MajorAffects 2020-2024

    Outback Windshield Wind Noise

    A-pillar molding gaps allow wind whistle above 55 mph; dealer fix is reseat + foam.

    Reviewed by SubaruReview Editorial Team · Last reviewed 2026-05-15 · Editorial standards

    Repair cost
    $250–$650
    DIY difficulty
    2 / 5
    Severity
    Major
    Costly to ignore — plan a fix within weeks
    Affected
    2020-2024
    Body, A-pillar trim

    How this problem ranks against the other documented Outback failures — cost, severity, and DIY difficulty at a glance.

    Outback reliability compared: this problem vs other documented Outback issues.
    ProblemYearsSeverityRepair costDIY
    Outback Windshield Wind Noise (this page)2020-2024Major$250–$6502/5
    Subaru Outback Windshield Cracking & EyeSight Issues2015-2024Major$900–$1,6005/5
    Subaru Outback EyeSight Calibration Drift & Sensor Failure2015-2024Major$250–$1,2005/5
    Sourced from our Subaru problems database. Costs are US national averages including parts and labor at an independent Subaru specialist.

    This is one of several documented Outback problems we track, and it fits inside the broader Reliability & Common Problems guide. If you're weighing repair against replacement, cross-check the Subaru repair-cost database and any open NHTSA recalls on your VIN before booking a shop.

    What goes wrong

    A-pillar molding gaps allow wind whistle above 55 mph; dealer fix is reseat + foam.

    Symptoms to watch for

    • Whistle/howl above 55 mph
    • Worse with crosswind
    • Comes and goes with temperature

    Root cause

    Loose A-pillar trim clip and inadequate adhesive on glass.

    Buy time with these

    • Apply foam wedge under A-pillar trim

    Permanent fix

    1. Reseat A-pillar molding per TSB 12-275-22; replace clips.

    Related recalls / TSBs

    TSB 12-275-22

    FAQ

    What causes outback windshield wind noise?

    Loose A-pillar trim clip and inadequate adhesive on glass.

    How much does it cost to fix?

    National average $250–$650.

    Is this a DIY repair?

    Difficulty 2/5. Reseat A-pillar molding per TSB 12-275-22; replace clips.

    What are the symptoms?

    Whistle/howl above 55 mph; Worse with crosswind; Comes and goes with temperature

    Sources

    • NHTSA
    • Subaru Owner Forums
    People also ask

    How much does it cost to fix Outback Windshield Wind Noise?

    Owners typically pay $250–$650 at an independent Subaru shop, parts and labor included. Our Subaru EyeSight Recalibration Cost guide breaks the job down by parts, labor hours, and where the money actually goes.

    Is there a Subaru recall connected to this issue?

    Cross-check NHTSA campaign 22V712000, which covers 2022 Outback – Windshield on 2022 Outback. Recall work is free at any Subaru dealer — always run your VIN before paying for the fix.

    Can I fix this as a DIY repair?

    We rate it 2/5 on our DIY scale. Confident wrenchers can tackle it in a weekend using the permanent-fix steps above. Cross-reference the reliability & common problems hub for related jobs worth bundling while you're in there.

    Ready to buy or refresh your current build?

    Dig into the Problems Database to plan your next maintenance sprint, or browse every model hub for buyer's guides, generation breakdowns, and known-issue lists.