Is anyone having issues with 2018 or 2019 Subaru Outback windshields breaking?

190

Asked by GuruBGRNL Jan 29, 2019 at 07:21 PM about the 2019 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

My 2019 Subaru experienced spontaneous crack from under the wiper unit on
the passenger side of the car.  The dealership insists it must be due to a rock
or something hitting the window. Unfortunately, the crack appeared while the
car was parked in my driveway and had not been hit by anything.  It has been
a nightmare trying to get this windshield in operating condition and have been
to the dealership and/or their repair agent (dealer service departments state
they do not replace windshields so they contact the work out) over five times
and two going on three installations on a car that is one month old.

The navigation system does not work, the windshield wiper washer unit did not
work and when repaired only sprays 1/3 of the way up the window. This is a
very expensive car whose safety has been severely impacted due to what I
truly believe are a result of manufacturing defects.

114 Answers

When the windshield is replaced be sure and inspect the spot where the crack started. There could be a sharp point in the window frame that stressed the glass. If so Subaru should pay.

8 people found this helpful.
86,165

Hmm... seems like a lot of 2015 Subaru Outbacks have experienced a cracked windshield...it's being reported on some websites. Maybe it's due to the angle of the glass to the frame....too much pressure...in any case...it's definitely not good. Normally, you would expect an insurance claim to pay for this. I don't know... good luck.

9 people found this helpful.
350

I bought a new 2019 Subaru Outback ~6 weeks ago and a 4-5 inch crack developed from the bottom of the windshield in the center while driving on the highway on a sunny 28 degree day. The crack went straight up and extended to 9.5 inches over the next 2 hours and then developed a perpendicular crack 11 inches long to form a T. Prior to this, we didn't experience anything hitting the windshield (ex: pebble). The road was smooth. I'm contacting the dealer today. The car has 2,460 miles on it. This is clearly a defective windshield.

35 people found this helpful.
140

I have a 2015 outback that I bought new. Today the windshield broke, it just pop break at the bottom of the passenger side. This will be the 4th time it breaks. I just got the car back from the dealer 10 days ago after they installed the 3rd windshield. I am selling this car and stay away from Subaru, unfortunately.

14 people found this helpful.
210

I am currently having the same problem. I purchased a 2019 Outback and 2019 Impreza in December 2018. I had to replace the windshield on the Impreza and get the eyesight calibrated after a stone from highway driving hit and chipped the windshield - the windshield developed a long crack. Within a week of this happening, my Outback developed a crack starting near the wiper (lower part of windshield on driver's side) and spreading over 2 ft across the windshield. I have a call into Subaru in Shoreline, WA about getting it replaced and asking them to cover my deductible.

21 people found this helpful.
220

My 2019 Outback has a huge crack too. I think their windshields are subpar. Not happy with my Subaru at all. They have already had a major lawsuit over this issue.

22 people found this helpful.
320

I am sad to read that Subaru has not addressed the defective windshield design. I have a 2015 Outback. When I take it to the dealership this week for repair, it will be my 4th windshield in this car. Before trading it in soon, I wanted to know if the newer models still had the windshield issue. This site has certainly answered my question. I asked my service department as well as the sales manager, neither answered me.

14 people found this helpful.
250

I was told at the dealership that the Outbacks break on the passenger side just below where there's a sensor or temperature thing, and it happens when it's cold outside and the heater or defroster is on inside. It's a defect they know about, so I'd call Subaru (800) 782-2783 and negotiate for them to pay for it.

25 people found this helpful.
180

Had my 2019 Outback for 3 months and am going to get my 3rd windshield. Same thing....no definite rock chips....just random cracking that takes place and then if of course spreads across the whole windshield. Frustrating. The first crack was along the bottom windshield by the wipers. The 2nd rand vertical right in the line of sight on the drivers side. C-mon Subaru, we expect better!

18 people found this helpful.
220

I had my 2019 Forester for a week when I woke up to a crack on the passenger side. The crack started at the bottom of the window and extended to the middle of the window. I had it ONE week! I can't believe folks are on their 4th replacement! I have been doing a bit of research and some people are on their 7th replacement. That is ridiculous!! I have a $500 deductible.I cannot afford that 2 and 3 times a year! Some of the posts on other forums regarding windshields cracking date back to 2005!! Someone needs to help me understand why Subaru isn't taking responsibility for this seemingly persistent problem? Definitely regretting my decision on buying another Subaru (I've had 2 others in the past).

22 people found this helpful.
320

As much as I love the car, and certainly WOULD have purchased a new model if this issue had been remedied by Subaru, I gave up and went back to a Toyota 4Runner last week. Thank you all for your input! It helped me make my decision.

18 people found this helpful.
260

Had same issue with my 2019 Outback. It has only 1350 miles on it. Filed a complaint with National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/VehicleComplaint/

26 people found this helpful.
170

My 2019 Outback developed a crack which started at the edge on the passenger side (middle of the windshield edge and it spread horizontally across. This was while it was parked at my place of employment. No evidence of anything impacting the windshield and the dealership has already told me that Subaru will not cover it, despite no visible evidence of anything impacting the windshield. This happened just 5 weeks after leasing the car.

17 people found this helpful.
70

I have had this happen twice now on a vehicle not even 2 years old. The windshields seem to chip very easily and all of a sudden, they crack.

7 people found this helpful.
80

2018 Outback, Windshield cracked just sitting at work parking lot. Staring from the frame on the driver side small fine S curve at first about 20” but couple days later expanding halfway across the glass. Called the dealer and it is clear that they are well aware of the problem and referred me to a designated person handling just windshields. Being very careful with her instruction basically assuming no responsibility unless you have some kind of “extension” on your warranty. Basically instructing me to Subaru America. She did way to bring the car to the dealer so they can determine the cause. I am not sure what are their methods and what they can determine. Possibly just collecting data so they Subaru can address this with their glass supplier. Cost estimated at $2000. This is clearly not an isolated incident and I hope that there is a class action suit on the way to address this issue. Very frustrating and expansive repair. I currently own two and this is my third Subaru and possibly last.

8 people found this helpful.
120

I have a 2018 Subaru Legacy 3.6R that is 10 months old and my windshield just broke today for the second time in four months. The first time it broke spontaneously and today it broke due to a bug that hit the windshield. I have a $500 deductible but then need to pay to have the eyesight system re-calibrated. I’ve had eight brand new Subarus since 2009 and will never buy another one as of today.

12 people found this helpful.
90

I have had my 2019 Outback since October 25 2018 and have had the windshield replaced twice due to long cracks that start at the edge. Last week I was driving slowly on the freeway when the windshield suddenly cracked again. I am dreading turning this into my insurance once again. It costs $1070.00 to have it replaced. This is my third Subaru. I really like Subarus but I am now regretting my decision to buy this car.

9 people found this helpful.
80

We have 2 2018 Subarus & have had to replace both of them twice!! The dealership claims they most nothing of a recall or any problems with windshields!

7 people found this helpful.
520

We have a 2018 Outback touring with eyesight and while parked with a sunshade on the inside of the windshield we came out and took the sunshield off and noticed a new crack in the windshield. No rock or chip just sitting outside in the sun. These windshields are definitely defective and another class action suit needs to be brought against subaru.

13 people found this helpful.
100

This was all an interesting read. We have a 2019 XV. Crack formed over night while car was parked. Safe-lite replaces my windshield with a non Subaru approved windshield. So while none of the front sensors are working the grass is at least in one piece. Think I will wait and see if the glass holds out a little longer.

10 people found this helpful.
110

I have a 2018 Outback and I have experienced the same thing. The crack started from the driver side lower area and continued to grow. Once there is crack the crack will jsut keep expanding due to stress concentration induced by temperature swings or vibrations. But I have been driving for 12 years now and the first time my windshield cracks is 3 months after I get my Subaru.

6 people found this helpful.
110

2019 Outback with eyesight and 7500 miles. Windshield cracked this morning halfway up the passenger side and now extending toward the center. Safelite quoted $1250 plus $350 for re-calibration of eyesight.

10 people found this helpful.
80

I too had a small rock hit my windshield and a long crack ensued. Close to $1,000 to replace on my 2019 (owned less than two weeks) Subaru Outback. Not happy at all to read these other comments. I was loving my Subaru....

8 people found this helpful.
190

Hi Everyone, On my second crack - it starts underneath the black plastic frame at the bottom of the windshield wiper area. Travels all the way up to middle of the windshield. Told it was do to a rock - not buying it. The second crack is massive and is about 18-24 inches. There is a tiny pin head size pit that the dealership found underneath the wiper area that is said to be the cause of the issue. Evidently, a rock must have hit it. Unfortunately, when I washed the car this Saturday, there was no crack and I did not use the car until Monday morning when I saw the crack vividly across the windshield. Maybe a bird dropped a stone on my windshield directly below the passenger side windshield wiper??? Complained to Subaru - twice - the national office would not acknowledge that lots of folks are having this issue with their windshields. Now I have learned from media posts that there is a "backorder" on the windshields!!!! Also, my service department said that calibration is not needed if the cameras and other tech items are not moved. There is an "error" check that can be used at glass repair shops and all calibration should be done at the dealership and takes 6 hours to complete.

6 people found this helpful.
50

I bought 2019 subaru forrestor three months back and windshield cracked on the passenger side. I haven't heard any stone hitting the windshield. But when checked with subaru dealer, he argued that it is not due to defective glass and it is due to some stone hitting. Subaru will not cover windshield repair. Even though i like subaru overall, i am totally disappointed with windshield

5 people found this helpful.
80

Well, I've had my Subaru Outback for 3 days and it developed a crack somehow. Went to drive home from garage at work and there was a lovely crack from right corner by windshield wiper. crack went all the way to the bottom then went 15 inches up then 6 inches to the left. I've never seen this before. I just got out of another 3 year outback lease and never had a problem. had debri hit my windshield and never had cracks. what gives? I don't remember anything hitting my windshield at all. I litterally drive from garage to garage. There seems to be a commonality with the location of the cracks that people are mentioning in these posts. Heading to dealership tomorrow morning. We'll see what they say. I won't take this laying down, I can tell you that!

8 people found this helpful.
80

2019 Outback Limited 2.5i. Windshield broke on the passenger side with no audible sign of impact. Dealership says there was an impact and I am not convinced. I had the car only for 3 months when this happened. There is a lot of people complaining about this issue. Many went thorough 2 or 3 windshields. I really do not want to pay thousands of dollars if this is a defective part. Is there any place where people are addressing this issue in more organized and legal manner?

