1988 Subaru Subaru
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 0 |
| 1981 | 0 |
| 1982 | 1 |
| 1983 | 1 |
| 1984 | 0 |
| 1985 | 0 |
| 1986 | 2 |
| 1987 | 4 |
| 1988 | 2 |
| 1989 | 1 |
| 1990 | 3 |
| 1991 | 1 |
| 1992 | 4 |
| 1993 | 2 |
| 1995 | 5 |
| 1996 | 6 |
| 1997 | 4 |
| 1998 | 2 |
| 1999 | 3 |
| 2001 | 3 |
| 2002 | 4 |
| 2003 | 2 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 2 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: visibility.
Show complaint excerpts
FRESH AIR VENT LEAKS ACID RAIN, CAUSING FREON TO BE RELEASED INTO THE PASSENGER'S COMPARTMENT THROUGH ETCHED PINHOLES. *SD
NHTSA ODI report, 19960201
1 of 2 total reports mentions: steering.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: seat belts.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: power train.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: power train.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
TAKATA SEAT BLT BCKLS FAIL
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1988 Subaru Subaru — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for visibility issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for seat belts issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1988 Subaru Subaru reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1988 Subaru Subaru?
The most-reported component is visibility:defroster/defogger/hvac system, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1988 Subaru Subaru have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.