2014 Subaru Tribeca

The 2014 Subaru Tribeca is a mid-size crossover SUV, offered with a single engine option, a 3.6-liter H6 engine producing 256 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. It was available with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the Tribeca for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and standard all-wheel drive. Criticisms often focused on its polarizing exterior styling, fuel economy, and relatively small third-row seat.

Engine

3.6L H6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, timing chain cover, and the oil cooler. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the source of the leak
• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Subaru 3.6L H6 engine is known for head gasket failures. Symptoms include overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, and bubbling in the coolant overflow tank.
  • Solution: Replacement of the head gaskets, machining of the cylinder heads, and potentially replacing other related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the torque converter, leading to shuddering or hesitation during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter. In some cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ depending on the repair needed.
• Slipping or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: This is where the transmission feels like it is taking a long time to switch gears or the engine revs up without a corresponding increase in speed. It can also make a thud noise.
  • Solution: It is necessary to have a mechanic check the transmission. Usually, the fix is a rebuilt or replacement transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000+

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag/Weak Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear suspension may sag prematurely, especially when carrying passengers or cargo. This can result in a bouncy ride and reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
• Worn Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Bushings in the control arms and sway bar links can wear out, leading to clunking noises, especially over bumps, and reduced handling precision.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings. In some cases, replacing the entire control arm or sway bar link may be more cost-effective.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain can be an issue, especially if the vehicle sits for extended periods. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the parasitic draw. This may involve testing individual circuits and components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the draw.
• Faulty Oxygen Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Oxygen sensors may fail, leading to poor fuel economy, rough running, and illumination of the check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty oxygen sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 depending on the sensor location

Exterior

• Cracked Windshield
  • Description/Symptoms: The large windshield can be prone to cracking, especially due to impacts from rocks or debris.
  • Solution: Replacing the windshield.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Interior

• HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The blend door actuator controls the temperature of the air coming from the vents. A failing actuator can cause inconsistent temperatures or a clicking noise behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

Recalls

• None Found

Summary

The 2014 Subaru Tribeca has some notable issues, primarily revolving around the engine, transmission, and suspension. The engine is known to develop oil leaks and head gasket failures. Transmission issues such as torque converter problems and slipping are also prevalent. The suspension may sag over time. While the recalls may be limited, the cost of addressing these common problems can range from a few hundred dollars for minor repairs to several thousand for major engine or transmission work. The severity of these issues can affect the overall reliability and ownership experience.