🇩🇪 Deutsch
Subaru · Full-Size SUV · 2006–2014

Subaru Tribeca B9

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
5.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Engine Overview

The Subaru Tribeca B9 is available with one engine variant at 258 hp.

3.6L H6 · Benziner· 258 PS
2008 2014
Good Choice 3 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Subaru 3.6L H6 (Benziner, 258 PS) has the EZ36 (3.6L H6) — rated: "Good Choice", 3 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Power Steering Failure (Belt/Idler Pulley)

Idler pulley or belt tensioner seizes — power steering fails, alternator stops charging. Metallic noise, burning rubber smell. Typically above 60,000 miles.

Symptoms: Heavy steering, battery warning light, burning smell, belt squealing
from 90,000 km
Ad idler pulley Subaru Tribeca B9belt tensioner Subaru Tribeca 3.0 H6
 Medium
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
185 complaints · 2006–2014
Airbags
45 ⚠ 6
Body Structure
42 ⚠ 2
Electrical
30 ⚠ 2
Lighting
20
Brakes
17 ⚠ 4

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Airbags (45 complaints)
⚠ Body Structure (42 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (30 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

Alternatives

Same Segment

Land Rover Range Rover L405

Großer SUV (2012–2021)

Same Segment

Mercedes-Benz GLS X166

Großer SUV (2012–2019)

Same Segment

Nissan Navara D40-FL

Großer SUV (2010–2015)

Same Segment

Nissan Pathfinder R51-FL

Großer SUV (2010–2014)

Same Segment

Porsche Cayenne 92A

Großer SUV (2010–2017)

Same Segment

VW Touareg II

Großer SUV (2010–2018)

Known Problems and Issues

A total of 8 weaknesses have been documented for the Subaru Tribeca B9 (2006–2014) — 3 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Steering, Suspension, Rust, Electronics. Considered reliable: EZ36 (3.6L H6).

What to watch out for with the Subaru Tribeca? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Subaru Tribeca B9 have? +
The Subaru Tribeca B9 has 3 known engine weaknesses and 5 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Subaru Tribeca B9? +
faq.watch_a_solid
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: EZ36 (3.6L H6). The most reliable engine is the EZ36 (3.6L H6) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the EZ36 (3.6L H6).
Which Subaru Tribeca B9 engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Subaru Tribeca B9. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 3 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Subaru Tribeca B9 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Subaru Tribeca B9 — rated: "Not Really". {description} H6 boxer in SUV form: well-powered but too small for the class and too expensive for what it offered. Discontinued in the US in 2014, never caught on in Europe. Almost forgotten today.
Is the Subaru Tribeca B9 worth buying used? +
The Subaru Tribeca B9 is a good choice as a used car — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Good Choice'.
What horsepower variants are available for the Subaru Tribeca B9? +
The Subaru Tribeca B9 is available with engine variants from 258 to 260 hp. Petrol: EZ36 (3.6L H6).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee