I PURCHASED A 2011 SUBARU OUTBACK 2.5I LIMITED ON NOV 30 2010. ON THE DRIVE HOME FROM THE NEW CAR DEALERSHIP THE STEERING WHEEL HAD A SHIMMY AND THE ENTIRE CAR WAS VIBRATING. THE VIBRATION BEGAN 45MPH AND HAD GOTTEN WORSE AT 65/70MPH. I CONTACTED THE DEALER THE NEXT DAY AND THEY DETERMINED BY TEST DRIVING THE CAR THAT THE FOUR CONTINENTAL PRO CONTACT TIRES WERE DEFECTIVE. EVENTUALLY THEY REP…
2011 subaru Outback steering problems
severe 36 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $700
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
2011 SUBARU OUTBACK 3.6R - CAR HAS VIBRATION THAT CAN BE MOSTLY FELT IN THE STEERING WHEEL AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. VIBRATION CAN ALSO BE FELT IN THE SEATS AND FLOOR. VIBRATION COMES AND GOES AT VARIOUS SPEEDS. *TR
Common questions
How serious is the steering problem on the 2011 subaru Outback?
It's a meaningful issue. 36 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $700.
At what mileage does the steering typically fail?
Mileage data is limited for this issue. Owners report failures across a wide range, suggesting cause is more about driving conditions and maintenance than mileage alone.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $700 for steering repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to steering?
No active recalls currently cover steering issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.