2012 Subaru Tribeca

Introduction:

The 2012 Subaru Tribeca is a midsize crossover SUV that offers a well-rounded package with a spacious interior, versatile all-wheel-drive system, and a reliable powertrain. It is available with a choice of two engines: a 3.6-liter flat-six or a 2.5-liter flat-four, and a single 5-speed automatic transmission. While the Tribeca has generally received positive reviews for its practicality and value, it has also faced some issues that potential buyers should be aware of.

Engine

• 3.6-liter Flat-Six Engine:
  • Oil Consumption: Excessive oil consumption, leading to frequent topping-ups or engine damage.
    • Solution: Piston ring replacement or engine overhaul.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Timing Chain Rattle: Noise from the timing chain, often heard during cold engine starts or idle.
    • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain and tensioner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Head Gasket Failure: Premature failure of the head gasket, leading to oil and coolant leaks and engine overheating.
    • Solution: Replacement of the head gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
• 2.5-liter Flat-Four Engine:
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak: Failure of the valve cover gasket, leading to oil leaks.
    • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Piston Slap: Noise from the piston slap, most noticeable during engine warm-up.
    • Solution: Piston replacement or engine overhaul.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+

Transmission

• 5-Speed Automatic Transmission:
  • Delayed Shifting: Hesitation or delays in gear shifting.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid replacement or recalibration.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Solenoid Failure: Malfunctioning solenoids within the transmission, leading to shifting problems.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty solenoids.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Suspension

• Front Strut Failure: Premature failure of the front struts, leading to noise and reduced ride quality. * Solution: Replacement of the front struts. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ per pair
• Sway Bar End Link Failure: Failure of the sway bar end links, leading to clunking noises and reduced stability. * Solution: Replacement of the sway bar end links. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per pair

Electrical

• Battery Failure: Premature failure of the battery. * Solution: Replacement of the battery. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300

Exterior

• Roof Rail Corrosion: Rust formation on the roof rails due to poor corrosion protection. * Solution: Replacement or repair of the roof rails. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Interior

• Heater Core Failure: Malfunctioning heater core, leading to insufficient heating or coolant leaks. * Solution: Replacement of the heater core. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Climate Control Malfunction: Failure of the climate control system, resulting in erratic temperature control. * Solution: Repair or replacement of the climate control module. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
• Dashboard Creaking: Annoying creaking noises from the dashboard. * Solution: Disassembling and lubricating the dashboard components. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200 (DIY)

Recalls:

• NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V046000 - Power Window Switch Overheating
• NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V343000 - Seatbelt Buckle Failure

Summary:

The 2012 Subaru Tribeca has received generally positive reviews for its practicality and value. However, it has also faced some issues with its engine, transmission, and suspension that potential buyers should be aware of. The severity and cost of these issues vary, with some being relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, while others can be more significant and costly. As with any used vehicle, it’s important to have a thorough pre-purchase inspection to assess the condition of the vehicle and identify any potential problems.