming or grinding noise from the rear of the vehicle that gets louder with speed.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500 per wheel

Electrical

• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and stalling.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty oxygen sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per sensor
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, difficulty starting, battery light illuminated, and eventually a dead battery.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the undercarriage, wheel wells, and body panels, especially in areas with road salt.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing rusted panels, applying rust inhibitors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the extent of the rust.

Interior

• HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature of the air coming from the vents. One side may be hot while the other is cold, or the air may be stuck on one temperature. Clicking noises from behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

Recalls

• Fuel Tank Corrosion:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion of the fuel tank filler pipe, potentially leading to fuel leakage and fire hazard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the fuel tank.
  • Recall: V39
• Incorrect Rear Suspension Lower Control Arm Bolts:
  • Description/Symptoms: Improperly installed rear lower control arm bolts.
  • Solution: Dealership to replace the rear lower control arm bolts.
  • Recall: B21

Summary

The 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca had a variety of potential issues, some of which can be costly to repair. The engine and transmission problems, like oil leaks and torque converter failure, can be particularly burdensome. The recalls regarding the fuel tank and suspension bolts are important to verify as completed for safety reasons. While some issues may be minor, addressing potential problems proactively is crucial for maintaining the vehicle’s reliability and longevity. The vehicle had a number of low-cost issues as well as high-cost issues. The severity and cost of these issues are in the moderate to high range.