2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The powertrain is a significant area of concern, with documented issues like torque converter failure and transmission problems that can lead to stalling.
- Electrical system issues, including door lock failures and lighting problems, have been reported at relatively low mileage.
- While NHTSA has not provided overall safety ratings, numerous recalls, particularly for airbags, highlight critical safety aspects that must be verified.
- A high TSB count suggests a complex history of potential minor to moderate issues that warrant attention during inspection.
2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca
The 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca offers a practical, all-wheel-drive package, but used car shoppers should be aware of its reliability record. With 8 recalls and 70 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), this model has seen its share of attention from the manufacturer. The primary concerns revolve around potential powertrain failures, including torque converter issues and transmission problems, as well as electrical system glitches and exterior lighting issues. While NHTSA safety ratings are not available, the significant number of recalls suggests potential repair costs for owners. Careful inspection is paramount for this model.
Critical Failure Risk
Reported torque converter failures can lead to sudden stalling, posing a significant safety risk. This issue has been noted at relatively low mileage.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$3,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
- Horsepower
- 245HP
- Torque
- 248 lb–ftLB-FT
Reliability
Practicality
The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious buyers who prioritize all-wheel drive.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca.
Vehicle Specs
- Seating Capacity
- 7
- Horsepower
- 245 hp
- Torque
- 248 lb-ft
- Transmission
- 6-speed automatic
- Drivetrain
- AWD
- Body Style
- Suv
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See the full 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
1. EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Most reportedUsage: 2 reports
2. Powertrain
Usage: 2 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter)
Est. shop cost: $75 - $125
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FAQ
Is the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca is 8.7/10. Reliability score is 8.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 8. Owner complaints: 8.
How practical is the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca for daily use?
Practicality score is 9.0/10. The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals. Seating capacity is 7. 4 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 7.4/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 9.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Torque Converter (typical at 59,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,800 • Max: $2,500).
What engine is in the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca?
Engine specs list Flat-6. Output is 245 hp • 248 lb-ft.
What transmission does the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca, transmission is 6-speed automatic. The paired drivetrain is AWD.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What is the fuel economy range for the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca, fuel economy range is 16-17 mpg combined.
How many people fit in a 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca, seating capacity is 7.
What body style is the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca, drivetrain is AWD. Transmission is 6-speed automatic.
Is the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca is a family-oriented SUV that was not designed with performance tuning in mind.
Should I tune the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca?
The Subaru B9 Tribeca is an SUV with limited aftermarket support and engine tunability, and it does not fit the 'sleeper' or cult following criteria for performance tuning.
What are the most common exterior lighting problems on the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca?
Top complaint category: exterior lighting (2 reports, 25% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Subaru B9 Tribeca?
This model year has 8 official safety campaigns listed.