8 people found this helpful.
190

Unfortunately Subaru, despite our experiences, cling to the "something hit it" excuse for all of having spontaneous long cracks in our windshields. its likely that there are many more folks with this issue that have not reported it. As long as these complaints don't reach large numbers, the "something hit it" excuse will stand unchallenged. A company cannot very well admit that they messed up the design and manufacture of tens of thousands of vehicles they will go bankrupt. they would rather have customers use their personal or vacation days to have these cars repaired. This leaves the inconvenience and burden of cost on customers and their insurance agencies, What needs to happen is all the insurance agencies need to complain and tally up how much they have to pay out due to this issue. Only then will Subaru listen.

13 people found this helpful.
50

Our 2018 Subaru Outback just developed a crack while sitting in the driveway in the sun. Was not there last night. It’s slowly getting bigger as the day goes on. Developed midway up the driver’s side and it turns also. This is very interesting to read about this being a problem with Subaru’s because I’ve also had mild vertigo issues while driving since we got this new lease last fall and now I wonder if there is a defect in the Subaru windshields that also causes slight visual distortion.

5 people found this helpful.
80

Aargh! I have a 2019 Outback Limited and the windshield just cracked due to a tiny rock that would have bounced off of the other 3 Outbacks I have had over the years. Crack starts in bottom corner of passenger side and now extends horizontally. Not happy to hear that it's really a defective design and an expensive repair that will take at least 6 hours. Do we really need to get it replaced at dealer??

8 people found this helpful.
50

I have to add to this list of complaints! I have a very new 2019 Crosstrek and just got a huge crack in the windshield a few weeks ago. I had it replaced last week and then 2 days ago it cracked again - another very long 9" or so crack and nothing hit it. I barely had time to drive it between the replacement and the new crack. This is incredibly frustrating - has anyone dealt with Subaru about this and have they acknowledged an issue? I drove my Prius before this Crosstrek for 7+ years and never had a dent in the screen.. SO FRUSTRATING!

5 people found this helpful.
110

I have a 2018 Outback with Eyesight, and I've had the windshield crack in the exact same spot twice now. It cost me $800+ for the first replacement, and I'm refusing to pay for the second one as it was less than 90 days ago that I shelled out to replace the first one. The crack starts at the base, right under where the windshield wiper is and crawls up about 8 inches before spreading to a T across the entire windshield within hours. I've owned the car less than a year, and I've never had to replace a windshield any of my cars prior in the 16 years I've owned vehicles.

11 people found this helpful.
40

2017 Outback, same problem. Putting new one in tomorrow. If another cracks I am getting rid of the car and buying a Toyota. I already filed a complaint with the National Transportation Safety Board.

4 people found this helpful.
50

My 2018 3.6R Outback limited just developed crack from a small ding from when my wife and I were driving on the interstate and while chatting I said, "did something just hit the windshield or am I just hearing things?" She didn't hear anything, and I couldn't see any ding, so we both just shrugged and continued on. Sure enough, a crack developed the next afternoon. In my 35 years of driving (20 as a professional operator), the one other time I've ever gotten a cracked windshield was when a rock - that was so big I actually saw it hurtling towards me on the highway - hit my windshield so hard and so loudly that I physically jumped in my seat! I was in a Toyota Tacoma; the rock made a star the size of a 50-cent piece and the crack eventually ran. Dang, sure wish I still had that Toyota now.

5 people found this helpful.
520

Everyone who has cracked windshields on Subarus after the 2015 Model year which was covered under a class action lawsuit against Subaru which was settled in court, needs to file a complaint with safercar.gov (the US Department of Transportation. It is obvious that Subaru is again at fault and the windshields are very thin and more likely to break with the slightest temperature changes or tiny objects hitting it. Older cars often have 60+ yr old windshields with no damage and obviously Subaru is aware that their windshields are not holding up at all. Please report it to the US Dept of Transportation to force Subaru to finally fix this problem. Thank you.

12 people found this helpful.
70

2019 Forester. Developed a small crack in middle at top of windshield in area that has small dots. It than spread down, curved to right and keep spreading. Our car insurance paid to fix($1,000.00) But think it was defect in windshield.

7 people found this helpful.
60

I purchased my 2018 Outback in July of 2018. One month later my windshield cracked. Thankfully it was covered by my auto insurance after calling the dealership and being told that was what I needed to do. Well...fast forward to today and my windshield is cracked again. Was backing out of the driveway and heard a pop and now there is a crack on the passenger side and after driving to the grocery, it is spreading. I have owned numerous vehicles and have never once had to replace a windshield and I live in FL so summers are brutal and temperature fluctuations happening with frequent rain. Do better Subaru. This is my first and I want to be impressed. I love my Outback but thankfully the Navigation recall went smoothly, but now I am waiting for the horrors I have read online. I am submitting my claim to my insurance and hope there is no deductible.

6 people found this helpful.
70

I bought a 2019 Subaru Outback JUST a WEEK AGO! A crack developed 6 days later. I was driving and saw it start cracking from the top. I thought it was water dripping, even though I wondered where that water came from. And when it didn't dry up, I realized it was a crack. As I went on driving, I saw the crack lengthen and circle under and up. Today I took to a dealership. There's a tiny mark, not even an indentation, which the dealer service staff member said it may have been hit by something. By what? I didn't see anything hit it. Like other people, I think the crack was caused by a manufacturer's flaw of some kind. A small pebble did hit my previous 2015 Outback once. It left a small indentation and never caused a crack. I called the Subaru Consumer line and they said they'll talk to the dealer service manager. I will post an update at a later date. Meanwhile, there are enough people experiencing problems with windshield cracking the way they do to build pressure on Subaru to do the right thing by us owners. I wonder if the government can do anything...

