2017 Subaru Outback: Cracked windshield
Common wear/failure (not a recall)
Symptoms
Owners of the 2017 Outback report: cracked windshield. CarComplaints.com lists 10 owner complaints, average mileage 24,750 miles.
NHTSA has 233 owner complaints for the 2017 Outback in this area. Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11704138 (filed 12/10/2025): “My outback has been through 5 genuine subaru windshields this year, and 7 since 2019. only one was impact damage, the rest developed cracks after installation. one only lasted 3 days after being replaced. others have lasted 3 months. there is something defe…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11667761 (filed 06/18/2025): “My windshield (which has had multiple class action lawsuits) cracked spontaneously sitting in my driveway. i contacted subaru of america and they denied any responsibility and claimed there is no assistance they can provide. this crack has gone from about half…”
Likely causes
Sources do not establish a single root cause; diagnosis is needed. Owner-reported fixes are listed below.
Fix, in plain English
Most common owner-reported solutions on CarComplaints.com: replace windshield (9 reports). Check for open recalls and extended warranty coverage with a dealer before paying out of pocket.
DIY difficulty: Moderate
Leaks can often be traced with a water test and resealed; glass replacement is a pro job. (Our assessment.)
Cost
CarComplaints.com owners report a typical repair cost of about $830 (owner-reported average, not a quote).
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
AutoZone · O'Reilly · Advance · RockAuto
Sources
Page last updated .