Ongoing for several months. Battery will have parasitic drain that is causing me to have to jump start the car frequently. There are no warning lamps or light. I have not gone to dealer as I read on the internet it is a DCM module that costs several hundreds to fix. Apparently this is a widespread issue and this should be covered by Subaru because of defective equipment. Thank you.
2019 Subaru Outback electrical problems
moderate 357 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $850 · see electrical across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
357
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$850
1crash
When does it fail?
Of the 357 electrical complaints filed for the 2019 Subaru Outback, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Electrical accounts for 35% of every owner complaint on file for this vehicle — the dominant problem area across 12 categories tracked.
Owners have filed 357 electrical complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
The failure pattern owners describe
Buyer takeaway: The 2019 Subaru Outback has well-documented electrical defects—particularly parasitic battery drain (often linked to the DCM module), infotainment system delamination with ghost touches, and liftgate control failures. Multiple owners have required 2–4 battery replacements under warranty or out-of-pocket, and Subaru has resisted recalls despite owning the problem; repair parts are routinely backordered months to over a year, leaving owners stranded or paying expensive interim repairs.
The 2019 Subaru Outback electrical system is plagued by chronic parasitic battery drain that strands owners repeatedly. Owners report dead batteries after 24 hours to a few days of parking, with batteries testing fine when charged but draining while off. Multiple owners have replaced batteries 2–4 times within the first few years of ownership, often at their own expense despite Subaru's class action settlement and extended warranty. Root causes vary: the liftgate/hatch electrical system, the DCM (Data Communications Module), and hypersensitive key fob buttons that inadvertently open the hatch and trigger high current draw (3.6+ amps with hatch open). Some owners measured parasitic drain at 114 mA or higher while parked.
The infotainment head unit (Starlink) develops internal delamination and moisture bubbles within months of ownership, causing ghost touches that randomly change radio stations, activate apps, make unwanted phone calls, and fog the backup camera. Repair quotes run $900–$2,200; Subaru offered partial reimbursement ($1,000–$1,200) but no recall, even though 2018 models were recalled for the same defect. Parts are backordered a year or longer.
Power liftgate function fails repeatedly—won't open or close consistently—contributing to battery drain and triggering alarms that persist while driving. Windshield defects (spontaneous cracks and water leaks from poor installation) have caused $10,000+ in water damage and mold remediation. A fuel pump failure left one owner stranded in 110-degree heat with a child. Subaru acknowledges widespread defects but resists recalls; dealers often blame owner behavior rather than design flaws.
Same Subaru Outback electrical reports on nearby years: 2016 · 2017 · 2018 · 2020 · 2021
Failure modes owners describe
Battery drain/parasitic draw
Owners report repeated dead batteries while parked, even for short periods (24 hours to a few days). Multiple batteries replaced under warranty or by owners. Root causes cited include liftgate/hatch electrical issues, DCM (Data Communications Module), and high parasitic draw measured by some owners (114 mA or higher). Class action lawsuit and extended warranty exist for 2015-2020 models.
When: Occurs throughout ownership; complaints from 2 months to 4+ years after purchase; mileage ranges from new to 88,000+ miles
Symptoms owners cite: Car won't start after parked 24 hours to several days; Dead battery with no lights on and no interior accessories left running; Battery tests good when charged, but drains while parked; Alternator tests normal but parasitic draw measured during vehicle-off state; Interior lights and radio come on unexpectedly when battery charger connected; Liftgate sensor or switch may trigger high current draw
Codes mentioned: L0XXF4Q-3J8KGD1, TSB #11-174-17R (short-trip driving battery discharge)
Repairs/costs cited: Multiple battery replacements covered under extended warranty from class action settlement (2015-2020 models). DCM replacement quoted at $600–$900; often backordered months to a year. Some owners purchased aftermarket higher-capacity batteries ($199–$250) as workaround. Dealers have recommended trickle chargers. One owner measured 114 mA parasitic drain (baseline ~50 mA, some cite threshold ~150 mA).
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Class action settlement includes battery replacement warranty extension and ECM software update (2015-2020 models). Subaru acknowledges DCM as parasitic drain source but does not cover under powertrain warranty. Subaru of America offered $1,000 toward repairs in some cases. DCM replacement not included in original settlement. Dealers cite owner error (leaving hatch open, key fob sensitivity, infrequent driving) rather than defect.
Infotainment system delamination and ghost touch
Head unit (Starlink infotainment) screen delamination develops months into ownership, causing internal moisture/bubbles and spontaneous touch activation. Screen becomes unresponsive or makes random selections, rendering backup camera, navigation, radio, and hands-free calling unreliable or unusable. Affects multiple model years but 2019 not covered by prior recall that addressed 2018 models.