7 people found this helpful.
520

Subaru Windshield Cracks need to be reported to safercar.gov which is a part of the US Department of Transportation. Subaru was found guilty of knowing of faulty windshields in the 2015-2016 model years and was forced to pay to replace them for a specific time period.

7 people found this helpful.
30

My daughter reported o me that she developed a crack overnite in her garage.after reading all these reports, I am having serious concerns about purchasing a 19 3.6 outback..i have been waffling between it and a mazda cx 5...this problem has really tipped the scale!

3 people found this helpful.
60

Same problem with 2019 3.6R I have owned the car only 3 weeks and the windshield spontaneously cracked near the passenger wiper. Quickly spread across almost the entire windshield. I brought up this issue before I bought the car and the salesperson said he never heard of the issue but if it happens then it'll be replaced for free. Taking it to the dealer today to see how good his word is! Ridiculous.

6 people found this helpful.
40

I am having exact same windshield cracking issue for my 2016 outback right now, it start to develop crack from bottom of the windshield and developed in to 1 ft long crack in 6 hours, Apparently Subaru does offer special extended windshield warranty for 2015&2016 outback and Legacy https://subaru.oemdtc.com/384/winds hield-cracking-concerns-2015-2016- subaru-legacy-outback The windshield has to be OME and does cover only one incident. Hopefully my case would be cover within the warranty.

4 people found this helpful.
40

I had a weird curving crack appear on my new 2019 Outback's driver side windshield by the wiper this last week. I was driving down the highway when this occurred. I did not hear a rock or any debris hit the windshield. The crack is now over 2 ft. long.

4 people found this helpful.
520

If your Subaru Windshield cracks, your dealership will deny any wrong doing on Subarus part and tell you to turn in a claim on your insurance and pay the deductible. You really need to file a claim with the National Department of Transportation website safercar.gov because this is the only way the thousands of problems are given a number and Subaru is then going to take action to improve these faulty windshields which they have known about since the model year 2015.

6 people found this helpful.
40

Two weeks after taking ownership of my 2018 Subaru Outback, a small rock hit the windshield and created a huge crack. In less than a year, another small rock created a huge crack. Subaru says it the route I drive, but I have lived and worked in the same location driving the same roads for the last 17 years and never had an issue until this Subaru. From what I can determine, this is a common problem with the Subaru Outback.

4 people found this helpful.

Rocks break windshields regardless of car brand.

4 people found this helpful.
80

We purchased our 2019 Outback last November and had our first crack about 1 week later. Subaru dealership inspected it with a ballpoint pen to reveal a small chip but they replaced the windshield at no cost to us (I contend that they created the small chip along the crack line with the pen). Not long later the windshield cracked again spontaneously. This time we did not allow them to inspect it with a ball point pen and they agreed that it was a spontaneous crack. Subaru covered the replacement that time. Well, the windshield cracked again while sitting in the parking lot. There has been no apparent impact at all and I suspect we have another spontaneous crack. I haven’t gone into the dealership yet but I suspect they will say it was a chip. I’m beginning to think either the windshields are cracking from stress (perhaps not fitting the frame??) or the glass is actually defective. All of the cracks have started down low as others have noted. Love my car but sick about the windshield. Appreciate the advice to report it to DOT.

7 people found this helpful.
520

Please, please go to the safercar.gov website which is a part of the US Dept of transportation and file a complaint using your vehicles V.I.N. and year make and model.

8 people found this helpful.
80

Where and how exactly can we file complaint? Searched through website and didn't see it. I have 2018 Subaru Crosstrek and the windshield just cracked while on highway - didn't heard anything other than crack developing noise, but to be fair construction truck was going ahead of me... Still, searching online I am blown away by the number of reports of Subaru windshield being cracked! Had Toyota 2005, was driving the same highway and never had cracks!

4 people found this helpful.
520

Please go on the website safercar.gov and click on owners on the first page then on the left side report the safety problem by filling out the form and getting a complaint number. Safercar.gov is under the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration NHTSA

6 people found this helpful.
30

I have the same issue with a brand new Subaru outback 3.6 limited (1300 KM - Canadian car), as others have mentioned the crack starts at the base of the windshield on the passenger side with no visible signs of damage from rocks etc. the origin of the crack starts near the inside end of the passenger windshield.

3 people found this helpful.
20

Same exact problem/issue/DEFECT with 2019 Subaru Outback at 11,000 miles. Spontaneous crack with NO road stones or debris starting at lower middle windshield and growing due to heat/temperature differences. See attached photo. Definitely a safety hazard. Reported to Lancaster (PA) Subaru. This IS NOT the responsibility of Subaru owners. IT IS the responsibility of Subaru to address. We'll see if Subaru's "love" and safety reputation meets the test. We'll see. More to be revealed.

2 people found this helpful.
30

2019 Subaru Forester that is 5 months old. The windshield area at the rear view mirror attachment broke so a chunk of windshield came off with the mirror. Dealer kept saying that I must have done something. No mention of ongoing problems. I want my Toyota back.

3 people found this helpful.
20

We have a 6 weeks old 2019 Subaru Outback with two cracked windshields so far. One was the result of a rock or something hitting the windshield, although very lightly. We barely heard it. We also have a Corolla that recently took a heavy hit from a rock to a windshield and just had a ding - not a 2 foot crack across the windshield. The second time I did not hear anything hit the windshield. Fortunately our deductible is only $100, but that doesn't cover the time or inconvenience. If my wife didn't love Outbacks, I sure wouldn't spend that much money on a car, especially with such defects.

