| Issue ID | 1685564 |
| Internal NHTSA # | 11351649 |
| Manufacurer | Subaru of America, Inc. |
| Brand | SUBARU |
| Model | OUTBACK |
| Model Year | 2018 |
| File date | 26/08/20 |
| Component | VISIBILITY/WIPER |
| Product type code | VEHICLE |
| Description of the problem | 2018 subaru outback deveolped a crack in the windshield that originated on the lower left corner in the de-icer region. The curious location of this crack led me to seek out what could have happened. I found a service bulletin from subaru in 2015 subarus that specifically state "these types of damage would only be covered by this warranty extension if the windshield is identified as having the above outlined condition and the damage originates in the affected wiper deicer area. Other forums again and again mention recurring problems originating in this de-icer area and quickly propagating the rest of the windshield. Cracks in subaru windshields often render eyesight unusable. Additionally the cost to replace these windshields is very high as you have to factor in recalibrating the eyesight equipment. I spoke to subaru of america and they stated that "this was from outside influences/impact and there are other impact areas on other spots on the windshield." the refused to acknowledge the connection between this service bulletin/numerous other subar owners forums/unusual are for a rock to hit or crack to form. Also, the vehicle is still under warranty. I am disappointed that this safety hazard as occurred and subaru not only refuses to authorize replacement, but they refuse to acknowledge that there is a problem with the windshields cracking. |
| Vehicle Mileage at Failure | 31000 |
| Number of Occurences | |
| Source of the issue | NHTSA WEB SITE |
| City and State | MOORE, OK |
| VIN pattern | 4S4BSANC2J3XXXXXX |
| Was vehicle invloved in a crash? | N |
| Was vehicle involved in a fire? | N |
| Was incedent reported to police? | N |
| Was medical attention required? | N |
| Was part original equipment? | |
| No. of injured persons | |
| No. of fatalities | |
| Date of purchase | 07/08/26 |
| Was original owner? | N |
| Anti-lock brakes | N |
| Cruise control | N |
| Number of cylinders | |
| Drive train type | |
| Transmission type | |
| Vehicle speed | 0 |
| DoT tire identifier | |
| Tire size | |
| Location of tire code | |
| Type of tire failure code | |
| Was defective tire repaired? | |
| Date of manufacture | |
| Type of child seat code | |
| Type of restraint | |
| Dealer's name | |
| Dealer's telephone number | |
| Dealer's city | |
| Dealer's state code | |
| Dealer's ZIP code |