When: Typically develops 3–8 months after purchase; 12 months to 2+ years reported; mileage 200 to 40,000+ miles
Symptoms owners cite: Visible bubbles or delamination inside screen; Ghost touch—screen makes random selections without user input; Radio changes stations or switches apps randomly; Continuous beeping from ghost touches that cannot be silenced; Backup camera display fogged or intermittently unusable; Hands-free calling malfunction; random calls made during driving; Navigation (GPS) turns on/off randomly; Screen unresponsive to user commands
Repairs/costs cited: Subaru dealers quote $900–$2,200 for head unit replacement. Subaru of America offered $1,000–$1,200 as one-time goodwill reimbursement (insufficient to cover full cost). Parts backordered 1 year or longer; no timeline provided. Aftermarket replacement quoted at $1,100–$6,000 depending on integration with factory amplifier (Harman Kardon). Temporary workaround: disconnect battery to reset; some dealers suggest Best Buy aftermarket radio (but compatibility issues with amplifier noted).
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: 2018 Subaru models covered under class action recall for same issue; 2019 not included despite same manufacturing defect. Subaru of America acknowledged widespread issue; offered partial reimbursement ($1,000–$1,200) but no recall or warranty extension. Dealers confirm 'known issue' with 1/3 of vehicles affected at some locations.
Liftgate/hatch control malfunction
Power liftgate fails to open or close consistently. Cannot operate via key fob button, interior release, or exterior hatch button. Sometimes will not close after forced closure, causing battery drain and dashboard warning lights. Clicking or beeping noises during operation or while parked.
When: Onset shortly after purchase to months into ownership; mileage 200–40,000+
Symptoms owners cite: Liftgate won't open via key fob, interior button, or exterior release; Liftgate will not close completely; must be forced closed; Clicking or beeping from liftgate area; Dashboard warning that liftgate is ajar when it is closed; Loud alarm sounds while driving if liftgate was left open or manually cycled; Alarm may persist for extended time or until car comes to full stop; Battery drain triggered when liftgate left open (drawing 3.6+ amps)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers replaced power rear gate ECU, latch assembly, and actuator in some cases. Some owners report the fix did not fully resolve opening-function issues. Replacement parts not specified but service visits involved multiple component changes.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued. Dealers perform adjustments to closing mechanism and component replacement. Some dealerships unable to replicate issue during test drive, returning vehicle unrepaired.
Windshield defect and water leak
Windshield cracks spontaneously from center without impact. Replacement windshield (factory or OEM) installs improperly, allowing water leakage into vehicle. Water accumulation causes mold growth, damage to airbag systems, and electrical system damage.
When: Crack or leakage within 4–12 months of replacement; example: crack Aug 2022, water leak discovered Dec 2022 (4 months later)
Symptoms owners cite: Spontaneous windshield crack radiating from center; Water dripping from A-pillar on driver's side; Water pooling under carpets and padding; Mold growth under carpets and interior trim; Electrical system damage from moisture exposure; Airbag system damage from water intrusion
Repairs/costs cited: One owner incurred $10,500+ in repairs including carpet/padding replacement, mold remediation, airbag system repair, and electrical system repairs. Vehicle out of service 60+ days. Settlement/warranty mentioned but only extends warranty mileage, not automatic replacement.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Settlement exists addressing windshield defect but limited to warranty extension; does not guarantee automatic replacement. No automatic remedy if windshield cracks. Class action lawsuit referenced by owners but specifics not detailed in narratives.
Engine oil consumption
Engine burns excessive oil, requiring top-ups every 3,000 miles at $11 per quart. Not normal consumption rate.
When: Ongoing throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Oil level drops every 3,000 miles; No visible leaks; Burning smell not reported
Repairs/costs cited: No repair undertaken in narratives; owner cited cost ($11/quart) and frequency as concern.
ECM (Engine Control Module) failure and reset
Engine control module requires replacement or reset. One owner reported vehicle shuddering, rolling backward, and inability to shift gears after starting, resolved by ECM reset at dealership; issue recurred the next day.
When: Unpredictable; one report within 1–2 days after dealer reset
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle shudders after starting; Vehicle rolls backward unintentionally; Transmission does not engage (will not go into gear); Issue cannot be replicated during test drive
Repairs/costs cited: ECM reset performed by Subaru technician; reportedly resolved symptoms temporarily but issue recurred.
VCT/VCM fuse failure
VCT (Variable Control Transmission or VCM) fuse malfunction causing battery drain and electrical system instability. Part back-ordered nationally for months. Subaru acknowledges defect but repair not covered under powertrain warranty.
When: Triggered by dashboard flashing and unusual beeping during driving
Symptoms owners cite: Dashboard lights flashing; Lights dimming while driving; Unusual beeping sound; Subsequent battery drain and failure to start
Repairs/costs cited: VCM fuse replacement quoted at $900. Part back-ordered 2+ months with expectation of 2+ more months before availability. Owner incurred $1,000+/month rental car costs during extended wait.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Subaru has known of VCM fuse issue for years but has not issued recall. Acknowledged defect present safety risk; repair not covered under powertrain warranty. Subaru customer advocacy denied claim initially.