2 people found this helpful.
20

I too join the ranks of Subaru owners with potential substandard front windshields. My 2019 Subaru Forester is already going into its second window replacement. In each case, I assume there was the impact of a small rock due to the tiny chip in-line with the eventual crack. Neither impact started as anything big judging by the size of the tiny pit and the fact the crack developed days afterwards while driving at highway speeds. I have taken previous small projectile impacts on the interstate with other car makes (Ford, Dodge, Toyota) owned and never had to replace windshields due to similar incidents although now I am on the second replacement on a Subaru owned less than a year. I had a 2003 Subaru Forester and a 2012 Subaru Impreza and only replaced one windshield in the 25 yrs combined that I owned those cars. Judging by other posts, Subaru is not owning up to any problems with their windshields which reminds me of the excessive oil consumption on my 2012 Impreza that was initially ruled as "normal". I have definitely lost faith in Subaru!

2 people found this helpful.
60

Hi I have on Subarus exclusively since 1996 having driven used outbacks And purchasing brand new outback’s in 2005 and 2017. Prior to my 2017 outback I have never had a crack in shield in any of my cars . I have owned The 2017 outback for two years and I have had 4 cracked windshields with three replacements. Between the cost of the new windshield and the calibration it is over $1000 per windshield! I do not drive the car off the road and what started as a minor tiny crack from a pebble turned into a giant growing crack that required windshield replacement. I have called Subaru customer support And they have much blown me off. I told him that if I have to replace this fourth windshield at my own expense I will sell this car and never buy another Subaru again. Very disappointing and stressful

4 people found this helpful.
110

Go to https://www.nhtsa.gov and submit your complains. It will only work if everyone submits and the agency is forced to open an investigation in this matter.

5 people found this helpful.
130

I have just purchased as 2018 Outback Limited. Just got same crack drivers above are describing. Below drivers side wiper, took it dealer this morning and told me it was hot by something because of a chip. I was driving 25 mph when I heard thump come out of dashboard. (Sound of windshield cracking). There were no cars in front of me. Reading other posts, I see a need for a class action against Subaru. I have 22,000 on mine, Does anybody know of pending litigation regarding newer Subaru windshields? I called Subaru they told me to take to dealer, service advisor insists that it my fault. I see so many cracks initiate in same place as mine- this is defective design or glass in my opinion

2 people found this helpful.
130

THERE IS A PENDING CLASS ACTION for 2017-19, due to inferior windscreens. GO TO : http://www.classlawdc.com/2019/07/25/2017-2019-subaru-forester-and-subaru-outback- windshield-defect-class-action-investigation/

11 people found this helpful.
30

The same month I made my 1st payment on my 2019 Subaru Outback my windshield cracked. It was sitting in our driveway facing the garage door. Crack started on the far left side. I took it to the dealership who took photos and after a couple of weeks told me that Subaru denied the claim stating it was from a rock. Poppycock!! I couldn't believe all the complaints about the windshield or lost class action lawsuit. If a rock had hit it while driving I would have understood (kinda). But it didn't. I contacted Subaru and said out of I was pursuing this out of principle instead of reporting this to my insurance Subaru ultimately did the right thing and are paying me for a new windshield and calibration of the eye for which I'm grateful. They still insist it was a rock ( but no telltale star on windshield I say its a CYA matter). Make sure you contact Subaru America after a denial and get any denial in writing.

3 people found this helpful.
90

We looked forward to replacing our trusty '06 Honda CR-V with a Subaru, with their good reputation for quality. We bought an '18 Forester 2.5i Premium, and we were happy with it for the most part. Then, just yesterday, I was changing the wiper blade, and the empty wiper arm slipped from my hand and struck the windshield. I didn't think this would be a problem, because I had done this a few times with our Honda as well as our Hyundai Accent. The next day, a 6-inch linear crack could be seen stemming from the area of the impact. Another day later, and the crack had grown to 10 inches, maybe more. Our local Subaru service center says that it will cost $1200 and isn't covered by warranty. When we get to the appointment, I'll see if that's the final word.... Probably is. And this will be our last Subaru vehicle.

2 people found this helpful.
70

This is my first Subaru (2017 Outback 2.5i Premium w/Eyesight) and I just had my 4th windshield replacement (43,000 miles)!!! NEVER had to replace a windshield with other makes in over 80+ years of driving between me and my husband in much worse commutes than we now have. Minor impact but ended up with a crack across half the windshield. The first 3 replacements were with OEM (due to Eyesight) and Subaru cannot guarantee that the defective windshields from 2015-2016 are out of circulation! Went with aftermarket glass this time and for an extra $20 my windshield will be replaced free of charge within the year. Too bad Subaru can't back their glass like that - they think all 4 times is just bad luck! Filed with NHTSA.

4 people found this helpful.
80

I posted about a month ago about my cracked windshield (2018 Crosstrek)... Well, yesterday it happened again!!! Second time within a month!!! Some very small stone flew into (minor noise, didn't expect ANY marks on the windshield), but sure enough - crack... It's not big enough for replacement so I will monitor it.... But seriously, I am now 100% certain Subaru is using poor quality glass. Crosstrek is my first Subaru and last, what a BS!

4 people found this helpful.
30

We had our new Outback for one week and came out to a cracked windshield. It was fine when parked in the garage the evening before. From what I have read, it sounds like the new windshield will most likely crack as well. Will report it to safercars.org. This is our last Subaru. Back to Toyota, which never had the slightest issue with. 150000 miles and the same windshield too.

