NHTSA Complaint #11525896 — 2023 SUBARU OUTBACK

When the headlamp selector is in Automatic Mode, automatic high beams are also enabled by default. The issue is that the automatic high beam headlamps do not function well at all. They defeat the high beam selection if any ambient light is detected and are far too sensitive. As a result, if there are streetlights, city lights, or even snow on the ground, the high beam headlamps cannot be turned on while in the automatic mode. It’s got to be pitch dark, and even then it takes some time for the high beams to come on after selecting them with the switch. This presents an Immediate safety concern in the inability to use high beam headlamps. The owner’s manual (p 574) says this feature can be disabled, but Subaru refuses to change this setting citing legal requirements and safety concerns (that one may use the high beams to blind oncoming traffic). Their proposed solution is to temporarily disable the system on every drive by turning the headlamp selector from Auto to ON, however this is only a workaround and does not solve the underlying safety issue. If a driver has not previously thought to change the headlamp selector to ON, their high beams are likely unavailable for use. I’ve attached the response from Subaru North America. I’ve had several conversations with Premier Surbau of Fremont, most recently with Devin in Service, who has said they refuse to modify the setting.