Fuel pump failure
Fuel pump fails while driving, causing loss of power and forcing vehicle to limp home or become stranded. Settlement exists for fuel pump defect but only extends warranty, does not guarantee automatic replacement.
When: Reported while driving long distance (Las Vegas trip); mileage not specified
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle struggles to maintain speed; Power loss during highway driving; Fuel pump failure confirmed by mechanic
Repairs/costs cited: Subaru towed vehicle and performed fuel pump replacement. Owner was reimbursed for rental car costs but not hotel or diagnostic fees incurred ($110+ degree heat stranding with child).
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Settlement addresses fuel pump defect but only extends warranty; does not guarantee automatic replacement unless failure occurs. Subaru provided reimbursement for rental car in this instance.
Axle seal leak (after replacement)
Right front axle replaced; replacement axle's seal began leaking shortly after. Owner charged $100 for repair of dealership's work.
When: Post-replacement
Symptoms owners cite: Oil leaking from replacement axle seal
Repairs/costs cited: Owner charged $100 for repair of seal leak on replaced axle; attributed to 'incompetent mechanic' per owner.
Radio/head unit malfunction (separate from delamination)
Radio and CD player arbitrarily skip or jump between stations/tracks without user input. May require radio unit replacement.
When: Reported after other electrical issues
Symptoms owners cite: Radio stations jump randomly; CD tracks jump randomly; Radio becomes inoperable
Repairs/costs cited: Radio unit replacement required; cost not specified in narratives.
Tire pressure monitoring system malfunction
TPMS display freezes or becomes unresponsive. May cycle arbitrarily between units of measure (PSI vs. kPa) while driving, indicating possible telemetry or geolocation issue.
When: Ongoing
Symptoms owners cite: TPMS display unresponsive or frozen; Units of measure change arbitrarily during operation (PSI to kPa); Potential impact on SOS/Starlink location services
DCM (Data Communications Module) defect
DCM is primary source of parasitic battery drain on 2019 Outbacks. Module draws excessive current while vehicle is off. Subaru acknowledges issue but does not cover replacement under standard warranty or class action settlement (which addressed 2015–2020 models but excluded full DCM replacement). Long backorder delays.
When: Onset varies; diagnosed months to years into ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Battery drain unrelated to door/hatch left open; High current draw measured (3.6+ amps) when hatch open; ongoing draw when hatch closed; Multiple battery replacements do not resolve drain; Bypass box offered as temporary fix until replacement available
Repairs/costs cited: DCM replacement cost $600–$900. Parts backordered indefinitely; Subaru extended DCM warranty and offered bypass box as temporary solution (available Sept 2025 per one narrative, months to a year+ per others). Subaru customer advocacy initially denied claim; some owners eventually received approval after multiple calls/complaints.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Subaru acknowledges DCM as widespread issue; confirmed at dealerships with high failure rates (1/3 of service visits for some dealers). Offered extended DCM warranty and temporary bypass box fix. However, replacement not covered under original powertrain warranty or class action settlement. Repair costs borne by owner in many cases unless escalation to customer advocacy.
Synthesized from 357 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 8 most recent
The car repeatedly drains the battery after being left for a short time (a day or 2). This has now happened at least four times and has destroyed multiple batteries. I have taken it to the dealer and complained multiple times. They check for software updates and sell me a new battery and then the same thing happens again. Because of this, the car is essentially unusable because I can't trust it…
The vehicle has less than 12000 miles on it. Battery keeps dying. We carry a jumper cable and a battery charger all the time. Dealer refused to change the battery in june 2020 (in fort collins, colorado), dealer simply charged the battery. We don't know if it is an alternator problem, a battery problem, or other electrical systems components that keep draining battery when the vehicle is…
Vehicle will not start on numerous occasions. We replaced the battery, but problem continues. Several attempts to get problem corrected by dealership service department have failed. Problem has occurred for more that 5 months now.
Battery started draining while parked when the car was about 3 years 8 months old. I got a new higher capacity battery and it also drained several times.
The battery dies after 3 days of parking inside my garage. The battery passed a test. This is the third time the issue has taken place.
I have had battery failures in the last 34 months 3 times. I have reported this problem before. The dealer replaces my battery and gives advice about not driving enough. not keeping my fob the proper distance from the car. This is casing me to be concerned about safety issues. I know there is a class action 2020 for this problem but subaru needs to solve this issue. It is a computer on wheels and…
Since purchasing used, june 2020, the electrical system drained the battery dead. Battery was replaced the first time but it has occurred a second time since.
Had electrical trouble with your 2019 Subaru Outback?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the electrical problem on the 2019 Subaru Outback?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 357 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $850 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the electrical typically fail?
Across the 99 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most electrical failures cluster between 6,987 and 24,941 miles, with the median around 13,563. A quarter of owners report trouble before 6,987; a quarter make it past 24,941. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $850 for electrical 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 electrical?
No active recalls currently cover electrical 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.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2019/Subaru/Outback.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.