3 people found this helpful.
20

I’ve had my 2019 Subaru Forester 3 months and replacing my windshield for the second time. The first replacement was last month due to a rock hitting the windshield very close to the outside frame on the passenger side. The chip quickly developed into an 18” crack. Yesterday, I noticed a crack originating from behind the wiper and extending in a 16” arch that follows the wiper blade motion. I thought the glass was defective but apparently, according to the windshield replacement company, there is a minuscule chip behind the metal portion of the wiper (point of impact) and it had to be caused by a rock that dropped from the sky. What are the odds?

2 people found this helpful.
40

Attention:  Subaru Forester and Outback Owners Our law firm is investigating potential claims concerning defective windshields on behalf of owners or lessees of a 2017 through 2019 model year Subaru Forester or Outback.     The investigation focuses on whether the acoustic glass in the affected vehicles is prone to cracking, chipping or other unusual failure.  If you or someone you know owns or leases one of the affected Subaru vehicles, and would like to speak with us about our investigation, please contact us at info@levanlawgroup.com, or call (215) 561-1500, or submit your contact information via the portal on our "Contact" page at www.levanlawgroup.com, and we will respond to you promptly. Peter A. Muhic, Esq. LeVan Law Group, LLC One Logan Square -- 27th FloorPhiladelphia, PA 19103 (215) 561-1500 www.levanlawgroup.com Attorneys at LeVan Law Group, LLC are licensed in PA, NJ and NY and do not hold themselves out as licensed in any other states. Attorney Advertising; Solicitation

4 people found this helpful.
20

Our 2018 Outback window cracked (loud noise) while driving on a smooth 2 lane highway and not another car anywhere close to being in the area. Checked it out as it made no sense and not a single chip in the windshield. I never knew of this issue until I saw an article about the problem today.

2 people found this helpful.
10

I have a 2018 Outback. 1st rock chip at 2000 miles, another area got a spider web type crack at 7000 miles, another rock chip at 16,000 miles. Windshield is definitely below standard material. Illinois.

1 people found this helpful.
40

I suppose the saga continues...I just bought a 2020 Forester...and YEP I got up Thanksgiving morning to find a small crack forming in the windshield....I took it the next morning and had a repair done to the glass before it spread......I guess time will tell....

4 people found this helpful.
10

2019 Outback 3.6R. I've had it for 4 months. A tiny piece of debris is all it took - same as may others have posted - lower right corner, passenger side.

1 people found this helpful.

My wife’s 2017 Subaru outback was driving and the windshield made an extremely loud bang and shattered all the way across

10

Just had my windshield crack in 2 places about 5 weeks ago. Replaced it with off-brand glass to find out that anything that isn't subaru glass can't be calibrated for the eyesight system. One week after the Subaru glass replacement, a small piece of debris cracked the glass again. This is unacceptable.

1 people found this helpful.
15

I was driving down the highway and my windshield cracked on the bottom left or drivers side. There was no impact on the windshield of any kind. No traffic and smooth highway. Temp was around 30 degrees. Started out as a 5 inch crack from the bottom up and had a very small divot. Then spread to a 15 inch crack very quickly. I brought the car to the dealership with in 24 hours and they filed a claim with Subaru. Within 4 hours the dealership called and said claim was denied. They said crack was caused by outside force due to the tiny divot. They say the only way for a divot is impact with a outside force. That is not a true statement. A small divot can occur from a stress crack of from spontaneously cracking. The dealership quoted me just under $700. Not being happy with that I called Subaru customer service and they very quickly threw $500 at me to help with the repair. Which does not cover the entire cost of the repair. These windshields seem to have a recurring problem with spontaneously cracking and Subaru is brushing it off. The eyesight technology does not work with any other windshield, you must buy the factory windshield. I do not feel safe driving my car with a subpar windshield. Please help in this very serious safety issue being Ignored by Subaru. I have zero confidence in the new windshield. This needs to be addressed.

1 people found this helpful.
20

Just purchased a 2020 outback two weeks ago. I got into the car closed the door and the rear window shattered. I have to wait about 5 days for a new window. i hope it does not break again!

1 people found this helpful.
90

Update: At the suggestion of our salesman, I wrote to Subaru of America and told them about the crack and how I felt that it should not be so easy to crack the windshield. I got a reply that said that they would pay the full cost of the repair. I just had to send them a copy of the invoice for the repair. I did so, and they paid for the repair. Subaru of America, Inc. One Subaru Drive P.O. Box 9103 Camden, New Jersey 08101 Attn: Customer/Retailer Service

5 people found this helpful.
5

I have a 2020 outback XT. 5000 miles. Same as others. Crack on passenger side coming up from under the windshield wiper. Driving on the highway nobody around. All of the sudden I heard a loud snap. It was 33 degrees outside.

30

+1 data point to this 70+ post thread - my 2019 Impreza's windshield just cracked sitting overnight in a garage, no impact. Less than 2 months old.

3 people found this helpful.
20

Call Subaru they were very helpful, they offered to pay for the window repair.

1 people found this helpful.
20

Same issue with my 2020 outback. Parked in the garage came out the next morning and the windshield was cracked on the passenger side bottom

2 people found this helpful.
70

My dealer does not do windshields either. Two weeks after my 4th windshield I noticed that the windshield washer fluid did not work - had my Outback in for service at Subaru and told them about it. They asked if I just had my windshield replaced and I said yes. The water line was kinked! - didn't think that would be touched when the windshield was replaced!

