At a Glance
The Subaru B9 Tribeca has 8 identified common problems across 1 generation, with the B9 Tribeca (2006-2014) being the most affected generation and suspension the most common problem category. Based on 7K MOT tests from DVSA data.
Problems are patterns in the DVSA data that occur significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average — confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read our DVSA MOT data methodology →
Below: generation-by-generation comparison of Subaru B9 Tribeca common problems, MOT failure types, and pass-rate data drawn from DVSA records. Click any generation to see fuel- and engine-specific fault patterns, mileage-banded repair guidance, and the most common MOT failures testers record.
MOT Tests & Failures by Generation
Subaru B9 Tribeca generations by MOT tests, failures, and identified problems from DVSA data
Hover over each bar for a full breakdown. Tap any bar to view that generation's problems.
Showing total MOT tests, failures, and known problems per make. Hover over each bar for a full breakdown.
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Tell Us About Your Problem
Help other Subaru B9 Tribeca owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
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Browse Subaru B9 Tribeca Generations
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Most Common Subaru B9 Tribeca MOT Failures
Every reason Subaru B9 Tribeca vehicles fail their MOT, ranked by frequency. Select an individual year to see only that year’s failures, or stay on ‘All time’ for the combined picture across our 20 years of DVSA data. Scroll inside the table for the full list.
| # | Failure | % of failures |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 11.09% |
| 2 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 9.98% |
| 3 | Number plate lamp not working | 7.34% |
| 4 | Brake pads or linings worn | 7.00% |
| 5 | Front lamp not working | 6.46% |
| 6 | Tyre tread depth below limit | 6.35% |
| 7 | Tyre condition | 5.02% |
| 8 | Exhaust system fault | 4.28% |
| 9 | Headlamp aim defect | 3.86% |
| 10 | Headlamp fault | 3.12% |
| 11 | Spark ignition emissions above threshold | 2.55% |
| 12 | Coil spring broken or corroded | 2.47% |
| 13 | Windscreen washer not working | 2.24% |
| 14 | Brake performance below minimum | 2.10% |
| 15 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 1.84% |
| 16 | Driveshaft fault | 1.76% |
| 17 | Brake pedal fault | 1.73% |
| 18 | Indicator fault | 1.50% |
| 19 | Fog lamp not working | 1.39% |
| 20 | Stop lamp not working | 1.22% |
| 21 | Ball joint dust cover split | 0.99% |
| 22 | Battery loose or leaking | 0.96% |
| 23 | Rigid brake pipe corroded or damaged | 0.96% |
| 24 | Seat belt condition | 0.96% |
| 25 | Windscreen damage affecting view | 0.91% |
| 26 | Brake disc or drum worn | 0.74% |
| 27 | Parking brake performance below minimum | 0.74% |
| 28 | Position lamp not working | 0.74% |
| 29 | Catalytic converter efficiency low | 0.68% |
| 30 | Mirror damaged or missing | 0.68% |
| 31 | Rear fog lamp not working | 0.68% |
| 32 | Rear lamp not working | 0.54% |
| 33 | Bonnet catch or hinge fault | 0.51% |
| 34 | Electronic stability control fault | 0.48% |
| 35 | Parking brake condition | 0.48% |
| 36 | Brake hydraulic component worn | 0.43% |
| 37 | Front suspension joint worn | 0.40% |
| 38 | Rear reflector damaged or missing | 0.37% |
| 39 | ABS fault | 0.34% |
| 40 | Flexible brake hose damaged | 0.28% |
| 41 | Steering lock fault | 0.23% |
| 42 | Tyre valve stem damaged | 0.23% |
| 43 | Tyre size or type not matched | 0.20% |
| 44 | Body corrosion or damage | 0.17% |
| 45 | Compression ignition emissions above threshold | 0.17% |
| 46 | Electrical wiring fault | 0.17% |
| 47 | Brake fluid warning light on | 0.14% |
| 48 | Engine oil leak | 0.14% |
| 49 | Steering rack fault | 0.14% |
| 50 | Suspension retaining or locking device fault | 0.14% |
| 51 | Suspension mounting corroded | 0.14% |
| 52 | Airbag warning light on | 0.11% |
| 53 | Undertray damaged or missing | 0.11% |
| 54 | Body security fault | 0.09% |
| 55 | Brake fluid level low or contaminated | 0.09% |
| 56 | Dashboard warning lamp fault | 0.09% |
| 57 | Power steering pipe or hose leaking | 0.09% |
| 58 | Subframe mounting corroded | 0.09% |
| 59 | Suspension arm worn or corroded | 0.09% |
| 60 | MacPherson strut worn | 0.09% |
| 61 | Brake fluid leak | 0.06% |
| 62 | Brake lever fault | 0.06% |
| 63 | Brake pedal movement restricted | 0.06% |
| 64 | Electrical switch fault | 0.06% |
| 65 | Fuel pipe corroded or damaged | 0.06% |
| 66 | Rear suspension fault | 0.06% |
| 67 | Steering column fault | 0.06% |
| 68 | Track rod end worn | 0.06% |
| 69 | Wheel bearing worn | 0.06% |
| 70 | Bonded suspension condition | 0.06% |
| 71 | Brake caliper fault | 0.03% |
| 72 | Brake fluid reservoir fault | 0.03% |
| 73 | Bumper damaged or insecure | 0.03% |
| 74 | Driver airbag fault | 0.03% |
| 75 | Driver seat fault | 0.03% |
| 76 | Electronic braking system fault | 0.03% |
| 77 | Exhaust emissions above threshold (non-catalyst) | 0.03% |
| 78 | Exhaust leak | 0.03% |
| 79 | Fuel cap damaged or missing | 0.03% |
| 80 | Fuel hose damaged or leaking | 0.03% |
| 81 | Headlamp levelling device fault | 0.03% |
| 82 | Horn not working | 0.03% |
| 83 | Hydraulic brake cylinder fault | 0.03% |
| 84 | Passenger seat fault | 0.03% |
| 85 | Rear fog lamp warning light fault | 0.03% |
| 86 | Seat belt anchorage fault | 0.03% |
| 87 | Steering arm worn | 0.03% |
| 88 | Steering wheel damaged or insecure | 0.03% |
| 89 | Tie bar or rod worn or corroded | 0.03% |
| 90 | Vehicle structure corrosion | 0.03% |
Showing all 90 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Subaru B9 Tribeca MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Subaru B9 Tribeca, grouped by category. Same data as the failures table above — just sliced by category instead of fault title. Hover a slice for the top failures in each category.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Subaru B9 Tribeca problems?
Based on analysis of 7K Subaru B9 Tribeca MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 8 identified common problems across 1 generation. The most frequently flagged issue is "Stop lamp not working". Suspension is the most common problem category.
Which Subaru B9 Tribeca generation has the most problems?
The Subaru B9 Tribeca B9 Tribeca (2006-2014) (2006–2014) has the highest number of identified common problems (9). Click the generation card above for the full breakdown.
How is this data calculated?
We analyse anonymised DVSA MOT test records under the Open Government Licence. An issue is classified as a "Common Problem" when it occurs significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average, confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read the full methodology page for details.
Can I report a problem with my Subaru B9 Tribeca?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Subaru B9 Tribeca owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
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