1 people found this helpful.
70

Question: if you reached out to Subaru about a cracked windshield, did you have to have the crack examined at a Subaru dealer to check for impact before they agreed to pay some or all of the cost?

1 people found this helpful.
20

My 2019 Outback developed a crack in the lower right corner of windshield that spread quickly. Had to take it to dealer for a Subaru windshield because it has to be calibrated with all the driver assist technology. Expensive repair not covered by warranty! I wrote a letter to Subaru Customer service with VIN and sent copies of receipts, and they reimbursed me for the full amount. Address is not easy to find on website, so here it is: Customer/Retailer Service, Subaru of America, Inc., One Subaru Drive, PO Box 9103, Camden, NJ 08101

2 people found this helpful.
90

@NeedAction: I was not required to submit the car for inspection or even show a photo. Subaru of America paid for the repair in full after I provided a copy of the invoice. I am pleased with their response, but I doubt that I will get another Subaru if the EyeSight system doesn't change. (Maybe it can be moved outside of the windshield?) I'm just going to "ride it out" and then switch brands when the time comes.

2 people found this helpful.
10

We have had our 2020 Subaru Forester 3 weeks. Developed a spontaneous crack on left side starting under windshield wiper area. We did not get hit by a rock or debris leading up to this. Our local dealership will be covering it after a lot of back and forth. I’m so frustrated that this issue didn’t come up when doing our new car research. Consumer Reports should be ashamed for listing it as a Best Buy when Subaru obviously has a major issue that they try to cover up.

1 people found this helpful.
10

Just had the same issue with my 2019 Outback, nothing hit or in any way came in contact with the windshield, and I know there was not a crack the day before when I parked it for the night.

1 people found this helpful.
80

I filed a claim with the NTSB but if Subaru is now paying for windshields the NTSB may not receive the true number of complaints hence Subaru may avoid a recall. I am very glad Subaru is paying buuuuuuuut we have (2) 2018 Outbacks. We have replaced 2 windshields each and the 5th one cracked over Christmas sitting in the garage....for several days....because my son had surgery therefore no one had driven it for a while so it could not be a rock chip. I can submit the bills to Subaru to be reimbursed but will they pay for the increase in my auto insurance for the 4 very expensive windshields my insurance company has already paid? How can you prove my car insurance was increased due to this? You know it is the reason but cannot prove it to Subaru for them to reimburse you. Not looking to scam Subaru but I don't want to keep paying for a problem Subaru KNEW it had for a long time. Very frustrated!

1 people found this helpful.
20

Just bought a 2020 Impreza. Hadn't even made my first payment and the windshield cracked in the driveway. They told me there was a chip, paid $500 to replace it and took a week because the first replacement they received was cracked and they had to wait another week for the second. It's been 2 weeks and it just chipped and cracked again while I was driving home. I could watch rocks bounce off my Honda windshield and they were fine. This one... Some sand blows across it and boom, cracked.

2 people found this helpful.
10

On June 30, 2018, I was driving my 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Limited Edition on my way to work. I heard a noise while driving but kept driving since I was just blocks away to work. I parked in the monitored parking lot and visually looked inside and outside my car for some indication of where the noise came from, including the windshield from the inside and outside. I saw no cracks to the windshield or other area of the vehicle. It was hot outside (90's).I went in to work. When I got off work I went out to my car. I got inside my car, immediately noticing a 6-8 inch long crack on the driver's side of the front windshield. I went home in shock about the large crack in my windshield. I later contacted my insurance company, and was told my deductible and to call around to find quotes on replacement. I was told by all the auto shops including my local Subaru dealer the entire windshield would need replaced but the car was so new that they didn't have the parts in stock and didn't know how long it would be since the car was so new. I didn't get the windshield replaced .I felt that Subaru should be responsible for a new windshield as the car was only purchased new 9 months before. I did not have the money to go through my insurance at the time and I was told by my local dealer that Subaru did not cover the windshield in the warranty on the car. However, I believe the defect of the windshield prevents the safe and proper operation of the vehicle because Subaru's EyeSight safety system, intended to prevent collisions, is attached to the inside of the upper windshield. I did research online at the time if other owners had complaints, but the car was so new I only found one. Now, a search reveals many complaints of defective windshields and a class action lawsuit. I worry about my safety still and I believe Subaru should be held accountable for the replacement of the windshield.

1 people found this helpful.
70

I noticed a crack in the windshield on my 2017 Outback with Eyesight today - this will be my 5th windshield replacement!!!!!

1 people found this helpful.
10

Just went to work today and there was a long crack on my windshield starting from the edge of the driver's seat almost now to the middle. 2018 Outback. Clean crack, nothing hit it. I'm marching to the dealer tomorrow morning. So disappointed.

1 people found this helpful.

I have 2014 subaru imprezza. so far, replaced windshield twice. Both times, nothing hit it.

2015 outback subaru windshield replaced twice in a year. CALIF WON A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT.we would like to see a universal law suit

10

2018 outback and just had my first crack. It's right up the middle from the base and has now split off straight to the right. No rocks or other impact marks on it.

1 people found this helpful.

My 2017 Outback has the same problem. Their windshields are awful. I literally saw it happened right before my eyes and absolutely nothing hit it and there was no chip what so ever. It was SO disappointing because this is our first Subaru and we were super excited about it. I'm worried that once we get it replaced with their glass it will juat happen again. A huge damper on an otherwise perfect car.

We got a Subaru Outback last year(2019). The winshield cracked after a flying rock hit it. Had to get it replaced. We got a Subaru Forester in Jan this year.Same story happened. I am just amazed how easily the windshield gets cracked by a small flying rock. I am still waiting to get it replaced. Luckily, I bought Blue Steel Protection for the windshield. But it costs me $700. Not happy with it at all.

110

I had same issues with my Windshield so I wrote a physical letter to Subaru asking for financial assistance. They sent me a check for $585. It wont still cover the cost of labor and eyesight calibration. But it was something to help me out.

20

We had our fourth crack in our 2019 Outback in 11 months. Two required a new windshield, two did not. We were only out $200, but you would expect better. We're wearing masks now, so maybe that will help.....

I own 2019 Subaru Forester with a 9" windshield crack 5 days ago. I discovered the crack in the morning as I drove out the garage. The crack expanded to 15" by afternoon. I contacted local Subaru dealer and Subaru USA to get a case number. Local dealer refused the claim as factory defect or the defect caused by Subaru's glass supply chain. Subaru USA gave me a case number and contacted my local dealer. In the end, Subaru USA offered a one time goodwill coverage for my windshield replacement and calibration. Otherwise, it would cost me $1500. I hope the crack is not a recurring problem. Also, the local Subaru dealer indicated that the replacing windshield will not be original part, but after market quality.

10

Thanks, Leigh, for the referral to call Subaru of America's customer service department. The windshield of my 2020 Subaru Outback (purchased brand new in February of this year) spontaneously and drastically cracked on the passenger side, and, in disbelief and shock after local dealers pinned it to the tiniest pinpoint-sized rock chip, I called the number Leigh posted on this thread: (800) 782-2783. I was able to describe my situation to the customer service department at Subaru of America and they offered to cover my windshield replacement at full cost (albeit they mentioned they'll do this the one time since it's my first incident, and as a new Subaru owner no less). I recommend anyone experiencing the same predicament, to contact the customer service department -- you'd be surprised at how Subaru can handle these matters, even if they're not owning up to it being a defect/poor design for whatever reason.

1 people found this helpful.
10

Our 11 month old Outback just had it's first crack. There is a very wee chip that shouldn't have caused any problem, but it has cracked right across the windshield. Subaru Canada won't take any responsibility, nor will the dealer. First and last Subaru.

1 people found this helpful.

I have owned a 2015 Crosstrek and 3 Outbacks-2014, 2018, 2020. ALL of them have had windshields replaced. I know most were from rocks but they were small and didn't hit very hard. My 2020 now has a big crack. It showed up a day after I remember a small pebble hitting the windshield. didn't see any damage at the time but next morning a crack going across form the bottom side of passenger side. I am about done owning Subaru. They need to fix the windshield issue this is ridiculous. I love the car but this windshield thing is going to break me.

60

I bought a 2017 outback new and have replaced the windshield 3 times! The last one Subaru gave me a discount but the first 2 set me back over 1 k each. A few months ago it got another crack from a small pebble and luckily I was able to get it filled before it grew. I have never had a cracked windshield previously and clearly can’t recommend Subaru as a result

2 people found this helpful.
110

I have 2019 Outback 3.6R with 62,000 miles and I'm now replacing my second windshield. Both cracks originated on the passenger side, both by something small. Meanwhile our 2005 Toyota with 270,000 miles is still on the original windshield. Certainly seems like there is an issue that refuses to be addressed. Enjoyed the car so far but this is the first and last Subaru.

1 people found this helpful.

2015 Subaru Outback. Car was in my enclosed garage. I started the engine, about ready to back out and the back windshield exploded into a gazillion tiny pieces. No warning, no previous cracks or issues.

Our 2018 Outback had the windshield crack simply due to cold weather. Glad to know - I guess - we're not the only ones.

Crazy S shaped crack snaked across my windshield out of no where today. 2019 Outback. I was not driving it at the time!No rocks,no chips . Completely random!

I had to have my 2019 Subaru Outback windshield replaced back in 2020 after a crack developed in the lower right side (if your sitting inside the car) under where the wiper was and sprawled out into two segments. The Subaru Dealer in Dover, DE replaced it and now as of this morning, Dec. 28, 2021, I have a crack in my windshield on the driver side now that developed this morning as I was sitting in the car deicing the front windshield. They are saying that they aren't sure if it is covered.

We have a 2018 Outback and the 4th windshield just cracked. When we have this replaced this will be the 5th windshield in 4 years. We are SO frustrated. Subaru did pay for one windshield a few years back (because I called Subaru of America and made a big deal out of the safety issue) but this is getting ridiculous!! They say it's always impact related but there's got to be more to it than that!! I think there's a stress on the windshields from the design then when the tiniest thing hits the windshield it cracks. An injustice for sure!

This happened to our 2019 Outback, noticed the crack a day or two after we had sub-20F weather. I just noticed there is a heating element at the bottom of the windshield for the wiper blades, this is probably the culprit. The dealer would not fix it under warranty, claimed external cause.

We had this on our 2019 Outback. It's a known issue. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2015/MC-10093903-2280.pdf I pulled the deicer fuse so I hope the new windshield lasts.

Just had a spontaneous crack in a 2020 Subaru Outback. Straight line from middle of passenger side, perhaps 20 inches long.

I have a 2019 Subaru Outback limited and have replaced the windshield 3 times already., all from small stones hitting the windshield on the freeway. I currently have 3 cracks in my last new windshield from 3 more small stones hitting my windshield. I’ve gotten pretty good at repairing the cracks with the repair kits I keep in the car with me at all times. Cracks are still visible but aren’t spreading as quickly. What is going on?!

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